Senior Sunrise

It’s not easy for elderly individuals to admit when they need help. At least that’s the view I’ve come to espouse based on experience. My own parents were raised in Depression-era New York state, and they asked no quarter from anyone their entire lives. My own kids occasionally asked me why Grandpa was so persistent about asking them to clean their plates, and the answer was obvious to me. When they were growing up, my parents worked hard to make their own way in life, and they didn’t waste anything.

My father has been gone for two years now, and mom had a difficult time coping at first. In recent months, she’s really begun to lose her way. She forgets things all the time, and I’m beginning to worry about her ability to function safely all alone at home. My wife mentioned the possibility of getting some at-home assistance, and I agreed that a caregiving service would be prudent. Mom didn’t like the idea at first, but she had to swallow her pride and trust that I was doing what was best for her.