TIPS -- Not Having Family or a Friend to Help Out

• Contact the Senior LinkAge Line^® (1-800-333-2433) to learn ways to improve your independence in the home or www.MinnesotaHelp.info for local organizations helping older adults.
  
  
• Develop a “buddy-system” with a friend or neighbor so you can check up on each other each day.  
  
  
• When someone says “Let me know if you need something,” give them a list of ways to help you:

• Set-up my medications each week
• Call or visit once a week
• Provide a ride to doctor appointments
• Shopping or errand running
• Make regular visits to your doctor and dentist.  Re-schedule missed appointments.
  
  
• Moderate your use of alcohol and know your medications. 
  
  
• Sign up for a personal response service so others can be alerted if you need emergency help.  
  
  
• Install a home security system if you are concerned about feeling safe in your home.
  
  
• Write an advanced health care directive so that decisions and choices about your health care are known to others.  Give a copy to your doctor and your family.