The state-owned Posti company says that - for a price - its workers will take elderly people out of the house for walks, something they might otherwise feel unsafe doing alone. It says some people spend days indoors if they don't have anyone to accompany them outside, particularly in slippery winter conditions. "The purpose is to bring vitality and conversation to the elderly. The outdoor buddy helps clients to maintain their ability to move," says head of home services Petri Kokkola.