Throughout this pandemic, many of us have been working from home. It's so common these days to hear of the challenges that working parents have with their kids continuing school remotely. However, it's far less common to be aware of the difficulties that working caregivers experience. With the fear of exposing aging parents to the virus, many have stopped allowing professional help into the home. This increases the stress and [...]
In the year 2031, the oldest baby boomers will turn 85. Consequently, this means their risk for aging issues like dementia, serious disability, and long-term dependency will increase exponentially. At the same time, the American Medical Association has reported an increased death rate in the 25 to 64 year age range. All these statistic put together have an important impact on the future of aging America. It means there will [...]
Liz O'Donnell was 47 when she became one of America's 34 million adults providing unpaid care for their aging relatives. She knew her generous employer would allow her the flexibility to take time away from work for this important task. Yet at the same time, she was the primary source of income for her family. Therefore, she knew she had to find a balance and make it work. Caring for [...]
People begin caregiving for a variety of reasons. Sometimes it's due to financial reasons, love for a family member, or in hopes to help them age in place. Regardless of the reasoning behind it, caregivers usually possess a unique sense of compassion and empathy. But each new day can bring new challenges. And they often result in caregiver burnout. The nature of caregiving is innately stressful, demanding, and emotionally taxing. [...]
Accepting help as a family caregiver can be hard. You may not know where to turn or what to ask of others. Nearly 40 million Americans are a caregiver for an elderly family member. The complex tasks such as managing medications, and helping with a variety of daily living tasks can be daunting. Often, family members have very little or no training in their caregiving tasks. Therefore, knowing when and [...]
According to a 2015 AARP report, 32.4 million Americans are unpaid caregivers. And nearly half of those were caring for an aging parent. Helping out aging parents can affect families in different ways. It can become stressful and emotional. Sibling relationships can be complicated. Then when caring for aging parents becomes part of the dynamic, tensions can run high. It can tear families apart as we have unfortunately witnessed. But [...]
In 1950, you had a one in thirty chance of becoming a family caregiver. However, these days there is a one in three chance. The challenges of being a family caregiver often stem from a lack of support and preparation for caregiving tasks. Tasks that once were solely performed by medical professionals are now being done by family members. Furthermore, usually with little to no prior experience. They are managing [...]
Caring for someone with dementia is never an easy task. Furthermore, finding engaging activities they can successfully participate in can be a challenge. Of course, there are so many articles on caregiving for those with dementia. But knowing how to help them be engaged can be hard. However, art therapy for those with dementia has clear benefits. It is a growing modality in helping those with a variety of illnesses. [...]
Contributing to your 401(k) is important when preparing for retirement. In addition, many people begin researching exciting things like the best cities for retirement. On the other hand, there are "not so fun" topics we should all consider like planning for care as you age. Especially if you don't have children who can provide care. Elder orphans are seniors who live with no spouse, children, and little other support. They [...]
Beatrice Egger is a 91 year old retired school teacher. Ever since her husband broke his hip, she lives in constant worry about his safety. Will he be alright in the shower? When trying to dress, will he injure himself? Will his next fall prove to be fatal? Concerns like these are affecting the 43 million unpaid caregivers in America, such as Beatrice. In addition, the baby boomer generation is [...]
