Helping a blind neighbor

Submitted by Fine_Ability2276 t3_12688yw in rva

Posting on throwaway for privacy.

Does anyone have any resources for a mostly blind elderly (retired) neighbor regarding in home services etc?

I've gotten to know this nice blind crazy cat lady on the corner near me and today she asked about tax help because she cannot see the documents- however, when she opened her home to me, I noticed filth, bugs, and signs of mice... I just want someone that's able to point me in the correct direction to get her the help she desperately needs without any judgement. The only issue- she is very skeptical of help as she's been taken advantage of previously and stated she has issues with allowing new people in her home. I know she trusts me and I really want to be the one to help her but I have a newborn and a full time position so it's not feasible long term. Any suggestions?

Update: I called around and got placed with a organization called senior connections that helps in our area. A lovely lady named Angela will be helping us with her intake tomorrow. Thanks everyone! Love RVA!!

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dreww4546 t1_je854fo wrote

I know there are state programs to help the blind in some areas. They could be run out of Richmond Behavioral health authority or DARS.

I would call both and see where they send you.

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UnderstandingLast738 t1_je88j8e wrote

Confirming this. Several social work organizations in the area deal directly with this! Just make some phone calls and they should be able to point you in the right direction!

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Fine_Ability2276 OP t1_je9wsb4 wrote

I called both and Dars pointed me to an organization called Senior Connections that helps the Southside.

For anyone wondering: 804 343 3018 is the direct line to senior connections.

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Mojicat-702 t1_je9iogv wrote

I came here because I also have a blind neighbor, and yesterday she scared the shit out off me, she walk to my door and bang it loud. She needed help with her toasted oven. I went over and their was nothing to put in their she had no food. I recently meet her and she told me their a lady that helps her with groceries idk sometimes it be 3 days and I don’t see no food delivery. I try to help but she tells me she don’t need a care giver. She just wants to sit and talk because she’s lonely

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Fine_Ability2276 OP t1_je9sa7d wrote

Yes. They seem very similar. I know she doesn't love the idea of someone new in her home, but she desperately needs some support before the whole house is condemned or worse.. There are also some safety issues, things like no hot water or her shower not working that im concerned with- so im hoping she will trust me enough to let us get her some help. Good luck to you too! Let's all be like Mr. Rodgers and make the neighborhood a great place!

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fusion260 t1_je9vjb3 wrote

I appreciate you seeing what you can do to help your neighbor and get them the right type of support they need. The world needs more people like you, OP!

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Fine_Ability2276 OP t1_je9zamm wrote

Not sure what side of town you are- but you can call senior connections to see about help. They provide in home care, connect you to meals on wheels, and help with so much more.

Ask for Angela at 8043433018.

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Kind-Ad-7382 t1_je9ef53 wrote

Recommend 211virginia.org. Resource hub for many different needs.Thank you for trying to help.

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Fine_Ability2276 OP t1_je9k3n1 wrote

Thank you. We tried the RVA 311 number but they didn't have many resources available to her.

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crankybitch2022 t1_jeawb5r wrote

I was just going to recommend Senior Connections. They’re great..

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Fine_Ability2276 OP t1_jeb1jeh wrote

They were absolutely the most helpful I've reached so far. Everyone has been so great with recommendations- thank you! You mustn't be so cranky after all 😋

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