Ana’s Story

“Mom came to live with us in May of 2021. She had fallen in her apartment and then went into rehab at a nursing home in northern Minnesota.

Right from the start, we noticed changes in mom-most often withdrawal and just sitting in the doorway of her room watching the world outside her room. Due to the COVID-19 quarantine, there was no visiting allowed at first and then, only by appointment. This was difficult, as we live four hours away. We decided to bring mom home.

Both my husband and I are still working. Fortunately, he works three full days in the middle of the week and I can work at home two days per week. So, we set out to find in-home care for mom on the days we are both at work. 

Seeing Elder Network on Facebook led me to Bonnie (Elder Network’s Wabasha County Program Coordinator). She quickly arranged a meeting for all of us and some of her staff. Between the two wonderful women Bonnie has on staff, Pam and Leslie, my husband and I are able to be away from home and know that mom is in good hands.

The caregivers are so kind and patient with her and keep her occupied throughout the day. Even if mom is having a slow day and not energetic, the staff will patiently sit with her and visit with her, letting her know she is not alone. We would be lost without our Elder Network staff as mom cannot be home alone and the days get so long without companionship.” Gloria shared this testimony, speaking about her mother, Ana.

Leslie, a Companion working with Elder Network, was able to come alongside of Ana to provide her with companionship, fun activities, and entertainment during the long work hours that Gloria had to work to support herself and her mother. Making muffins was a great way to brighten Ana’s day, and she enjoyed this time with Leslie, bringing her joy and the ability to do a fun activity that she can no longer do on her own.

Without community support from individuals such as yourself, the services that Gloria was receiving to help her mother, Ana, would have been a larger strain on their budget. Knowing that there is help for those facing dementia and caregiving, can provide the release of a larger burden from already overwhelmed caregivers. Gloria is so grateful to community members like you for your support, and to Elder Network for providing her with good, friendly and faithful Companions, Leslie and Pam. Gloria says, “I would recommend Elder Network to anyone who is finding themselves sharing their homes with an older relative and wanting to know they are safe and happy when you can’t be there 24/7”

(Client names changed for confidentiality).