Self-care

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,...

How To Communicate With Your Older Parents So They Hear You

“My mom is 81 and lives alone in her condo,” Judy Hanson writes. “Her arthritis is painful, but she gets around with a walker....

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...

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...

Dementia Losses Painful, but Focus on What’s Still Possible

Dear Carol: My brilliant wife was diagnosed with dementia at the age of 62. She faced this diagnosis with her trademark courage. I’ve been...

Tips for Balancing Caregiving Relationships between Generations

Caregiving can creep into your life or crash down with a bang, but either way, if we aren’t thinking ahead, we can find that...

Caregiving Is Not a Competitive Sport

Caregiving. What does it mean to you? While often rewarding and frequently exhausting, it’s one of many life events that can only be understood...

Is It Normal to Grieve Before Someone Dies?

Nearly everyone involved in caring for an ill or aging loved one is experiencing some degree of grief. However, we don’t usually identify the...

A Self-Help Approach to Coping with Caregiver Stress

Caregiving can bring forth an ever-changing kaleidoscope of emotions. These feelings are often bittersweet, but without the proper preparations and assistance, things can quickly...