Deciding when to send your spouse or parent to a nursing home can be a tough and agonizing experience. Some of you have faced this already. Others are in the midst of this or will face it soon.
I remember as a young boy going to the nursing home to see Pappy (my grandfather). It was almost every Sunday and never enjoyable. The worst part was the smells. Sometimes we would go visit and other times we would bring him to our home.
Later in life I appreciated the love and sacrifice of my mom and dad to load Pappy into the car, bring along his wheelchair and cart him into the house. I remember watching dad struggle to get him up the four stairs that led to our front door. There were times when a brother-in-law was available to help as well.
Mom situated him on the couch or a chair. I remember the difficult time she occasionally had feeding him. At the end of the Sunday afternoon visit dad had to repeat the process and take him back to the nursing home.
Recently a neighbor who was 86 passed away. Angela and I have visited her in the nursing home for the last five years (nearly every Sunday, just like mom and dad). We both have had many cherished experiences with her over those five years including praying with her and kissing her just before she passed away.
Most of us want to stay at home as long as possible. I too would recommend that when possible. There are other times when getting professional help is the best solution for everyone involved. I’ve seen good folks fall apart physically and emotionally trying to care for someone at home longer than they should have. It’s okay to get help.
To Your Best 2nd Half,
The opinions voiced in this material are for general information only and are not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual. No strategy assures success or protects against loss.
