When we support an Elder’s desire to remain at home, there are many details to be considered, coordinated and managed. As a care manager, the time I spend with Eders in their homes allows me to observe and attend to these aspects of their daily life. This helps make it possible for them to remain there and stay healthy, happy and safe.
Joan mentioned casually that she had a persistent sore on her foot. “It’s not anything to worry about,” she said. “Well Joan,” I said, “a sore on your foot can easily become infected, which could make walking around the house painful and very difficult. Getting around your house is really important to being able to stay here and be independent.”
A trip to the podiatrist put Joan on the road to health and to freedom of movement in her home.
Ellen was an exceptional home health aide in every way but one. Ellen enjoyed watching television. The noise from the TV was very irritating to my client, Rosemary, due to her hearing loss. It actually made her miserable, but she didn’t want to complain.
I asked Ellen if she would be willing to read with Rosemary instead of watching TV. She agreed, and this began a tradition that they both enjoyed.
Ease and tranquility at home helped Rosemary feel comfortable and content remaining there.
From the first, Janet seemed to be at home in our house. She has a comfortable, easy way about her, a gentleness and patience that my mother warmed to instantly.”
- client’s daughter, Cambridge, MA
It was already dark as I prepared to end my visit with Nancy. I noticed the light at the top of her winding staircase had burned out. Soon Nancy would be climbing those stairs on her way to bed, in the dark. With her advanced vision loss, negotiating the stairs would pose a significant and unsafe challenge.
A quick change of the light bulb meant Nancy would get to her bedroom safely.
The names in these stories are fictional.