The Challenge
Ellen began experiencing short-term memory deficits along with increasing mobility issues and frequent falls. At first, Emerald Helpers provided care a few days a week in her own home, where she lived independently with her beloved dog, Julie.
Ellen’s family was loving and supportive and worked to make her home as safe and comfortable as possible, modifying it so Ellen and Julie could live primarily on the first floor. Despite those efforts, the falls and hospitalizations continued, and eventually the family made the difficult decision to move her into their own home.
Because Ellen’s daughter worked full time, the family needed dependable support to keep Ellen safe, comfortable, and cared for throughout the day.
Facing Something Like This?
Our Approach
Emerald Helpers became an extension of Ellen’s family, providing consistent care while adapting as her needs changed. Caregivers helped Ellen start each morning by getting her up, assisting with washing and dressing, and preparing her meals.
They paid attention to the small things that brought her joy, including doing her hair and making sure she was dressed in her favorite color, purple.
Julie was an important part of Ellen’s life, so caring for Julie was part of caring for Ellen. Caregivers fed, walked, and played with her, helping Ellen keep the companionship and connection that meant so much to her.
As Ellen’s condition progressed, the team continually modified its techniques and level of support. When mobility became more difficult, caregivers provided additional assistance to help her move safely. When she became bedbound, the focus shifted to keeping her comfortable, engaged, and surrounded by familiar and meaningful things.
The team learned what brought Ellen comfort. She loved having the Bible read to her and enjoyed listening to music. Even as her cognitive decline advanced and she became increasingly confused, caregivers continued to meet her where she was, with patience, reassurance, companionship, and compassionate care.
The Solution
Emerald Helpers was there for Ellen throughout her changing journey, from the early signs of memory and mobility challenges to advanced cognitive decline and the end of her life. Caregivers adjusted her care as her abilities changed, providing hands-on support while preserving her dignity and honoring the routines, preferences, and relationships that mattered most to her.
The family was supported through an incredibly difficult time as well. Knowing that someone they trusted was caring for their mother gave her daughter and the rest of the family peace of mind and the ability to focus on being family rather than managing every aspect of her care.
As Ellen became bedbound and eventually passed away, it was a privilege to continue supporting her and her loved ones.
Caring for Ellen was about more than completing daily tasks. It was about recognizing the person behind the changing needs, adapting care with compassion, and being there for the family every step of the way. At Emerald Helpers, quality home care means meeting each client where they are, with the skill, flexibility, and compassion to walk alongside them as their needs evolve.
This Is What the Right Support Looks Like
