Brian Cares – A blog for family caregivers

It can be obvious to you that help is needed, but the person you care for may not see it that way. Learn how to explore the issue by listening first. You may be surprised by what’s at the root of their refusal.

Looking to keep your loved one safe on the road? Their existing car may not have the most advanced safety features. Make sure your relative’s vehicle has options that increase safety, comfort, and ease of use for older adults.

All humans need positive touch. That is no less true for older adults. At an age when many may feel isolated, a friendly hug or handshake can bring comfort, reassurance, and increased well-being.

A visit with faraway family can be difficult when your loved one has dementia. Routines are reassuring, but travel—almost by definition—disrupts routine! With careful strategizing, however, you can still have a fun and loving visit.

You may feel overwhelmed by your caregiving responsibilities. But making sure you also notice what’s good in your life—a balanced perspective—can help improve your physical and emotional well-being.

As we age, a cluster of changes together can affect our ability to bounce back in the face of physical challenges. Understanding your loved one’s level of frailty can help you make important health decisions and strategize for better resilience.

It may look like your loved one has been admitted to the hospital, but they may be there just for observation. This can profoundly change how much Medicare will pay for the stay and for any needed aftercare.

Consider strategies to emphasize quality over quantity and get rid of the obligatory activities that do not feed your soul.

October is Bone and Joint Health Awareness Month. While disabilities often bring to mind mobility, visual, or hearing impairments, stiff or arthritic hands can be profoundly disabling. Help your loved one maintain their daily independence with these expert hacks and gadgets.

When asked about the positives of caregiving, many people report feeling proud of the ways they have grown as a person. That often involves deep vulnerability as you face new, even scary, demands. Learn tips for managing that vulnerability to your greatest benefit.