Ellen, a 77-year-old woman, was just admitted to home health for follow-up nursing, therapy and the assistance of a home health aide as she recuperates from a hip replacement.
Wanda is the home health aide given the privilege of providing assistance with personal care to Ellen. The RN on the case has already visited the home and admitted the patient. The RN has a conference with Wanda to share information and review the care plan.
While in the home, Wanda meets Thea, who is introduced as Ellen’s sister who lives with her and has lived there for most of their adult lives. The home is filled with pictures of the two together holding hands, embracing and sharing good times. The home is small, with one bedroom. Personal items from both women are present in this one room.
Wanda suspects that the women have a long-standing lesbian relationship, but she does not inquire. When Wanda assists Ellen with bathing, Thea is usually present — but at a distance.
Ellen invites Thea to come closer, to wash her back. Wanda senses the women do want closer contact and for Thea to be involved in the care of Ellen. Wanda asks Ellen if she would like for Thea to wash her back and apply some lotion for comfort.
It is like a curtain has been lifted, and the women are given an unspoken permission to provide this care. In subsequent days, Wanda observes Ellen and Thea holding hands and expressing deep caring for one another — just as a heterosexual couple might do.