I learned something very upsetting when I visited the elder law attorney yesterday. That is: Changes can irreparably harm cognitive functioning.
Over the past six months, as my mother and I have adapted to her progressive memory difficulties, we have had a series of home health aides in to assist with memory care. Some have been caring and warm, but irresponsible with respect to her health needs- failing to recognize, for example, that reminding her to take her medicine "later" is not sufficient- later she will not remember. Others have been responsible with respect to her health needs, preparing nutritious meals …