I am not so sure if people don't see the (nasty) flaws of the partner. I believe they do, especially if they hope that partner will change. If you hope that you know.
There weren't many around to give me a hand but I do know that getting older is a blessing most of all because you are taken more seriously and... left alone. LOL
I also believe that once older and you've survived more than anyone can imagine, you are not that easily scared. No sleepless nights about what can't be changed or things that are less important.
Of course people see the flaws in their partners, but since they are in love they prefer not to see them, but to hide them. Then it's late.
I have had help in my life because I have paid some people to help me; I didn't get much from the rest or from my family. I am one of the people who gives without expecting anything in return, so I don't get frustrated when I don't receive anything from others, much less if I don't receive anything from the people I have helped. I would do it again.
I am an older adult who learned to love solitude. I like being with someone who asks me to come visit for a while, of course, but after the visit is over, I breathe again in my solitude, which is so wonderful.
I have already changed what I had to change; What I have left to live is a gift from God. I'm not complaining about my life, but I am complaining about the current heat, hehehe. For some time now I see my days as a gift from God, who wants me to learn something more.