Different Paths in Aging
Richard always said that he would take care of his wife of 40 years, Nancy, as long as he could. So, for two years following Nancy’s dementia diagnosis, the couple lived in the mobile home where they had spent most of their lives while Richard cared for her. When Nancy became immobile, Richard was no longer able to provide care. Nancy moved into a long-term care community close to their rural home.
Richard and Nancy’s plight is the rule and not the exception.
According to an AARP survey, 77% of adults, age 50 and older, want to age in place. The truth is — 7 out of 10 older adults will need long-term care at some point.
For some, living out your life in a private home or independent living setting like Luther Manor’s Terrace community is realistic. For others, like Nancy, who develop chronic health conditions, living at home makes sense for a while — until health declines demand a move to long-term care. And for still others, like Richard, aging in place into your 90s is possible. However, like with Richard, a health crisis can change things abruptly.
A Long Life, A Big Change
Richard and Nancy spent their lives together in Clyman, a rural town of roughly 400 people in Dodge County. It was here that they raised five children. Richard liked the small-town atmosphere. He held a position on the village board for 18 years and made a living in a machine shop.
A practical man, Richard paid for both of their funerals and removed Nancy’s name from their assets when she became ill. Nancy’s care was secured with public assistance, and Richard would live on their remaining assets.
At his daughters’ urging, he moved closer to them, selling his home and renting a condo where he lived for a year. His new home never really took, however, and he often felt lonely. Suffering a bout of pneumonia, 94-year-old Richard was hospitalized and unable to safely return home. Richard’s next move was onto public assistance and into Luther Manor’s Health Care Center.
Why Luther Manor?
An average, healthy 65-year-old couple has a 75% chance that one partner will need long-term care later in life. The couple stands a 25% chance that both partners will require long-term care.
Richard and Nancy are among those 25%, and like them, many cannot afford the care.
It is because of Luther Manor Foundation that Richard, and many others like him, receive shelter, care, and community.
Sitting on the dresser in Richard’s room are two framed pictures. One is a picture of Nancy, and the second is a picture of one of his daughters. While the safety and care at Luther Manor bring him comfort, these memories of happier times in his life bring him peace.