Jojo Meyer
Several weeks ago, a woman whom we didn’t recognize knocked on our door asking for help. Because we grew up in the Midwest, helping comes naturally. Lending her a hand in such a small way led our eyes, ears, and hearts to further awareness of the common struggles that seniors face. She shared that she lives alone in an oversized home for one and has found that it’s becoming daunting to maintain. She has no family nearby and only knows one neighbor. She’s not alone in her predicament.
Countless others are in similar situations. Often they are our neighbors.
Growing up, we knew every person in our neighborhood. It is our responsibility to know the people who live on our street, or at least know who lives next door. For years I’ve worked with seniors. From my experience, I feel that most crave human connections.
The feeling of isolation and loneliness can be a major struggle for seniors. Many have lost their spouse, and many do not have family nearby and are unable to tackle basic, day-to-day tasks—things you and I take for granted. Many of us are blessed to be self-sufficient. It’s the house that appears to sit empty with little to no activity that we should be mindful of. A friendly knock on the door to introduce yourself is a simple act of kindness that could profoundly and positively impact someone’s life.
“It’s the little things that are big things.” —Jojo
Additional Ideas:
• If they don’t drive, offer to do errands for them, or take them.
• Offer transportation to appointments.
• Deliver freshly baked goodies.
• Surprise them with a $4 bunch of flowers from Trader Joe’s just because.
• Share emergency contact numbers.
• Deliver a home-cooked meal and/or baked goods. Include a cheerful message.
• Invite them over, or out, for coffee.
• If they have pets, offer to walk them.
• Be a good listener/conversationalist: Often that’s mainly what seniors are needing.
• Inquire about hobbies and interests. If you know of groups or clubs within our community that match their interests, share that information with them. Consider offering to join them.
• Does their yard or home look in need of a little “love”? Offer to assist before they receive one of those dreaded HOA “weed” notices.
• Offer to take their trash bin to the curb weekly.
• The Ed Robson Library offers free Culture Passes to numerous venues. Offer to go together.
• Become walking partners. Some of the best conversations unfold while walking.
• Share magazines or books, or start your own small book club that offers connectedness and conversation.
• Tech savvy? Offer to teach them basic cell phone and computer skills, which will assist them with staying connected with loved ones.
The ways you can brighten someone’s day are endless. A warm smile, hug, compliment, or lending an ear cost nothing yet are invaluable ways we can offer compassion and empathy to others.