Not "One Size Fits All"
By Kate Granigan

Marshfield - I recently participated in one of the many state wide Memory Walks to raise money for the Alzheimer’s Association. On that day, what struck me, as in year’s past, was the diversity of the stories and the individuals there to support the cause.

Some walkers were there to honor the memory of a loved one and some wore their picture on a t-shirt or button. Others were there walking with the person suffering with the diagnosis and were there fostering hope. Still others were there because of what they see each day, as professionals providing the services to these amazing individuals and their families.

So often we see a diagnosis like “Alzheimer’s disease” and we think we know the whole story and their situation. We may assume we understand what that person and their family might be faced with.

It is so important, however, to put aside our assumptions, our generalizations or our own experiences in order to understand what this person is experiencing, what their desires and fears are and who they were throughout their life, not just at the time of diagnosis.

By getting to know the story of that person and their family, we can so often find the “perfect fit” of supports, services and resources to make their journey one of a good quality of life, with dignity and choice.

It is critical for those in a position to offer this help and for those asking for it, that time is taken to get to know the unique story. Through this story we can better understand and offer what will be valuable. You see, there is no “one size fits all” solution for the challenges that this disease poses. Through a combination of listening and thoughtful action we can create the best outcomes possible.

About The Author
Kate Granigan, LICSW is the Executive Director and Managing Partner of C.A.R.E., LLC. Please send your questions to Kate at C.A.R.E. LLC., 475 School St., Suite 17, Marshfield. For more information, please call (781) 837-7444 or on the web at www.care-elderspecialist.com.