The older woman is perpetuating a victim consciousness. She isn't forced into anything.

She may have committed to those lifestyle choices because of her desire for things she no longer desires, and now regrets them.

It's OK, we all make stupid mistakes. But you can't address it until you own it.

But in her case I strongly suspect that deep down she is generally content with being a slave in this system. The benefits really are good. Hot and cold potable running water straight out of a tap, electricity, and modern plumbing is an amazing luxury we all take for granted.

She is expressing a desire for a different life. She is not expressing a decision to move to that life. You see this all the time in people and the distinction is important.

Those who express a desire will never change, and energy is wasted on them until their language changes.