Care For Me Poem by Donna Glossop

You listen to me when I'm feeling sad,
And care for me, and for that I'm glad.
I have a choice of how I live,
Within these walls, with the people I'm with.
Often times, I'll sit alone
You understand and never moan.
My privacy means much to me
You allow me time and leave me be.
Then join with others and sing along,
With all my friends: where I belong.
Enjoying cosy chats together
Talking of family, pets - the weather
When it's time for me to eat
And you assist me to my seat
You don't take over, chop my food
But ask me nicely, never rude
You address me as I asked you dear,
Which says to me you actually hear.
When I feel it's time to go to bed
It's my choice, that's what you said.
You help me in the ways I need
Don't take over, don't spoon feed.
I like to do things for myself
It's better for me, to maintain my health.

Bending low puts pressure on my knees
You help with shoes as you hear my pleas
Would I like to take some analgesia?
To make my aches and pains much easier?
That's kind of you to offer that,
Back wearing your nursing hat.
I'm cosy now alone in bed
I'll call if need you, like you said.
A drink close by, a night light on
So I don't feel lonely now you've gone.
You are such a lovely girl you know
What you reap, you will sow.
Everyone should be like you
And see us old ‘uns, as you do
Not frail or useless, but often able
Thank you for not attaching a label.
Because of you, think I'll be happy in this place
So I'm choosing to live here to the end of my days.