A recent tragedy pointed out the importance of keeping in touch on a regular basis. A young, single mom, with a health condition, passed away suddenly and alone. That loss was difficult enough to come to terms with but an infant was in the house too and that baby died from neglect (whether it was starvation or dehydration) because no one was aware of the mother’s death until it was too late.
No one could have predicted that a pre-existing condition would take the lives of a young mother and her infant. No one wants to think of such possibilities but not being aware can be deadly.
There may have been a few ways to avoid this tragedy but we never think we need such safety measures in place. In truth, we do! No one is free from accidents or health conditions that can change their lives in the blink of an eye. A person living alone is particularly susceptible —they may go unnoticed until it is too late.
A single parent needs to safeguard against this possibility. There are a few ways this can be prevented.
1. Always have access to a phone. This is essential for many reasons when you have a child in the home.
2. Make a plan that you will always keep in touch with at least 2 other people at least every other day (if not every day). It can just be a quick call saying hi and all is well, but establishing a pattern assures that if that pattern is altered (without notice such as a going away etc.) there might be a reason for concern.
3. Do not isolate yourself. Being social is good for both parent and child, especially new moms who may be at risk for post partum symptoms. This does not mean jumping into a busy social life but slowly integrating and always keeping contact with at least one other person during the first few weeks after the baby’s arrival.
4. Establishing a schedule of work or outings provides neighbors with visuals that may well be noticed if suddenly and without explanation, change.
5. Provide at least 2 other trusted people (family members, friends, or neighbors) with a copy of your house key.
6. Create a bit of living noise. If you live in an apartment, it should not be a problem to make normal noises while home so that if there comes a time there is silence, it could serve as a red flag to neighbors.
7. Provide at least one neighbor/friend with a family member’s telephone number so that any cause for concern is resolved by their communicating.
8. If the parent has a health condition such as diabetes that could result in seizures or a coma, perhaps getting a health alert would be warranted.
9. Be proactive in your health and home safety.
Being a new, single parent is a challenge and being isolated makes them even more vulnerable. The birth of your child is such a thrilling time that no one wants to think of dangers but it is a necessary evil. Protecting against tragedies is part of the parenting learning experience.
