Dear Annie: I have mobility issues and use a walker, so I’m mostly confined to my home. My son helps by taking me to the beauty salon and occasionally to the bank or pharmacy, but I spend most of my time at home.

Today, two ladies showed up at my door unexpectedly. I hadn’t been up long and wasn’t dressed for visitors, and my house was far from presentable. There were Christmas boxes scattered everywhere, and I had just dropped a coffee cup, leaving broken pieces all over the kitchen floor. Needless to say, I wasn’t in a state to entertain anyone.

When they rang the doorbell, I chose not to answer. It wasn’t that I didn’t appreciate their visit, but the timing caught me completely off guard. Had I known they were coming, I would’ve had time to change clothes, tidy up the living room and prepare myself to receive guests.

Now I’m feeling guilty and wondering if I was wrong not to answer the door.

Should I have let them in, despite the chaos and my discomfort? What’s the polite way to handle unexpected visitors when you simply aren’t ready for company? — Feeling Awkward

Dear Feeling Awkward: You were absolutely not wrong to prioritize your comfort and well-being. Managing unexpected visitors can be challenging, especially when you’re dealing with mobility issues and weren’t prepared. It’s completely understandable that you chose not to answer the door in that moment.

A kind way to handle this in the future might be to call or message the visitors later, thanking them for stopping by and explaining that it wasn’t a good time. Most people will understand and appreciate your thoughtfulness.

Remember, it’s OK to set boundaries and take care of yourself first; you don’t need to feel guilty for that.

Read more Dear Annie and other advice columns.

“How Can I Forgive My Cheating Partner?” is out now! Annie Lane’s second anthology — featuring favorite columns on marriage, infidelity, communication and reconciliation — is available as a paperback and e-book. Visit Creators Publishing for more information. Send your questions for Annie Lane to [email protected].