Caregiving Tips

Is caring for a loved one beginning to feel like a wallop to your wallet? AARP estimates that family caregivers spend an average of $7,242 out-of-pocket each year. Your family member’s needs may also force you to reduce work hours or quit your job, affecting your present income and your savings for retirement. Here are…

Imagine living in a home you’ve known for years but that suddenly feels unfamiliar and confusing. This is the reality for many people with cognitive impairment. If you care for someone with dementia, you may be wondering how to help them continue living at home as they decline. Start by creating an environment that supports…

Junk mail creates an annoying and potentially dangerous situation for older adults, especially if they have dementia or mild cognitive impairment. It’s not just about clutter; important bills or tax notices can get overlooked, leading to missed payments or double payments. Worse, your relative might fall victim to a financial scam or be tempted to…

Many of us have the habit of procrastination. We stall rather than move forward decisively. Ultimately, of course, decisions are made and things get done. But we tend to heap on self-criticism about having put things off. All that self-criticism is in fact misguided. Research indicates that berating oneself actually seems to promote procrastination! It…

Being a family caregiver has plenty of sweet moments, but that doesn’t mean it isn’t also emotionally challenging. It’s often stressful when you are searching for answers, wondering if you’re doing enough, and coping with the confusion of your changing relationship. Here are five strategies to help you stay grounded and calm while caring for…

If standing up causes dizziness for your loved one, even simple movements such as getting up from the couch or table can be unpleasant. The problem may be orthostatic hypotension (OH), also called “postural hypotension,” which happens when blood pressure drops suddenly after standing up from sitting or lying down. The resulting dizziness increases the…

It’s a common refrain and the bane of many family members: Your loved one is having trouble, yet he or she refuses outside help. This can put your relative at risk. But if the worst happens and things go south, it also ends up making more work for you. Doubly frustrating when you know it…

Older drivers are generally more cautious, but also more vulnerable to injury during a crash. Good news: Keeping your relative safe on the road may be easier than you think. But it could require upgrading to a newer car. Choosing the right car features can improve safety, comfort, and ease of use—and reduce risk for…

We come into the world with an immediate need for touch—to feel safe and comforted. Touch is often described as our “first language,” and it remains essential throughout life. In our elder years, our other senses diminish (sight, hearing, smell, taste), giving touch extra importance. Think of your loved one: Has widowhood or isolation left…

Perhaps you are looking forward to visiting relatives this holiday season. If your loved one has dementia, however, consider their condition a “third guest” with very particular needs to be addressed. Here are tips for a smoother visit: Planning to travel this holiday season?There are many ways to prepare ahead of time so your loved…