THE PUBLIC MIND: HOME HEALTH RESPITE CARE ENHANCED THE LIFE FOR WOMAN

Kaempfer letter

To the Editor:

In late 1988, my husband suffered a stroke. The left side of his body was paralyzed. For the next 14 months I cared for him at home without help.

I did not go to my doctor. I did not see what the mall looked like or do anything except buy groceries at night when my sons were off work and came to relieve me. Then I hurried with my shopping because I knew they were tired and had to work the next day.

My husband then fell and broke his hip on the side that is paralyzed. Through this accident, I learned about the Home Health services affiliated with Southeast Missouri Hospital. My husband was given physical therapy at home until he was able to be taken to the hospital for therapy.

These therapists told me about Home Health Respite Care and said I could qualify for these services also. They explained that respite care is when a trained person is sent to the home to relieve the caregiver, such as I am. They said this service would give me some time off to see my own doctor, dentist, go shopping or just get a needed break from my duties and confinement to my home. I gratefully accepted the services.

The first time I went to the mall I was amazed. I just walked up and down the mall looking at the store fronts, center court, the lights and such. I know others observing me were of the opinion that I thought I was in New York City. But I was like a bird out of its cage.

My husband is in his late 60s. While I love being able to care for him, every caregiver knows how badly you need to have some time to yourself. And respite care is as good for my husband as it is for me. It gives him someone new to talk to someone with different ideas to discuss. It is something for him to look forward to.

Some of those giving Home Health services are registered nurses. Respite care workers sent to homes are also well trained. They know how to handle patients and care for them. They know what to do in an emergency. And they have been so nice to us. They offer to do other chores, such as wash dishes or put clothes in the washing machine, but I can do these things.

Home Health and Home Health Respite Care services are fine, fine things. I don't know how I got along without this help. At first, I received four hours respite care two days each week. Federal funds have been cut and now I get three hours respite services one day in one week and four hours one day the next week for an average of 13 hours per month. But we sure appreciate any help we get.

I certainly would like to see voters approve the tax for services to senior citizens if it will help keep these programs going and help them to be expanded to serve more people. Many residents who have ill persons in their homes can benefit from this tax. People don't know how much these services mean until they need them.

Name withheld by request