Caregiver: Kathryn R.

Employer: Home Instead Senior Care

Location: Manchester, New Hampshire

Inspiration for this Nomination:

I had noticed a decline in my mom's memory, physical activity and overall quality of life. In January my mom became ill. She was diagnosed with dementia, which was a side affect of her illness. Her COPD had gotten worse and now requires an afternoon dose of medication. My mom's wish is to be able to stay at home with us. I needed someone to make sure she groomed, ate lunch and reminded her to take her medication. Since Kathryn has been caring for my mom, I have noticed the twinkle back in her eyes. Kathryn engages her in daily conversation, activities (piano playing, singing, memory building exercises, etc.). Kathryn is helping us keep my mom at home and not in an Institution. She frequently brings her goodies and truly demonstrates that she cares. She does tasks for my mom that I won't have to do, so that when I come home from work I can actually visit with my mom instead of clean. I'm now enjoying my mom once again!

Caregiver's Best Skills and Attributes:

Kathryn believes everyone matters. She has returned some sense of dignity back to my mom. Her caring has helped my mom care more about her appearance, grooming and physical activity. My mom asked to have our piano tuned, which hadn't been done for over 40 years! She now engages in word searches, singing and playing the piano along with one-on-one conversations. Prior to Kathryn's care, my mom was just playing solitaire and waiting for family to visit.

Feedback About This Caregiver:

We think Kathryn is wonderful. She is caring, thoughtful and understands the needs of her clients. She helps make them feel better and want to do more to help themselves. Clients feel that they matter!

More About This Caregiver:

Kathryn shares her care giving knowledge with my mom, our family, and me. We communicate each day leaving notes of what has gone on, what may help more or what doesn't seem to work. Her experience in the care giving field has helped our family understand my mom and the aging process better.

Having a parent that needs additional assistance besides family members can be very overwhelming. People like Kathryn that give of themselves to help someone else's loved one is very inspiring. It takes a lot of understanding, patience and love to do this day after day. I would of had to quit my job if we hadn't found Kathryn. She has helped our family keep some sense of normalcy while caring for a loved one at home. The twinkle in my mom's eyes says it all!

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