She's living in Haydenville. She is still functioning, as in cleaning her own home and doing things around the house, but when I went to visit her this last time, I noticed that she appeared to be sundowning somewhat. While there I took her out and then we walked around the block and she seemed to be a little better. She will be 88 next month and is very independent and outspoken. i don't now how your arrangements are, but I feel that just to have someone come in that she can converse with and maybe take her out to lunch or dinner or to Walmart or the Big Y occasionally would benefit her. I am presently at work .
I think you're new so you may not be aware of this restriction.
I got one for $18/hr and all the girl did was sit on the couch and played with her phone. I guess she didn't think my mom needed any help. I'm back to square one.
Someone at work told me that their dad (not sure where he lives), gets a person from an agency for $28 each visit, 3x a week. Usually the person checks on him, spends 20-30 minutes with him. It's like a social visit with an errand.Talks with him. Does an entire house check for things working properly, the heat or AC....reports to the family if something isn't right.
-one errand may be included on the way to his house (picking up medication at a pharmacy) if it's within a certain distance from his house. If large groceries are included, it's more money because of extra time...
I think that is ideal for someone who needs minimal help. Many times elderly will not tell their kids stuff, until it's too late. I also think that this type of service FORCES the visitor to actually work, instead of sitting and watching TV. I wish I could find something like that.
Does she know any of her neighbors so that might be able to get together occasionally? Does she go to church, have any special interests such as gardening or crafts that she could discuss with a local club for those interests? The senior center would also be a good resource.
If so, that would certainly help.
If she could be persuaded to tell her life story into a tape recorder that would be a grand legacy to leave for her descendants and family.
Sometimes we are only curtailed from helping by our imaginations.
Good luck.