It's not always about not having children, often the elders of the family become the dependents.

Due to unfortunate events 2 years ago I inherited 1.5 houses and then I got made redundant. Fortunately the redundancy payment paid off my own mortgage and I qualified for my pension. To simplify my life I rented out my 3 houses and moved back into my parents house.

The result is I have a steady income with minimal work and lots of time for travelling, but have some limits as I have an obligation to care for my Grandma when my parents are away travelling, usually May-October.                                                                                                                                                                             

sorry AK didn't mean to exclude carers who look after elderly relatives....but you got the drift of what I meant.                                                                                                                                                                              

akceller8.....You are in a very fortunate position not having to work much, if at all. Most of us will be very envious of you   Looking after the elderly can also be a good experience, as they have so many memories to pass on.                                                                                                                                                                              

I have landed on my feet, but i'd give it all up to have my sister back and likewise I don't look forward to losing my grandma, despite the responsibilities, at 92 she's still pretty independent but it won't last for ever.

Kwakgirl, I did get your drift and thought i had it better planned than you as had avoided children to leave me free from responsibility, but was just pointing out that sometimes responsibility sneaks up on you. I never thought I'd be the one looking after my grandma now, but its made me realise that even when she goes I'll still have my parents to look after too.