In this morning's Times (and taken up by virtually all the British press) was the alarming story of an 87 year old Southend-on Sea lady who, there is no other way to put it , was stuck in her bath for four days. Waitress rescues café regular stuck in bath I can completely understand how this situation arose, simply because some years ago I found myself in a similar situation with weekening wrists failing to provide the momentum to get me out of a bath. The offending bath has since been replaced by a walk-in shower and I now see that my mobile phone is always to hand but I couldn't help offering up three cheers for the lovely waitress who called the police ! Ron
Ron Mobile phone is an excellent idea but may I suggest there should always be a Plan B. My mother has a number of cord-free landline phone handsets dotted around her house (she lives in an area where mobile phone signals are 'dodgy' to say the least) and, most importantly in her case, two of those 'wear round your neck' push button dongles that, in an emergency, can be used to call the emergency response team. One of them even works if it detects a sudden jolt (such as when experiencing a fall). Best wishes Steve
Steve If we are getting technical, I have a pair of what's known as "Panic Buttons" to hand, if only to keep my daughters happy Living alone, at any age, will always present possible problems but I would think that taking reasonable precautions against forseeable hazards will always make sense. Ron
Ron, All these technical devices are very good if, as you age, you can adapt to them, which is not easy for everyone.And, sadly those with dementia who need most help are unlikely to be able to do this. Your walk in shower is the best idea, but a lovely warm soak might need some supervision!
Yes, I'm in the same boat. Health and safety issues are a real concern for seniors living alone without choice, not to mention indescribable loneliness. I keep my mobile phone close most of the time, just in case. No panic button yet. However, the worst part about losing a spouse is discovering that she ( or he ) was the last person on planet Earth that truly loved and cared for you. Sadly, everyone else wishes to put the person's death behind them as quickly as possible. Don't expect anyone will call to see if you are still alive and well, on a regular basis anyway. For the most part, prepare to be totally alone. As they say, I've been sentenced to solitary confinement in a prison of sorrow that I can't possibly escape. PUT
Dear Put, I do feel for you. There are things you can do to help yourself and there are organisations who can help with companionship. The hardest bit is admitting you are lonely. Have you thought of asking anyone for this? I know nothing can ever replace a loved one but it is possible to make friends at any age. You need to find the courage to do it.
Shiny 9th, thanks for your kind words. As the most handsome chap in the village (of any age), I will have no problem whatsoever finding NEW family and friends for companionship. However, it is very sad that I am forced to do so. PUT
