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- I’m in my 40s, single, and childless, so I moved in with my 90-year-old grandma. It isn’t always easy being her caregiver. (businessinsider.com)
Granddaughter Steps Up: A Modern Take on Family Caregiving
Our town’s very own Ginny Pruet shares her unique story of moving in with her 90-year-old “Mamaw” to provide care, highlighting the challenges and heartwarming moments of their shared life.
In a move that resonates with many families navigating the complexities of elder care, Ginny Pruet, 41, found herself back in her childhood home – not with her parents, but with her beloved 88-year-old grandmother, affectionately known as Mamaw. Two years later, at 90, Mamaw is still thriving with Ginny by her side.
“All along, my family knew that one day the Mamaw would no longer be able to live alone,” Pruet shared. With Mamaw determined to stay in her own home, Ginny, being single with no children or mortgage, stepped up to the plate. This arrangement made the most sense logistically, preventing her mother from having to uproot her own life.
The bond between Ginny and Mamaw runs deep. As a child, Ginny, her mother, and Mamaw lived together in the same house.
Mamaw became a “secondary parent,” introducing Ginny to the joys of old musicals and card games “way too advanced for 7-year-olds.” Now, the roles have subtly shifted.
While Ginny is the primary caregiver, she’s not alone in this family effort. A recent layoff created a new dynamic, allowing her mother to assist with home health visits and appointments during weekdays, creating a unique “sandwich generation” support system.
Living with Mamaw isn’t without its challenges. Doctors’ appointments, home healthcare sessions, and the constant effort to ensure Mamaw is eating and drinking enough are part of the daily routine. However, Ginny emphasizes the bright moments, from introducing Mamaw to “The Great British Bake Off” and playoff hockey, to Mamaw’s “strangely fascinated” reaction to Ginny’s “Animal Crossing” marathon sessions.
“I genuinely enjoy her company,” Ginny stated, acknowledging the occasional playful friction, like Mamaw using a napping cat as an excuse to skip physical therapy.
As Mamaw turns 90, Ginny reflects on the changes in her grandmother’s health, cherishing the remaining years they have together. “She’s been there for me more times than I can count, and I’m only too happy that I’m in the situation to be able to return that favor,” she said. And, of course, there’s the essential question: “Plus, who else is going to watch ‘Jeopardy’ with me every weeknight?”
Ginny’s story is a heartwarming reminder of the enduring power of family bonds and the creative ways loved ones step in to provide care and companionship.