Late this afternoon we had the opportunity to take a friend to dinner. He happens to be 86 years old and lives alone. His wife died this past year and what I realized in thinking back about today is how much people want and need each other but don't either know how to ask or are uncomfortable asking.
I thought this might be an interesting blog post for all of us who either know someone in a similar situation or have been through this and have experiences to share. I thought that the following might be of interest:
- Don't assume that people, especially elderly people, living alone don't want company or to go just because they don't talk about it
- Don't assume that because someone is in their 80's that they do not have their same interests and desires. In this particular case we asked him to go play golf and he first said, I can't play like I use to but then immediately followed up with, "Let me think about it".
- Don't be afraid to talk about their spouse, family member or friend who has died. People love, and often need, to talk about someone who has died but when someone doesn't bring it up they don't either.
- Don't assume someone in their 80's eats dinner at the same time you are accustomed to. We went at 4:00 today and it seemed to be just perfect.
- Don't assume you have to have it together or have certain skills to be with an elderly person. All they want is for you to be real, authentic and genuine.
- Don't think you have to be serious. It's ok to be light hearted and to have fun.
Who do you know that lives nearby who might love a cup of coffe, a walk, a meal or just a visit? It's relationships and that is ultimately what we are all about.
About the Author: Kelly Young
- Author's website: www.sellmyhomeincoloradosprings.com
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Kelly is an Associate Broker with Red Rock Realty. She has over 12 years experience in Real Estate in the Colorado Springs and Front Range region of Colorado. She represents buyers and sellers of real estate buying homes, land for sale, mountain getaways. Specific areas include: Black Forest, Broadmoor, Colorado Springs, Divide, Falcon, Downtown, Manitou Springs, Monument, Old Colorado City, Westside, Woodmen Hills and Woodland Park. You can reach her at 719-226-0126 or by clicking "email the author" above.
