Growing older is inevitable. No one can avoid it or concerns that may arise because of aging.
Carolyn Worthington, publisher of the Healthy Aging® multi-media platform and president of the non-profit Educational Television Network, Inc., started Healthy Aging Month in 1992.
“The annual observance month focuses national attention on the positive aspects of growing older, particularly among adults ages 45-plus. The mission is to encourage everyone to take personal responsibility for their health,” according to healthyaging.net.
Additionally, the U.S. Senate passed a resolution in 2021 making September National Healthy Aging Month “to raise awareness of and encourage healthy lifestyle behaviors and the prevention and management of chronic health conditions among older adults.”
While staying active mentally and socially; engaging in exercise; making an effort to eat right; engaging in hobbies; and staying on top of checkups and screenings are common pieces of advice linked to aging better. A lesser discussed topic is the importance of establishing a supportive village.
A report prepared by the Administration on Aging revealed that “in 2019, the population age 65+ was 54.1 million—30 million women and 24.1 million men.” Additionally, about 27% of adults over the age of 65 living in the community lived alone, while 61% lived with their spouse/partner. Another noteworthy report finding was that “the 2019 median income of older persons was $27,398 ($36,921 for men and $21,815 for women).”
Elders in our communities might need the support of family and friends more than many people may realize. Seven considerations could provide food for thought:
1. Attempt to establish a connection with elderly neighbors that you do not know.
Concerned neighbors can set the tone for their willingness to look out for elders in the community. They can take the initiative to introduce themselves, wave, and start simple conversations to break the ice with them.
2. Offer to help with simple tasks.
If an elderly neighbor lives next door to you, perhaps you may offer to move their garbage cans to the street and return them when you tend to your own trash; pick something up from the store; sweep a front step; or do a simple errand when you may be on the way to do your own. Present the offer kindly without implying that someone is a burden, bother, or incapable of the task. After making a few offers, a person may think about it over time, and then accept a helping hand.
3. Exchange cell phone numbers.
If you find out that an elderly neighbor resides alone, consider helping him or her to stay connected to at least one or two people in the community, whether it is through an active neighborhood association, or by taking the initiative to share contact information. After you get to know your neighbor, you should check on the individual or share important information that he or he may have missed.
4. Introduce yourself to an elder’s caregiver.
After you get to know a neighbor that you may not have initially known, establishing a second point of contact may be helpful. If an emergency arises, do you know how to reach another person who may not live with your neighbor who may live alone? Establish trust and assurance that your goal is to look out for a community member.
5. Listen to elders.
Slow down for five minutes. Establish a check-in routine. Try to call at least one elder in your family or village, or knock on his or her door, at least once a week. A person may be lonely or have an unaddressed problem if no one takes the time to ask questions or hear what is said.
6. Pay attention to patterns and habits.
Humans exhibit habits that people who observe us may notice. If your neighbor does not appear to leave the house for an extended period, answer the door when people such as home health aids are expected to come, or if you notice that a person appears sick or troubled from afar, check in with them. If you still suspect something is wrong, follow your instincts.
7. Know when to seek help.
Contact a person on your neighbor’s behalf if he or she would like your support or if you suspect something could be wrong. If it is warranted, contact your local police department’s non-emergency number to request a welfare check. You may save a life simply by requesting that a police officer physically stop by to ensure that a neighbor or loved one is okay.