Some critical decisions about change can arise suddenly without warning. Or they’re kicked down the road like a tin can to be made later. Some decisions, such as buying a car, are made after much thought and consideration. Still, many decision situations are made quickly.
An early awareness of any change is essential.
Here’s a situation: Mom is in her early 70s, is in good physical shape, lives alone, and works part-time. Then, she breaks her right wrist after a simple fall, which requires surgery. And she’s right-handed.
This situation raises several questions. Her wrist surgery went well, yet a functional recovery could take a couple of months. Family members all live in different cities. Friends and acquaintances can help with immediate needs. However, long-term help with meals, bathing, driving, etc., is challenging. This or similar situations can stimulate the need for a new normal.
Let’s look at this situation in another way. See it as an early first step in a transition. Use this early time to think ahead so there are no surprises about future needs.
Ask and answer some questions:
- Why is it easier to live in the same city?
- To establish new doctors
- Research home health insurance coverages.
- Over the years, Mom has established personal and professional relationships.
- She has a lot of ‘stuff’ to move.
- Many memories.
- She’s been independent and still is.
Change doesn’t need to be immediate, but the door has opened to consider gradual, long-term decisions—first, figure out simple places to begin. Give gifts to family members—Grandpa’s books, grandma’s brooches, or scarves from the 1950s, unique Christmas ornaments. Small personal things, and don’t forget paper!
Make time to think about bigger things…a move. At first, the feelings of a move are overwhelming.