Difficult Conversations Lead to Positive Outcomes
Transcript:
And I know there's a lot of mixed emotions when family members have these conversations. Would you be able to share a story where a difficult conversation led to a positive outcome for both the resident and their family?
Yes. And actually, this is one of the best outcomes that I can give in this profession: to see a family going back to their family, as far as being able to have dinners together, being able to come over and visit their loved one at Story Cottage, and then not have to be 100% caregiving all the time.
For example, we had a husband who had three heart attacks within several years. The doctors did explain to him it was due to caregiving stress. I had a very tearful conversation with him where he admitted he could no longer do this. It was very difficult for him.
When he did get the wife to us, he realized he could still visit, he could still take her out, he could still do loving things with her, and he could still be that husband. But we were able to provide the care.
Now he is in much better physical health. His doctor has shared with him that he likes where he is physically, mentally, and emotionally right now because of us being able to care for the wife. So that's a really proud moment for all of us that we can help him and her.
Wow, that's amazing. What a great story for both the husband and the wife, both to be in such a better spot.