I learned this morning of the deaths of two local people who were discovered at home by their neighbours last week. Both were older, and both lived alone.
Voluntary organisations have been doing a sterling job during the pandemic, maintaining contact with some of the most vulnerable members of the community and making sure they have food and other essentials and are able to stay warm.
Community organisations can only reach out to those people they know about, however; their members or client group. There may be many more vulnerable people out there who are not active in local groups, some of whom have no family support. Suffering quietly. Alone.
What can we do to help?
AGE CONCERN offers the following advice:
Saying hello seems like such a small thing. But 1.9 million older people often feel ignored or invisible. A smile and a wave could make a huge difference to those people.
We all feel awkward sometimes, so it’s totally understandable that you might not want to stop and have a conversation. Never underestimate the power of a quick ‘good morning’ though.
How else can I support an older neighbour?
It’s easy to forget that older people sometimes just want someone to pass the time of day with.
Even a small act can make a big difference. Knock on your neighbour’s door and ask them if they need anything. You could:
- invite them round for a cup of tea and a slice of cake
- drive them to a medical appointment
- pick up some shopping for them
- ask if they have anything that needs taking to the tip
- offer to sweep up leaves or salt an icy front step
- offer a mince pie and mulled wine at Christmas.
A word of caution
Do make sure you’ve introduced yourself properly first, telling them who you are and where you live.
Not everyone wants to be friendly with their neighbours, so try to judge the mood when you first approach them.
Once you’ve got that good rapport with your neighbour, it’ll be much easier to do something nice for them.
SCOTTISH GOVERNMENT HELPLINE
The Scottish Government has set up a helpline for vulnerable or isolated people who do not have family or community support but need assistance.
If you, or someone you know, needs help call the Scottish Government helpline on 0800 111 4000. The helpline is open from 9am-5pm.
LOCAL COMMUNITY HELPLINE
A coalition of North Edinburgh voluntary sector organisations has set up a community helpline for local people.
Advice and support is available on 0131 356 0220 from 9 – 4pm Monday – Thursday and from 9 – 3pm on Fridays.