My Aunt's respite PCA saw the devil tonight in "Miracle on 34th Street"

[kickysnana]

My Aunt, bless her, told her that everyone was in a bad way right now and things usually work out and to to go get something to eat and drink in the kitchen. The PCA was hyperventalating because she is worried about losing her job, her house and her husband who became disabled in the last two years. Her closest sister just became a widow, the sister's husband drowned accidentally two months ago. She just wanted the TV off because it scared her. Very sweet mousy person. No kids. Former foster kid. I didn't find out until after she had left.

So now we have to decide how to handle this. Was she having a bad day or has she gone around the bend and may be dangerous? She won't be back for a week.

[Mojorabbit]

1. I'd give her another go

and see if she has calmed down. I'd have someone over there for that visit just in case. You hate for anyone to lose their job but if she isn't down to earth enough to be rational.....

[kickysnana]

6. Hard call. She had been great but works with vulnerable folks and I hate to add ot her troubles. n/t

[Bicoastal]

2. Call me dumb...

...but what's a PCA?

[scarletwoman]

3. I'm assuming "personal care attendent" (nt)

[havocmom]

4. Doubt she is any more dangerous than just about anyone else right now.

The stress is killing everyone. Things are now so bad that delusions and illusions just won't suffice as coping mechanisms.

So sad for those among us who may never have had any conditions that fostered real belief in themselves. When things get bad, some folks just don't have the energy reserve to handle it well. Sounds like this woman may need a bit of emotional support. Is there any agency you could suggest to her that might offer her a safe place to vent and get some support? There are times when just a little positive human interaction and a nudge of guidance can really shore up someone who is weakened by situational problems. Helping someone get through a bad spell can make them a much stronger person, someone who can go on to be a pillar of strength for others down life's path.

May have just been a bad day for the dear woman. May be reality and circumstances just punched too hard at one time. Maybe she just needs a safe place to let the steam vent a bit. But it wouldn't hurt to sorta keep an eye on things when she is with your Aunt. Could someone just sorta 'pop in' for a visit when the woman is caring for your Aunt, just to make sure things are OK?

Sadly, I expect much more of the serious stress reactions/panic from just about everyone. Hell, I am one tough old bird, but I am finding myself weeping and curling into a fetal position, wishing I never had to go outside among others again. Our national collective-unconscious is aware that things are really fucked up and we have no heroes riding in to save us. It's a tough thing to face.

But, without sarcasm or malice, I wish all a good holiday season. The longest night is almost here. Soon the light will grow again. Keep a warm fire in your hearts to steady you through the cold and dark. Be brave enough to love and try to trust. Be human. Be kind to others in spite of poverty of finances or spirit. Keep a warm fire in your hearts. Be human.

[kickysnana]

5. We are going to sleep on it and come up with a plan..

Thanks. If I had known she was having a crisis I would have asked her if she wanted to talk a little. Been through some hard times and do know some local resources.

[havocmom]

7. See, you are an example of what good can come of some hard times

And never beat yourself up for what you didn't know right off ;)

Of, course, some people are just whacked out and no amount of kindess can cure 'em all. Bet ya know that too. Caution mixed with compassion sounds like your good tactic. Thanks for being a wise human. :hug:

[ingac70]

8. I'd be calling the agency for a replacement...

You don't want someone who is on the verge of a breakdown caring for your Aunt.