A woman who is feeling overwhelmed as a caregiver gazes out the kitchen window while holding a cup of coffee.

Feeling Overwhelmed as a Caregiver? It May Be Caregiver Burden.

Caring for a senior loved one is an act of love and devotion, but it can also feel like a nonstop marathon. The emotional highs of shared smiles and laughter can rapidly be overshadowed by the physical and mental fatigue that comes with constant caregiving. If you’re feeling overwhelmed as a caregiver, you may be […]

An older man peers into a cabinet with a confused look on his face, a common occurrence when someone with dementia is hiding things.

When Someone With Dementia Is Hiding Things: Tips to Help

We’ve all experienced that moment of utter panic when we cannot find our keys or wallet. It’s disorienting and frustrating. Now, picture this happening multiple times every day, coupled with an overwhelming sense of confusion and fear. This scenario is a common part of life for people with dementia. To make things even more unsettling, […]

Three older women who understand optimistic aging smile broadly.

Optimistic Aging: The Benefits of a Positive Outlook

Caring for an aging parent often means becoming their confidant and cheerleader. It should never be just about managing medications or medical appointments; you are enriching their life, making each and every day more meaningful. It is amazing what a big change an optimistic aging attitude can have on a person’s wellbeing, and in your […]

An older woman smiles as she dries a dish in the kitchen, thanks to a caregiver who knew how to boost self-confidence for someone with dementia.

How to Boost Self-Confidence for Someone With Dementia

Common small successes for a person with dementia—like tying their own shoes or fixing what they want to have for lunch—can feel monumental. These experiences boost self-confidence for someone with dementia while strengthening their sense of identity in the middle of the difficulties they are facing. One important part of taking care of a senior […]

A woman who utilizes tips on how to help parents maintain independence wraps an arm around her older mother on the sofa as they both smile at each other.

5 Ways to Help Your Parents Maintain Independence

Imagine if your mother, who has always had a knack for gardening, decides she wants to redesign the family garden. Though she might move a little slower than she used to, her passion for gardening hasn’t decreased. This can be a perfect opportunity for you to step in—not to take over, but to facilitate her […]

A battery-operated radio and flashlight symbolize power outage tips for seniors.

Power Outage Tips for Seniors: Prepare Now to Prevent Problems Later!

Summertime is a prime time for power outages. For many of us, it is a minor inconvenience; however for older adults, it may cause an actual safety concern. The simplest way to handle sudden power outages is through proactive preparation to ensure older loved ones are equipped and prepared to ride out the storm, giving […]

An older couple who asked their care professional, “What is a plan of care?” look closely at her computer screen as she explains.

What Is a Plan of Care and Why Is It So Important?

You have just started exploring in-home care choices for a loved one, and you’re becoming somewhat overwhelmed. There are countless options to consider, and many new and unfamiliar terms to understand. Take, for example, the plan of care. What is a plan of care, and is it necessary? It may seem like just another piece […]

A caregiver utilizing music as one of a number of new ideas for dementia care listens to headphones with a happy older woman.

New Ideas for Dementia Care That Make a Difference

Taking care of a loved one with dementia is unlike any other responsibility you will tackle. It requires you to dig deep down into your reserves of patience, flexibility, and perhaps most importantly, creativity. You need to be prepared to pivot at a moment’s notice from one strategy to another to promote a fulfilling and […]

A woman with cancer laughs with her friend who is offering support.

Finding the Right Words: Providing Cancer Support to a Loved One

Striking up a conversation with a family member with cancer can sometimes be awkward and leave you feeling unsure of what to say. Should you bring up their diagnosis right away, or avoid the C word altogether? Is it ok to try and make the person laugh? What should I do if they start crying? Conversations […]

A woman utilizing effective family communication tips speaks to her siblings about the care of their aging parents.

Bridging Differences: How-To Guide for Effective Family Communication

Caring for an older adult at home can put a strain on family dynamics. Siblings may disagree on care decisions, adult children may feel stressed, and aging parents may resist help. Effective family communication is vital to bridge the gap between differing opinions, ease the responsibility of caregiving, and ensure everyone feels heard and valued. […]