Care at home is a blessing
From Spotlight on Health - Summer 2010
“We have always been very close,” said Barb Anderson of her 91-year-old mother, Jeanette Anderson. “She is my best friend.”
So, it was only natural that Barb cared for Jeanette following a serious illness in 2004.
Barb, who lives in St. Cloud, also had provided support and transportation for her father, Harold Anderson, before his death in 2001.
“Considering her many health conditions, Mom is a living miracle,” Barb said. |
Gail Suzick, RN, St. Cloud Hospital Home Care, checks Jeanette Anderson’s heart while Barb Anderson looks on.
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She credits the excellent care given by St. Cloud Hospital Home Care and the family’s long-time relationship with Jeanette’s doctor, Nicholas Reuter, MD, CentraCare Clinic, who even has been known to make house calls.
“I feel blessed to have the support of Home Care services, which always is available as a resource. They have become friends who really care about my mom,” Barb said.
Jeanette is grateful to be able to stay in the comfort of her own home and she looks forward to a nightly glass of wine and watching “Wheel of Fortune,” bull riding or “Dancing with the Stars.”
“It’s wonderful to have Mom at home. The best part is that she is not in any pain,” Barb said.
Learn more about St. Cloud Hospital Home Care services
The health and well-being of caregivers often takes a back seat, leaving them emotionally and physically drained.
To avoid stress and burnout:
- Talk about your feelings;
- Create realistic goals;
- Be realistic about your loved one’s disease;
- Realize some things are uncontrollable;
- Take advantage of respite services; or
- Get educated on resources available.
Signs of stress and burnout include:
- Withdrawal from friends;
- General irritability;
- Feeling hopeless, helpless;
- Changes in eating habits; or
- Difficulty sleeping.
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