My 93-year-old mother fell a couple of years ago. She was actually on her way into an exercise class (one of several similar activities she performed each week) when she fell.
There was mention of hip replacement at the hospital, but the doctor said her tissue, muscle and bone were in good condition so hip replacement was not necessary.
The safety and assistance modifications were made to the home and a medical alert device was installed.
Months later she fell and damaged her femur. We tend to monitor her more on special days as she tends to prefer falling on holidays. The first fall was on her birthday and the second on Halloween.
The femur was repaired and has healed, but the woman will not remain idle.
Fortunately, a friend introduced her to The FriendShip. I know what they mean to and have done for my mother, but please click on the link to see how they may benefit you, a friend or a loved one.
My mother receives help from the family and friends, but we believe this is another form of assistance and friendship she benefits from greatly. I have met many of these volunteers and these are usually events I enjoy and/or are persons I admire.
They have taken her shopping - grocery and fun shopping, to the bank, walked with her outdoors or at the gym at Eastminster Presbyterian Church (not associated with The Friendship).
Occasionally they will be on a planned trip and then ask her if she would like to do anything else. She is a very likable and warm person and still has a since of wit and humor, so perhaps this influences such offerings.
Not certain if planned, but it seems that monthly they have some social event, perhaps with a theme, topic and/or guest speaker.
A few weeks ago, some of the volunteers and members went to see "Mrs. Harris Goes to Paris". As much as I watch classic movies with my mother, she definitely enjoyed this recent release.
Our mother has phone conversations with the Services Coordinator, Eleanor Stein, once a week or more, depending. Eleanor appears to be willing and tireless.
We are also trying to put a friend, much younger than my mother, in touch with The FriendShip. Although usually lucid and cognitive, she now needs assistance. We feel she is with a less-caring and less-personal service who may be overcharging her. We hope she will accept and join The Friendship.
Our mother and the family are so thankful for The Friendship. They offer so much for such a reasonable fee.
This is just one of the reasons I am asking that you consider volunteering if you have the heart and the time. I want to see this organization grow and continue for a very long time for not only our mother, but other seniors as well.
If you are interested in volunteering, I am certain you will want to view the entire website, but you can begin by going to their VOLUNTEERS l Opportunities and Application page.
Thank you.
Doug Ingbretsen
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