Martha and Frank have been married for 56 years and display much care and affection for one another. Frank is 81 years old and has been diagnosed with Parkinson’s. When Home Instead was called, Frank was under hospice care and as Martha said, “at death’s door”. He was given just days to weeks to live. Martha was committed to keeping Frank at home, but his needs made it difficult for her alone to provide for all of his care as well their son Toby’s, who has special needs.

Over the past 16 months our CAREGiver Kristi, assists Frank with walking since he is a fall risk. She also helps with bathing, grooming, medication reminders and his daily physical therapy exercises. More importantly, Kristi provides positive reassurance and a peaceful environment to ensure that Frank is comfortable and Martha gets some respite. Kristi also encourages Frank to eat and provides him with good nutrition.

Martha said, “The kindness, presence and loving care of our CAREGivers made the difference in bringing Frank back to the real world. CAREGivers like Kristi now know our routine to the point that I don’t even have to ask her to do things. They allow me to get out more for business, errands, and to attend to appointments and special events as needed with our son, Toby. Even when they aren’t with us, just knowing I have back-up support helps me more than you’ll ever know”.

As a result of Kristi’s care, Frank has been released from hospice care, is less depressed and more hopeful about living his later days to the fullest. With help from Home Instead, Frank lives in familiar surroundings, in the comfort of his own home and is able to enjoy the view of the lake. Martha has more time to care for Toby and Martha and Frank are grateful for the additional year and a half together… and the rest of their love story is still being written!

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