Caregiving for my mother during the last ten years of her life, from age 84 to 94, was the single most rewarding, enriching, and deeply satisfying experience I have ever had. Though my mom was in a wheelchair and had some dementia, necessitating 24-hour care, I found solace in the time we spent together and the lessons I learned.
As a full-time teacher, I cherished my days off, but even when I was at work, a dedicated home health aide looked after my mom. However, after work, she became my full responsibility, and little did I know, this journey would transform my perspective on life and aging.
The Lessons I Learned
Unbeknownst to her, my mom was imparting invaluable lessons that I now rely on as I age. From medication management and health monitoring to maintaining routines, fitness, and diet—aging requires meticulous attention to detail. Beyond these, there are personal and perilous aspects, such as the risk of falling, personal hygiene, and getting in and out of bed. For my mother, it was a collaboration between me, her aide, and a myriad of mechanical devices. For me, I hope technology will be my ally in enabling me to stay in my home.
A Crucial Lesson in Medication Management
One crucial lesson I learned the hard way was the importance of knowing her medications. One day, I had to rush my mom to the emergency room, and when they asked me about her medications, I realized I didn’t know the names or dosages, even though I filled her weekly pillbox. This information is vital in any medical situation. Initially, I wrote everything down on a piece of paper that I carried with me. As I became more adept, I started storing the information on my phone.
Embracing Technology
Now, I keep all my medication details on my iPhone using the health app. This app not only lists the medications but also describes them, provides side effects, and alerts me to possible interactions between them. Embracing technology has made a significant difference in managing my health and ensuring I’m prepared for any situation.
Final Thoughts
Caregiving is a journey filled with challenges and rewards. Through my experience, I gained a deeper understanding of the intricacies of aging and the importance of preparedness. I hope that by sharing my story, others may find inspiration and practical advice for their own caregiving journeys.
