I know from personal experience about the joys and hardships of caring for a loved one. I was primary caregiver for both my grandmother (for approximately 6 months), who suffered a stroke, and my mother (for about 8 years), who had Alzheimer's. I have also worked professionally with dementia residents as an activities director and been a facilitator for a memory care support group. The desire to allow elders to remain independent but safe for
as long as possible is strong in almost every family I have been involved with. Few family caregivers resent doing what it takes to make this happen but they all need one thing to make it possible. They need help.
In my personal situation and in that of most I talk to, housekeeping help or medical care is not what is required. For me, I simply wanted a trustworthy, compassionate, respectful companion to relieve me occasionally. I wanted someone who would spend time with my mother when I couldn't be there or when I needed a break; someone who would treat her like a friend and not like a dementia patient.
This is what I hope to provide with Hire-A-Daughter. I want to learn the quirks and personalities of everyone I spend time with. I want to make friends. I love crafts, gardening and nutritious cooking. I am trained to adapt all activities to a level appropriate for each individual. I believe strongly in the health benefits derived from keeping active, mentally and physically, and from eating fresh, properly prepared food. I have no doubt that maintaining routine, indulging in hobbies and caring for pets extends independence in elders.
Interacting with those who have dementia is my expertise but learning from all elders is my love. If you have a loved one who is living on their own and can stay that way longer with just a little extra help, please feel free to call me. If you are caring for a loved one and need a little respite help, I can give you what you need most--time.
I look forward to meeting you both.
Melissa Smith
Hire-A-Daughter
