Assisting The Elderly in Need?

Even though I have only ever known my uncle from a distance, he is the only one I can call my favorite – and he is now in need of assistance.

A few weeks ago, I was commuting back and forth for up to five hours a day before work to support him in the critical time of his health. The few extra hours that I would normally spend with my growing child was suddenly diverted to support Uncle Bob instead.

Was this a difficult choice to make?

Many of you know how precious my son is to me. My Zen master in a child’s body. So I thought to myself, if he is truly a master then he would understand the love and care for the elderly.

We gathered as a family to make a clear decision together. In order for me to spend time with my son again, I thought I should bring Uncle Bob to come live with us. We have an extra room so why not make use of it? I have already been cooking his foods for him for the past months anyway, so how much more does it take to serve him his few meals, tend to his medicines and supplements, clean up after him?

He is mainly bedridden, except when he gets up to use the commode.
He can’t get around the house, so he has been confined to his room.

I have to say, having him stay with us was the best decision we could have made.

Is it more work added to my daily routine? Of course it is. I would be a fool to not admit that. But to be able to spend more time with my family and work at the same time is unquestionably wonderful.

So are you one that is contemplating supporting an elder?

The situation may be different, but the joy of seeing them enjoy the last few moments of their life is unbelievable.

[tags]assisting the elderly, family gathering, spending time with my family, supporting an elder[/tags]