Living alone can be a good fit for many people. It also means that no one is nearby to notice when something changes, so a plan for your health matters more.
Living alone with a medical condition
If you have a chronic illness, or are in the early stages of a condition that affects memory or balance, plan for the common risks:
- Missed doses of medicine
- Falls from loss of balance
- Poor nutrition when cooking becomes harder
- Wandering or getting lost, in some conditions
Practical steps include:
- A reminder system for medicines, such as a pill organizer with alarms
- Help with meals, housekeeping and errands
- Regular visits or calls from family or friends
- A trusted person to help with bills and bank deposits
Our team can help you build this plan around your conditions and manage symptoms as they change.
Preventing isolation and loneliness
Living alone can also affect your mental health. Loneliness can develop even if you are physically well. Reach out to family, friends and neighbors on a regular schedule, whether in person, by phone or online. Community programs and support groups can help you build a routine and meet people.
Feeling alone for more than a few weeks, or losing interest in things you used to enjoy, is worth raising with your provider.
Next steps
To schedule a visit or request a telemedicine visit, call the Lake Orion office at (248) 690‑9181.