Monthly Archives: October 2017

Dining with Dignity Even When it Seems Impossible

The phone is ringing off the hook while you, the caregiver, have your hands full: tying the bib around Dad’s neck; stirring the pot on the stove; wiping the tears from your toddler’s cheeks while trying to bandage his skinned knee. You grab a quick snack of candy. Meanwhile, Dad is sagging in his chair, […]

Don’t Get Mad, Get Funny

No matter how much we love them, caring for family members can be a very stressful job.  And all that stress can take its toll on our health and make our role as family caregivers even more difficult. One of the best ways to reduce stress and feel better about your caregiver role is to […]

Dad’s House

Our first reaction was “He can’t live alone.” How could he manage without her? She was his companion in the house they bought the year after they married nearly sixty years ago. A typical homemaker from the fifty’s era, she cooked for him, washed the laundry, managed the finances, later drove him where he needed […]

Recognizing Depression in Elders By Caregivers

Depression in elderly people is a widespread and serious public health concern,” according to the National Institute of Mental Health. It has been estimated that 15% of older Americans experience depression at some point in their golden years. In nursing homes, around 20% of the residents are depressed, especially those living with a serious medical […]

The Art of Compassionate Communication for Elder Caregivers

“No one can ever be fully prepared for the challenges of caregiving. The tasks and responsibilities involved can be demanding, even more so when caregivers themselves are frail, have been thrust into their role unexpectedly or reluctantly, or must care for someone who is uncooperative or combative.” – The Merck Manual of Health and Healing