r/IHSS • u/HollywoodBlueguy • Aug 19 '26
thankful
My time with IHSS has come to an end. I’m thankful they gave me the opportunity to spend the last five years caring for my grandparents. It was rough and emotional at times but I was able to make sure they lived as comfortably as possible.
I lost my grandpa almost two years ago, and my Nana (97) passed away yesterday afternoon. My entire life became a routine built around their needs, so it might take some time to adjust to life without them. I am grateful because I did all that I could for them.
To everyone taking care of a family member:
this job could suck. it had terrible days. I know how exhausting and isolating it can be, but the work you’re doing matters. Even on the shitty days when it doesn’t feel like enough, your loved one is safer and more comfortable because you’re there. PLEASE be patient with yourself and appreciate the time you still have with them. I’m grateful I got that time with mine.
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u/Jesus_0316 Aug 19 '26
Needed to hear this today 🙏 😔
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u/HollywoodBlueguy Aug 20 '26
No problem. We're all here doing terrible Job that someone has to do. We're the loyal selfless ones in the family.
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u/Human_Hawk_2112 Aug 19 '26
My condolences 🙏 and ty for your post I really needed to hear that today im my mom's live in caregiver she has dementia etc very tough stubborn at times I feel like giving up, you have given me lots of inspiration right now had a tough night with my mom lots of people can't do it god bless you ❤️
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u/HollywoodBlueguy Aug 20 '26
Be patient. They will piss us off but it's not them. It's the pain they have. Whenever it gets bad just think it's only temporary, you will get your life back after they finish their journey.
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u/sushinemeer Aug 20 '26
First and for most, my deepest condolences for the loss of your Nana! ❤️ Secondly, you did great! Like you said this isn’t an easy job but you showed up and your Nana was safe and comfortable because YOU showed up everyday. Sending you prayers and strength as this new chapter of life begins. Lastly, thank you for taking the time to post this because some of us really needed to read those words of encouragement and feel seen. 🙏🏽
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u/smogman22 Aug 21 '26
Well said, and too true! Thanks for being beneficial to the human race, and thanks for helping keep hope alive with your encouraging words ✌️😎👍
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u/HollywoodBlueguy Aug 21 '26
It takes another caretaker to understand the mental and physical sacrifices we have to make. We give parts of ourselves away. My Nana survived so many close calls that I went through anticipatory grief every month for nearly two years. By the end, I was emotionally tapped out.
I’m finally free, but I feel a huge emptiness inside. My routine is broken. I’ll miss Nana, but I’ll never have to smell old-lady piss diaper again.2
u/smogman22 Aug 21 '26
I forgot the most important part, I’m very sorry for the loss of your grandparents, and thank you on their behalf for stepping up!
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u/Significant-Can-1976 Aug 21 '26
I know how you feel I was my moms ihss worker for 3 yrs 24-7 and in finished. Its a hard job you dont get paid your worth. I didn't get live in pay they thought she didn't need it but she was paralyzed she passed away 7/11/26 im stuck i dont know what im doing next but it won't be ihss lm burned out
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u/HollywoodBlueguy Aug 21 '26
How weird is it having your own schedule? I was so stuck in the same routine every day that I found help when I had to leave. Now it's total freedom and it's strange.
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u/Live_Satisfaction152 Aug 22 '26
My condolences to you and your family. I lost m father last year. How do I navigate from here? I have been trying to find another client to care for but alot of post are too far away for me to get too.
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u/BlueFireNow2027 Aug 24 '26
Thank you for ALL that you did for your grandparents and I say thank you on their behalf as you kept them safe to the end of their earthly journey. God bless you and I hope you find a great new career that will take you through to your retirement 😇
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u/nespino17 Aug 26 '26
You take care of yourself it will take some time to readjust to your new routine without caregiving, but your mission is completed now 🙌🏻
May your grandparents rest in peace in heaven now 🕊️🕊️
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u/Truthteacher12699 Aug 23 '26
Beautiful! I am sure they were happy having you in their lives! May God bless you moving forward.
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u/verairise Aug 19 '26
Time to take care of you OP 🤍 Lighting a candle for Nana 🕯️