Dear Editor:
I would like to pass on some information to anyone in the role of caregiver to a loved one in your home.
I have had my husband in my care at home for several months after surgery that left him mentally challenged and, as all home caregivers know, it is very hard. A very big problem for me in this process is lack of sleep due to constant monitoring as my husband wanders and I must listen for him if he gets up at night.
After a couple of particularly dangerous night time episodes, I realized there had to be a solution if I were to keep him at home. I then called several health care agencies locally and in the city asking assistance in finding a bed alarm system I could purchase but they were all unable to get that information for me.
That day my daughter called and I realized how frustrated I was — I’m not computer literate — she went online and within minutes called to say she had found and ordered what we needed.
I now have an alarm system on my husband’s bed, which lets me know the minute he tries to get out of bed. It is the best piece of equipment a caregiver can have and I recommend it to anyone in my situation.
I want desperately to keep my husband at home and out of a nursing home and I feel this is a good part of the answer. It certainly will help me as a caregiver get the rest we so badly need in this situation.
To anyone interested, you can call me at 403-783-2805 if I can help you.
Mrs. Irene Heggedal