This week I received a very nice note from N.G., a realtor in the San Francisco bay area.  She wrote what can only be described as a fan letter to her mother who passed away at 96 in 2009.  She said, “She was my biggest fan and I was hers!”

As a tribute to her mom, I’ll print her “fan” letter for you to enjoy.

My mom was a true inspiration and it was very easy to keep her happy. She lived in her own condo – by herself – until the day she passed. What an enthusiastic and energized woman! She was a member of the Walnut Creek seniors, played in a kazoo band and still had “girl friends”! She never considered herself a senior – but more a girl!

I talked to her each and every day – two or three times a day. She loved to hear what was going on in the world. When I called to invite her for a ride or to accompany me on an errand or out for dinner, she could be dressed and ready in a minute!

Mom loved spending time with me and my children. We always treated her with dignity and respect. Her processing became a bit slower – but with patience and understanding, I could discuss anything with her. Discussing American Idol and Dancing with the Stars was so fun for her! She knew all the players and

would laugh about them all.

My children called her regularly which brought her great joy. She was my biggest fan as I was hers. She was a simple woman who enjoyed every moment of her life with family, friends, and everyone she met. Everyone loved her – bus drivers, hair dressers, mail men, neighbors and friends.

N.G’s final tip:  The Secret to happiness with an older adult is to let them make as many decisions as they are capable of making.  Let them be as independent as they can be, then be there to fill in the gaps when they need you to.  Provide all of the love you can as the circle makes a total turn around in the end…First they take care of you and then you take care of them.

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