I love this angle. While I love my independence in a variety of forms, my life's value and happiness are dependent upon a solid network of people and community. Witthout those life doesn't have much meaning. It's an interesting question to ponder: my parents wanted their independence in one sense, but bemoaned their loneliness in another. I think that picking this term apart and questioning some of the underlyin assumptions (folks don't wanna be bothered with elder care- take care of yourself already) is an important exercise.