Reading Skills for Healthcare Workers

Maggie and Fred raised two children in a three-bedroom house. Last year, Fred had a stroke. After receiving treatment at the hospital and a rehabilitation center, he moved back home. Fred’s health improved, but he was still limited in what he could do by himself. He felt bad about being dependent on Maggie for much of his care and missed his independence.

Before the stroke, Maggie and Fred shared household duties. After Fred moved home, Maggie did all the household work. She shopped for food, cooked, cleaned, washed clothes, cut the grass, and took out the garbage. Maggie had no time for herself and felt exhausted every day. She loved her husband but missed the free time she used to enjoy.

Maggie also started getting migraine headaches. The doctor told Maggie to remember to take care of her “whole self” -- her mind and body. “When people have imbalances in their lives, it affects their health.”

After trying to live this way for a year, Fred and Maggie moved to Glen Manor Senior Living, an assisted living facility. Now, Fred and Maggie have a one-bedroom apartment with a small living room, kitchen, and bathroom that Maggie can clean in about an hour. They also signed up for the meal plan. They can eat meals in a group dining room whenever they want. In addition, a nurse visits Fred every week, and he takes a special bus to his appointments.

Since moving to Glen Manor, both Fred and Maggie have less stress. They have started eating better, and Maggie rarely gets headaches. They also spend time with their friends. When Maggie goes out, Fred eats evening meals with the new friends he has met at the assisted living center. They have both regained some independence and found better balance in their lives.