Eleanor lives alone in rural Acton. Because of ongoing health issues, she can no longer drive, and there is no public transportation in town. She cannot get to the grocery store or into town for basic needs. Most days, she is completely alone.
“Being alone is like being in jail without bars,” Eleanor said. The isolation brings fear and uncertainty. “If you don’t know anyone, living in a rural area is complete solitude. There’s a level of fear when you live alone. I don’t even feel comfortable sleeping at night.”
Her limited income makes everything harder. Eleanor survives on a Social Security check of $990 a month. Her rent is $875 and will rise to $935 in January, leaving almost nothing for food, electricity, or basic necessities. There have been days without electricity or water. Because of the quality of her water, she often cannot drink safely from her tap, so she relies on bottled water – something she cannot always afford or access on her own.
Southern Maine Agency on Aging’s Meals on Wheels program conducts in-home assessments twice a year, and weekly meal visits allow staff to notice changes and emerging needs. During one of those visits, nutrition staff recognized Eleanor’s unsafe water situation and responded immediately.
“Meals on Wheels came in that day and brought me 10 gallons of water. I can’t believe someone would go that many miles all the way from Sanford to Acton to help me. At the drop of a hat, they were here. It was unbelievable kindness.”
Meals on Wheels has also played a critical role in Eleanor’s health. Due to her medical conditions, she lost so much weight that her dentures no longer fit, making eating painful. Before receiving meals, she was eating only mashed potatoes and corn every day. Regular deliveries quickly changed that, providing nourishing food she could safely eat without leaving her home.
“If it weren’t for Meals on Wheels I don’t know what I would’ve done.”
Eleanor’s challenges are shaped by the realities of rural living. There is no public transportation or Age-Friendly supports. Eleanor cannot afford Uber or Lyft. Supportive senior housing – with transportation and built-in community – would completely change her life, but nearly all of her income goes to rent. Her home has mold on the walls and ceiling, along with structural issues that threaten her safety.
Southern Maine Agency on Aging’s Care Coordination team has stepped in to help. They have advocated on her behalf and placed her on a list for safer, more affordable housing. Just as importantly, they have helped Eleanor feel less alone by offering guidance, consistency, and reassurance.
“When they check on me, they let me know they are always available for me to reach out to them.” Eleanor was afraid to ask for help in the beginning, unsure of what to say. Over time, she learned that Southern Maine Agency on Aging would always be there to listen. “They make me feel like there’s hope.”
That sense of connection deepened when Eleanor was matched with Ruby through Southern Maine Agency on Aging’s Phone Pals program. She now receives weekly calls – something she looks forward to.
“Ruby and I have so much in common and I look forward to talking to her. It warms my heart knowing I’ll have someone to talk to. I thank Ruby for being so caring and open and being there for me.”
Together, Southern Maine Agency on Aging’s Meals on Wheels, Care Coordination, and Phone Pals programs have formed a safety net – one that surrounds Eleanor with nourishment, connection, and advocacy she could not have accessed on her own.
“It’s nice to know I have an entire group of people helping me. They have given me companionship and support during a time when I thought no one cared. Southern Maine Agency on Aging is a hand in the darkness. They saved me. They literally saved my life.”
While Eleanor is deeply grateful for Southern Maine Agency on Aging’s support, she hopes the broader community will remember older neighbors who live alone, especially in rural areas.
“Your older neighbors still need love and need your time. Include older adults whether they’re miles away or down the street. Reach out. They’d still like to get a phone call that lets them know you’re thinking about them.”
Eleanor’s story shows the power of Southern Maine Agency on Aging’s wraparound support – meals, companionship, and advocacy – that keeps older adults safe, nourished, and connected.
Your gift can be the lifeline someone like Eleanor needs, and your generosity ensures no one is left isolated or unseen.
