George, an 85-year-old man, lived in a California retirement community and cared for his bed-ridden wife, Mildred, who had suffered a stroke. Their family members lived in Kansas.

Both George and Mildred were admitted to a nursing home after George fell and broke his hip. We were called by their daughter to help George and Mildred return to their retirement community. At that time, the family was paying for both the nursing home and 24 hour private duty staffing.

George was upset and depressed at the nursing home and determined to get home. Mildred was doing well at the nursing home — her needs were being met and she seemed happy. George was devoted to his wife and wanted her to be with him.

An Eldercare Services Care Manager visited the nursing home and concluded that returning them both home was not in their best interest. The Care Manager understood George’s devotion to Mildred and knew he’d only be satisfied at home . . . but was aware of the different care each of them needed. So she looked for a creative, cost-effective solution that would meet their individual and combined needs.

She arranged for George to return home, established 8-hour care and helped him visit his wife every day. This helped continue their bond without compromising care (cost effectively). At the same time, the Care Manager advocated for Mildred’s quality of care within the facility. She was able obtain a telephone for and create a schedule for George’s visits. When George got sick and frail, Eldercare Services continued to support him and his wife.

After George died, Mildred’s family wanted to care for her in Kansas. We worked with the nursing home to move her and arranged for an air transport (medical care flight) to get her across the country.

During their aging journey, Eldercare Services was respectful of George and Mildred’s relationship.  We helped find a solution that suited them both while providing the care each needed. Eventually, the situation changed and Mildred’s family wanted to be more involved. So, Eldercare Services helped move her to Kansas. By doing this, we were able to keep family members connected using creative, cost-effective solutions that best met everyone’s needs. This allowed George, Mildred and the family to enjoy the time they had to spend . . . together.