BrightStar Care Central St. Louis

During the last few years I have suffered from progressive chronic disease, and watched as my health and standard of living deteriorated. I finally had to admit to myself that I was no longer able to adequately care for myself and my home. Reluctantly, I called several geriatric caregiver agencies, and was most impressed by the gentleman representing Brightstar. We discussed my needs and requirements, and we agreed I would have a caregiver every Tuesday and Thursday. I was told that every effort would be made to ensure I would have the same caregiver on the same scheduled days and times. This turned out to be difficult. I had a different caregiver almost every time one was scheduled. Some were good: some were not.

Since I had been a Nursing Supervisor for almost fifteen years at Mercy Medical Center, I was experienced in supervising both nurses and aides. I know consistency in care is very important, and I had mixed feelings about continuing home care.

On my next scheduled day with a caregiver, another new aide appeared at my door. Her name was Taylor. She appeared more confident and experienced than any of the other aides I had worked with. We were both aware from the start that we worked very well together. As I became accustomed to her, I realized her skills were far superior to any of the aides who had been assigned to me before. She was energetic and self motivated. When she accomplished the tasks I assigned, she found something else that needed attention. She completely reorganized my chaotic kitchen (even supplying small plastic storage bins from the Dollar Store). The result was a kitchen that was far neater, more attractive, and whose contents were easier to find and far more accessible to the handicapped and often befuddled cook.

I had my cataracts removed recently. Taylor was there at my side for every appointment and treatment. My memory is flawed, but I was able to rely on Taylor to keep track of my appointments and make sure I never missed one. She frequently reminded me of
an upcoming appointment, and she was at my door early on the day of each of them to help me dress in case I forgot or was running late. I was very anxious about the entire procedure, and about leaving my home though it would only be for a few hours.
I very seldom left home due to my physical disabilities and frequent falls. Taylor was there - very reassuring, as she guided each of my moves to and from her truck with kind, gentle encouragement. I will never again fear going anywhere with Taylor or even climbing into her truck - although it is a massive beast.

Now that Taylor and I have been together for many months, I can’t imagine life without her. She has done so many things to help me live and function more effectively with my handicaps. She has become such an important support in so many ways, and I am sure she is the same sweet helper with every one of her patients. I have probably watched and evaluated more than a thousand nurses and aides, but I have never seen one more giving or more perceptive to her patient’s needs than Taylor. I feel very lucky that Taylor is assigned to be my caregiver.

My family and I could not be happier with the care that my mother has received from Bright Star. They worked with us to find the best care givers. Grace and Q have been wonderful. You won't find two nicer people. They take excellent care of my mother and provide us with invaluable peace of mind.