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Health & Fitness

Stop, Think & Assist Seniors and the Disabled

We need to take better care of our Seniors and the Disabled. All of our lives have been impacted somehow, in this recession, but a smile, a hand and caring is free and very rewarding.

I remember growing up, that anyone older then I, was be shown respect at all times.  I would never ever think to back talk my parents, teachers and any of my peers.  I was taught that Please and Thank You was always to be used.  I would never think to open a door and not hold continue to hold it open for the other person.  It all just basically came down to respect and treating others, as you would want to be treated.

Unfortunately, I see fewer people, of ALL ages, showing respect to others, especially to Seniors and the Disabled.  When I see a younger person, holding door open, picking up an item that a senior or disabled person dropped, helping them load something or just simply smiling at them and asking if they can help, I always compliment them on their behavior.

So no matter what age you are, if you are physically able to assist a senior or disabled person, Stop, Think and Assist them.  The Seniors and disabled persons certainly deserve our respect, their life is probably not the easiest anymore or has been.

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Here are just a few ideas that you could certainly improve their quality of life for a Senior or Disabled Person:

1.  If they are struggling with an item, ask if you can help. Ask if you may help them load their packages, in their car. 

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2.  Ask if you could take their trash cans to the curb & return them, on trash days.

3. If their lawn needs mowing, ask if you can mow their lawn.

4. On Holidays, ask your married, widowed Seniors or disabled if they have someone to spend the Holiday with.  If they don't, invite them over.  If that will not work, you can simply take them a piece of pie, cake or cookies, they probably don't bake much.

5. If you have a Senior or Disabled Person(s) on your street, start a neighborhood watch for that person(s).  If a natural disater happens, like an earthquake, they will more then likely, need assistance.  Discuss a plan, if an emergency arises and reassure them that they will not be alone.  Include them in your Emergency Pack count.

6.  If they live alone, sit outisde and visit with them, loneliness is a terrible thing.  Find out what their interest are.  If it is puzzles, bring them a puzzle to work on. If it is playing cards or a board game, take the time to play with them a couple times a week.

7.  If your going to the grocery store, ask them if they would like for you to pick up a few items for them.  Of course, they would pay for the items, you would not be expected to pay.

8.  If you suspect ANY type of abuse, call the Police, Sheriff or Adult Protective Services.  It is better to make a needless call, then no call made, and the abuse continues.

9.  Never ask, get involved, give advise or handle any type of finances for the Seniors or Disabled. 

10.  There are many resources out their to assist Seniors and the Disabled but like everything else, there has been budget cuts and the resources have dimished to a degree.  This is why, if we all take the time and give a little of oursleves to helping, those who have a need, there will be less lonely, sick, hungry, depressed or abused Seniors and Disabled.

The is a wonderful example to show our children. We will be a Senior or possibly disabled someday and would appreciate the assistance and caring.  Just giving a smile and asking how their day is, to a Senior, Disabled Person or anyone, can make a difference.  I recommend that you ALWAYS ask prior to assisting, some prefer no assistance and some will feel threatened, if you just start assisting without asking.  It really is very rewarding to help someone, especially those in need.

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