Managing a parent's care

Gwynne  helps with the care of her 78 year old mother who lives in an independent living apartment at Oakbrook.  Her mother has had Meniere’s disease for 20 years and as a result is very hard of hearing and has balance problems.  Mom has good cognition and likes to be able to take care of herself as much as possible.   Gwynne has given her mother a computer and uses that to aid in communication, and is hopeful that her mother will become more proficient in its use.  Her mother has limited financial resources, though does have home care once a week.  A brother in Greeley rarely helps, and another brother in Pueblo calls weekly but is unable to offer much help as he has cancer.  Perhaps more help and companionship for her mother might be useful.  Also might consider someone who could work with her mother to become more proficient at the computer.

There are a number of resources that might be helpful even a limited budget. The Volunteers of America offer a respite program. Your mother might qualify for a volunteer to come in and visit and work on computer proficiency. Also, if your mother is getting home care she would also qualify for a social worker through home care covered by Medicare. The social worker could assist in getting your mother linked with other support services.

It might also be helpful for Gynne to receive 1:1 conversation from the office on aging to cope with the family dynamics involved when caring for an older adult family member.

Becky Lindsey

Legacy Services

Senior Counseling and Care Management