Stories from Caregivers: Nancy from ILLINOIS
IL
Nancy
FROM ILLINOIS
My mother Marjorie Horwitz at the age of 83 was diagnosed with mild dementia. Mom was diagnosed many years ago with rectal and colon cancer had to have a colostomy but however was able to take care of herself. During a colonoscopy the MD perforated her colon. Mom now has an ileostomy and was able to take care of herself once again. Now with the onset of her dementia she has decreased ability to care for her ileostomy. She forgets to put on her pouch and I clean her up and place a new pouch on her. Even though my dad is at home he is able to place a new pouch on but he does not want to do it. He is not comfortable doing her of care for the ileostomy and then waits for me to come home. I live with my parents. Dad needs help to stand up from a sitting position. He has spinal stenosis and is a great deal of pain. He has to sit frequently due to the pain. I prepare meals but neither one is not a great eaters. As of today my mom has started to wander. Dad has placed bells on the door handle to alert him that mom is leaving the bedroom. I am a nurse so I able to handle this for now. I employed by the Board of Education full time taking care of severe and profound students which is another stor . I empathize with any care giver, you all should be recognized for the work that you do which goes above and beyond the call of duty. I know about the circle of life and the older adult are now our children. God bless each and every one of you.
