A widowed man in his 90s recently called Linda Fodrini-Johnson with a message that not only warmed her heart, but reaffirmed why she chose to become a professional geriatric care manager more than 20 years ago.
“He said, ‘Linda, I want you to know I have the best quality of life and I think I’m healthier now than I’ve ever been, especially since my wife died five years ago. I attribute that to your advocacy,’ ” said Fodrini-Johnson, 65, executive director and founder of Eldercare Services in Walnut Creek. “We met him when he was in the ER and got him the treatment he needed, a caregiver who cooks his meals for the week and a personal trainer, since he goes to the gym. He knows we’re here in case there’s a crisis.”
That senior is one of hundreds Fodrini-Johnson has helped maintain independence and fight the challenges that come with getting older, or battle such diseases as Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s or stroke. She has lived in the Bay Area all her life and has made Walnut Creek her home since 1986.
firstSTREET says
October 5, 2010 at 10:13 amGreat story! This type of feedback from clients and patients illustrates how effective some senior care programs really are. Promoting independence is a huge piece of the caregiving puzzle, and when paired with their necessary assistance, form a winning combination! Thanks for sharing this story, and we hope to hear more!
firstSTREET says
October 5, 2010 at 10:13 amGreat story! This type of feedback from clients and patients illustrates how effective some senior care programs really are. Promoting independence is a huge piece of the caregiving puzzle, and when paired with their necessary assistance, form a winning combination! Thanks for sharing this story, and we hope to hear more!