CMSS’ SASI Home Care program provides non-medical home assistance to adults across Chicagoland. We assist older adults so they can remain in their homes and communities. We focus on ensuring the comfort of the people we serve and work to reduce the burden of care that often falls on family and friends. SASI Care Partners are highly trained and experienced in providing care to individuals living with memory loss.
This series shares the story of the SASI program from the perspective of Care Partners and clients. Below is an interview with Judith, a SASI client.
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How long have you been a SASI Client?
I have been a SASI Client for several years. During that time, I worked with two care partners, both of whom provided excellent care. My first care partner was great, but due to an injury that required me to be hospitalized, I had to pause services. When I returned home, I was assigned a new care partner who is still with me today, and she is so helpful.
What does the SASI Care Partner assist you with?
The care partner who comes to my home helps me with many essential things. For example, she does my laundry. The laundry room is on a different floor and getting up and down the stairs is hard for me, especially with a laundry basket. I also cannot stand for long periods of time and I have trouble bending over, so doing the laundry is extremely difficult for me. The care partner also helps me with cleaning the kitchen and other rooms, and she assists me with maintaining my hygiene. Everything she does, she does with a lot of care and I’m very grateful for that.
What benefits does SASI Home Care provide to you?
I live alone and having help from a care partner is the only way that I can stay in my home and maintain my independence. If it weren’t for SASI Home Care, I would need to leave my apartment and live in an assisted living facility. I have been in my current apartment for 35 years, and am happy and comfortable here. I have come to know my neighbors over the years and it’s important to me to remain in my community as long as possible. Also, I have a great view of Lake Michigan from my apartment, and I would be sad to lose that. Although I need help with some physical tasks around the house, I’m mentally healthy, and it makes a huge difference that I get to stay in my home.
How would you describe the SASI Care Partner who assists you?
She is very good to me. Everything she does, she does with a lot of care. She is reliable and takes her work seriously. I appreciate that she values doing her work well. She is also very kind, and I really enjoy talking with her.
