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An older relative living alone: how to look out for them

Living at home for as long as possible is what most older people want. The risk is not so much the fall or the dizzy spell as lying there for hours without anyone knowing. That delay is what you can act on.

Warning signs

• Falls, even “minor” ones, or a fear of falling.
• An empty fridge, forgotten medication, mail piling up.
• Weight loss, unusual tiredness, moments of confusion.
• Fewer phone calls, a person who no longer goes out.

Making the home safer

• Light everywhere, especially at night between the bedroom and the toilet.
• No slippery rugs or trailing cables.
• Grab bars in the bathroom, a walk-in shower if possible.
• Everyday items within easy reach, so there is no need to climb.

Not being left alone after a fall

After a fall, an older person who cannot get up may stay on the floor for hours. The solutions:

• A personal alarm service: a pendant or wristband button connected to a call centre. In some places it can be partly funded; ask your local authority or social services.
• A phone always on them, with fall detection switched on if the device offers it.
• A daily check-in: a call or message at a set time. No answer should lead to a visit.

If you find a relative on the floor, don’t pull them up suddenly: ask whether they are in pain, and call your country’s emergency number (112 in Europe) if they have pain, feel faint or are confused.

Breaking the isolation

• Volunteer visits and helplines for isolated older people exist in many countries: ask your local council or social services.
• A club, a shared meal, an activity at the town hall or community centre.
• During a heatwave, find out whether your local authority keeps a list of people to check on in the hot weather, and ask for your relative to be added.

If you suspect abuse

In some countries, helplines listen to older or disabled people who are victims of abuse, and to their relatives: ask your local social services. If there is immediate danger, call your country’s emergency number (112 in Europe).

More guides

• Which emergency number should you call?
• Attack or threat in the street
• Getting home alone at night