You may have seen my social media posts last week about the death of my mother. Her passing was swift, peaceful and completely unexpected. I am grateful that during the month leading up to her death we celebrated two baby showers, my birthday and Thanksgiving, being with family we had not seen since before the pandemic. What I did not share until now, is that she died the … [Read more...]
Matt and Lindsay Fit the Definition of Sandwich Generation Caregivers to a T.
Lindsay was at home with their young children and Matt was working when within a span of six months, each became a caregiver to a parent with dementia; Lindsay to her father, Steve, and Matt to his mother, Rosemary. Life changed as they took on ever-increasing responsibility for the day-to-day life of their parents. For a period, Rosemary and Steve were able to live on their … [Read more...]
Preserving her mother’s dignity while supporting her to live her best life.
One Dementia Caregiver's Story. In writing my new book “A Relationship Contract for Dementia Caregivers”, I had the opportunity to interview caregivers who care or cared for family members living with dementia. The lessons learned are ones of hope, love and joy. This is an excerpt of Patti’s story. When you talk to Patti, the love for her mom is palpable in her voice and … [Read more...]
Letters To Our Daughter: Trying To Read The Newspaper
Yesterday was seven years ago that my dad died. Seven years. Some days it feels like yesterday that we would have breakfast together and read articles to one another while sharing the local paper. Some days it feels like he has been gone forever. I am grateful to have the original 12 letters my dad wrote to me my freshman year in college. There is something about holding … [Read more...]
Caregivers, Touch And Communication Are Intimately Tied Together
I created this video blog three years ago. Mom is now 90 and has slowed down considerably during the intervening years. Now that I’ve moved in with mom to take care for her, I am reminded how an intimate touch opens the door to communication. Disclaimer: The material in this blog is for educational purposes only. It is not intended to replace, nor does it replace, consulting … [Read more...]