I first came across the term care partner in conjunction with Alzheimer’s disease. This, at first glance, would seem to be the last place where this term fits. People with Alzheimer’s need someone to take over their lives, right? Read more →

Were my elders always thrilled about being in a nursing home? No. However, they did benefit in many ways, and frankly, there was no alternative choice. I'm simply grateful we had a fine facility so close by, one where I didn't have to fight to be part of the care team... Read more →

...Apparently, convincing themselves that your parents don’t really need much help and you are overreacting by being so attentive keeps away any guilt that they’d otherwise feel. Whatever the reason, this is beyond unfair and needs to change. Read more →

Dear GY: You’re in a tough place. As you noted though, if older adults don’t cooperate by being truthful when talking to doctors, they may not receive the best possible care. I’ve been there myself and it’s frustrating because we just want what’s best. Some things to consider that might help improve ... Read more →

At first, the arrangement seemed perfect for everyone. After Ann’s mother died, her dad knew he should sell the house but he didn’t want to move to an apartment. He felt he still had too much energy. Ann and Jim, even with their two teenagers, had plenty of room and thought Ann’s dad could help around the house. Unfortunately, that is the problem: He helps too much... Read more →

...Those that do have private restrooms are often proud of their changing tables, as they should be. However, these are generally toddler-sized. Yet, there are legions of adults who also need a changing table (see below) so even in places like this, there is more to be done. Read more →

As I try out ideas on my GrandPad demo I’m continually thinking that my newspaper column readers should know more about this device. Now you will... Read more →

My condolences about the tough patch you and your husband are going through. From reading your last sentence, I’ve gathered that you know that parental caregiving can present considerable challenges to many marriages. Still, that offers little comfort to you. When our lives get thrown off-track... Read more →

These days, having an aging loved one move in is still an option for some families, but it has become more complicated. Multigenerational living can have serious implications, and there are a number of factors that are often overlooked that must be taken into consideration first... Read more →

Yet, this company never rests on its past accomplishments. They’ve long recognized the challenge of nighttime incontinence so they’ve worked to develop the technology that can be a gamechanger for anyone who needs overnight incontinence protection... Read more →