Self-care

Mrs. Phillips is independent in all her activities of daily living. She also manages most instrumental activities of daily living in the context of her apartment. She enjoys cooking, although she no longer does so every day. Occasionally a family member will join her there for a meal or bring her fast food. She is able to take care of her finances, although one of her sons assists. The home health aid comes once a week, to ensure she is managing her medication, to clean the house, change the beds, etc.

She does not drive, nor can she leave the house independently, because there are several steps to the ground and the railings are not strong enough to support her. When she does leave home (infrequently now) her family members come to take her out. They also take care of whatever errands she needs run, and they do her grocery and other shopping.

Social/spiritual

At present, Mrs. Phillips’ social life is focused primarily on her family. Her children are all very involved in her care. In fact, each has assumed responsibility for a particular aspect of meeting her needs. For example, one does most of the grocery shopping, another does the necessary work in the small yard and takes care of home maintenance, and so on. Mrs. Phillips is clearly very proud of her children and grandchildren, and has pictures of them on almost every horizontal surface in the house. 

Because it is hard for her to get out, Mrs. Phillips stays in contact with friends largely through letters. She estimated that she writes eight to ten letters per month.

Mrs. Phillips attended church regularly until it became too difficult for her to get there. She was active in the church, serving as secretary and sometimes as usher, and helping people in wheelchairs. She now receives the church newsletter, which she feels keeps her up-to-date on what is going on there.

Clearly Mrs. Phillips most valued activities centered on her family. Her children and grandchildren visit frequently, sometimes bringing food that Mrs. Phillips shares with her neighbors.

Sexual

Mrs. Phillips provided no information on this aspect of her life, nor was she asked. In the course of a comprehensive assessment, this is a question that should be posed.

Leisure

Many of the activities Mrs. Phillips used to enjoy are, by her report, too difficult for her now.She used to enjoy traveling the world, but now finds it difficult to leave her house. Similarly, she no longer attends church although this used to be very satisfying for her. 

The leisure activities she enjoys include reading (large print books), particularly the bible, and writing letters to her friends.She watches some television, and is quite aware of (and concerned about) world events.She enjoys cooking occasionally, particularly homemade soup and gumbo.

Work

Mrs. Phillips no longer works for pay, nor does she volunteer. She does not indicate any interest in this activity.

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