M any people might view epilepsy and frequent seizures since the age of 8 as a huge hurdle to achieving an independent and happy life. While Martha doesn’t discount the challenges these hurdles have presented, she is happy to have her freedom, living on her own in the community.
Martha, now in her late 60s, became involved with Area Agency on Aging’s Community Transition Services following back-toback injuries – a broken hip and a fractured back – that landed her in a rehab facility for several weeks each time.
Martha met with Community Transition Services provider Jenn Scally to discuss her options and help her navigate how to return home safely and successfully. Martha was enrolled in the MI Choice Waiver program and successfully moved back home.
“I like to have my freedom. In the nursing home, I wouldn’t have that,” Martha said.
Now home, Martha is a frequent visitor of local favorites – Golden Brown Bakery, Caffe Tosi and others – for breakfast.
Area Agency on Aging Care Manager Gabby Girvan works with Martha to ensure she’s able to live independently. Gabby’s goal is to facilitate care and provide support. Gabby speaks with Martha on a regular basis, calling to check in and ensure her needs are being met.
Martha has formed a great relationship with her caregiver, who she calls “a sweetheart,” and who will do anything she needs her to. Martha’s caregiver comes to her home five days a week to provide assistance with household tasks and personal care tasks.
Every day, Martha benefits from a daily liquid supplement to aid her nutrition. Martha’s favorite flavor is peach, but she also enjoys orange and wild berry. She wears an emergency button every day in case she has a seizure, fall or injury and needs emergency assistance.
Martha is determined and resilient. Not only has she overcome health issues, but she put herself through school, getting an associate degree in music from Lake Michigan College.
She then won a grant to attend Grand Valley State University, earning a bachelor’s in piano and voice. She has a keyboard to this day, and while she hasn’t played in some time, it brings her joy knowing she can.
Martha is an unique and inspiring individual. Like all the clients we work with, Area Agency on Aging’s aim is to offer choices for independent lives. Martha’s choices have led her to a fulfilling life. She will soon be wearing a beautiful new dress and shoes to attend her local high school reunion, and I can only imagine that she will be radiant with beauty and confidence.
Like Martha, you, or someone you know, might benefit from exploring your options for moving home from a nursing home, or helping to avoid a nursing home stay. Call the Info-Line for Aging and Disability at 800-654-2810. Aging and disability experts are eager to help you explore all available options. We want to ensure that you, too, can live with dignity and independence in the setting of your choice.