There are more and more people who are living alone than ever before. This is the first of series of topics covering issues faced by those who are alone and how people can help. Some have a good support system and some do not. This is a case of someone who fortunately had a neighbor who realized something was amiss and took action. Our society has progressed to a point where too many are alone. We need to find a way to assist them as they age. Demographics tell us that this is the tip of the iceberg. Hopefully we can find solutions to the problems these people face.
Earlier this year I received a call from a neighbor of a woman who was found with no power, no phone and, among other issues, hadn’t paid her mortgage in five months. The mortgage company was taking photos of the home for repossession. She had been meticulous with her life, her payments and record keeping until a certain day – then all payments and most else stopped. She hadn’t picked up her mail and had little interaction with others as she has no relatives and had lost touch with neighbors.
Once there, as the neighbor looked on, I obtained all of the mail. I sorted out the bills, brought the mortgage current, got electricity and phone turned on and paid all outstanding bills before anything irreversible could happen to her. Her air-conditioning and some electrical outlets needed to be repaired, which was scheduled. “Late fees” of more than $1,000 had to be paid but fortunately, she was able to afford this as the problem was not lack of money.
Additionally, she was eating whatever she could find in the home and was dehydrated. The quick fix was getting her hydrated and taking her grocery shopping. But long-term actions were needed too. Like many people in this situation she didn’t and still doesn’t believe she has memory issues to the extent that help is warranted. But now she has a primary physician and a neurologist who prescribed memory medication. Her home has been professionally cleaned and re-organized for ease of living. Empty boxes and clutter have been removed. Excellent home care has been brought in. Medically she is back to normal and all bills continue to be paid on time. Most bills are now on autopay. I continue to monitor the situation.
If there is someone near you who is alone, take an extra few minutes to drop in and see if they are doing okay. If a little time is taken, more people will get the help they need and continue to live the best life they can. I often say, “Think of what you would do if it was your mother or father.” Of course, if you need help with someone or hear of someone who needs help we are here for you.
