I'm 78 and living on my own for the first time in my life after my partner went into a care home, he has dementia. Because of this, we moved back to UK in October last year after living abroad for 30 years. I used to live in this area but I don't have any friends or relatives here. My daughter and my best friend live at the other end of the country and my neighbours are pleasant but distant.
I am getting about and making friends. I have recently joined a bridge club - they want me to provide an emergency contact number. The secretary actually said - what if you collapse here and are whisked into hospital? You will want someone to go to your house and pick up some things for you. (I am one of the younger members!)
A woman I met through Pilates is becoming a good friend, but it's early days and so far we have only met for a coffee after class. I am considering getting a key safe (so she wouldn't actually have to hold a key) and asking her if I can give her number as an emergency contact. I don't feel good about it because I know she wouldn't say no.
Then I suddenly thought - what if I fall or become ill at home and can't get to my phone? I am very fit, active and healthy but of course anyone can have an accident. I've googled pendants etc but they don't really seem suitable. Any suggestions?