Grandpa Roger's 75th Birthday Party - Thanks Pat

Hi All,

I'm reflecting on the beautiful gift my step mom Pat, gave my Dad for his 75th Birthday.  I hope as she copes with difficult decision to get Grandpa Roger (my Dad) the help he needs she remembers all the good times they had together and the thoughtful gesture of bringing those that love Roger Blanchard together to celebrate all the years we've had with him.  

Pat always remember you have my support.  We will all have more time to visit Dad, Grandpa, friend Roger because you have taken such good care of him at home and now transitioning to the next phase of care needed for the robbing disease of dementia.  

I'm also thankful to my niece and Pat's niece for helping Pat during the past 2 weeks.  You're both awesome.  

Peace to you and yours.  Remember to stay in the moment and only savor the good memories.  

Sincerely with love, 

Melissa Blanchard.

Elder Care

Hi All,
I hope this note finds everyone reading in good health and happy.

I have recently run up against the issue of taking care of parents as they age.  My Dad is 77 with dementia and a heart valve issue.  His wife is having health issues now too so the families on both sides of the marriage are pulling together to see what options are available.

It isn't easy - if you can't afford around 5,000 a month for rent on memory centers or long-term placements the couple has to spin down - which means the assets become the property of the government.  My Dad's wife could live there as long as she's able but all her assets will have a lien to the government.

I know - the price of private care or round the clock care is enormous but why did we all pay so much into social security and then still have to give up any assets we manage to achieve in the bargain.  I fail to see how this is a society that rewards those that invest in property when after 30 years sometimes, you finally get it paid off then someone can just come in and take it away.

I also hear about how good it is to stay in the home - well its a big strain on the spouse taking care of dementia - I can attest to how much work it is to meal plan, get the food on the plate on the table then my Dad eats which does my heart good but he can't help dish up, he tends to pick the household chores he'll do and there's the questions answered just 30 minutes earlier.  I started writing him note and for now that works but over time the reading function will be robbed too.

Fo all the talk of health care no one is discussing what happens when people that have jobs and are doing well might have to chose between the job and taking care of a loved one.  There won't be support for those that have to do this because there's no Medicaid or Medicare funds to help with home care, assisted living or long-term care.  You think the unemployment was bad in the Great Depression just wait for the time when people have to leave jobs - take lower paying jobs at part time which would be difficult to take care of their parents.  There are more aging then their are young ones so the Japan crisis will soon be here too.

I hope the politicians start to get real about issues in society - its about more than deal making or saving money - politics is about quality of life and the safety of the citizens that are in their care.  Please take a step back from lobbiest and business men and think about the people.

I thank you for your time.  I hope you comment and share to spread the word that Elder care is real, vulnerable adults is real and we as a nation need to do something about taking care of those that have done so much to make our lives possible.

Peace,
Sincerely,
Melissa Blanchard