Lois Wyse: ThirdAge Insider |
| |
A Caregiving Solution
Dear Lois
This is a positive story of helping aging parents. My father had a three-year battle with cancer and a stroke that changed his life totally. He was only 63, but could not walk without assistance and could not maneuver a wheelchair through their four-story townhouse. Our solution was to put a handicap addition onto my house. A neighbor who is a contractor and a friend who is an architect worked with us. Yes, the addition was costly, but nothing compared to the cost of a nursing home or private nurse. The whole process seemed to uplift my father's condition because it gave him purpose and a reason to fight. Although I have three young children, my parents have all the privacy they need, and I believe the activities of our family, dog, and friends give my father something to think about. I think this is a great solution for a lot of people who need support, but are not ready for a nursing facility. We feel blessed. KELLY McKINNON, Winthrop MA Dear Kelly
Your whole family is blessed. What you have done is kind, generous, and supportive for both your parents. Obviously a lot of people would not be able to afford your solution, but they might consider adapting a part of their home for parents. Thank you for writing.
Want to comment or ask a question? Write to Lois Wyse, WYSE WORDS, 22 West 23d St., New York, NY 10010, or contact our support department.
More about Lois Wyse.
Missed a week? Peruse past editions.
| 
