Typically, it's family members who fill in to perform the necessary tasks. But for many, perhaps including you, there are obstacles to helping on a regular basis. (Quitting your job to provide care is risky. Leaving work midcareer jeopardizes your retirement options...

Is your loved one having trouble hearing the television? Closed captioning isn't helping enough? Check out these possible solutions. Better sound from the TV. Check the TV for special audio settings that enhance dialogue and reduce background noise. Or purchase a...

It is usually obvious what a person with dementia is no longer able to do. But finding things your loved one CAN do may feel like a challenge, especially if memory loss is severe. Here are some tips: Activities are important. They answer core human needs for identity...

For nonmedical support, check out community programs. Many are provided by nonprofit organizations. Others by faith communities. And still others by local government. Most offer discounts or a sliding-scale fee. Transportation. Check if there are volunteer driver...

The holiday season is a festive time of year, but it may not feel much like a celebration for people grieving the loss of a loved one. Holidays are an especially tender time for missing those who are no longer with us. With so many COVID-related deaths in the US, loss...

Almost 3.5 million members of the military served in Vietnam between 1964 and 1975. Was your relative one of them? This group of veterans continues to face physical and mental health problems. Agent Orange. This is an herbicide that was widely sprayed during the war....

There are many undergarments designed to help with incontinence. They can't prevent it, but they can help your loved one feel more comfortable with outings and retain their dignity despite the embarrassment of accidents. Not all products are the same. Choose what's...

Once a year, Medicare offers the option to change plans. In 2021, the Open Enrollment period is October 15–December 7. Your loved one may be considering a switch to a "Medicare Advantage" plan. There are pros and cons. Medicare "Parts." People on "original...

If the person you care for has a life-threatening illness, you might think it's only natural for them to feel down. Even hopeless from time to time.  But weeks of sadness are not a side effect one simply has to tolerate. It is not uncommon for someone with cancer...

More than half of older adults take five or more medications per day. That's "polypharmacy," and can be dangerous. Taking too many medicines can cause problems such as dizziness, mental confusion, and heart failure. It can create an increased risk of falls, which...

If the person you care for has Alzheimer's disease or another type of dementia, you may find their sudden emotional swings more difficult than their forgetfulness. Among many things, the disease has taken away their inhibitions. They can become quite irrational. And...

One of the most challenging dilemmas when caring for an aging parent is balancing their preference for independence with your concern for their safety.  If you have noticed lapses in cleanliness, meals, bill payment, or other areas, you may be worried that your...