Supporting all who care for elders
“I’ll never put my mother in a home.” I’ve heard these words many times over the years. They’re often said with conviction and a sanctimonious air that doesn’t invite dialogue. There are many hidden messages in these eight words, and although not all of them may be intended, some definitely are. In some cultures, it’s considered dishonourable […]
“We’ve got a problem.” Megan’s delightful British accent and belly laugh were my favourites, but she wasn’t laughing today. She pulled me aside with a frown and confided to me in a low tone the seriousness of what they were facing. Someone at their table for four was wasting milk. She asked for a full
Your family member has just moved into care. There is so much to do to get them settled. What will fit in the room? How should you set it up so they are comfortable? Meet the doctor and the nurses, get their clothes labelled, on and on… For some, giving over care to strangers is
How to Love a Care Partner Read More »
“If I bring her computer down next week, are the proper cables in the room to get internet access?” I looked blankly at the family member asking the question. Her mother had moved in last week and was getting settled. I was certain whatever cables she needed weren’t in the room, and I had no
Elders and Technology Read More »
I’m not good at the dripping tap. Have you ever been cosied into your couch with a riveting book, until your attention is drawn to the kitchen? Drip. Drip. Drip. You’re already disturbed, so you get up to turn the darn thing off. You just get back to the couch when you hear Drip. Drip.
The wind is dancing among the trees and causing the waves to crash against the rocks. I inhale the earthy smell of the forest as I walk the dog, and wish I could bottle it. A bird swirls above the water and screams before it nosedives after a fish for breakfast. I sip my morning
The Care Partner’s Vacation Read More »
We gathered at the end of one shift for some and the beginning of another for others. We were care partners, a housekeeper, dietary partners, two nurses and an advocate. We gathered to grieve. Our neighbourhood had experienced three deaths in a week. If you don’t work with us, you might think this is common and
The Care Partner’s Grief Read More »
Meet Janice. She has a family; two teenagers and a twelve-year old, a husband who travels, so is not home for the day-to-day running of the house, and a mother who helps out with the kids. Mom is a young eighty who walks every day, reads the paper, is conversant in politics and plays a
Becoming a Care Partner Overnight Read More »
Today, I had to write an end-of-life notice for someone who is dear to me. I struggled, deleted, started over and re-wrote. This notice is an email we send when a resident has been declared end-of-life by their doctor. The purpose is to let people know, so they can visit and say good-bye. We tell
“Should we celebrate mom’s birthday? I don’t even know if she understands what it’s all about. Why go to all the trouble if it doesn’t mean anything to her?” The answer to the first question is a resounding YES! Here’s why: She will benefit The “Happy Birthday” song, presents and cake go back to our
Who Benefits When You Celebrate? Read More »