What exactly IS an Ombudsman? I had the pleasure of meeting Laurie Facciarossa Brewer, NJ Long-Term Care Ombudsman, when she presented for the United Way of Northern NJ Caregivers Coalition. I knew there was an office of an Ombudsman in every state, but I did not understand the function of the office and the critical part it played during COVID-19. If you or a loved one is … [Read more...]
Ways To Manage and Prevent Caregiver Resentment
Caregiver resentment is a normal experience for many adults taking care of their parents. If you feel frustrated, take steps to maintain control of their care. When taking on the responsibility of caring for your aging parent or parents, you may begin to feel negativity toward them and your situation at large. No matter how much you love your parents, you may experience … [Read more...]
Prolonged Grief – Are You Stuck In A State Of Chronic Grieving For Someone Who Has Died?
“At its core, grief is a reaction to a change that you didn’t want or ask for” David Kessler, grief expert and author. Prolonged grief is a recognized diagnosis that occurs when an individual continues to have an intense longing or preoccupation with someone who has died. A person with prolonged grief has difficulty accepting the death. They can feel as if they have lost a … [Read more...]
Why Is ‘NO’ So Often The Answer Our Aging Parent Give Us?
Even more frustrating, is when a yes changes to no. Mom’s recent hospital visit was hard on both of us but it was an opportunity to reset her health and how she moves around in her home. Because she was admitted and stayed three nights, Medicare pays for Home Health visits which includes Physical and Occupational therapy in addition to nursing.. I can see a difference in her … [Read more...]
Suddenly A Fire Alarm Goes Off. My Worst Nightmare As A Caregiver.
On a Sunday afternoon not long ago, mom and I had almost completed a long list of things we needed to accomplish to get her ready for the day. Suddenly, an alarm went off in the basement. I ran out as mom was putting on her sweatshirt, grabbed my phone and started dialing 911 as I ran down the basement steps. I expected to find smoke and flames coming out of the dryer since … [Read more...]