Risks of Aging Offgrid
Years ago, when we started talking about our very real desire to live on an offgrid homestead in our retirement years, it became clear that we needed to define what we meant by offgrid. Through much discussion, we eventually decided that we really meant no physical connection to the usual resources provided by utility companies - no electrical, water, or sewer service. We would attempt to provide for our own basic needs as much as possible. The things we could not provide, given our abilities and resources, would have to be assessed as to their true necessity.
As we went through this years-long process of discussion, we also determined that we wanted our location to be very remote. After decades of working in careers which involve working and communicating with many people on a daily basis, the hermit lifestyle has a kind of mystical attraction. So, we purchased property in a very rugged and remote location, and have begun the process of constructing and developing our homestead.
Although I believe that we are both tough, resilient, and determined people, there are realities in life, and we are entering this stage of our lives with our eyes open. All animals, human beings among them, have more medical and physical ailments as they go through the aging process, and living in such a remote and inaccessible location could be problematic. What happens if medical care is needed quickly? Are we willing to take the risk? Is it really worth the risk to attempt to live the desired lifestyle? These are topics that we have discussed openly and truthfully with each other - and not just once. On a regular basis, we revisit the discussion to make sure we are both still committed, and our answers are always the same. Yes, the risk is worth it. To live even a few years as unencumbered as possible by the typical trappings of modern life is what we are determined to do.
This week, with many areas of Arkansas experiencing serious flooding, has been a natural time for the discussion to arise again. Although we have not been able to visit our homestead site due to work obligations, we would not have been able to get there due to high water. If we were living in our cabin, we would be cut off and unable to leave the area.
Even during such trying times, we pray for our neighbors living along that creek, and look forward to joining them as soon as possible.
My wife and I often talk about it, because she was never one to even think about a non-commercial lifestyle. Now she's the first one to get out the pressure canner or learn a new bread recipe.
You were very forward thinking when you built on pilings. We don't get that kind of flooding here, but you never know what the future holds.
Great post, Dean.
This project of ours is a significant departure from my usual way of living. I live conservatively and am not a real risk-taker. There is a plan for everything. Without my wife to confirm our commitment to seeing it through, my resolve might falter. Maybe that will be the topic of another post.
Thanks for the encouragement.
Its certainly a brave decision to live off-grid at any time of your life.
However, if you plan well, you should be able to weather most situations. Just make sure you have a line to the outside world (satellite phone, and perhaps mobile or internet) and your nearest neighbours!
Yes, we at least have a marginal mobile signal, and the nearest neighbors are within easy walking distance. Thankfully, they are also much younger than we are and are quite resourceful.
My wife and I were 63 when we moved off-grid. It has been six years and I would not change anything.
Thanks for the input. I often feel like we have missed out on a lot by waiting so late. It's good to know that other people are doing it successfully. Now, if only I had a daughter and strapping young son-in-law to take along with me!