Your neighbors who live alone might need some friendly assistance this winter, especially if they’re older. A small gesture on your part could have a big impact on someone who doesn’t have anyone else to turn to for help.
- Don’t wait for an older neighbor to ask you for help. Offer and insist. Many people pride themselves on their independence and are reluctant to ask for help.
- Check in whenever there’s a storm or the electricity goes out, to make sure their heat is working. Someone who can’t make it to the breaker box might appreciate it if you stop by to check on things.
- Take the initiative to call the electric cooperative or an HVAC specialist if there’s a problem with the neighbor’s central heating on a cold day.
- Poke your head in frequently to say hello. While you’re there, observe if the house is being heated safely. If not, lend a portable space heater if you have one and get rid of unsafe heating devices.
- Deliver hot meals when you can, or invite your neighbor to have dinner with your family. Hot meals on cold days go a long way toward making us feel warm and comfortable.