Co-owner John Hilsher is a champion for in-home care in Austin. His passion and mastery of customer service has reached the guru level. His extensive collection of tools and 1970's era home secured his position as the staff handyman as well. Away from work he can be found playing a never ending game of tug-of-war with his dogs and is anxiously awaiting his first child with his lovely wife.
Compassion is Kryptonite to Depression
The next couple of months are going to be filled with family, friends and food. So why the blog on depression?
A few days ago I received a call to our Senior Home Care Agency. The caller was inquiring about details of our companionship service. We spoke for a few minutes then I asked her what she was looking for. She didn’t want to be alone on Thanksgiving. Well, I really didn’t see that one coming.
That got me looking for a good article on the subject and I found a piece on helpguide.org titled “Depression in older adults and the elderly”. Aside from listing the symptoms to look for, it outlined the differences between depression and dementia and different treatment options.
Yesterday, I went to visit a client and her caregiver. The client was taking a nap but I was able to visit with the caregiver. She said the previous day was tough. Her client didn’t want to get out of bed or drink or eat anything. She coaxed her to drink by bringing her some of her favorite juice. Then she said she started her usual routine of straightening the house. However, this time she did so LOUDLY. She ran the vacuum, moved chairs and opened and closed enough cabinets to cause just enough of an inhospitable sleeping environment for her friend to get out of bed and engage her day. There was no pep talk about picking yourself up by the boot straps. Only caring and compassion to draw her back to her normal life and try and enjoy some of her favorite activities.
I feel very fortunate to know both of these wonderful people. They share a special bond that I am proud to be a part of.