Can Caregivers be Subject to Abuse by Their Care Receivers?
When we think of domestic abuse in a family where elders are cared for, we generally think that the elder is the most likely...
Relationships
Pain and Dementia: Observing Body Language Important When People Can’t Articulate Pain
My dad, who had developed dementia after surgery to correct problems from a World War II brain injury, was seized by sudden, horrendous pain....
7 Tips for Preserving an Aging Parent’s Dignity
Fearing that their aging parents could be injured, caregivers can become nagging nannies who try to stop Dad from working in his beloved shop or...
How Framing Your Caregiving Relationship as a Partnership Can Improve It
In healthy partnerships, a relationship is built on our ability to trust that the other person has our best interests in mind. We share...
Bad Day as a Caregiver? Forgive Yourself for Being Human
Dear Carol: I’ve spent the last week feeling guilty because I yelled at my mom. She’s been diagnosed with early-stage Alzheimer’s and seems so...
Facing the Facts: How to Handle Parents Who Are Aging
For most of us, our parents are just there — seemingly invincible as we grow up. Once we leave home, we’re on a mission to...
‘Kick-Ass Kinda Girl:’ Caregiving During Middle Age Inspired Author to Help Caregivers in Need
When people think about caregiving spouses, they often think of older adults. We only have to look at a young mother diagnosed with multiple sclerosis...
Caregiving Can Take a Toll on Your Marriage
Dear Candid Caregiver (Carol): My husband and I have been married 25 years and have raised two children. Just as we were thinking that...
Caregiver or Care Partner? What Evolving Terminology Means
Decades ago, when I began my caregiving life, I just did what I did. I’m not sure I was referred to as anything other than...
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 choice...
