Question

Based on this excerpt, what does "doing for himself" most likely mean?
Old Misery doesn't have any servants or spouse to do domestic work for him.
Old Misery is lonely.
Old Misery is retired and living on a tight budget.
Old Misery follows a very specific way of eating and has to cook all his own food.

Answer 1

"Doing for himself" most likely means taking care of his own needs and responsibilities without relying on anyone else.