Meetings with our social worker today should help to establish a platform from which to move forward with our lives.  This morning I am meeting with her to begin a review of my Carers Assessment.  This afternoon she will be calling at our home to chat with Maureen.

There is little doubt that that Maureen’s presentation has changed since Tracey was here a month ago. The  periods of abject confusion have become more frequent, as has the out of character behaviour. Maureen’s capacity to carry out basic tasks has dwindled and she requires more prompting to cope with daily living.   Tracey plans a number of visits so that she can see beyond the confabulations, and the hostess mode, that Maureen usually resorts to when assessment is underway.

I imagine conversations about Maureen’s care needs will highlight her capacity to consider her own welfare. It is likely that a ‘best interest decision’ will be needed to keep Maureen safe when I am out of town visiting family.  Maureen’s previous assertions that she is safe to be left alone for considerable periods of time needs to be reconsidered.  All of this will raise the thorny issue about attendance at Day Centres and the like.

Today is an opportunity to start the ball rolling on a review of our Care Plan.  I am hoping it is the start of a process that enables me to have a life alongside my role as a Care Partner.