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Member Spotlight: Joann

Date: 07/11/16

Rose Hill, KS - Joann Bushey was a resident at a local nursing home, as her family was unable to take care of her because of her significant health and mobility issues.

While in the nursing home, Joann’s condition continued to decline. She has Parkinson’s disease and Graves’ disease, which caused muscle weakness, tremors, difficulty communicating and many other symptoms.

Joann was not happy that she was in the nursing home but often had to communicate with gestures, so it was difficult to express her wants, needs or feelings. She would frequently cry and pull her hair in distress. Her appetite decreased, she could not walk or care for herself and her condition worsened.

Her family became aware of Home and Community Based Services (HCBS) and requested that Joann be allowed to move to an assisted living facility called a “homes plus,” thinking that Joann would feel better in a smaller place that could still provide her care and where they could be more involved.

Initially, there was some improvement, but her progress waned, and she began having similar issues as in the nursing home. After much discussion, the family decided that what Joann really wanted was to be with her family.

So arrangements were made and Joann moved in with her daughter Betty and her family with the support of HCBS. 

Over the next several months, Joann’s condition improved. Although they did not change physicians, Joann’s family closely monitored her medications and reported side effects and other medical issues. They continued working with their physician and eventually, Joann’s medications were adjusted, which resulted in a significant reduction in narcotic and psychiatric medications. Additionally, the family was able to more easily understand her communication, which drastically reduced her frustration. Joann’s family also continued working with her mobility and strengthening, which also made some improvement.

The net result for Joann has been significant. Her appetite, communication and mobility have all improved. Her mood is better, her personality has begun to shine through again, and she is very happy. Today, she can engage with and be a part of her family.  She likes to help fold laundry, play with the dogs and sit outside on the deck.  Her toddler granddaughter is living in the home, and she loves to hold her and interact with her. The family takes Joann wherever they go, whether that be to shopping or the grandchildren’s sporting events.

At her last home visit, she was pleased to demonstrate her ability to push herself in her wheelchair and with minimal assist, transfer in and out. Although she is still very difficult to understand, at her last home visit, Joann was able to verbally communicate to her Program Specialist that she LOVES living at home.