How Not To Tear Your Family Apart

Grandpa James and Grandma Carolyn, in pain and pretty unhappy, will not have to be further upset by trying to remember essential details and documented information. Three generations pull together and avoid the additional anxiety that comes with facing sudden and unexpected care events.

Once they are back home, Jodi turns to her husband. Expecting a flood of tears, Jackson is surprised to see Jodi composed.

Jodi said, “Well, that went better than I would have ever expected! Everyone seemed to spring into action instead of overdoing it! With Nicole getting and delivering the Care Guide, calling her brother to keep him informed, then bringing us coffee, I was able to concentrate on supporting Mom and Dad. The emergency room took the documents, which helped speed us through the check-in process. Remember last time when we waited and waited while searching for current documents and information. I saw my dad’s face when the attending complimented us for being prepared. He assured my parents that with their Care Guide in hand, he could confidently move forward with his assessment and suggested treatment. Although they were in pain, they seemed less scared since the process and care was going along pretty smoothly.”

Jackson opened his mouth, shut it, and instead just smiled, nodding his head in agreement. Hating to diminish Jodi’s positive assessment, he still felt obligated to add, “Honey, I think we had better move on to Step Three. Your mom is probably not going to recover too quickly. Your dad will have his cast on for a while. They need a long-term care plan.”

“Absolutely, Jackson. Too bad we did not get through that last step before this happened.”