‘Darr lagta hai mein… ': Pavitra Rishta actor Usha Nadkarni expresses her fear of living alone at 79 after her brother passed away last year; how to manage such fears

Indian Express

3 days ago

Ageing often brings a host of emotional and practical challenges, especially when it comes to living alone.
In a touching reunion shared on Ankita Lokhande's YouTube channel, veteran actor Usha Nadkarni, now 79, opened up about her solitude and the real fears that come with it. Best known for her role as Savita Deshmukh in Pavitra Rishta, Nadkarni has lived independently in Mumbai for years. But even the strongest individuals are not immune to vulnerability. 'Ghar mein akeli hoon na, darr lagta hai mein girungi, kisiko malum nahi padega (I'm alone at home, you know, and I'm scared that if I fall, no one will even know),' she said, highlighting the isolation many elderly people experience behind closed doors.
Nadkarni also shared how she has had to deal with an emotional void after losing her brother. 'My brother passed away last year on June 30. If he had understood that I was going through something, he would have come running to me. Now, whom should I tell?' she said tearfully.
Sitting beside her, Ankita Lokhande and husband Vicky Jain listened with empathy, as Ankita affirmed, 'Aai bohot zyada strong hai, woh akeli rehti hai. Woh itne saalon se akeli rahi hai, mein bohot saalon se aai ko dekh rahi hoon (Aai is very strong; she lives alone. She has been living alone for so many years, and I've been watching her for a long time).' The moment offered a glimpse into the emotional toll of ageing alone.
Neha Cadabam, senior psychologist and executive director at Cadabams Hospitals, tells indianexpress.com, 'Common experiences include heightened anxiety, fear of accidents or medical emergencies, and feelings of vulnerability. The fear of falling, in particular, is very real and valid; it often stems not just from the physical risk but from the emotional reality of not having immediate help or reassurance.'
Managing such fears begins with acknowledging them without stigma. It's important for older adults to feel heard and supported. 'Steps like installing emergency response systems, using wearable alert devices, or staying connected with neighbors and family through regular check-ins can significantly ease these worries. Simple home modifications, like grab bars, anti-slip flooring, and improved lighting, also reduce risk and help restore a sense of control and confidence,' suggests the expert.
Regular social interaction is critical in maintaining emotional well-being in older adults, especially after losing loved ones. 'Grief can amplify feelings of isolation, and when left unaddressed, it can lead to depression, anxiety, or cognitive decline. Social connection, be it through friendships, community groups, or structured activities, can serve as an emotional anchor during such transitions,' confirms Cadabam.
A well-rounded support system for elderly individuals ideally blends emotional presence with practical safety. 'Emotionally, access to regular human interaction, be it family calls, community visits, or even online video chats, helps build a sense of belonging. Medical support, including routine check-ups and home visits by healthcare professionals, offers peace of mind and early detection of issues,' states Cadabam.
On the technological side, she adds, simple tools like medical alert pendants, motion sensors, and health-monitoring apps are becoming increasingly helpful. Crucially, older adults should be encouraged to remain decision-makers in their lives. Independence doesn't have to mean isolation, with thoughtful design, technology, and community care, it can mean dignity, safety, and emotional connection all at once.