My grandfather turned 93 this year. As he gets older, we have to think about making sure he’s well cared for so that he can continue living a life close to what he’s accustomed. When thinking about his care, we have to consider many things like making sure he has enough health insurance coverage and coverage for prescription medications. We have to make sure that he is taking his medicines, receiving his meals, having his laundry done and going to the doctor for his regular check-ups.
Also, several questions need to be answered concerning my grandfather. Questions like does he need long-term care insurance, will he be able to age in place with support or will he have to move in with one of us also come to mind. Everyone hopes to have a long healthy life and we hope we do not become a “burden” to anyone and maintain our independence.
As my grandfather ages, we notice different changes in him. Although most of the changes are subtle, we still have to keep a watchful eye out for anything that could be concerning. However, he is sharp as a tack! He can tell you about what happened in his life back in Marianna, Florida in the late 1920’s and 30’s as though it was yesterday. Even though he is still sharp in many aspects, he has hit a point in his life that bears watching and decisions will have to be made because of the changes he is experiencing.
I like to apply the saying, “Experience is a good teacher” to many decisions that I make by looking at the experiences of others to help in my decision-making because I don’t like to “reinvent the wheel.” Others’ experiences can be very helpful because they may have done something that you haven’t thought about. In addition to the experiences of others, there are numerous resources to tap into when making decisions like care for the elderly or any other life-altering decision that you may have to make. Many of them can be found on the internet or by going to the local library.
Life has many challenges – positive and negative – and it is important to take on these challenges with as much information as possible. Decision-making is necessary to determine how to move forward in life.
The situations with our elderly affect all of us differently and sometimes the situations can be trying on the immediate family. When faced with difficult situations with your elderly relatives, do your best and be available to help them as much as you can. Sure, you may make some mistakes along the way, but don’t worry so much about that happening. Just go forward and help them as much as possible.
Positive and negative experiences provide a balance in decision-making. The best way to handle making decisions for the elderly is by doing research and asking people questions who may have had the same experience as you. Decisions, decisions, decisions. Each situation calls for a different way of handling it to make the most appropriate decision.
Many of life’s decisions are not easy, but in order to move forward we need good solid information to make informed choices and realize the balance between positive and negative situations. Fear should not be the driving force in our decision-making because sometimes you may make a rash decision because you haven’t completely thought the situation through.
Before an emergency happens, think about ways to deal with different scenarios so that you are not caught off guard. Remember, take the time to think things through before you make decisions so you are well equipped with as much information as possible.
Live, laugh, love, and pray.
God Bless You with Good Health and Wellness,
Antoinette
Antoinette Shar’ron Johnson
“Empowering, inspiring, motivating, and uplifting your mind, body, and soul!”
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