Say YES to everyone! My parents generation does not ask for help or share personal information easily. When I heard my mother tell someone on the phone there was nothing they could do to help while dad was in the hospital, I knew something had to change. (Jump to Lessons Learned) Dad's first hospital stay quickly proved that I could not do it alone. I was at the hospital by … [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...]