Helping out a neighbor now and then is completely fair. Helping out a 96-year-old lady who lives alone is even more expected. But taking on the role of the «always-at-your-service granddaughter» crosses that invisible line between the two houses.

The problem with doing a favor, and the reason many people hesitate before stepping in, is the unspoken, future expectations that often come with it.

Once you fix someone’s iPhone, you’re suddenly a technician. Once you help unpack her groceries, you’re the new butler. Once you fish a piece of jewelry out of the pool? They might as well call you the poolman. Offer to water the plants on a random Tuesday afternoon, and congratulations, you’re the new gardener! (Green does suit you, though!)

And all of these roles suddenly get added to your resume, yet the best part is still missing…the paycheck.

So when it comes to helping an elderly lady, the answer should absolutely be yes. But if she begins to demand the time you simply don’t have, consider whether she might have a loving relative nearby, or help her connect with a professional caretaker if she can afford one. I mean, with all that money she’s saving thanks to your many favors, it shouldn’t be a problem…