Staying Balanced

We all have the best intentions when taking on the role of caregiver for a loved one facing advanced illness. In many ways it is a gift we can give to them, one that demonstrates our compassion, love, concern and connection. It also lets us as caregivers feel that we have some sense of control, that . . . → Read More: Staying Balanced

As Children Become Caregivers

Human nature dictates that we often experience child-parent struggles. The blurring of identities as our parents advance in age and we become their caregivers frequently intensifies these struggles. This can create tremendous strain on our ability to manage the day-to-day stresses of these new roles. But there are some relatively simple ways to handle the changes . . . → Read More: As Children Become Caregivers

Give Yourself a Break

Whether you realize it or not, when you become a caregiver you are living someone’s illness. Though many caregivers feel playing this role was one of the best things they ever did for themselves and their loved one, you cannot completely sacrifice yourself in the process.

Taking regular breaks has been shown to help sustain family caregiver . . . → Read More: Give Yourself a Break

When They Won’t Eat

Food plays such an important role in American life, not only for sustenance, but it is a huge part of our social framework. During the most important milestones in our lifetime, food becomes central to our gatherings. Picture in your mind birthday parties, Thanksgiving, New Year’s parties and Memorial Day picnics. What do you see? . . . → Read More: When They Won’t Eat

Tips for Caregivers

Caring for a loved one is an activity that means different things to different people. It can be as simple as checking up on a friend to as complex as round the clock care for a parent with an advanced illness. No matter the amount of attention needed, we all want to provide the best care . . . → Read More: Tips for Caregivers

Accepting Support

When people ask family caregivers, “What can I do to help?” many caregivers don’t know how to answer. Many of us are pretty reluctant to actually assign work to others, even others who are more than willing to really help. Because of this we miss out on much needed help and support.

You may admittedly be feeling . . . → Read More: Accepting Support

How can hospice care help my loved one?

When a life limiting illness affects someone you love, it’s not it easy knowing where to turn for help or what might be the best options for them.

As you consider hospice, it will help to understand how hospice care can support the many needs of your loved one and what support hospice can offer you and . . . → Read More: How can hospice care help my loved one?

Supporting a Friend With An Advanced Illness

Our friends are often as close to us as family members, sometimes even closer. So when a friend is diagnosed with an advanced illness, we naturally want to be there and offer our support. But it’s not always easy to know what to say or do, especially when your friend’s situation brings you face-to-face with your . . . → Read More: Supporting a Friend With An Advanced Illness