In their own words

Stories from the front

"Peace of Mind"

My Mom and Dad were married for over 57 years. Like many families, my brothers and I live out of town due to work. When Dad suddenly passed, we immediately came home to make the funeral arrangements. At that time, we found out that Mom was in the mid-stages of dementia. Dad had been hiding the progression of the illness. We began a frantic search to find care for Mom.

Our first priority was to make sure Mom received the best possible care. A friend of ours who had been in a similar situation recommended BrightStar. After explaining the situation, BrightStar immediately sent their social worker to meet with Mom and us. We discussed the care options that were available in the community and made sure that she received the best care. We decided that Mom would do best at home, but was not sure if that would be possible.

Mom had some challenging behaviors related to her affliction with dementia and the sudden death of Dad. It was paramount to place a stable caregiver in the home that would allow both us and Mom to feel safe. The BrightStar social worker arranged to take Mom to a neuropsychologist for an evaluation. She determined that Mom would benefit from some medication and consistency. A care plan was written that would involve all of us even though we lived out-of-state.

Today, Mom is much more peaceful. She is doing well in her own home where her needs are being met. We feel that she is safe, and are confident in the care arrangements that help her live well.

Wedding Day made even better!

Due to my mother’s failing health and confinement to a wheelchair, we were forced to place her in an assisted living facility. My daughter’s wedding was fast approaching, and as she and her grandmother had always been very close, it was important to try to find a way for Grandma to attend. With the arrival of relatives and assorted other mother-of-the-bride duties, it was impossible to go pick Mom up, stay with her at the wedding and reception, see to her personal needs, and return her home when she was tired out.

We contacted the doctor, and he recommended BrightStar Healthcare. We have never been as pleased with anyone as we were with the nursing assistant they provided. Grandma was dressed beautifully, her hair done, and make-up applied. She arrived with plenty of time to see the wedding and enjoy the company of friends and relatives she hadn't seen in years.

During the reception, the aide assisted her with her personal care and even danced with her in her wheelchair. After that, the groom and all his attendants cut in for their turn to dance with her too. She stayed up late and was happier than anyone had seen her in years. My daughter even offered a toast to her caregiver who made it possible for her Grandma to be with her. It was a time that she never forgot, and we will always hold dear to our hearts.

My thanks goes out to BrightStar for providing us with the perfect solution and the perfect person to meet my mother’s needs. I will recommend your service to everyone.