Sandwiched
We’ve all heard the saying that it takes a village to raise a child. It also takes a village to care for an elderly parent. At least, that’s how it should be. Doing it alone is physically, emotionally and spiritually draining when you’re in the sandwich generation.
Fortunately, we have an excellent village helping my mother. Please allow me to introduce you to the team.
First there’s the Vice President of Finances, my brother Mark, assisted by his lovely wife, Janie. Mark handles Mom’s investments and pays her bills. He and Janie did the lion’s share of work when we had to sell Mom’s house in Mishawaka, a city much like Noblesville near South Bend, Indiana.
Mark has also been in the insurance business for decades, so he actually understands and handles all of that insane Medicare stuff for Mom. Praise the Lord.
Next there’s the Vice President of Long-Distance Observation, my sister Vicky. Vicky lives in Florida, but she calls Mom every Sunday and takes care of as much as she can when she comes up to visit. Vicky often sees the things that local members of the team miss and is a good listener when some of us (ahem, me) need to vent from time to time.
I hold the title of Vice President of Day to Day Affairs. My responsibilities include doctor, dentist and eye appointments; groceries and OTC medication delivery; and just generally watching out for how things are going at Mom’s facility. And, of course, my family and I make sure to have fun with Mom with lunches, dinners, euchre games, shopping excursions and musical outings – her favorite!
I can’t say enough good things about the next team member, Michelle, Executive Assistant to all VPs. Her other title is Angel Sent from God. Michelle is a contractor for various assisted living facilities in the area. She takes Mom for her hair appointment every Friday and runs other errands as needed. Michelle is a nurse who knows more about elderly issues than we novices, so she’s quick to point out things we need to be aware of. Like most Executive Assistants, we couldn’t run this operation without her. We love you, Michelle!
Finally, there are the numerous CNAs, nurses, housekeeping members, dining room employees and maintenance folks at Mom’s facility who are so kind and thoughtful. We know they work long hours to help Mom and everyone else live happy, healthy lives. You all round out the team beautifully and we’re glad we found you.
If you are alone in the sandwich generation, let me tell you, it doesn’t have to be that way. I’ll cover where you can find help in Central Indiana in my next column. We’re blessed to have many resources, most of which are free!
I can’t express my gratitude enough to this entire village. I would lose my sanity without you all and am thankful I’m not alone on this journey. God bless you!