DEAR CARALLEL: Mom was diagnosed with cancer four years ago. Her treatment went well and she’s okay now but the experience took it’s toll. On Mom of course, and on Dad too. He seems tired and his diabetes is becoming harder to manage. My brother and I have been a good team in helping them when … We’ve got decisions to make but can’t talk about them!
What makes caregiving emotions so intense? And how can you manage them? We discuss in real-talk fashion here.
DEAR CARALLEL: I’m 71 years old, have never been married and I don’t have any children. My sister lives in Rhode Island and while we have a good relationship, we don’t see each other much. Maybe once every few years. I heard the phrase “Solo Ager” recently and it gave me a chuckle because I guess … I love my independence! But I know things can change and I want to be prepared.
DEAR CARALLEL: I’ll make this short and sweet. I’ve been helping my mother for the past six years since her dementia started getting worse. She’s doing ok and for the most part I am too I guess. Except that I’m really not ok because I’m sick and tired of this emotional roller coaster! I’m always on … Any advice on how to handle the emotional roller coaster?
Preventative care is a critical key to keeping you and your loved one healthy. But it’s often overlooked. So in this Caregiver Conversation, we talk about it.
DEAR CARALLEL: I’ve recently realized how much help my mother and father need and I’m overwhelmed. They are 79 and 83 respectively and until these last few weeks, I thought they were in good health and doing just fine. Sure, they slowed down a bit in recent years, especially dad, but I thought that seemed normal … I’m new to this. Where do I start?
DEAR CARALLEL: My mother moved in with me a couple of years ago after she had a stroke. Her recovery has been slow but steady and we are chugging along. While she’s not back to the way she was before the stroke, Mom has regained her speech and a good portion of her mobility. She’s come … How can I encourage her to do more on her own?
Matt Perrin, Carallel’s Director of Caregiver Engagement is joined by Sheila Schultz for a guided meditation tailored specifically to family caregivers.
DEAR CARALLEL: Mom moved in a few years ago when Dad died and it’s been rocky from the get-go. We’ve always been close but having Mom living in the house has tested us both. She’s 84 and even though she’s slowed down a bit, she’s still sharp and really values her independence. On the one hand … She agreed to move but how do we pick the right Assisted Living community?
DEAR CARALLEL: My father is 86 years old and as independent as they come. He’s sharp mentally but unsteady on his feet. I live six hours away and while he’s finally agreed to let me bring in outside help for him a few times a week, I’m afraid he’ll fall when nobody is there. What can I do … What can I do to keep him safe at home?