How do we beat this feeling of holiday blues so that we can get through the next few weeks? We accept our attitude as valid. We may wish circumstances were different than they are, but if our reality is that we feel blue or even depressed rather than cheerful, well that is how we feel. No need for guilt or explanations... Read more →

Dear OC: I’m sorry about your husband’s stroke. This was a life-altering event for your whole family which would have been a hard adjustment during normal times. With the necessary changes that COVID-19 has placed on interacting with others but particularly older and other vulnerable people, your life has changed even more dramatically. Read more →

Dear Washer: I’m so sorry! You aren’t alone in this but I’m sure it often seems that you are, particularly when changing your dad’s sheets in the middle of the night. People who live with dementia will nearly always develop incontinence if they live into the last stages. That is because... Read more →

...Other common types of incontinence among adults include urge incontinence when you have a strong impulse to use the toilet but cannot get there in time; overflow incontinence, which involves urine leakage resulting from weak bladder muscle Read more →

Within those conversations, you’ll likely see opportunities to discuss their ideal wishes. Even if they are already at a stage where they probably should make adjustments in how they are living, approach it by asking how they see their future. Read more →

Well-meaning people often don’t know what to offer, so they say and do nothing. Instead, simply ask your friend if she’d like company. If she wants you to drop by, ask her whether she’d... Read more →

Whether or not November was chosen as National Hospice and Palliative Care Month because of the sad reminders of holiday deaths that Thanksgiving and Christmas bring around each year, I don’t know. But to me, the timing is perfect. Read more →

Our millions of all-important but often-overlooked family caregivers get some recognition in November, too! National Family Caregivers Month is great month for you to honor any caregivers who you may know – and that includes you. ... Read more →

Dear SM: It’s kind of you to think of things that your dad has enjoyed in the past and try to replicate what you can. Obviously, there’s no way that either you or I can predict how he’ll react, Read more →

Dear Scared: This must be not only distressing for you but as your signature tells us, scary. I’m so sorry that you’re going through such a hard time. Your Dad's behavior change could stem from any number of things, but they will all need medical intervention, so you’ll likely want to set up an appointment – by video if that’s necessary – with his doctor. Read more →