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High Expectations

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  1. Expectations - Overview
  2. Expectation 1 You should expect to be listened to, valued, and respected
  3. Expectation 2 You should expect knowledgeable and compassionate health care
  4. Expectation 3 You should expect to get medications that will only make you feel better, not worse
  5. Expectation 4 You should expect never to be abandoned or forgotten
  6. Expectation 5 You should expect not to live a life of loneliness or depression
  7. Expectation 6 You should expect to live life as pain-free as possible
  8. Expectation 7 You should expect never to be the object of prejudice or abuse
  9. Expectation 8 You should expect to get the help you need to live life to the fullest
  10. Expectation 9 You should expect to live up to your potential and have hope for the future
  11. Expectation 10 You should expect to be in control of your life and understand what is happening to you
  12. Expectation 11 And most importantly... You should expect never to be taken advantage of except for your talents, knowledge, and wisdom
  13. Reflection Activity
  14. Course Feedback - Expectations
  1. High Expectations
  2. Expectation 4 You should expect never to be abandoned or forgotten
Lesson 5 of 14
In Progress

Expectation 4 You should expect never to be abandoned or forgotten

Robert Stall MD

No one should ever feel invisible. Growing older doesn’t make you less important—it makes your presence and your story even more valuable. You deserve to feel connected, supported, and remembered. You should expect never to be abandoned or forgotten.

Unfortunately, some older adults experience isolation, neglect, or emotional distance from the people and systems they once counted on. Whether it’s in families, care settings, or society at large, this kind of disconnection can lead to feelings of loneliness, anxiety, or depression—and it’s simply not acceptable.

Being remembered isn’t just about being visited or called. It’s about knowing there are people who care about your well-being, who check in, include you in decisions, and make you feel like you belong. You are not a burden. You are not “too much.” You are a person who deserves love, respect, and community throughout every stage of life.

If you’re feeling forgotten or left behind, know this: it’s okay to speak up. It’s okay to ask for help, to reach out, and to expect more. There are people—friends, neighbors, caregivers, community members—who want to show up for you. Let them.

Action Plan

1. Stay Connected
Reach out to people who lift you up—whether it’s a phone call, letter, text, or visit. Staying in touch helps remind others (and yourself) that you’re here and you matter.

2. Get Involved in Community
Join a club, attend events, or volunteer. Even small moments of connection can build a strong sense of belonging.

3. Speak Up About Neglect
If you’re in a care setting and feel ignored, express your concerns to staff, management, or an advocate. You have the right to be seen and supported.

4. Create a Care Network
List a few people you can check in with regularly—family, friends, neighbors, or professionals. Mutual check-ins help everyone feel more connected.

5. Know You Are Not Alone
There are organizations, senior centers, and support groups specifically designed to help older adults stay engaged and valued. Don’t hesitate to explore them.

Your life continues to matter—deeply. You are not meant to fade quietly into the background. Expect to be included, supported, and cared for. Always.