Going The Extra Mile

Last week we learned about two very special caregivers who practice Interactive Caregiving, keeping their clients engaged in their daily lives. Here is another example of how Comfort Keepers cares for their clients and gives families peace of mind.

Sabina goes the extra mile to make a difference for her clients. Before an extended vacation, she cooked and froze meals for a couple who love her cooking and were noticeably anxious about her being away.

Knowing how much one client enjoyed his tradition of throwing a nice dinner party for his wife and family on Mother’s Day, she helped him prepare a special meal and set the table. The son later called to report how thrilled his father had been to be able to recreate this old tradition.

When a client whose husband had dementia was unexpectedly hospitalized, Sabina quickly agreed to a long shift to keep Mrs.S. company during a trying time. She made several trips back and forth to the hospital; made sure she was eating, and taking her medications. Sabina completed other needed tasks, bringing comfort and security to our clients.

Sabina thinks about what she as a Comfort Keeper can do to touch each client’s life, beyond the basic tasks of cooking a meal or cleaning the kitchen. She makes an effort to get to know each client as an individual – and to identify what matters to them. Going above and beyond is routine for her.

Sabina is acutely sensitive to looking out for all aspects of her clients’ lives and creating situations that allow them to continue their independent lifestyles. It is common for her to have suggestions for improved safety or nutrition.

Sabina met the challenge of a couple with multiple diet restrictions – one being diabetic and one being on a strict low-salt diet. She drew upon her own culinary experiences and new recipes and sat down with the clients to find recipe solutions that were appealing to them, but also satisfied their needs. Then she worked her magic in the kitchen and helped keep them on the right track to healthy eating. She also accompanied them to the grocery and worked to help them make healthy choices while shopping.

Sabina also is dedicated to helping clients stay physically active, doing exercises with them or encouraging a walk down the hall at their retirement community.

Comfort Keepers has offices in Petoskey and Traverse City and serves seniors throughout all of Northern Michigan. If you would like more information about how we can help your loved one, call us toll free at 866-929-9044