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Info for caregivers

"When we truly care for ourselves, it becomes possible to care far more profoundly about other people.
The more alert and sensitive we are to our own needs,
the more loving and generous we can be towards others."
-- Eda LeShan

Caring for the elderly can be a challenge. You might find yourself caring for an aging parent suffering from Alzheimer, or for an elderly spouse who is dealing with physical ailments, or nursing an aged friend or loved one who is simply frail. While the rewards of caring for a loved one are immeasurable, it can take it's toll on you. This area is dedicated to issues of care-giving, and helping you balance your role as care-giver with the other roles in your life (spouse, parent, friend, etc.)

Caregiving Issues
Issues to Keep in Mind As You Take on Caregiving (adapted from Caring for Your Aging Parents, by Cohen & Eisdorfer).

For Adult Children Caregivers
Areas that may change or deteriorate with age - considering them from your parent's perspective.

Issues to Keep in Mind As You Take on Caregiving
Tips for caregivers adapted from Caring for Your Aging Parents, by Cohen & Eisdorfer.

Overcoming Denial
When our aging parents are sick, it can be very difficult for us to look at them, be close to them, or touch them. It is too real and too uncomfortable, so we want to keep our distance, both physically and emotionally.

Red Flags for Adult Children Caregivers
Some Red Flags That May Indicate A Problem (adapted from Parent Care Survival Guide by Pritikin and Reece).

Coping with a “Challenging” Elder
The stereotype of a person with dementia is that of someone who doesn't know what they are doing. Yes, that's Stage Three, but there is a long road to get there. Caring for a "challenging" elder is one of the hardest things you'll ever do.

Safety Versus Independence
When it comes to older adults, they usually value their independence over being safe. However, the adult children of elders usually want just the opposite - they want their mom or dad to be safe.

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Reverse Aging by Changing Your Mind

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The Bright Side is a service of Psyche Minded, Inc., a tax exempt non-profit organization under section 501(c)3 of the IRS tax code. The information provided on this web site is for informational purposes only and should not be treated as medical, psychiatric, psychological or behavioral health care advice. Nothing contained on this web site is intended to be used for medical diagnosis or treatment or as a substitute for consultation with a qualified health care professional.