As life expectancy increases, more of us struggle with caring for our aging relatives while trying to maintain the fragile balance of life’s other obligations. Difficult economic circumstances force us to consider just how much time we can spend away from our jobs. Oftentimes, guaranteed employment requires relocation to somewhere far away. Even if we manage to juggle our work responsibilities with those of caring for our parents, where do we find time for our children, spouses, friends, and the daily routines of our own lives?
NextFriend, LLC provides individualized support in helping area seniors manage daily living by coordinating necessary services to maintain a current lifestyle or manage change that accompanies a new one. Sometimes families need help in caring for an elderly loved one. Sometimes, it is an acquaintance or a trusted professional who has power-of-attorney for an individual who needs assistance.
As the owner of NextFriend, LLC, my work as a lay case manager for the elderly is varied. In short, I act as a personal advocate, always keeping the client’s best interest in mind. If a personal aide, health care provider or medical case manager is required, I work with the client to hire an appropriate professional. In addition, I manage daily finances and personal business. More than once, I’ve waited in an ER to consult with a physician following a fall. I’ve scouted out acceptable living arrangements, hired home improvement contractors, emptied a home and arranged for its sale. I’ve demanded action from assisted living facilities when they were falling short of their promises.
My work is challenging, time-consuming, joyful and at times, heart-wrenching. It is both a job and a journey. What follows is a collection of stories giving light to that journey. Careful precautions are always used to protect identities, however, it’s my guess your heart will recognize someone you know along the way.
Carol Bagazinski
Email: cmwbagazin@aol.com
Blogger’s Note: Early on in my career as a lay case manager working with aging clients, a geriatric professional told me it is best to meet Alzheimer’s Disease patients “where they are at” in terms of their reality. Although, most of the people I work with are not Alzheimer’s patients, I have found the advice works well when dealing with most folks both on and off the job, regardless of their age. This blog allows you to take a peek at my reality, and meet me where I am at. Maggie is one name I have chosen to use frequently throughout my posts.
Copyright ©2011 by Carol M.W. Bagazinski – All Rights Reserved.
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