top of page

A Glimpse of Hope

Writer's picture: COME OutreachCOME Outreach



 

The Bronx Caregivers Volunteer Respite Program, sponsored by NYSCRC and Lifespan, is making a difference in the lives of family caregivers and their loved ones in Co-op City NORC in the Bronx. I want to introduce Doris. She walks at least 1-2 miles daily and participates in the dance and activity classes hosted by JASA at the Dreiser Loop Community Center.

 

When Doris signed up to volunteer for the respite program hosted by Caregivers Outreach Mentorship Empowerment, we contacted her son, Hector V., to ensure he knew his 94-year-old mother's desire to participate. He said, “Sure, she mentioned this to me. My mother is so active. She is all over the place. I keep up with her whereabouts with the phone locator. Can someone go with her to the introduction visit?”

 

Doris signed up to give Hector F., a family caregiver, a break from caring for his wife Rosa, who has been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease. A staff member from COME accompanied Doris to her introduction visit. Rosa’s husband, Hector F., informed Doris that his wife does not speak or respond to verbal clues.  

 

Doris’ compassion, kindness, and love for what she signed up for were amazing. Doris spoke with Rosa as if she knew her forever. “Is this your daughter? She is so beautiful.  How many children do you have?  You and your husband look so happy in your wedding picture.  How are you feeling today?”  After visiting Rosa several times, Doris informed the group that Rosa spoke to her and said, “When are you taking me outside?”   Hector F. was amazed that his wife was talking to Doris and looked forward to Doris’s weekly visits.

   

Through the Bronx Caregiver Volunteer Respite Program, Hector F. was educated about available resources in the community for himself and his wife. He was open to suggestions and receptive to receiving services. Community referrals were placed in collaboration with JASA, Essen House Calls, and S &A United Home Care. Rosa is now receiving Ensure supplements, medical, diagnostic evaluations, and medical management from Essen House Calls in the comfort of her home. A referral was also placed to S &A United Home Care. Inc. for Rosa to receive Medicaid for a Home Health Aide and Physical Therapy, supplies, and equipment. Hector F. is happy he decided to sign up for the Bronx Caregivers Volunteer Respite Program. We are excited to see a smile and a glimpse of hope on Hector’s F. face.

 

Never be afraid to ask for help, ask questions, or seek clarity on an issue of concern.  Remember that your family dynamic differs from your neighbor, friend, or relative. Are you providing a respite for a family caregiver, friend, neighbor, or church member or visiting someone in a nursing home?  Consider joining The Bronx Caregiver Volunteer Respite Program.  Let’s put a smile on a family caregiver’s face. Please give Caregivers Outreach Mentorship Empowerment (COME) a call to learn more about the program. 7181-379-3159. 

 

Diane Cooper

22 views0 comments

Kommentarer


© 2024 by  Caregivers Outreach Mentorship Empowerment, Inc. Website designed & maintained by Webdesignpie

bottom of page