As a family caregiver it can feel strange to have to ask others for help.  However, in order to be a successful caregiver, it is required you find help so you do not experience caregiver burnout. Surprisingly though…most people who are approached to help are often very pleased to be asked.  Typically friends, family and neighbors do want to help, but they do not know what is needed and do not want to interfere.  Once you ask for help, you… Read the rest

Living in an intergenerational family was once just a part of life.  Unfortunately, as our culture has evolved so has our family dynamics.  Families are now much more dispersed; younger generations move away for school and job opportunities, boomer adults down size and move away to active senior living communities.  Often grandchildren rarely get to know their grandparents the way we did 20 or 30 years ago.   Laurie Orlov with Aging in Place Technology Watch, talks about new technologies,… Read the rest

Stress. Anger. Frustration. Caring for an aging parent or spouse can be overwhelming. Every family caregiver needs and deserves a break at some point but there can be guilt and fear when sharing this responsibility and seeking outside help.

In the US, there are over 65 million family caregivers who deal with the same challenges. Unfortunately, their health has suffered while enduring this burden, often experiencing what is called caregiver burnout. Even when a family caregiver wants professional help, caregivers… Read the rest