I don't feel bad for the elderly who can't afford electricity. That most likely means they lived a carefree life, always living in the now, rarely planning for the future. My parents are both retired and living comfortably because they made sacrifices throughout their (and their children's) lives to make sure they'd have enough for their retirement.

Also, if you're old and your kids aren't taking care of you or at least helping with the bills, that means you were probably a terrible parent and your kids hate you. Also your fault. So suck it up and enjoy the sweltering heat or numbing cold and don't expect others to "be decent" and help your ass out.