[CrimsonCape]

I learned about the earlier generations of my family. The massive difference is how much more socially connected they were. They walked to grocery stores because the grocery stores were within walking distance because they had to be (perishable foods were not refrigerated). They walked to work and lived blocks away from their business (great grandfather owned a service station). Their friends were the people in the businesses between home and work. They rode streetcars to travel around. The great- generation of my family was born 1908 and 1910. My grandparents conveyed these stories of how they lived and how their parents lived.

In your dire example, the missing component is how older generations socialized organically and effortlessly. They might be caring for their dependent, but the minute they left the house, they experienced social interaction. I certainly feel like modern day is vastly different and creates the isolation you describe.