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Better Rest for the Weary
The bedbug infestation at Mary's senior citizens building was a nightmare. But for Mary, 82, the strenuous task of preparing her apartment for the exterminator was another hardship. Mary is physically weak and growing forgetful. A home health aide from Chrill Care visits her five times a week to assist with cooking, light housekeeping, medication reminders and companionship. Mary was grateful when her home health aide took on the task of packing up her belongings in plastic bags in time for the exterminator. But Mary's bed, once bedbug-infested, remains a difficult place for Mary to sleep. With the help of the Greater Newark Holiday Fund, Chrill Care is hoping to provide her with a new bed -- and, at long last, a good night's rest -- in time for the holidays.
90-Year-Old Re-Connects with His World
At first nobody liked to talk to Joe, and that seemed fine with him. Ill-tempered and impolite, he kept both staff and clients at the Newark Day Center at bay. But things started to turn around when Ms. Sally became his "Home Friend." Joe, 90, began to share memories of his parents, who were among the first Italian-American immigrants to pass through Ellis Island. He talked about his boyhood days in Newark, where he graduated with honors from Barringer High School and later enlisted in the U.S. Army. He has no wife or children, but spoke warmly of his siblings, niece and nephew, and his beloved sports teams -- the New York Giants and New York Yankees. Thanks to Ms. Sally's understanding, Joe opened up to others at the Newark Day Center. When he was diagnosed with terminal cancer, Joe had lots of dear friends by his side. "Cancer might kill me," he said, "but I won't leave with any bad memories."
Support for Alzheimer’s Victim
Rosie, 77, has a large family, but only one niece lives in this country. She's the one who is dealing with Rosie's advancing Alzheimer's disease. She fields Rosie's constant calls, and frequently visits Rosie to make sure her aunt is not forgetting to bathe, eat or take medications. But Rosie's niece has young children of her own, and she is finding it harder and harder to handle her aunt's multiplying needs. A certified home health aide from Chrill Care now visits Rosie for a few hours each day. But Rosie needs more support, and her family can't afford it. Contributions from the Greater Newark Holiday Fund may let Chrill Care give Rosie the extra hours of care.
92, Blind, Befriended
Mr. C saw a lot of the world in his 92 years, particularly during his time in the military. But now his eyesight is gone, lost to macular degeneration. With his vision went much of Mr. C's independence, as leaving his home is now impossible without help. He is most comfortable in his house in the suburbs, but without his sight, he can't care for the property on his own. He's found assistance through the Newark Day Center, which arranges for Mr. C to get weekly visits from a "Home Friend" who performs household chores and provides much-needed companionship. Mr. C is especially delighted when his Home Friend speaks to him in Italian, his first language. With support from the Greater Newark Holiday Fund, Newark Day Center can help other people like Mr. C enjoy the warmth of loving companionship this holiday season.
Help and Shared Experiences
For Jane Carruthers, loneliness had become a way of life. Eighty-six and requiring a wheelchair, she couldn't easily leave her apartment. Having company was hard as well: She struggled to prepare her meals, let alone entertain guests. Then she met Louise Sampson. At 78, Sampson volunteered to help isolated seniors through the Salvation Army's Home Visitor Program. Sampson now gives Carruthers the help she needs.
"I make her bed and help her with her breakfast, read the newspaper to her and talk about what is going on in Jersey City," Sampson said. Sampson says she's also gained something from the relationship -- a "sister." "We share so many things together," Sampson said. The Salvation Army's Home Visitor Program -- and the Christmas gifts Carruthers and other seniors receive -- are made possible by the Greater Newark Holiday Fund. |
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