I am constantly amazed by people who seem to never use their phone for talking. I am old school, face to face is better than phone, phone is good when you are too far away, letters are for reflective conversation, emails may be OK for that too. Texts are just quick - great for telling someone you are running late, not much good for any other sort of contact. In addition to people not knowing what to say or do (undoubtedly true in many cases), we sometimes don't ask. I agree, we shouldn't have to, but if we don't ask and they are holding back, paralysis sets in. Tell people you'd love them to drop by, ask someone if they can help with something. If they won't, then at least you know the extent of their friendship or care. But chances are, your ask may break the uncertainty. Best wishes.