Adjusting to New Caregivers is Difficult for Most Older Adults
Dear Carol: My 86-year-old mother’s long-time private caregiver is moving. She’s been a faithful friend and helper to Mom for years, so this is a major upset for the family. We’ve decided to try an agency this time to streamline the process of paying and scheduling. The first two agency caregivers were nice enough, but not a good fit for Mom. She has early-stage Alzheimer’s and is still quite sharp, yet she expects a duplicate of her friend. I’ve told her she needs to accept a new caregiver or move to assisted living. She agrees in theory, but I’m worried the next one won’t suit her either. I don’t want to lose this agency since they’ve been so understanding. Do you have any suggestions that can make the transition easier? – TL
Dear TL: This is a tough situation because, employee or not, your mom has lost a close friend. It’s helpful that you understand her loss, because your mom will feel more like you’re on her side. In some ways, this is harder than starting from scratch because your mom has expectations that exceed…
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Minding Our Elders: Caregivers Share Their Personal Stories: “An inspiring read for caregivers! Minding Our Elders is a series of stories about caregiving. But it is much more than that. It’s a book that helps us view aging and community through the lens of someone well versed in eldercare. Author Carol Bradley Bursack has been a caregiver for a neighbor and six elderly members of her family. These experiences made her the perfect person to interview and share the stories of friends and acquaintances. Through crisp writing and a sharp focus, we enter the lives of those struggling to care for loved ones with dementia and other age-related illnesses. As I read Minding Our Elders, I felt myself filling up with both appreciation and admiration for those who adopt the caregiving role. In addition, I was struck with the inherent value Carol sees in our elders. This is a well-written book that will stir your heart!” …Ann C
