I got stuck yet again today by an elderly person on my block who wanted to tell me all about the good ol' days. I kept saying, "well I'll let you go" and starting to walk away, but he didn't get the hint and kept talking. This has happened to me mulitiple times with different people (especially seniors). Sometimes I just don't have all day to talk. Advice??
2007-04-28 11:51:27 · 15 answers · asked by caspersociety2007 1 in Society & Culture ➔ Etiquette
Usually a polite, "I'm sorry Mr/Mrs Johnson, I need to go get (insert task here) done" is all you need) Sometimes Seniors just need a little nudge to realize that they're talking a bit long (and so do the rest of us when we start yakking). Just a polite reminder is all you'll need. You can always say "I can see you tomorrow" and then stop back later.Good luck.
2007-04-28 11:56:15 · answer #1 · answered by Mama Otter 7 · 1⤊ 1⤋
Sometimes people, especially but not exclusively seniors, don't get out much and really need someone to help stave off loneliness. So politely explain, "I really have to go do ______, but I always enjoy talking with you. Could I stop by about 4:00 tomorrow?"
Yes, you are busy and have stuff to do right now, but when you really do have time to sit and talk, why not?
2007-04-28 19:02:58 · answer #2 · answered by Clint 3 · 0⤊ 1⤋
I have been in this situation so many times, I feel for ya. Just tell them you have a call, or an appointment, or whatever, and run off. You know they are sweet and lonely people but I started realizing this is kind of a controlling thing on their part and they kinda prey on your good manners. Sometimes, ya just have to put your foot down. Good luck!
2007-04-28 19:02:11 · answer #3 · answered by debijs 7 · 0⤊ 1⤋
Move to a younger area..........away from the seniors who have all the time in the world to yak.
or.......just keep walking, don't stop to talk. Just say hi and leave.
2007-04-29 03:36:10 · answer #4 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
The important thing to do with anyone is follow through.
Say, "I'm sorry, but I've really got to go," and then go. Don't keep stopping or backing up.
2007-04-28 23:21:28 · answer #5 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
Gently touch his or her hand and say, "Im sorry, I really dont want to be rude, but I have an appt" (or its getting late, or so and so is expecting me. Apologize once again, smile and turn around and leave.
2007-04-28 20:13:05 · answer #6 · answered by Debbie 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Just say well um I am very sorry but I really need to go because I have something really important to do and I need to get into my house or need to go do something...you aren't lying you are just saying well yeah I have something else to do now I will see you later!!!
2007-04-28 19:41:09 · answer #7 · answered by iLoVeNaThAn 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
You can't save the world from boredom, so just say you gotta go and wave goodbye a couple of times, but don't stop your feet.
2007-04-28 18:57:58 · answer #8 · answered by spir_i_tual 6 · 1⤊ 0⤋
I wish I could spend some more time but I am already late for an appointment. Bye.
2007-04-28 19:03:46 · answer #9 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
1. Stop talking to old people.
2. Give them the hand, and run away.
3. Ask them "Don't you have something better to do with the short time you have left?"
4. Start saying, "Blah, blah, blah" loudly over and over again every time they try to say something.
2007-04-28 19:20:13 · answer #10 · answered by Tina R 2 · 1⤊ 1⤋