Client Profile:

Mr. Dennis is an 82-year-old retired lawyer with heart failure, hospitalized for months after a heart valve replacement because of complications exacerbated by alcoholism. His 78-year-old wife struggles with weight problems, hypertension, and long-standing psychiatric issues, possibly bipolar disorder. Two older female cousins clean their house, prepare meals, and run errands, but could not provide hands-on care when he returned home after hospitalization. The Dennises have two adult children with families who live as far away as California.

Situation:

Mr. Dennis also has mild alcohol-related dementia and long-standing depression. Four years ago, he had to be anticoagulated for the valve replacement, requiring weekly blood work and medication adjustment. His blood levels were very erratic due to his drinking. His children searched for a way to monitor their father’s condition that would allow him to maintain some independence, despite his compromised health.

Solution:

They heard about SeniorBridge from a family friend and helped in creating a care plan for their father, starting with someone who came in 4 hours a day. The care manager knew that clients are used to living in a certain way that can’t necessarily be altered, and kept Mr. Dennis on a medication dose that allowed him to have 1 or 2 martinis a day, stabilizing him at home for 4 years. As his condition worsened and mental status decreased, care was gradually increased to 24/7.

The longer-term goals are to strike a balance between allowing him to still do the things he likes, and being extremely careful about his safety. Had they attempted to take all control away from him, he could have ended up in a nursing home with no will to live. The children ask whether SeniorBridge can continue to care for their parents at home as they decline. They are reassured that we will always be there.

Prognosis:

Getting help that does not cramp his style.