In our vibrant communities, the well-being of our elderly neighbours is a shared responsibility that often gets overlooked. The importance of checking in on those who live alone, especially when they may not have the energy or resources to care for themselves, cannot be understated.
Photo via The Star
Recently, an eye-opening incident unfolded in George Town, Penang, highlighting this very issue. On Sunday, 13 October, the Civil Defence Force received a distress call from the family of an 86-year-old woman living alone on Jalan Mano. The family reported that their elderly relative was unwell and unable to navigate her home, which had become overwhelmed with hoarded rubbish.
Muhammad Aizat Abdul Ghani, the northeast district officer of the Civil Defence Force, explained that the situation was dire. The woman was confined to her double-storey house, struggling to walk amidst the towering piles of clutter that had accumulated over the years. Not only was her home a hazard, but the rubbish extended to her porch, where three cars were parked amidst the mess.
When approached by officials, the woman seemed unfazed by her predicament, reassuring them from an upstairs window, “Don’t worry, I’m all good. I’m just having a meal now. My family comes to visit once in a while. I’ve actually called for cleaners to come and tidy up the place, but they didn’t show up.” She added, “Why don’t you all go home? I will move when I decide to move.”
Despite her calm demeanour, the reality was grim. Four Civil Defence personnel were required to carry her out on a stretcher, as she could not traverse the maze of rubbish blocking her path.
Photo via The Star
According to Muhammad Aizat, the elderly woman had previously expressed a desire to move into a nearby old folk’s home, but her living conditions made it impossible. With ongoing health issues, including diabetes and hypertension, coupled with frailty and hearing difficulties, her situation required urgent intervention.
It was revealed that she had been hoarding for many years, a practice that led to numerous falls and calls for assistance from her worried family, particularly during the late hours. Her relatives have now given their consent for her to be moved to an old folk’s home, ensuring she receives the care and attention she needs.
This incident serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of community and connection, especially for the elderly who may find themselves isolated. It is crucial for us to pay more attention to our neighbours, particularly those living alone. They are not just the fabric of our community but deserving of support and companionship. By reaching out and lending a helping hand, we can ensure that every member of our society feels valued and cared for.
Original report by New Straits Times.
