Final Week

Although Lisa had regained happiness throughout her aging years, she had also gained an aging body. As the years passed, Lisa felt the aching presence of her CP more and more. In her mid 40’s, Lisa was still involved with the Special Olympics and community activities, but as she aged her body could not keep up as well. Now in her late 60’s, Lisa struggles through almost more problems than she can handle. Throughout the past ten years Lisa has had to cope with her father’s passing, her retirement from the Special Olympics and community activities, and her deteriorating level of mobility. The only incentive that is helping Lisa to keep her sanity is spending time with her beloved husband, Tray.

As people enter their latter years, deterioration of the body is expected. However, Lisa’s CP has advanced her normal aging process and her mobility has become more limited. As an older adult with CP, Lisa’s “muscles and joints have become very tight,” which has led to an “unsteady gait and loss of coordination” (A.D.A.M., 2012). Along with mobility issues, Lisa also feels an immense amount of pain in her joints and muscles. Lisa’s constant pain and limitations has led her to often feel irritable and helpless. However, Tray has stayed a faithful husband and provides what comfort he can to Lisa. Tray also suggested that Lisa take more proactive steps in regaining her mobility and well-being.

After much deliberation and consulting with a doctor, Lisa decided to finally buy an automatic wheelchair. She hoped this purchase would increase her level of mobility without increasing her level of pain. Just as she hoped, Lisa’s automatic wheelchair provided her with more independence and less pain.

As time progressed and Lisa and Tray reached their late 80’s, they felt it was finally time to hire an in-home senior care assistant. Their self-care needs became too much to manage without the assistance of a health care professional. However, Lisa and Tray were still able to maintain a strong relationship and life with each other. Despite their disabilities, Lisa and Tray lived a fulfilling and happy life until their last days.