Housing

Some Risky Behavior Might Be Necessary for Your Elder’s Mental Health

Dear Carol: My dad, 72, has been adventurous all his life and that spirit doesn’t seem to be dampened by aging or even some...

Spouse Criticized for How He Cares for Wife with Dementia

Dear Carol: My wife was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s eight years ago. While it hasn’t been easy keeping her home with me, it’s been her...

Confused About Palliative Care Vs. Hospice Care? You Aren’t Alone

Dear Carol: My mom has advanced lung disease as well as late-stage Alzheimer’s. We know that there are no cures for either of her...

Clarify Expectations for Hired Care by Using Task List

Dear Carol: I’m married with teenage kids and work full-time. Until recently, I’ve felt I could also support my 83-year-old mom’s care, but her...

People Living with Dementia May Fight Bathing: Compassion, Education Can Help

Many older adults may not bathe as often as younger people think they should, but what about people living with dementia? Here lies a...

An Older Adult Skips Bathing? Maybe there’s a Reason

A common complaint about older people, especially those who have health challenges, is that they “smell” or have other signs that they don’t shower...

What to Do If You Suspect Neglect or Abuse in Your Parent’s Retirement Home

I think most of us approach the idea of sharing the care of an elder with a lot of trepidation. We have cared for...

ADLs and IADLs Explained: What Are They and How Are They Used?

Dear Carol: My mom was recently diagnosed with Alzheimer’s. While she’s pretty normal now other than some short-term memory loss and occasional confusion, I want...