Client Stories - Memory Loss


“I feel that my Aunt is in capable hands- caring hands, and that means so much to me.”
Kelly, client’s niece

Jessie was 82 years old when we met her.

We found her strapped to a bed in a nursing facility, following a series of small strokes.

She had some short-term memory loss and impaired vision, but could walk on her own. She was anxious to return to her home - a single story 2-bedroom apartment in poor condition, located in a retirement community. Jessie was a widow, with no children and only one relative, a niece in Florida. She had established a Trust with a San Francisco bank, but they were reluctant to make quality of life decisions for her. Her doctor was adamant that she receive 24-hour care.

Eldercare Services assessed Jessie and, working with her doctor, determined she wouldn’t need to be in a skilled nursing facility if she had proper support at home. We obtained Durable Power of Attorney and made arrangements for Jessie to return home. Since nutrition and medications were a concern, we worked out a plan to provide the care she needed — providing live-in attendants supervised by Professional Geriatric Care Managers.

Once home, Jessie became more mobile. Her lively “spirit” returned. Her dignity and self-respect were restored — she was treated as still in charge of her own home. When the apartment was re-carpeted and painted (with her Care Manager’s support), she was proud of her home and invited others to visit.

Jessie started participating in a social day care program, meeting and interacting with her peers two afternoons a week. She also began to enjoy walks at a local indoor mall with her live-in companion. For evening entertainment, Eldercare Services helped her get a VCR and the cable channels she desired.

Even though dementia and more small strokes prevented Jessie from performing many daily activities, she was extremely happy and content at home. Her physician and our professional staff provided additional care as her needs changed. Jessie lived happily at home for 5 years under the care of Eldercare Services. Her niece was grateful for the quality of life she enjoyed. Jessie spent the last years of her life where she deserved and wanted to be – at home.