Tag: caregiving

What is a living will? An explanation of advance medical directives

What is a living will? An explanation of advance medical directives

A living will or advance medical directive is a legal document in which you declare, in the event of a terminal or end-of-life condition, to withhold or withdraw life prolonging measures.

This is important to determine what measures you want (or don’t want) to artificially extend your life. While this is an unpleasant decision to think about, it is more distressing to your loved ones. They will be the ones faced with these decisions. Especially if there is a difference of opinion among them. Of course, your loved ones want to do the “right” thing. However, there is often disagreement about what the “right” course of action is.

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Help parents downsize and keep the peace – 6 tips

Help parents downsize and keep the peace – 6 tips

Want to help your aging parents downsize in preparation for a move? Tread carefully!

Recognize that this is an emotional time for them.  Your parents have spent a lifetime accumulating possessions so it may be hard for them to be objective. Be sensitive to their feeling and try not to be pushy. The whole process may take longer than you like. Unless you have a certain deadline such as a house sale, try to follow their timetable for getting rid of items.

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10 caregiver websites to support the caregiver

10 caregiver websites to support the caregiver

So often I hear, “no one wakes up and decides they want to be a caregiver.” Taking care of a loved one is a huge responsibility. However, it is just as important to focus on the caregiver.

Frequently, those who are thrust into the caregiving role aren’t equipped or experienced. For example, the business executive who worked for 40 years outside of the home now faced with caring for his or her spouse. Oftentimes, caregivers are overwhelmed, frustrated, and confused by all the new responsibilities. Additionally, the caregiver may even have limitations or health issues of their own.

Because caregiving is often hard and lonely,  it is important to find advice and support for the caregiver.

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November is National Family Caregivers Month

November is National Family Caregivers Month.

Family members, friends, and neighbors devote countless hours to providing care to their relatives or loved ones. During National Family Caregivers Month, we recognize and thank the humble heroes who do so much to keep our families and communities strong.” – President Barack Obama

Family caregivers are everywhere. According to a 2013 Pew Research Study on the Sandwich Generation: Nearly half (47%) of adults in their 40s and 50s have a parent age 65 or older and are either raising a young child or financially supporting a grown child (age 18 or older).”

Even Millennials are affected. In a study by the AARP, Millennials spend on average 21 hours per week on family caregiving. That is almost a part-time job.

Furthermore, caregiving is taking its toll.  AND wrote a sobering article, Caregiving is Killing Us: A Nation of Daughters in Crisis. They cite a 2011 MetLife study estimates that female caregivers lose about $324,044 in lost wages and Social Security benefits.

In order to support caregivers, I am joining AlzAuthors in discounting books for family caregivers. You can see the discounted books by clicking this link.

Estate Planning for the Sandwich Generation: How to Help Your Parents and Protect Your Kids.

The Kindle version is on sale for $2.99 from November 7 – November 13th, a 70% discount.

Get your copy by clicking this link.

Comprehensive and practical…as a Certified Caregiving Consultant, I will certainly be recommending this book as a resource.
– Elizabeth B. Miller, Certified Caregiving Consultant, Happy Healthy Caregiver

How to talk to aging parents  –  tips for a family meeting

How to talk to aging parents – tips for a family meeting

Getting together with family, especially during the holidays, is a great opportunity to catch up with your parents. As your parents age, you and your siblings may want to talk with them about any health concerns and their future plans.

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Are you a member of the Sandwich Generation?

Are you a member of the Sandwich Generation?

Are you a member of the Sandwich Generation? Do you care for your children but also help take care of your aging parents? Even if they do not live close by, do you have concerns about their care?

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