It is a tough situation to come accross and one I struggle with on a regular basis. Perhaps the best situation for this old lady/gent would be placement in a low care nursing home where he/she can at least have some social contact and regular (if often perfunctory) care? I come accross many old folk who really should'nt be at home by themselves and it can take something quite drastic for them to finally leave home (eg. #NOF).