Mental Health

Second-Guessing Ourselves Is Part of the Caregiving Experience

Dear Carol: Over years of caring for my husband who had a combination of vascular dementia and Alzheimer’s, I found myself gradually becoming less...

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Should Your Parent Risk an Anesthesia Disaster or Forego Surgery?

Note: More is known now about the downfalls of surgery on older adults, yet some are still undergoing surgery that leaves them more damaged...

This indoor image shows a neat bedroom in the background The foreground shows a dignified older man with gray hair and a maroon robe. His blue and white striped pajama top shows at the neck. His hands are clasped in front of him and his expression is imperious.

Elders Who Abuse Their Family Caregivers

Most of us have seen evidence of people being harder on those they love than they are on strangers or even people they don’t...

The image background is black. In the foreground, we see a closeup of an older woman's face. She has closely cropped white hair and is wearing a white tee shirt. Her expression shows pursed lips, narrowed eyes, and an angry expression.

Siblings Who Feel Shut Out of Caregiving

There’s a great deal of anger in the world of family caregiving over siblings who don’t help care for their aging parents. Very often,...

This indoor image shows a confident older man with gray hair smoking a cigar. We see the cigar smoke as he puffs. He's wearing a short-sleeved golf shirt and seems thoughtful but powerful.

Caregivers Handling Impossibly Controlling Aging Parents

The responsibility of providing care for an aging or ill loved one is a monumental challenge in its own right. But when a care...

This black and white image shows a close view of a woman with downturned head, hands covering her face in grief. She has dark hair and Hispanic looks.

How to Communicate with Someone Who Can No Longer Speak

Years ago, I stumbled upon a video that remains vivid in my mind. In it, an elderly couple who had spent a lifetime devoted...

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What to Do When a Senior Refuses to Bathe and Change Their Clothes

When it comes to caring for the elderly, hygiene issues are surprisingly common. Determining why their bathing habits have changed is the best way...

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The Hazards of Alcoholism in the Elderly

Millions of people consume alcohol, but each person has their own unique relationship with this substance. While many are able to drink in moderation...

Siblings Who Care More About Their Inheritance Than Mom and Dad’s Care

“We don’t want strangers taking care of Mom!” “We promised Dad he would never have to go to a nursing home!” “If you really...

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Adult Day Services Can Fill a Gap for Seniors and Their Caregivers

Most seniors are keen on staying in their homes as they age, but family caregivers often struggle to meet their loved ones’ needs and...