Portsmouth police responded to Horizon House just before midnight after a concerned caller requested a welfare check on a woman whose medical aide had reportedly left her alone.
According to police, the initial situation was unclear. An officer had difficulty gaining access to the building and said it took time to determine whether the situation required medical assistance or police intervention. The caller, who had contacted authorities, would only say that she was “done with her,” offering little additional information.
As officers worked to sort out what had happened, they learned the caretaker had argued with the woman and left the building, abandoning her despite her medical needs.
Police determined the woman was paralyzed and unable to assist herself fully. With temperatures cold overnight, officers focused on making sure she was safe and warm. An officer was able to turn her heater back on just before 1 a.m., ensuring she was not left in the cold.
The officer reported that they planned to contact the medical agency the aide worked for the following morning to report the incident and the caretaker’s conduct.
Calls like this illustrate the importance of patience and compassion, especially during winter weather, when vulnerable residents rely heavily on others for basic safety and care.
