Learning About Normal Aging and Capacity Can Prevent Future Family Division
Dear Carol: I’m 84 years old and as a past caregiver, I appreciate how you balance the legitimate concerns of caregivers with respect and compassion for the aging process. I don’t claim to be as cognitively on the ball as forty years ago, but I still manage my finances very well and have no real health concerns. I’ve set up Powers of Attorney for finances and health, have an advanced directive, and created a will, so I’m not in denial. I’m fortunate that my family agrees with my self-assessment. While I think (and hope) that I’ll notice if I’m slipping, my adult children and I would appreciate some reliable resources on the difference between slowing down in processing speed and recall and actual memory and thinking problems. Thanks so much! – SR
Dear SR: I appreciate your kind words about my balancing caregiver concerns with respecting the older adult’s autonomy. Life should be about respect, nuance, and seeking to understand others, so that is my aim. You sound like you’re doing wonderfully well both cognitively and physically, and it’s refreshing to hear that you and your family are being realistic…
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Darlene Fuchs, Author of Get in the Boat: “Your shared stories are deeply moving and relatable, reflecting the varied emotions and challenges of caregiving for aging loved ones. “Minding Our Elders” serves as a poignant and invaluable resource, offering support and connection to caregivers on their journey.”
