I got started in helping seniors live independently after an unusual request.
Years ago someone at church asked me if I could take an elderly lady to Mass on Sundays. It was an unusual request that asked for a lot, but I said sure. So began a sometimes-weekly trip to help an older lady, Roselle, amble along with her cane to get into my car, walk through the parking lot, and into the church. (My friends thought she was my grandmother.)
Roselle walked with a slow, stooping gait, clutching onto her cane. She stared downward while managing to carry on a conversation. Her view was pretty much that of the sidewalk below her. I had never thought about how much an obstacle such as a simple crack in a walkway could hinder a person in getting from point A to point B.
My activity fulfilled a need for companionship.
Then I began learning the struggles of people taking care of their aging mom or dad. They can be healthy one day, and then have a stroke or some other accident the next. They suddenly need constant care, and someone has to provide it for them.
As our population ages, many seniors need help to maintain their independence. A nursing home is often not the first choice. And it might be too costly besides.
I realized that one way I could contribute was to help people in various ways to maintain their independence and live on their own. Looking forward, I would want my parents-in-law to live on their own if they have troubles doing so. My own dad is living with one of my sisters, who generously offered living space for him.
Our team is building a website to meet a lot of these needs. All in all, you’ll be taken on a journey to the promised land of helping your senior live independently – as well as keeping your own life on an even keel.
With that idea, I have turned the rudder a bit for our marketing firm, TreeFrogClick, beyond that of working with nonprofits and religious communities. We will also be putting you in touch with quality senior service agencies that can help you. (But you won’t get spammed with mindless advertisements – I promise!)
Best wishes in helping your senior. And stay encouraged!