When we get together with our siblings, we often seem to fall into the same patterns we had when we were kids. There’s the bossy oldest one, the youngest one who’s still seen as helpless even if they are running a corporation and raising a family of their own, the one who doesn’t like family conflict, and the one who…
The most recent U.S. census data shows that more than a quarter of the population lives alone – the highest rate ever recorded. Being alone does not necessarily herald loneliness, and living with someone may not stave it off. However, being alone can lend itself to undiagnosed loneliness and its partner, depression. Especially right now, people are spending more time…
November 11 is Veterans’ Day – and November is also Family Caregiving Month. You can help enhance the quality of life for the veterans in your life by advocating on their behalf and helping them find services for their unique needs. Veterans have sacrificed everything to protect and serve our country. They have served in conflicts around the world for…
Seniors are often targeted by con artists. Scams are most often conducted through the phone, mail, or internet. The FBI, the Federal Trade Commission, the United States Justice Department, and many local law enforcement groups have all made statements about seniors being targeted for scams. Women over 60 who live alone are particularly susceptible. In recent years, con artists have…
What many of us most want to do right now is give our loved ones a big hug and sit down for some intimate heart-to-heart conversation. Unfortunately, that’s just not as possible these days, even if we live nearby. So, how should we communicate with our loved ones who might be sheltering in place or living in a facility with…
Respite care provides a temporary break for family caregivers. No matter how much you love the person you are caring for, caregiving is hard and can drain your personal and emotional resources. It is important to take time for yourself when you can. Respite care can be arranged for any amount of time from a few hours a week to…
A loss of independence is a fear many seniors have. When this fear is realized, there are several ways caregivers need to help. According to an AARP study, 57% of seniors over age 70 do not find it easy to live alone and need help with daily tasks. This loss of independence can take its toll on a senior’s psychological and physical well-being. Family…
It’ll take more than a jar of change to pay for the long-term care most people will need. According to the US Department of Health and Human Services, 52% of people turning 65 will need long-term care at some point. Yet less than 1/3 of Americans age 50+ have begun saving for long-term care. Many people are also confused about what government…
Getting together with family over the holidays can be fun and exciting. It also often brings to light the difficulties aging parents or loved ones may be having in their day-to-day life. (See recent article Holidays: A Chance to Assess). With the increasing number of aging Baby Boomers, more and more families will be confronting the issues of caregiving…
Mom was always the carefree ringleader of family fun. Yet lately, the family has noticed that she always seems worried about things. She wonders if she left the stove on. She doesn’t like to go to the grandchildren’s sports events, fearing they’ll be injured. Though she has a nice nest egg, she is concerned about running out of money. Everyone…
