This archive report was first published on 2 September 2019.
September 2, 2019, was a typical day for Marjorie, a 58-year-old caregiver from Jamaica who has been working with Helping Hands, a home care agency, for over 20 years.
Marjorie's day began early, as she arrived at Bob's modest house in Stamford, Connecticut, to help him with his daily routine. Bob, a retired sanitation and boatyard worker from the Bronx, had been living with dementia for four years, and his family had hired Marjorie to provide him with 24-hour care.
As Marjorie settled in, she quickly got to work, helping Bob with his morning routine and making sure he was safe and comfortable. She had been working with Bob for several weeks, and had already made significant progress in helping him manage his daily life.
Despite the challenges she faced, Marjorie remained patient and kind, always putting Bob's needs first. 'Luckily, Marge was the first person they sent to us, and she was good,' said Bob's son, Robert Dettmer, a doctor who had been caring for his father.
Marjorie's dedication and compassion were evident in everything she did, from helping Bob with his medication to making sure he was eating a balanced diet. She was a true partner in Bob's care, and her presence had made a significant difference in his life.
