Charlie’s Corner – OBASUTE

CHOL Charlie’s Corner Blog – OBASUTE

The origin of “Obasute” comes from Japan. Research tells us that it is “the ancient practice from Japanese folklore in which a sick or elderly relative is dumped in a remote place to die”.

Here in America, we should count our blessings that there are places like Community Homes of Lebanon County, where seniors and others in need can apply independently and find a safe, affordable place to live without worry. There is no “dumping” here.

Based on our reputation, a larger majority of the residents have found comfort in being in the company of their peers in an environment that affords them the privacy of having their own apartment. It is the best of both worlds.

There is a lengthy waiting list to get into a Community Homes apartment. Still, once they become residents, they gain access to another distinct advantage: the availability of our Resident Services Department.

This group of professionals is there for help and advice on various non-medical issues that take the stress out of day-to-day living. One example – An over-65-year-old resident who lacked enough work credits to qualify for Medicare Part A was in a situation where she had to pay full price for her medications, putting a serious strain on her income. Resident Services directed her to work with the Lebanon County Assistance Office, resulting in a plan to pay for Part A.  Seniors need such help in their later years and can find a “teammate” to help them work through problems like this.

The only “dump” our residents have to deal with is the one that collects their trash. God bless America!