Deborah B. Care Companion in Lake Worth, FL 33462

I'm a recently retired business professional who wants to provide a family with assurance and peace-of-mind that their loved one is receiving the care, respect and companionship they deserve and need.

My experience is grounded in being the caregiver for my grandmother (heart issues and advanced osteoporosis) , my mother (cancer), my mother-in-law (deafness, progressive dementia, mobility issues), and my father-in-law (mobility issues, respiratory issues and ostomy care) until their passing. That care involved making sure they received their medications, meals, in addition to loving companionship. I also stayed overnight in the hospital with all four--because each for their own reasons--were fearful of the environment and needed additional night time attention. Additionally, my mother-in-law was also unable to walk so she required assistance getting into/out of her wheelchair, chairs and car, as well as personal grooming and bathroom assistance. I'm not squeamish.

As a companion, I put safety first and am adaptable to the needs of those in my care. I have experience handling emergencies as well as day-to-day challenges with calmness and appropriate action. I believe it is important to "be present" by being sensitive and respectful and a good listener. I have found that routine is often comforting, while finding stimulating opportunities to bring newness and joy to the day.

Finally, I know that for their well-being and safety, gentle firmness is sometimes necessary. The experience with my mother-in-law taught me that someone with memory loss and dementia has an altered reality and they feel safe in that reality. As a result, I understand and learned the value of patience, compassion, sensitivity, and especially the need to protect not only physical safety, but also their emotional well-being.

I am a good, healthy cook, have reliable transportation and possess a pleasant, positive attitude. I'm also dependable, reliable, and possess attention to detail and safety awareness. I am happy to provide light housekeeping and provide other services such as scheduling doctor appointments, shopping, reading, and participate in social activities, etc.

I've received first aid and CPR training. Although my certifications have lapsed, I am most willing to become re-certified if it is required for the position.