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If You Know An Elderly Person Living Alone

By Ken Morse, Minneapolis Star Tribune

August 22, 2005

  IF YOU KNOW AN ELDERLY PERSON LIVING ALONE:

. Check on them daily, in person or over the phone.

. Monitor whether newspapers and mail are picked up.

. Know their phone number and family's contact information.

. Watch for behaviors that might indicate mental confusion, such as wandering outside at night or a change in routine.

. Check whether the refrigerator is well-stocked or contains spoiled food.

. Check for good hygiene practices, including combing hair, bathing and changing clothes.

. If you are sure someone is home but does not respond to phone calls or knocking, call police immediately to check on their welfare.

. If you are concerned about someone's declining health but are uncomfortable addressing it yourself, contact their family or county agencies to check on their welfare.