Gradually losing a sense of self:
Eventually, their identity is reduced to “the grandmother who helps” or “the mother who looks after the kids,” erasing their personal history, talents, and achievements. This role of constant helper diminishes self-worth and can deeply harm their emotional well-being.
In many families, this dynamic becomes so routine it goes unnoticed. The older person stops living their own life and instead lives only to serve others.
Finding the courage to reclaim a life:
For Geralda, everything changed after a simple phone call from a former colleague, who reminded her of her worth, her contributions, and her impact. That moment reignited her will to live with dignity.
She rented a small apartment, regaining her own space, her quiet, her kitchen, and her routine. She returned to teaching, began walking again, reconnected with friends, and traveled. She felt alive once more.
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