Life can take unexpected turns, and for one 70-year-old part-time writer in County Cork, Ireland, it’s meant learning to navigate solitude and financial stability after his partner’s move to a nursing home due to dementia. But here’s where it gets emotional: as he shares his weekly spending habits, we’re reminded that behind every budget is a story of resilience, grief, and the quiet determination to make ends meet. Welcome to How I Spend My Money, a series on The Journal (https://www.thejournal.ie/money-diaries/news/) that peels back the curtain on real financial lives across Ireland. Are you a spender, a saver, or somewhere in between? We’re inviting readers to track their earnings, savings, and expenses for a week. If you’re up for it, drop us a line at money@thejournal.ie—we’d love to hear your story.
Each diary in this series is a personal snapshot, not a one-size-fits-all blueprint. And this is the part most people miss: these stories aren’t about judgment; they’re about understanding. So, let’s approach them with kindness and curiosity.
Last time, we met an accounting manager in Dublin earning €60K (https://www.thejournal.ie/readme/money-diaries-spending-saving-73-6919420-Jan2026/). This week, we step into the life of a man whose pension and modest investments are his lifeline. His partner, diagnosed with Frontotemporal Dementia five years ago, now resides in a nursing home. Her doctor advises limited visits, as she no longer recognizes him. With only his small dog for company, he’s piecing together a life that’s both frugal and meaningful.
Here’s the controversial bit: while his monthly pension is €2,000, his expenses total €2,215, leaving a €215 shortfall covered by liquidating investments. Is this sustainable? Many would argue no, but his story highlights the delicate balance between necessity and the small joys that keep us going.
Occupation: Part-time novelist and screenwriter
Age: 70
Location: County Cork
Income: Pension and investments
Monthly Net Income: €2,000
Monthly Expenses:
- Transport: €500
- Rent: None (mortgage paid off)
- Household bills: €300
- Phone bill: €120
- Health insurance: €145
- Groceries: €500
- Subscriptions: None (medical card holder)
- Entertainment: €200 (pub visits, meals with friends)
- Golf expenses: €100
- Travel (holiday): €100
- Christmas gifts: €100
- Nursing home expenses: €150
Total: €2,215 (shortfall covered by investments)
A Week in His Life:
Monday
His day begins at 7 a.m. with coffee, laundry, and ironing. After a shower and catching up on news, he writes for four to five hours. Breakfast is late, a habit from his partnered days. More writing follows, then a dog walk, light dinner, and evening relaxation. Total spent: €0 (bills paid via standing order).
Tuesday
Routine repeats, with tidying and prayer for his partner. A pub visit with friends costs €25. Total spent: €25.
Wednesday
A colder day means lighting the stove instead of central heating—a cost-saving measure. Writing, napping, and a beef stew cooked in a crock pot for multiple meals. Total spent: €0.
Thursday
Business calls, dog walk, and more stew. Total spent: €0 (occasional bills average €100 weekly).
Friday
Weekly shopping in Kenmare at Aldi and Lidl (€175). Lunch with friends is a highlight. Total spent: €175.
Saturday
Golf Day at Berehaven Golf Club. The drive is nostalgic, playing with friends lifts his spirits. Dinner at the clubhouse costs €35. Total spent: €35.
Sunday
Mass, pub visit (€30), and a quiet evening. Total spent: €30.
Weekly Subtotal: €260 (excluding standing orders).
What He’s Learned:
- He’s overspending by €150 weekly. His accountant suggests cutting costs on utilities, entertainment, and insurance—advice he’s reluctantly considering.
- He’s saving €60 weekly in a cash tin for small indulgences like pub visits.
- Cancelled non-essential subscriptions and is exploring cheaper TV options.
Thought-Provoking Question: Is it fair to sacrifice small joys like pub visits or golf when they provide emotional respite in an otherwise lonely life? Share your thoughts in the comments—let’s spark a conversation about balancing financial responsibility with mental well-being.
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