Advice For A Really, Really Lonely Elderly Gentleman?

[Smowball]

I was out delivering to a couple of customers the other week when coming towards me was an elderly man walking two little dogs. One of the dogs started pulling towards me and I ended up giving it a bit of a fuss. We then ended having a chat ( with the man not the dog!)
He said I was the first person he’d spoken to in days, and how lonely he was since his wife died. I felt so bad for him. Then I don’t know what possessed me but I asked if he was on FB. Funnily enough he said yes, but didn’t really use it.

Anyway when I got home I looked and found him on FB. Don’t know why really, thought maybe I’d send the odd hello here and there. So I did. He replied today, saying how much he’d enjoyed our chat and that he was still incredibly lonely. I just didn’t know what to say, so I asked him about family and neighbours. He said he has no family, and he has one neighbour who is completely deaf.

I really don’t know what to say or do, but I can’t do nothing..... sooooo any suggestions guys??

[anneasquith]

I hope you don’t mind me intruding in your post S . .?

[Barmaid]

Smow, you are so thoughtful. But don't let it detract from you and your health (I know there are a few worries there).

That aside. Why not ask him? He has dogs so what about a local dog walking group. Ask him what he wants and tailor your suggestions from there!

[Smowball]

Anneasquith - not at all, even though I had no idea what you and Sqad were talking about lol.
Barmaid - I don’t know why but he really got to me. I’m going to print a few things and and take them round to him.

[Caran]

U3A is a wonderful organisation. It was a lifeline when we moved to the forest. We have made so many friends and have some things going on most weeks.
This week alone, i have been to our Heritage detective group where we investigate local history. Thursday we have our monthly meeting and Friday we have lunch followed by a game of skittles.

[anagram]

I'm sure the gentleman appreciates you communicating with him on fb, and helps him feel less alone.

[chrissa1]

Could you give him the link to AB? If he’s tried FB then this is easier to use.

[Smowball]

Yes I didn’t even think of that!

[Barmaid]

Lol Smow. Don't. Just don't. :)

[Smowball]

What ARE you trying to say BM..... ; )

[Barmaid]

*sits on hands*

[Smowball]

Hahaha!!

[bberstein]

Where is he based? There is a community called Sant Egidio in London (and in other places) where people make friends, and he can bring his dogs, too! It's volunteer-run and you can get somebody to go out with you or check on you from time to time. They befriend homeless people as well but don't be put off because those who misbehave are never invited to their brilliant tea parties (by which I mean a three-course meal!). They're on FB as well. When volunteering there, I adopted a lonely old lady whom nobody liked, she's insane as hell (in a good way) but very lovely and changed my life completely, don't know what I would do without that crazy woman XD
Also, you have to understand that I'm not a churchy person or a religious freak by any means when I say that church really helps sometimes. They can have gatherings, trips to the seaside and all sorts of non-religious activities that could really help him find friends!
P.S. I'm sure he will find friends, he sounds lovely!

[Smowball]

We are in Greater London( near Croydon). And yes he seems lovely x

[hereIam]

Would you befriend him Smo and maybe invite him round for Sunday dinner once in a while ?