As a family caregiver, your role is essential to your loved one's well-being. But what happens if you get sick, injured, or face an emergency? Even if your relative is primarily taken care of by someone else, there's also a chance that person may be unavailable at...

Does caring for a loved one stir up some unwanted emotions for you? You're not alone. While frustration may feel shameful to admit, it's a common challenge in family caregiving. Think of frustration as the froth from deeper feelings brewing inside, such as...

Misdiagnosis happens more often than you think, and it occurs more frequently for older adults than for others. There are myriad reasons why: Symptoms of many health concerns mimic or overlap those of other conditions, and older adults typically have multiple health...

Home management of a chronic illness often requires the use of needles or lances. You may need to give your family member shots. Or draw drops of blood for testing. All these procedures involve the use of what are known as "sharps." Needles, infusion sets, and other...

If your loved one has Alzheimer's or another dementia, you may wonder what you can do to keep their life lively and boredom at bay. There are likely more options than you realize! The first step is to reflect on your relative's history and hobbies. They'll engage best...

Heart attacks don't always look like what you'd expect. While you might imagine a person collapsing with intense chest pain, that may not at all resemble what happens. It is true that the most common heart attack symptom for a man or woman is chest pain or...

Creating a fire escape plan is smart for everyone but essential for older adults, who are at greater risk during a fire. Planning in advance can make all the difference. Consider the living situation. Ideally, your loved one would live, or at least sleep, on the...

It's not easy to lose abilities and admit you need help. The reluctant elder in your life is more likely to ease into acceptance if you listen respectfully and offer compassion and a commitment to working together. Today, we look at elders' concerns around privacy and...

When a loved one obviously needs help at home but refuses to allow it, it's frustrating! Below are two common concerns, with suggestions for ways to problem solve together. Cost is a very practical barrier. Many older adults feel particularly vulnerable where money is...

The death of a pet can be heart wrenching for anyone, and older adults are no exception. Especially for those living alone, pets serve as primary sources of companionship, comfort, and affection. They are often considered family members. This deep bond can make the...

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...

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...