It was a Thursday. My grandmother fell again and we all looked at each other and knew that it was time. Our Grandmother who cooked and baked and prided herself on her independence, could no longer be alone. Who would tell her? Nobody wanted that dreaded job. She would be angry. She would say it was a complete waste of money. She would hate having a stranger invade her personal space.
Telling someone you love, that they need care can be difficult and very painful. Here are some questions to ask yourself to help determine if care may be needed:
1) Has your senior been falling or getting hurt?
2) Is your senior more forgetful? Is he paying the bills? Is she missing appointments?
3) How is her/ his mental health? Is he lonely or depressed? Does she socialize?
4) Can he keep the house clean?
5) Can she get dressed, shower, make meals?
6) Is he taking his medication properly?
My Grandmother was very resistant when we brought up the idea. As a young widow, she had been on her own for almost 45 years. We were lucky enough to find a wonderful caregiver name Connie. She took care of my grandmother for 5 years. They cooked and baked together. They talked and went to appointments together. Connie kept the house clean and was there for my grandmother always. Although it was a huge adjustment for my grandmother, it did not take long for her to grow to love Connie.