Readers React: Elderly, married but alone -- is it OK to move on?

To the editor: Since we are now living longer, couples who have been happily married for many years often find themselves in situations where one of the partners is suffering from Alzheimer’s disease or some other serious illness. One partner is no longer in a loving relationship, but has become a caregiver. (“Why is adultery still a crime?” Opinion, May 2)

They have no life, no companionship and are very lonely when they meet and are attracted to someone in a similar situation. What to do?

Clergy of all faiths are deciding how to advise these people. They are slowly coming to the realization that they must find a way to help these lonely individuals, advising that it is OK to have the relationship, provided they are open about it and are making certain their sick mate is being well cared for.

In my work as a community caregiver and at 87 years of age, I frequently meet people married to a partner who can no longer provide the love and companionship they need. We are not meant to be alone.

Bernard Otis, West Hills

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