Sadly, it is becoming more commonplace that seniors are being abandoned, are left alone, even those that need some assistance finding somewhere to go, or someone to turn too. The youth of today might not even know how despairing it is when they do not assist with simple things, such as carrying the bags of an elderly person, or taking a moment to ask an elderly person if they need help crossing the road. This is an appalling sight for so many in the world to witness. It is something that can so easily be ameliorated. As a society we can take a stand against senior neglect and mistreatment, because the world needs more kindness.
Sticking Up for Seniors
If you see someone mistreating a senior, take a stand and to stand up for them! It is time to help those seniors that might need a helping hand. Many times, seniors will not ask for the help because they feel they may lose some of their dignity, and their independence. However, doing a favor, or something out of goodwill is always welcome! Even if they do not say so, this favor you’re doing them can help them tremendously, and they will be grateful for your good deed.
Too many people are walk by seniors, not saying a thing, not offering a helping hand. In addition to this, too many seniors are being poorly treated. They are being abused, they are being robbed and they are being mistreated by those within the system that are supposed to take care of them. It only takes a second to reach out to another human being and show some compassion!
If there is suspected abuse, by all means, report it immediately! If you feel the person is in imminent danger or a life-threatening situation, then call 911, without delay! If it is not an emergency, but you suspect abuse, contact the National Center on Elder Abuse for local resources or contact your local law enforcement agency. REMEMBER: You don’t need to prove that abuse is occurring to file a report.
Doing the Right Thing
While you can do the right thing, make sure to teach your children to also do the right thing. You want to teach them to stop and listen, to pay attention—to ask if they need help. Children are the future and they need to be taught the etiquette and mores of the past and present. When you pass along these good practices to them, they can then pass them on to their children. Children need to be taught from great examples of the adults around them. Teach the children that we need to take care of one another. This is the moral and right thing to do!
So the next time that you walk down the street, and you see an elderly person struggling with groceries or struggling to cross the road, make sure to do the right thing and give them assistance. If there are children standing around watching you help them, tell them that this is what you do when you see someone in need. If appropriate, ask the child/children to lend a hand and help, as well.
Whether or not you’re a senior that is aging in place, or you will be in the future, please remember to always keep a safety device on you. If you have a loved one that has chosen to age in place, encourage them to consider a medical alert system. These alert systems can make a difference when a situation occurs, and you require medical attention quickly. They can be on time, every time; whether others are around when an emergency occurs or, when emergencies happen and you are alone. In addition, these alert systems are helpful in providing a way for medical personnel to get to you much faster, even while at the grocery store.