Do you have neighbours who are seniors? Are they unapproachable and crotchety? Forgive us if we seem that way. We are hiding the fear that we may need help in case we are found out; that the people in charge might make changes that we don't want.
The fact is, we just want to stay as long as we can in our own homes. However, putting on a brave face will not help us reach that high shelf or the low cupboards.
As for those jars that have the lid screwed on so tightly that even I, with four gadgets to open these pesky jars, still can't do it. (Although, I have found a glove with an abrasive palm that works every time, and helps to cut down on the swearing.) A good neighbour is worth their weight in gold at times like these. We don't want you to look after us. We just want to know that you will be there if we need a little help.
My friend fell at three o'clock in the morning, once. She pressed her Medic Alert button. The ambulance was called, as was the contact person who was registered as having a key to let the medics into the suite.
Would you take the responsibility of answering a call like that - perhaps in the night? You might not be next-of-kin, but next-of-kin may live an hour's drive away. Will you be one of these neighbours who would offer to help? It is such a relief to know that help is near if you waken to find your face buried in the carpet in the wee hours. I can assure you, it's not funny! If you have missed your neighbour lately, perhaps you could check on him, or her, with the excuse that you are going grocery shopping and is there anything that they need? That way, they won't accuse you of being nosey as you check their situation, especially if they don't seem to have family support.
When we are out of our comfort zone, we sometimes lack confidence and don't like to ask for help. We feel at a disadvantage and hate that we have slowed down and get in other people's way.
We don't mean to be like that. It is one of life's cruelties.
If your neighbour needs more help and isn't sure what to do, perhaps because of a language barrier, the Seniors Directory for 2013/14 has many sources of help and in many languages.
The number for one program run by the United Way, Better at Home, is 604-279-7021. Payment is based on income.
Some help may be free on medical grounds. A phone call will start the ball rolling. Could you help a senior make that call? Someone will come to the home to assess what help is needed and your job will be done. You will feel satisfied for being such a good neighbour! It is a lovely feeling.
Have I given you food for thought? Thank you for reading this little plea for your understanding of some of the challenges of aging.
Olive McDonald is a senior living in Steveston.
