Feeling angry is normal and it’s OK. Some days I am so angry with my father - angry and resentful that he died and left me responsible for my mother. (Jump to Lessons Learned) If you are a caregiver, you understand. If you are not there yet, don’t be surprised by these feelings. They are normal and recognizing them is another step in your grieving and for me, part of the … [Read more...]
4 Tips Before You Become a Caregiver
“Where do I Start?” For months that panicked question was the refrain in my head as I tried to fall asleep. It is the question I asked myself over and over again as it became clear that my father was dying, that I was about to become responsible for my disabled mother, and this responsibility would include among other things: her safety, finances and home. Being prepared is … [Read more...]
Six Things to Know About Living Wills and Healthcare Proxy
Living Will and Healthcare Durable Power of Attorney: What is the difference? I felt secure in knowing that my parents each had a living will and had named my sister-in-law, a registered nurse, as their healthcare proxy. Little did I realize that even with these two documents their end of life wishes could be at risk. (Jump to Lessons Learned) A Living Will, also known as … [Read more...]
4 Tips For Taking Control Of Medication When You Have A Chronic Illness
Managing multiple medications can be a full time job. Until the last year of my father’s life I did not understand what a complex process it can be when doctors need to prescribe medication for patients with chronic illnesses. Or the effort it takes for a patient to be compliant. (Jump to Lessons Learned) For eight years after his heart attack, dad managed his failing heart … [Read more...]
Financial Durable Power of Attorney is Critical for Parents Care
It allows you to pay your parent’s bills My father and I had spoken several times about my role as financial durable power of attorney for him and for my mother. But when he went into the hospital in November of 2014, I discovered the papers had never been signed or notarized. (Jump to Lessons Learned) As the child in closest proximity, dad had asked me to take on the … [Read more...]