Contributors

The one question I hear most frequently from Baby Boomers caring for their aging parents is, “How do I know when it’s time to move them to assisted living?” I wish there was a “one size fits a…

The one question I h…

The one question I hear most frequently from Baby Boomers caring for their aging parents is, “How do I know when it’s time to move them to assisted living?” I wish there was a “one size fits all” answer. All of our aging parents and other relatives decline in various ways and at different rates, but here are some guidelines to help you decide if it’s time to take steps to move mom and dad out of their long-time home into an assisted living environment. Physical Safety First This is the most critical benchmark to apply.  It’s a simple question to ask yourself, “Are he/she/they …

I am a huge proponent of support groups because I’ve learned so much and received comfort by attending them during crises in my life.  For many years I was also a family caregivers support group le…

I am a huge proponen…

I am a huge proponent of support groups because I’ve learned so much and received comfort by attending them during crises in my life.  For many years I was also a family caregivers support group leader for my local Alzheimer’s Association chapter, and my life was enriched by listening to the people who attended my groups. My first support group experience was in 1996 when I became a member of a breast cancer survivors’ support group. Shortly after I was diagnosed with breast cancer, I started going to meetings, asking questions, and listening carefully to the survivors there. They gave …

Since November is National Family Caregivers Month, I’ve been busy collaborating on three new resources for family caregivers.  Yes, I know the famous Beatles’ song is spelled “Here, There and …

Since November is Na…

Since November is National Family Caregivers Month, I’ve been busy collaborating on three new resources for family caregivers.  Yes, I know the famous Beatles’ song is spelled “Here, There and Everywhere,” but my spelling is correct in this circumstance. Hear — Listen to this Podcast   I was interviewed for the “Asking for a Friend Podcast” by Michele Falon, its creator. She asks some deep questions I’m not normally asked on podcasts.  Our wide-ranging conversation includes: Techniques for mindful communication with the person in your care and your caregiving team Wh…

    I was pleased to contribute to the article published on OprahDaily.com called “Yes, You Can Care for Your Aging Parents from Afar.” It’s written by Amy Conway,  a journalist and family c…

    I was pleased…

    I was pleased to contribute to the article published on OprahDaily.com called “Yes, You Can Care for Your Aging Parents from Afar.” It’s written by Amy Conway,  a journalist and family Caregiver who is currently the long-distance Caregiver for her mother. The article is a mixture of tips from experts as well as things she and her brother learned through experience. Long-Distance Caregiving Tips   Conway goes into more depth about these issues: Doing some gentle “detective work” to figure out what your parents need to be safe and well. In-person visits are best for a true as…