Compelling Profiles, Important Services
Several weeks ago, MVES and Senator Richard Tisei sponsored the annual legislative breakfast at MVES. As in the past, the event provided a venue for dialogue between MVES area legislators, MVES staff, and MVES clients.
Undoubtedly, the highlight of the event was when a client and a caregiver took the floor and spoke about how MVES has helped them in very different ways. I’ve included abbreviated versions of their stories below. I think you’ll be interested.
Chris, as she prefers to be called, was referred to MVES in November of 2004 after suffering a stroke and a heart attack. Unfortunately, during this vulnerable time a family member financially exploited Chris. As a result of this incident, Chris lost most of her belongings and needed help with moving into her apartment. MVES Protective Service workers helped her become settled in her new apartment by obtaining household items and providing emotional and social support. The Money Management Program at MVES also has been helping her straighten out her financial situation.
Chris suffers from diabetes, high blood pressure, arthritis, osteoporosis, degenerative joint disease, and vertigo. She currently receives personal care services for assistance with bathing and dressing once weekly and homemaking services once weekly. These services, the initial assistance from Protective Services, and the Money Management Program have helped Chris remain in her own apartment.
The second speaker was Mrs. H who is a caregiver.
Mrs. H is a money management volunteer at MVES. But, at home she noticed that her husband was having memory loss and she sought guidance from the MVES Caregiver Support program. Mrs. H began attending the caregiver support groups that are held every other week.
After Mr. H. was eventually diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease, Mrs. H. started to investigate Adult Day Programs that would offer the appropriate stimulation and activities for her husband. Mrs. H found a program, but she needed assistance with transportation. The Caregiver Support Program was able to offset the cost of this transportation. With MVES’ help, Mr. H can stay living in the community. Mrs. H continues to attend support groups and serve as a money manager.
As Chris and Mrs. H showed the audience at the recent breakfast, the services that MVES offers truly make a difference in people’s lives. The option to remain at home is one that every elder should have. MVES is fortunate to have legislators from our communities who share in this belief. With the legislators' support, the staff of MVES looks forward to helping more elders in the coming years.
