A Plea To Those Living Alone

[naomi24]

In the absence of a response to my texts and answerphone messages to an elderly friend who lives alone, I’ve had a bit of a worrying day wondering if she’d had an accident. In fact, I almost called the police. Thankfully she’s just called to say sorry she was gardening and didn’t see my texts or check her answerphone.

If you live alone, please keep in regular contact with someone so they know you’re okay. Just a thought.

[naomi24]

Pixie, So you said - but whilst people may live alone it doesn't necessarily follow that, whatever their age, they're feeble minded or incapable. Many would regard your suggestion that others take responsibility for them as an insult. Solitary people, even if they are elderly, are not necessarily incapable, and one size does not fit all. Members here are not all one step from a care home. I've posted a simple suggestion which in my opinion is a sensible one. Readers may take it or leave it. It's their choice.

[pixie374]

Don't try to twist it now..I haven't used any of those words... I said it is not up to vulnerable people to reassure others. If you are worried, arrange something with her. Don't pretend you think I was saying something different. You are not stupid.

[THECORBYLOON]

NAOMI needn't have bothered doing anything if she wanted to but she's being a good pal and thinking on someone at risk.

Leaving it to the following day could literally be the difference between life and death.

[naomi24]

Maydup, //the lady concerned is clearly fit and well if she spent the day in the garden. //

Precisely - and she is compos mentis too - which is why I thought, in the absence of news from her, she may have had an accident.

[pixie374]

Yes, a gold star for the 'virtue signalling'. Maybe some communication in future...

[naomi24]

Pixie, no I am not stupid - and I didn't use the word 'vulnerable' either. You did - so who's twisting it? The OP refers to people living alone. You've turned that into whatever you've imagined and suddenly you're talking about dementia. Now will you please stop creating friction here. On a thread posted with the best intentions it's surplus to requirements.

[naomi24]

Thanks TCL, I'm delighted some here 'get it'. Not that difficult I'd have thought - but there you are.

[pixie374]

I have made a more sensible suggestion, than expecting vulnerable people to contact anyone who may be worried.
Arrange something with her, so you know. There is no friction, except your inability to properly read posts as they are meant.

[ladybirder]

pixie 22.31 - that's nasty.

[pixie374]

It isn't, at all. It's common sense. If you are worried about someone, agree with them to communicate. Don't just leave it to them.

[naomi24]

Pixie, you have no idea what arrangements I have in place - but you take it upon yourself to make an awful lot of assumptions. Are you finished now?

[Mamyalynne]

Well, this has taken a rather uncomfortable side path hasn't it.

I'm sure we all agree that keeping in contact one way or another is for the best.

[pixie374]

I've made no assumptions, naomi. In spite of all my posts and over 5 hours in time, you chose not to agree or clarify. Your choice.

[naomi24]

It has indeed, Mamyalynne.

Thanks LB. Difficult to do right around here. Just as well I have a sense of humour. :o)

[pixie374]

Oh dear.

[naomi24]

Yes Pixie it was my choice. The OP is what it is because in my experience most of the people who are likely to read it aren't stupid enough to require guidance from me - or from anyone. It is simply a reminder to those living alone that other people worry about them.

[237SJ]

"If you live alone, please keep in regular contact with someone so they know you're okay" I phoned an 89 year old widower neighbour and asked him to let me know if he needs anything. He has family who can shop for him but I thought he might need the odd pint of milk or loaf of bread. He has phoned me to tell me all about his days in the services and the Korean War. Then another call to tell me about his time in London in WW11. I`m waiting for the next installment (hopefully, not too early in the morning like last time))

[naomi24]

That has the potential to keep you busy, SJ. ;o)

[Spicerack]

That's nice, sj. He obviously wants/needs someone to chat to.

[237SJ]

I know and I think it will still be keeping me busy when coronavirus is a distant memory