Daily Living Blog

When Products Don’t Solve the Issue

Homecare Suppliers, LLC has regularly posted blogs about resources. It is such a daunting task to try and find help, products, and support. 80% of the calls that we have received in the month of August have been from a caregiver. So many of these individuals are trying to care for their loved one remotely. This can be so frustrating to both individuals.

Today for example, I had a person contact me about her aunt in NJ. The niece lives in Missouri. Her aunt suffered a stroke almost a year ago. She moved to New Jersey in order to be closer to her children. After completing physical therapy, she was released. She opted to rent an apartment instead of moving in with her grown child. The apartment complex had wide hallways, an elevator, and wide doorways. Unfortunately, the bathroom was not conducive to her situation. The stroke had her with limited mobility on her left side, including her left leg. She needed a scooter to move from location to location. There was no way for her to lift her legs to get into the bathtub unassisted.

The niece contacted me because of our bathlifts that we sell through our online store. After discussing options, we agreed that a product would not fix this situation. The niece then contacted her local area of aging in Missouri. They were able to connect her to the NJ Area of Aging. The niece was informed that as a result of her aunt’s situation, the state would pay for someone to come in several times a month to help with bathing. How amazing is that?! Further, if a product is required, the NJ Area of Aging will acquire it for her as well.

There are times when a product does not fix the problem. It is best to refer to many sources and sololicit opinions or advice from several entities. So often, we don’t know where to start. We go to the internet or to our local phone book. We automatically try and throw a product at the problem. After many hours and a lot of money, we realize that the product doesn’t help. Sales people are often too focused on the sale, rather than the situation and the person. It is up to you as the consumer to do your due diligence and become educated about your options.

The best place to start —-Your local Area of Aging or possibly a non-profit that supports the individual’s condition —Stroke Foundation, Cancer Society, MDA, MS Society. Each has a local branch. Start there first.

As we find out about organizations, Homecare Suppliers makes every effort to put them on our resource pages. Please do not hesitate to utilize these. And if you find something or someone that assists you and your situation – we encourage you to share your journey with us!

Here are links to our current resource pages:
Disability Resources
Daily Living Related Resources Lists
Making Your Home Safe Resources

One more step today for living life unlimited!