As an Elder Care Coordinator, I meet families every day who are trying their best to care for their loved one, but it’s taking a toll on their lives. The person they’re caring for often gets angry, hurts their feelings, and may even forget who they are. The family is left feeling sad, frustrated, powerless and alone.
Intentions are good; we want mom and dad to enjoy life in their own home, and to have the dignity and respect they deserve.
But dad has changed. Unsteady, and refusing to use his walker, he falls. Recently he and mom were found lying in the backyard. Dad had fallen and mom tried to help him up, only to be pulled down as well. They lay for two hours, shouting for help.
On another occasion, dad was brought back by paramedics; he had a gash on his head from another fall. He couldn’t find his way home, was confused, fatigued and weakened. Dad is diabetic, has a heart condition and was recently diagnosed with dementia; dad could have died.
Sadly, these are not unusual stories. As an Elder Care Coordinator, I hear similar scenarios daily, sometimes worse.
When placing your senior in a skilled facility, become closely involved in the care planning process; you’ll get better care. Knowledge builds respect, and understanding. Knowing their diagnosis, medications taken and why will empower you, building the confidence needed to advocate effectively.
As an advocate for your senior, the most loving thing you can do for them is to keep them safe. This means making the hard decisions, and this is where we come in. As an Elder Care Coordinator, I am available to help you navigate through these issues with less stress and guilt, and to understand what is needed to obtain the best care possible for your loved one.
At the Law Office of Jane M. McNamara, our team takes pride in caring for our clients with professionalism, expertise and heart. As you navigate the maze of legal and emotional issues, you will do so with confidence, knowing you are going to have better care and a higher quality of life for both you and your loved one.
For more information, please visit www.JaneMcNamara.com or call 661-287-3260 for an appointment.