The Sarge

 My father was a retired Army Master Sargent with incredible foresight. He realized my mother had some memory issues and decided to move closer to us since we were in a warm state and had many military bases for medical care and supplies. We could easily help with appointments and any apartment concerns. In just a few years he realized they needed more help with cooking and daily life activities. He researched and found an independent living facility with graduated care. I hear stories about family members stubbornly staying put when they need more help. We were so very fortunate. A few years later my 84 year old father had a stroke and died suddenly. I began visiting my mother more often and I would find her sitting in the dark, just sitting. We hired someone to come in everyday to make sure she had lunch, signed up for dinner and took her medicine. Other neighbors checked on her although I soon realized she needed more care. Another piece of the puzzle was in our hands.