After the holidays, we often hear from people who say they saw their parents or other loved one in November or December for the first time in a while—maybe because of COVID or simply because they live in a different time zone from their parents. During their visit, they noticed signs that the older adult Read More
If you’re caring for someone with a life-limiting illness, there comes a time when hospice care should be discussed. Hospice care can be a meaningful time for the patient, as well as their loved ones and friends. November is National Home Care & Hospice Month, a good time to learn about this type of care. Read More
In the past year, have you provided care for an adult or child with an illness, a disability or special needs? If so, you—and about 53 million other Americans—are considered family caregivers. Family caregiving is work done above and beyond one’s usual household, child-rearing, and work responsibilities. For that and other reasons, it can be Read More
As we approach Veteran’s Day and celebrate National Family Caregiver Month this November, we’d like to highlight the resources available for family caregivers of U.S. armed forces veterans. The VA Program of Comprehensive Assistance for Family Caregivers (PCAFC) provides support and services for family caregivers of qualifying veterans with serious injuries. The program, which was Read More
Learning how to manage parent care can be a challenge when you live far away from each other. Whether you are caring for a parent in another state or you live just an hour away, it takes time, effort, and strategic planning. Family caregivers can face significant stress, including feeling helpless and pulled in different Read More
If a family member has granted you medical power of attorney, it means that you hold the responsibility for making the decisions regarding the health and care of that person. With serious health concerns, including dementia, a patient can reach a point where they are incapable of these decisions, which is why the patient should Read More
One of the most challenging conversations you can have with an aging parent is when the time comes to take away their car keys. Eventually, everyone loses physical or cognitive function, to the point where they are no longer safe behind the wheel. If your parents should no longer drive, then it is your responsibility Read More
AARP has determined that more than 40 million Americans are unpaid caregivers. Currently, 1 in 4 of these caregivers are Millennials, individuals born between about 1980 and 2000. Those they care for include their elderly or disabled parents and grandparents. As their Baby Boomer and Generation X relatives age, the number of millennials providing unpaid Read More
Aging parents typically require some kind of outside support as their physical and/or cognitive abilities decline over time. When that day comes, it can be difficult for them to accept a “stranger” in their home. You may encounter resistance to hiring caregivers for help. Your parents may refuse the idea with comments such as, “it’s Read More
People want to maintain independence for as long as possible. Eventually, physical decline in the later years of life requires that families step in to offer the support and resources essential to care for the daily needs of their parents. At this point, you might be asking yourself: is it time to find help for Read More