Family Caregiver Blog

Bringing in outside help for an aging loved one can take a lot of weight off your shoulders as a family caregiver. Before the help begins, there are several things to consider and communicate clearly about, including safety, routines, and backup plans.

If the person you care for is struggling with seemingly simple tasks such as eating, dressing, or getting up or down from a chair, an occupational therapist may be able to help. They can recommend changes to help your loved one remain independent and do the things they enjoy.

Caring for someone with dementia can make mealtimes challenging. Small changes, such as reducing noise and simplifying the table, can help make eating easier and less stressful.

It can be tough for older adults to hand over control of their finances to family members. At the same time, they might also need some extra help staying on top of monthly payments. Luckily, there are techniques and tools you can use to keep things running smoothly.

As common as it is to be stressed while caring for an aging loved one, the potential for “vital exhaustion”—burnout—should be taken seriously. Doing your best to avoid it is important for yourself and for those who rely on you.

It might be uncomfortable to talk to your loved one about their preferences for life-sustaining treatment. No one likes to think about worst-case scenarios. But it’s very important that their desires be understood and documented should they ever be unable to speak for themselves.

Is it time to do some spring cleaning in the medicine cabinet? April 25 is National Drug Take Back Day. Learn more about safe disposal methods for drugs that are no longer needed.

More and more of our lives are online now, including those of older adults. That can be helpful … until a relative becomes incapacitated and no one knows their passwords. Taking time for digital planning now can save family caregivers from big headaches later.

Are you a man caring for an aging loved one? According to studies, you probably face some unique challenges, ranging from unfamiliar household tasks and workplace pressures to emotional isolation. Though it may be tough to reach out, finding connection and community support is critical.

Think all hospitals deliver the same level of care? It’s a good idea to check their track records. Easy-to-use online tools can give you an idea of how facilities score on safety, quality, and patient experience.