Unfortunately, too many people are placing their parents, grandparents into LTC and Assisted Living facilities rather than making room for them in their own homes. They have all sorts of excuses. Actually, their reasons are golf, bowling, cruises, RV traveling, etc. While they are out enjoying their retirement(s), their parents are often alone and bored and frightened. Feeling helpless because they can no longer drive and take care of themselves. That will not be the case with my mother. She has the master bedroom in our home. She is the priority above all else in my life and in my heart. I will be here for her as long as I am alive. After all, she was the person who took me to piano and dance lessons. She made sure that I had dresses by sewing them by hand because she did not have a sewing machine. She gave her entire young years over to raising me and my brother. Although poor, we always had enough. It is the greatest honor of my life to be her caregiver.

I took care of my Mom for 6 years 40 miles away, plus others helped. It's time for Assisted Living, she needs a different skill than I can give. We are two very independent women, that doesn't make for a good mix. She likes her privacy and I like mine. It's time.