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Are you a caregiver or friend of an aging senior?

What is your experience, if any, with caring for an elderly parent or grandparent?

From the lens Elder Care Tips and Topics.

We would love to hear your experience with caring for a loved one.

  • KayeSI Apr 9, 2012 @ 7:19 pm | delete
    I'm a baby boomer who is a member of the Sandwich Generation - caring for aging parents while also babysitting grandchildren. I've been caring for elderly parents, relatives, and friends off and on for over 30 years - almost full time for the past 15 years. Definitely keeps me hopping!
  • KayeSI Apr 9, 2012 @ 5:23 pm | delete
    What a great lens - full of very useful info and resources for all of us in the Sandwich Generation caring for our aging parents. I was especially interest in your horticulture info along with the book and will definitely check it out, as well as recommend this for my Squid Quest :) Have a great week!
  • KateHon Apr 9, 2012 @ 1:42 pm | delete
    I just added my latest lens, http://www.squidoo.com/adult-children-helping-aging-parents-to-downsize, which tells my personal story about the role reversal between aging parents and adult children. It is such a common issue affecting so many people. Great job on your lens!
  • Avery Childes Mar 26, 2012 @ 10:45 am | delete
    My husband's grandfather is in need of this kind of elder care. We've been looking online and elsewhere for a reputable place. How exactly did you guys know you found the right place for your loved ones? Thanks in advance for the help.
  • Peter Curl Mar 22, 2012 @ 6:46 am | delete
    Thank you so much for providing information on elder care. I prefer to take care of elders at home only. It impacts good on home atmosphere and our grand childern's behavior.

    - protein shakes
  • All Mobility Scooters Mar 5, 2012 @ 2:01 pm | delete
    Managing an aging senior can be very stressful. One way to make it easier, is to give them back their mobility. I found that my father was much more independent after we purchased an electric wheelchair for him. I would recommend All mobility scooters.
  • ClassyGals Jan 9, 2012 @ 9:17 pm | delete
    Love the quotes on old age. My favorite one is Old Age Ain't For Sissies. Angel Blessed**
  • Gail47 Jan 22, 2012 @ 8:50 pm | delete
    That saying is true - old age is tough work. Thanks for the angel blessing - much appreciated. And, thanks for stopping by.
  • waldenthree.net Jan 7, 2012 @ 5:28 pm | delete
    Appreciating your valueable topic. Congrads on reaching Squidoo Level 55. Going for Level 56 myself. Will visit with you soon again.
  • Gail47 Jan 9, 2012 @ 3:49 am | delete
    Thank you for your comments. It's been fun climbing up the levels. I'm sure you will keep going after that, as well.
  • kerryhrabstock Dec 21, 2011 @ 3:54 pm | delete
    Great job Gail. My 84-year-old dad is visiting for 2 weeks right now. Thankfully, he's still quite independent, but ornery. In fact, right now, if I could add one thing to this lens it would be, "Pharmaceuticals to Aid the Caregiver" or "Caregiver Refreshments from Ernest & Julio Gallo."
  • Gail47 Jan 4, 2012 @ 4:47 pm | delete
    Kerry - I understand! My bloodpressure was normal when I moved in this dad five years ago. Now it's pre-stroke! Ornery old men can take their toll on a caregiver no matter what the caregiver tries to do to remain calm and in control. Maybe I should add a module that addresses what happens to the caregiver. I already have a great quote for it. Thanks for sharing your experience. You are definitely not alone.
  • GabrielaFargasch Nov 27, 2011 @ 5:59 am | delete
    Beautiful lens! This is such a difficult subject to talk about... We try to pretend like it's never gonna happen to us or that somehow we won't need to care for our aging parents..... Thank you for sharing your experience! :)
  • Gail47 Nov 27, 2011 @ 8:27 am | delete
    You are so right when you say we try to pretend.... My sister was the caregiver for my mother prior to Mom's death and then stayed on two years with Dad. But, she wanted to get back to her own life so I took her place. We never in a million years thought he would live this long - 89 as of this comment. I've been with him for six years now. It is a difficult subject to talk about within most families, but the more we talk publically, maybe we can make it easier for those who need to have that "talk" of their own.
  • CruiseReady Nov 25, 2011 @ 5:57 am | delete
    I was caregiver to both of my parents for several years. God bless them. I sure miss them.
  • Gail47 Nov 26, 2011 @ 7:06 pm | delete
    And I'm certain I will miss Dad when he is gone although caring for him can be quite a challenge. He is not doing well and I think I am already starting to grieve.

    Thanks for your comment. Hope you are doing okay post caregiving.
  • stylishimo Nov 13, 2011 @ 10:02 am | delete
    This is a subject very close to my heart as I worked looking after elderly people for 4 years, great lens, I have bookmarked it so that I can have a proper read later.
  • Gail47 Nov 14, 2011 @ 4:43 pm | delete
    Thank you for your kind comments. Taking care of the elderly certainly has its challenges, but can also be rewarding. Thanks for stopping by!
  • gonzalezdenise Jun 25, 2011 @ 8:47 pm | delete
    Wonderful Lens, I love it.
  • Gail47 Jun 28, 2011 @ 11:34 am | delete
    Thank you - it's been a work of love. Glad you stopped by!
  • gottaloveit May 31, 2011 @ 5:32 am | delete
    Hi, Gail! I think you and I might be kindred spirits. Virginia Allain sent me your lens to view and I loved it! I got some great ideas. I care for my now 94 year old Mom, Gertie, and have been "married to my mom" for almost 5 years now since my darling Dad died. I was sort of thrown into the fire in the caregiver game as I chose not to have children so I didn't know what the heck I was getting into or doing! Luckily, I'm owned by a crew of dogs who have given me many trials and tribulations healthwise so, 5 years later, Mom's still pink!

    I'd love to have this lens added to your links and will add you to it and my other caregiving lenses.

    http://www.squidoo.com/caregivers-of-aging-parents-resources

    Thanks so much for this wonderfully insightful lens. Lori
  • Gail47 Jun 22, 2011 @ 10:28 am | delete
    Gottaloveit, love your name! I'm hearing more often about caregivers caring for those in their 90s. I can't imagine living that long, although my aunt was 92 when she died. My dad is 88.5, so we'll see.

    I added your link to our list and hope you get some visits from it. Hope you and your mom are still going strong. Take care!
  • Tipi Apr 23, 2011 @ 2:02 pm | delete
    This is such an encouragement. I'm trying to find a way to live with or near my Mom who is 84 and still able to live on her own but is open to some support now.
  • Gail47 Jun 21, 2011 @ 5:56 am | delete
    I'm glad you found this lens helpful. Whether you end up living with or near your Mom, the main thing she will be thankful for is that you were there when she needed you. They don't always express that, but they are grateful someone cares enough to adjust their life to spend with a loved one. Best of luck to you and your Mom.
  • KayeSI Apr 7, 2011 @ 9:26 am | delete
    Very interesting lens. My senior parents have been able to live with me, so far - both my dad until he reached end stage Parkinsons Disease and went home to be with the Lord, and now my senior mom. But a close elderly relative did live in a nursing home for the last few months of his life. One thing I noticed they suggested for him was that he provide his own telephone to plug in. But it didn't always work well. I'm not sure how safe it would have been, but I would think one of the cell phones for senior citizens might have worked better for him as he could have kept it in his pocket and we could have reached him easier, even if he was out and about (he loved to travel the care facility and visit others. :) ). What is your suggestion on this? And thanks again. :)
  • Gail47 Apr 10, 2011 @ 6:51 pm | delete
    My Dad carries his own cellphone and uses it often. He is about to go into assisted living facility but I honestly don't yet know the rules - my sister is handling everything. You might check with local nursing facilities if you need further information regarding the use of cell phones for those who are going into or are already in a nursing home.

    Thanks for stopping by!
  • evachatfield Apr 6, 2011 @ 1:44 pm | delete
    Hi Gail, I want to thank you for this wealth of information. But I need help and advise. My mom went into a diabetic coma last December. I live in Las Vegas and was faced with the decision to move to San Diego and care for her or stay in Vegas. Well, I would never want my mom to be away from her home and her beloved pets. I moved to San Diego. What I want to know is if there are any resources I can receive due to the economy. I had to quit my job and can't actively seek employment. My mom is my full time job and I am grateful to be by her side and would not have it any other way. I have been told there is help out there but I don't know where. HELP! I welcome any advise and I thank everyone in advance.
  • Gail47 Apr 10, 2011 @ 6:42 pm | delete
    Your best bet would be to check out your local city, county, and state resources - possibly in that order - to see what is offered in that area. Look in the phone book, check with city and county officials, or call the helpline at the largest local hospital in your area. Or check with your mother's physician.Any one of them should at least be able to point you in the right direction. There are numerous options in most areas, especially someplace as large as San Diego. Good luck to you and your family.
  • Rewards4life Mar 28, 2011 @ 3:25 pm | delete
    Fantastic lens, very well put together. A great selection of resources in a much needed area. Senior care is vitally important, with a growing ageing population we need all the information we can get. Lensrolled to my "Adaptive-clothing" lens.
  • Gail47 Apr 10, 2011 @ 6:37 pm | delete
    Thank you for the comments and for the lensroll. I'll check out your lens! Thanks for stopping by.
  • Wednesday_Elf Feb 11, 2011 @ 12:42 pm | delete
    Hi Gail. Better late than never.... finally compiled my SquidAngel Lens from my 'angel flight' last Fall. :-) So.... returning to tell you that this lens has now been 'featured on' and 'lensrolled to' "SquidAngel Blessings by an Elf".
  • Gail47 Feb 13, 2011 @ 9:05 am | delete
    Thank you - what a blessing you are! This lens has a special place in my heart and I appreciate the feature and lensroll. Take care.
  • BodhidharmaCharma Dec 6, 2010 @ 9:31 am | delete
    Despite all the horror stories, elder care in this country is for the most part great! My father was very hesitant to receive any sort of help, he was afraid the system was the same way it was in his generation. Luckily we where able to convince him that things have gotten much better.
  • Gail47 Dec 6, 2010 @ 10:22 am | delete
    Things have certainly changed from generations past. I read/wrote about the history of how nursing homes got their start. Although we have come a very long way, I know first-hand that we still have a ways to go. Glad your father's experience worked out for you. Thanks for stopping by and leaving your thoughts.
  • BusyQueen Nov 22, 2010 @ 1:14 am | delete
    Well deserved LOTD and a lens that will help many.
  • Gail47 Nov 22, 2010 @ 4:46 am | delete
    Thank you, Busy Queen, and thanks for stopping by!
  • niftygifts Oct 7, 2010 @ 9:22 pm | delete
    Thank you for writing this story, my parents are entering their 60's. Some things do change, they're not as cheerful, strong, and optimistic the way they were. It takes time for us all, the children, to understand their feelings, but we're so much grateful for still having them around us.
  • Gail47 Oct 8, 2010 @ 3:57 pm | delete
    Even though you are seeing changes in your parents, it is still good that they are around for you to spend time with. My daughters lost their dad at 48-years-old due to a heart attack fifteen years ago and they still miss him very much. We all should appreciate our parents as long as we have them because they are too quickly gone from our lives. Thanks for stopping by and sharing your feelings.
  • barbaraad13 Sep 27, 2010 @ 8:00 pm | delete
    Congratulations. Nicely done. Love your grandson.
  • Gail47 Sep 28, 2010 @ 10:54 am | delete
    I love him too - and his Mom! Thanks for stopping by, Barb.
  • ronpass Sep 20, 2010 @ 10:59 pm | delete
    Wonderful suggestions, ideas and resources for both the elderly and elder caregiver. Congrats on your LOTD award - well deserved.
  • Gail47 Sep 21, 2010 @ 8:20 am | delete
    Thank you, Ron, for your comments and for stopping by.
  • CCGAL Sep 20, 2010 @ 2:30 pm | delete
    I've been a caregiver in one way or another for most of my adult life, starting with my dad who was 57 when I was born, and most recently caring for my mother-in-law for the last 11 years of her life. This is a powerful lens, and totally deserves all the exposure possible. I missed seeing it when it was LOTD, but am happy to see that it was selected. Congratulations, albeit slightly belated!
  • Gail47 Sep 21, 2010 @ 8:20 am | delete
    Thanks for your kind comments. Sounds like you definitely understand what caregiving is all about. As someone said earlier in the comments, it can be tough and wonderful at the same time. Sometimes the wonderful doesn't show itself as often as the tough. :)
    Thanks again for stopping by and for sharing a part of your life.
  • sandyspider Sep 19, 2010 @ 10:06 am | delete
    Congratulations on your LOTD. It is a full time job taking care of an elderly person. My mother passed away in Nov 2009. She refused to get any help, though I offered her to live with me over and over. Ever time the phone rang, we wondered if she fell and was in the hospital again. She spent the last few months of her life in a nursing home after a car accident.

    Thanks for putting together all this resource.
  • Gail47 Sep 21, 2010 @ 8:17 am | delete
    Some people are so independent, aren't they! It can be rather nerve-racking when they refuse our help, but there is only so much we can do. Sounds like your mom, and your family, went through quite a lot in her last few years, especially after the car accident. Thanks for sharing your story.
  • Fit_Over_40_Buzz Sep 19, 2010 @ 4:59 am | delete
    Your lens is great. Very informative. I liked your lens with a thumbs up.
  • Gail47 Sep 21, 2010 @ 8:14 am | delete
    Thanks for the thumbs up and for the visit!
  • kimmiekins Sep 18, 2010 @ 10:43 pm | delete
    Wonderful lens, filled with tons of great info. I've been a caregiver for my parents for a few years. It's tough, but it's wonderful at the same time. I feel I'm giving back what was given to me, when I needed it. Congrats on LOTD!
  • Gail47 Sep 21, 2010 @ 8:14 am | delete
    You are right - tough and wonderful. The feeling that you are giving back what was given to you is a great outlook that many caregivers don't think of. Thanks for your kind words.
  • Nina_the_black_hair_care_guru Sep 18, 2010 @ 10:16 pm | delete
    Congrats on your LOD! Great Info.
  • Gail47 Sep 21, 2010 @ 8:12 am | delete
    Thank you, Nina, and thanks for stopping by.
  • guardianstar77 Sep 17, 2010 @ 2:12 pm | delete
    My husband and I provided all the late-life care for my mother as my father preceded her in death by 10 years and all of my siblings lived very far away. We made all the transitions from living with us, to assisted living (because I was working full-time with no other choice), to nursing home where she was when the Lord took her home. It was very difficult. This wonderful resource list would have been so helpful during that time. Thank you for putting this together. I hope it makes it much easier for someone. Congratulations on LOTD.
  • Gail47 Sep 18, 2010 @ 7:08 pm | delete
    Thank you for sharing your story. I do hope this lens helps others whether they are the caregiver or their loved one is in a nursing home or assisted living center. It is difficult at times, but also a blessing. Take care!
  • Wednesday_Elf Sep 17, 2010 @ 1:29 pm | delete
    Congratulations on LOTD. This was a wonderful summary of how to care for and/or make decisions for elderly relatives. I also found your 'suddenly single' section very interesting. The line that refers to trying to develop the social skills of a single person after being a couple is very true. It IS very difficult to make new friends alone, especially if your spouse suddenly became terminally ill 10 days after you moved to a new state and you knew no one, and your spouse of 45 years was your BEST friend! To add to your Tips for Suddenly Single Seniors list, I filled in the lonely time with my crochet hobby and eventually began to participate in local craft fairs where I have met a lot of new people, both fellow vendors and visitors to the markets, which has helped tremendously.

    My mom was in an assisted living facility for a number of years after she was first widowed and then developed macular degeneration in both eyes. It made a world of difference to her being in a safe environment and she enjoyed the people and the activities of the center. While you care for your father and family, don't forget to take care of yourself! :) ~~blessed by a SquidAngel~~
  • Gail47 Sep 18, 2010 @ 7:06 pm | delete
    Thank you for sharing your story. Again, here is someone who did well, if not better, in assisted living. It really is important for families to discuss the best care possible for their loved one. Thanks for stopping by and for the blessing!
  • Marlenesquidoo Sep 17, 2010 @ 10:25 am | delete
    One of the most fascinating and enjoyable experiences I had was caring for my Father and Mother. Mom was in a nursing home, and Dad lived with us. He went to the nursing home daily and fed Mom. I volunteered there for about 4 hours a day. I learned to know so much more about my father than I knew before. He told so many stories, and he was so vulnerable. When I was little, he was very gruff, and I realized early that the gruffer a person was on the outside, the softer inside. Knowing that helped me immensely in my life. Every time anyone came into her room, Mom would say "Isn't he the most wonderful husband!" I got a kick out of that because I remember when she didn't always think that way.
  • Gail47 Sep 18, 2010 @ 12:05 pm | delete
    Thanks for sharing your story. My Dad was also a gruff (to put it mildly) person, and it shocked me to later see him cry at sad movies or things he would see on TV. The man had a heart after all :). Some people just don't seem to want others to know they are softer than they appear. Glad your mother could see through that hard shell, and that you found a different side to your father.
  • aj2008 Sep 17, 2010 @ 6:03 am | delete
    My 81 year old father cares for my mother and I dont know how he does it. This lens is so helpful for anyone in the position of carer.

    Congratulations on getting LOTD.
  • Gail47 Sep 18, 2010 @ 12:05 pm | delete
    He is a saint if he is caring for your mom at his age. It is not easy caring for someone else. Thanks for your kind words and for stopping by.
  • mbgphoto Sep 16, 2010 @ 6:45 pm | delete
    My mother is in an assisted living facility. She has the beginnings of Alzheimers and we needed a place where they could give her medicines too her and where she would have lots of activities. Mom can't stand to be idle and she loves to play cards and bingo and such.

    She complains that there is nothing to do on weekends and she frets about missing her ride to church so several months ago I started picking her up each Saturday morning and keeping her till Sunday night. This seems to work well for her...but I can tell you I sure have a new appreciation for anyone who watches their parent fulltime. Thanks for all the great tips.
  • Gail47 Sep 16, 2010 @ 8:41 pm | delete
    That's nice that the two of you can spend time together on the weekend and she can get to church which she probably has the support of her pastor and friends. Also, that she has the care she needs during the week and you have time to yourself. Sounds like a win-win for both of you.
  • DebMartin Sep 16, 2010 @ 6:32 pm | delete
    Thank you so much for this needed and important lens. I wrote about my mother in my lens, The Sands of Time. http://www.squidoo.com/Sand-1
  • Gail47 Sep 18, 2010 @ 7:03 pm | delete
    Thanks for your comments and your link. I added it to the list. Glad you stopped by!
  • TerriLorah Sep 16, 2010 @ 6:10 pm | delete
    This is full of information and I have worked in a nursing home for quite a few years. Making their time there as pleasant as possible is a must for many elders. The transitions they go through is hard enough. You've written a beautiful lens.
  • Gail47 Sep 18, 2010 @ 7:02 pm | delete
    Thank you. It's good to hear from someone on the other side of the coin, so to speak. There are a number of transitions in our senior years and a number of tough decisions to make. Whether at home or in a nursing home, it is definitely a challenge to get older, isn't it?
  • Maravick Sep 16, 2010 @ 5:49 pm | delete
    I want to commend you on your lens on a topic I know very well, as a longtime caregiver of my mother of 88 years, she will turn 89 on 9/29, I am so familiar with the trials and tribulations family caregivers face on a daily basis, especially as in my mother's case dementia/alzheimer's has started taking its' ugly toll. I could go on but I will say that as more and more of this nation's population increases in age, more help will be needed to care for these once vibrant individuals.
  • Gail47 Sep 18, 2010 @ 7:01 pm | delete
    My Dad will be 88 in October, and had expressed his desire to "join your mother" for several years now. I told him he is still here for a reason and that he should make the most of each day. Unfortunately, he disagrees. :) Caregiving can certainly be a trial, but thank God I tend to be a positive person. If I was a negative person, I don't know where he and I would be. Thanks for stopping in a sharing your information. As the population ages and the baby boomers continue into their sixties, there will certainly be a greater strain on the health care and home care arenas. Lots of challenges ahead, I'm sure.
  • emerald125 Sep 16, 2010 @ 5:48 pm | delete
    Hi Gail... I am currently going through choosing aged care for my mum... what an eye opener! Thanks for all your tips... My sister volunteered in aged care homes for several years and in her experience residents who's families are regular visitors and are involved in the centre seem to get more attention.. I am not sure if thats true but its something to think about Great lense
  • Gail47 Sep 18, 2010 @ 6:57 pm | delete
    Unfortunately, when my mother was in a nursing home we found that the more we visited, the better care she got. I showed up unexpectedly at different times once in a while and there was quite a bit of scurrying around. Especially, when she hadn't been tended to in a while. That made us amp-up our visits. I would like to make sure that people who have a loved one in a home, visit at various times of day and night just to make sure they are properly care for.
  • skiesgreen Sep 16, 2010 @ 4:20 pm | delete
    Lovely information for caregivers and how to best look after them. The trouble with getting older is the fear of what will happen when you cannot take care of yourselg. *-*Blessed*-* and featured on Sprinkled with Stardust and also on Squidoo LOTD lenses
  • Gail47 Sep 18, 2010 @ 6:55 pm | delete
    Thank you for your kind words and for the blessings. I do wonder sometimes what is going to happen to me - probably because I am caring for Dad. If I wasn't, it probably wouldn't occur to me. :) Thank you for featuring this lens. I appreciate it!
  • OhMe Sep 16, 2010 @ 3:56 pm | delete
    Congratulations on a well deserved LOTD. You have done a marvelous job with this lens and I am sure it will mean a lot to anyone who has or is experiences being a caregiver. My mom was diagnosed with Alzheimers at the early age of 56 and I helped to take care of her for the 9 years that she lived with the disease. Being a Caregiver of someone you love is emotionally and physically draining but it can also be a time to make some very special memories. Hang in there! Blessed.
  • Gail47 Sep 18, 2010 @ 6:50 pm | delete
    Thank you for stopping by and for the encouragement. I'm sure your mother appreciated your willingness to care for her. She died way too young, and I am glad you got to spend quality time with her.
  • Papier Sep 16, 2010 @ 3:16 pm | delete
    Beautiful! Thanks for sharing some top notch ideas, resources for enrichment, and tips for making a difficult transition, when it is unavoidable. Your work is inspirational.
  • Gail47 Sep 18, 2010 @ 6:49 pm | delete
    Thank you! Glad it inspires someone! Sometimes I have to reread what I wrote, then I feel better about what I am doing. :)
  • clouda9 Sep 16, 2010 @ 2:56 pm | delete
    Congratulations on LOTD, you have put together a wonderful resource for families and caregivers.
  • Gail47 Sep 18, 2010 @ 6:48 pm | delete
    Thank you, and thanks for stopping by.
  • DecoratingforEvents Sep 16, 2010 @ 2:36 pm | delete
    My mom cared for both her parents in her home for a time. Her doctor finally told her she was compromising her own health by doing it. It's a hard job and a hard choice!
  • Gail47 Sep 18, 2010 @ 6:48 pm | delete
    I can see that it would be easy to compromise ones' health when caring for others. I feel like I have aged 10 years in the last four. It is a difficult choice, but, most of the time, I am not sorry I made the decision.
  • MysticLady Sep 16, 2010 @ 2:36 pm | delete
    Very well written and such a touching story
  • Gail47 Sep 18, 2010 @ 6:47 pm | delete
    Thank you! Glad you stopped by and thanks for leaving a comment.
  • The_Idea_Gal Sep 16, 2010 @ 2:07 pm | delete
    First, congratulations on such a wonderful lens. I love the grampa-grandson pictures! I too am a caregiver to my mom who is a CVA stroke survivor and wrote my first lens about her. She is single, so the joy of spending time with family and grandchildren means a lot, as well as being able to still live at home. As a caregiver you are probably as busy and tired as I am at times, but you also know that at the end of the day, you've given a wonderful gift of your time and care. Thanks for sharing!
  • Gail47 Sep 18, 2010 @ 6:46 pm | delete
    You are right in that sometimes I am so tired, and even frustrated, that I have to step back and realize I am doing the best I can and that it is worth it. I can't imagine Dad in a nursing home, but the day may come. Thanks for sharing your story and for the encouragement.
  • GramaBarb Sep 16, 2010 @ 1:58 pm | delete
    I am the aging Senior and I live in Assistedliving for Seniors and it is perfect for me. My time with my kids and grandkids is pure quality fun time with no stress - I love my independence here yet I recieve help when I need it. Life only got better when I moved here.
  • Gail47 Sep 18, 2010 @ 6:44 pm | delete
    Everyone has a different take on what works for them. I'm glad that your living arrangement is working for you and your family. I know I want to be as little problematic for my daughters as possible. I keep thinking of the movie with Andy Griffith in the nursing home and how he ended up having the time of his life.
  • Pastiche Sep 16, 2010 @ 1:06 pm | delete
    I helped my mother out a bit as caregiver to my father before he passed on. She learned alot about the issues you highlight here and has taken steps to make things simpler for her 6 offspring should she need elder care in the future. She's 80, and still driving, volunteering at Meals-on-Wheels and is a hospice aid ... I hope I can do as well for as long as she has when I hit my 80s. Congratulations on a helpful, well-developed and thought-provoking lens.
  • Gail47 Sep 18, 2010 @ 6:42 pm | delete
    LOL! I hope I am that active when I hit 80. Caregiving can take a lot out of a person and sometimes I wonder if I'm not shortening my lifespan. Glad to hear she is doing so well and I think it is great that she has taken the steps to make things simpler for the family. My daughters and I have talked about what I want and I hope I can place as little burden on them as possible as I get older. Especially after seeing my sister care for my mother and now I am caring for Dad. Preplanning really helps the rest of the family, doesn't it?!
  • jenms Sep 16, 2010 @ 12:31 pm | delete
    Good lens and important topic. Congrats on LOTD!
  • Gail47 Sep 18, 2010 @ 6:40 pm | delete
    Thank you!
  • Heather426 Sep 16, 2010 @ 12:08 pm | delete
    P.s. I took my father out of the 2 nursing homes we tried, and took him home where he wanted to be, and got care for him 24/7 so he could be in his own surroundings and have the attention he so deserved.
  • Gail47 Sep 18, 2010 @ 6:39 pm | delete
    My cousins place my aunt in an assisted living, but she really went down hil. They ended up taking her to live with my oldest cousin and my aunt thrived and lived for several more years. She died last December at the age of 92. Home care is the way to go if the family can handle it in many cases, although not every case, of course.
  • Heather426 Sep 16, 2010 @ 12:07 pm | delete
    Congrats on LOTD! I cared for my father in his last 2 years of life too. Hard, but wonderful too. I got to know him so much better during that time... it was an honor to take care of him.
  • Gail47 Sep 18, 2010 @ 6:37 pm | delete
    You do get to know the person you are caring for in a much more intimate way - whether positive or negative. Caregiving is hard work, but also fulfilling. Thanks for sharing your experience and for stopping by.
  • Don Sep 16, 2010 @ 12:06 pm | delete
    Excellent lens and congrats as LOTD, your nursing home and elder care information is fantastic.

    I would only suggest that your visitors consider NOT leaving home unless absolutely necessary. The home care industry is growing rapidly and offers an affordable and often preferable alternative to nursing home care.

    For more information please visit -
    www.preferhome.com and don't hesitate to call.....
    Frank and Judy would probably love to hear from you
  • Gail47 Sep 18, 2010 @ 6:36 pm | delete
    There is certainly a lot more help than there used to be for those who are caring for a loved one at home. Whatever works best for each individual family is the way to go - but, I know that staying at home as long as possible has really become a popular choice. Thanks for the url and encouragement for those who are still in the decision-making stage.
  • Lisa-Marie-Mary Sep 16, 2010 @ 11:37 am | delete
    Wonderful lens, Gail!! So much information with all kinds of small details, like special robes that are nursing home adaptive, etc, etc... Precious and awesome photos of Great Grandpa and David - so special that you shared those with us! My grandmother-in-law just passed away this summer - there was a lot of caretaking going on for the last few years, most especially in the last year. I cherish my time I had with her, she wasn't in our home - she was in my mother-in-law's, but, I helped out all that I could! Thank you for the lens - very well-deserved LOTD!!!
  • Gail47 Sep 18, 2010 @ 6:34 pm | delete
    Thank you for your kinds words and for stopping by. I still feel like there is more to add to this lens and probably will over time. There are so many needs that caregivers and their loved one have that there is probably a lot more I could add. Thanks for sharing your story.
  • JMark Sep 16, 2010 @ 11:30 am | delete
    Gail, such a beautiful and poignant lens! Thank you. As the primary caregiver for my 89 year old mother, it's always an eye opening and heart felt experience to know we're not alone on this caregivers journey.
  • Gail47 Sep 18, 2010 @ 6:32 pm | delete
    You are so right - sometimes it does feel like we are alone. That's where being online has really helped me a lot. I'm able to connect with others who are going through similar situations. Thanks so much for stopping by and leaving your comment.
  • ajgodinho Sep 16, 2010 @ 11:29 am | delete
    Congrats on the LOTD for this very resourceful lens. It's important to care for our parents and elders. May God give us the willingness, patience and strength when we need to take on this role. All the best to you and God bless! :)
  • Gail47 Sep 18, 2010 @ 6:31 pm | delete
    It takes the stringth, wisdom, and patience of God to care for someone else. I couldn't do it alone, that's for sure. Thanks for your uplifting comments.
  • a2zof Sep 16, 2010 @ 10:53 am | delete
    What a great lens and so informative. I wish we had all this information when my Mum needed care. It was a full time job taking care of her.
  • Gail47 Sep 18, 2010 @ 6:30 pm | delete
    I wish we had this much info when MY mom needed care. This has been quite a learning experience, mostly at Dad's expense. Yes, it is a full time job and I feel for those who also must work outside the home. Thanks for stopping by and leaving a comment.
  • d-artist Sep 16, 2010 @ 10:35 am | delete
    Congratulations on LOTD! I bought Long Term Care Ins. cause saw so many of my senior friends have problems and hope this will help me and my family.
  • Gail47 Sep 18, 2010 @ 12:01 pm | delete
    Nursing homes and extended care facilities are so expensive and not always the best place for your parent to be. Certainly depends on the situation. Glad if anything I share on this lens can help someone else in their particular situation.
  • pkmcr Sep 16, 2010 @ 10:30 am | delete
    Congratulations on being LOTD with this excellent and informative lens
  • Gail47 Sep 18, 2010 @ 12:00 pm | delete
    Thank you for your kind words, and for stopping by.
  • TheWhistler Sep 16, 2010 @ 10:26 am | delete
    A topic that is not only important at the current time but will be growing as more people enter their senior years. Thank you for the lens.
  • Gail47 Sep 18, 2010 @ 11:59 am | delete
    I agree! With the baby boomer wave in their sixties (I'm one of them), it is growing in importance. Certainly a lot of decisions to make regarding the care our parents should receive, especially if they are trying to stay in their own home for as long as possible. I know my daughters are watching how Dad is cared for and thinking about what will happen as I grow older. Quite a generational situation for many families.
  • Pinkchic18 Sep 16, 2010 @ 10:11 am | delete
    These are such wonderful tips. The whole subject is a little foreign to me but I still feel for the day I reach that age and hope that someone puts this much care into my feelings. Thank you for sharing, it's truly an inspiration.
  • Gail47 Sep 16, 2010 @ 9:45 am | delete
    Thank you everyone who stopped by and left a comment. I appreciate your kind words, and especially the words of those who are or have been a caregiver.
  • Lorie Sep 16, 2010 @ 9:28 am | delete
    Very good lens! I know exactly what you're experiencing- after my mom's massive stroke I cared for her 24/7 for 3 yrs because I wanted her to stay out of the "rest" home, and I was CNA/HHA certified, which helped It was the toughest job I'd ever had and I loved it! I'd still be doing it. however her medical needs advanced to the point where she now requires an RN to be present at all times. Blessings to all in this effort to keep our beloved elderly at home, and to the elderly as well :-)
    Lorie
    PS; Congrats on making a LotD!
  • Gail47 Sep 18, 2010 @ 11:56 am | delete
    Our hope is that we can keep Dad out of a nursing home for as long as possible. After our experience with Mom, dementia, and nursing homes, we know that being at home with family as long as possible is so very important. Thank you for sharing your situation. I'm sure your mother appreciated your being there for her.
  • mukunda22 Sep 16, 2010 @ 8:15 am | delete
    I congratulate you on this lens and LOTD! We need to treat our elders with the utmost patience and respect! Thank you!!
  • Gail47 Sep 16, 2010 @ 9:02 am | delete
    I agree, we need both - patience and respect. Especially when we are live-in caregivers. Sometimes that is a challenge, but I try to constantly think of two things - how would I want to be treated in this situation, and that he is not going to be here much longer and I don't want any regrets in how I treated him. Both of those thoughts keep me in line when I get frustrated with him. Thanks for your kind wishes.
  • Gail47 Sep 16, 2010 @ 9:06 am | delete
    We do need to treat them with patient and respect - too few receive that from several different directions. My personal mantra is do unto others.... Sometimes that helps me decide how to handle a situation. Thanks for stopping by.
  • tssfacts Sep 16, 2010 @ 7:37 am | delete
    Very well done article. You covered the subject very well. I am a retired RN (surgical) so didn't really give that much thought about giving care to my elderly parents....until the time came. After all that is what my career was all about caring for others. It's never the same when it's someone you are related to and love dearly. After dad's passing I lived with mom to care for her. Then she told me to leave. I think she liked the daughter better than the nurse lol. She now is very happy in an assisted care facility. Congratulations on LOTD
  • Gail47 Sep 16, 2010 @ 9:03 am | delete
    I can see that she would like the daughter better than the nurse - that's cute. As much as we don't like the thought of our loved one going into a nursing home or some level of assisted living, sometimes that is best for both. Thanks for stopping by and leaving a message.
  • modz Sep 16, 2010 @ 7:35 am | delete
    Congratulations on LOTD!
  • Gail47 Sep 18, 2010 @ 11:54 am | delete
    Thank you!
  • ShirlW Sep 16, 2010 @ 7:26 am | delete
    Excellent resource on care giving - it's obvious you put much love into this lens. Congrats on LotD.
  • Gail47 Sep 18, 2010 @ 11:54 am | delete
    Thanks - it was a labor of love, especially that I could include my only grandchild in the mix. Thanks for your comments.
  • Wooden-Crosses Sep 16, 2010 @ 7:03 am | delete
    Good job, they should be looked after better! God bless you!
  • Gail47 Sep 16, 2010 @ 9:04 am | delete
    Many elderly people are not looked after as they should be, and that's a shame. Sometimes I feel like I am doing the best I can and sometimes think I should do more. Caregiving is definitely a challenge.
  • Laddoo Sep 16, 2010 @ 6:44 am | delete
    this is an amazing lens. Congrats on your LOTD.
  • Gail47 Sep 18, 2010 @ 11:53 am | delete
    Thank you! Appreciate your stopping by and leaving a comment.
  • LotusMalas Sep 16, 2010 @ 6:05 am | delete
    So, soooo much great information on his lens! Love the picture of Great-Grandpa and David :-)
  • Gail47 Sep 16, 2010 @ 8:59 am | delete
    We love our pictures with the two together. Dad is 87 now, 88 in October, so we take as many as we can while we have the chance. Thanks for stopping by.
  • Joan4 Sep 16, 2010 @ 5:29 am | delete
    Excellent advice here for seniors and their caregivers! Congratulations on LOTD!
  • Gail47 Sep 18, 2010 @ 11:53 am | delete
    Thank you!
  • SereneSea Sep 16, 2010 @ 1:44 am | delete
    A great lens on how we can take care of our loving ones who are aging .
  • Gail47 Sep 18, 2010 @ 11:52 am | delete
    It certainly is trial and error on my part and something I fell into when my sister burned out and moved on. We never know what life is going to hand us, but I'm glad (usually) for the opportunity to help out. Thanks for stopping by.
  • CastleRoy Sep 16, 2010 @ 12:54 am | delete
    I had such a hard time with all this you spoke of and my mother I took care of her for a year and then she kept falling and I had no sleep at all long story short she ended up in a nursing home tearful now thinking of it all she gave up I believe I so wish i knew more at the time there where no internet then my husband had a much better experience in his state with Alzheimer day program & then home. If i could I would give you a billion thumbs up this is a wonderful lens and so deserving of lens of the day a useful wonderful resource for those now facing all this with the ones they love so much. Bless you.
  • Gail47 Sep 16, 2010 @ 4:07 am | delete
    Sounds like you were in the midst of a difficult situation - caregiving can definitely be a challenge. I've found that caregiving is like on-the-job training - there aren't always a lot of guidelines to go by, and much of it is trial and error depending on who you are caring for. Although there wasn't much info on the internet at one time, now there is a lot more. We just need to make sure we use the info that makes the most sense for our loved one. Thanks for stopping by and for your precious comments.
  • Asiimwer Sep 16, 2010 @ 9:03 am | delete
    I had the same problems taking care of my mum and had to hire a nurse for her, Wish I had read this before
  • Gail47 Sep 18, 2010 @ 11:50 am | delete
    We aren't at the point where we need to hire a nurse, but I've often wondered how long this time in my life will last and how it will end. Not to sound morbid, but just curious. I know I am here for the duration, whatever happens. Thanks for stopping by and for sharing your information.
  • Airinka Sep 16, 2010 @ 12:20 am | delete
    nice lens. great job
  • Gail47 Sep 18, 2010 @ 11:49 am | delete
    Thank you!
  • The-Java-Gal Sep 16, 2010 @ 12:13 am | delete
    Your lens if filled with great tips and sound advise. I returned to my parent's home to become caregiver for over 5 years for my dad with Alzheimer's, until it become a necissity to put him in a nursing home. He finally died last January, with no memories or recognition left, I now am caring for my 86 year old mom, who is getting very frail, but she is still spunky. Some sort of support system is crucial for the caregivers, and a word of advice - not all nursing homes offer the care you would want - monitor the care closely. We moved my dad out of one, into the most wonderful state VA facility that had qualified for the Eden program, which is based on dignity and respect for seniors. Even when my dad misbehaved because of brain chemistry, he was well-loved by all the nurses at the Florence, CO VA nursing home. They are truly a special group. Never, ever settle for care that leaves you with more questions than answers. And hugs to all the family caregivers out there, you need to know you are appreciated, and sometimes the loved ones you are taking care of are simply unable to say thank you.
  • Gail47 Sep 16, 2010 @ 4:10 am | delete
    There are many levels of care and types of nursing homes as to care, cleanliness, etc. People need to really research their options before putting their loved one in a nursing home. Unfortunately, finances quite often dictate where someone can go. Caregivers do need hugs as much as possible :) - sometimes it does get rather lonely! Thanks for your comments and for stopping by.
  • hlkljgk Sep 15, 2010 @ 11:57 pm | delete
    i swear i was just going to post in the forum that someone should do a lens on nursing home gifts/items suggestions. you read my mind. :)
  • Gail47 Sep 18, 2010 @ 11:48 am | delete
    Guess I better add to the list :) . Still considering this a work in progress so even I don't know what more will be added in the future. Thanks for stopping in and leaving your comment.
  • lyuben88 Sep 15, 2010 @ 11:31 pm | delete
    Greta lens, It deserves to be the lens of the day for at least a month. It seems that we usually forget, how hard is life for some people...
  • Gail47 Sep 18, 2010 @ 11:47 am | delete
    Wow! Thanks for your comment and your support. I must say, from the comments I read on caregiver forums, so far I have had it pretty easy. Can't imagine how some survive their situations, and, unfortunately, maybe they don't.
  • WeddingZazzle Sep 15, 2010 @ 10:56 pm | delete
    Congrats on you LOTD! Well deserved.
  • Gail47 Sep 18, 2010 @ 11:45 am | delete
    Thank you!
  • RitaK Sep 15, 2010 @ 10:28 pm | delete
    I was blessed to be the caretaker for my mom and my mother-in-law in their last months. I learned so much from them, it was a difficult time but yet became very spiritual near the end. Their fears evolved into a joyful acceptance of a great journey they were about to take. Yes, there really is something greater than our life on this planet, they gave me a glimpse through their eyes. Listen and learn. But most importantly be there for them.
  • Gail47 Sep 16, 2010 @ 4:13 am | delete
    Rita, caregiving can be very difficult at times, but also very rewarding. I believe there has to be a spiritual element or at least some kind of high power, depending on what one believes. No one can care for another person totally on their own resources and power, there must be someone higher to draw wisdom and strength.
  • happynutritionist Sep 15, 2010 @ 9:56 pm | delete
    I was just looking at a book on the shelf on elder care and caregiving. It has been a way of life in our family with disabled brother, now in group home, a father who passed about 5 yrs ago after 5 years of strokes one upon another, and now a dear Mom living alone...who probably shouldn't be. This is a helpful resource...so worthy of LOTD.
  • Gail47 Sep 16, 2010 @ 4:14 am | delete
    Thank you. Sounds like you understand the role of caregiver from practical experience. Appreciate your stopping by and your kind comments.
  • GrowWear Sep 15, 2010 @ 9:38 pm | delete
    Congratulations for your LOTD for Elder Care Tips And Topics. Most excellent resource!
  • Gail47 Sep 18, 2010 @ 11:45 am | delete
    Thank you and thanks for stopping by. Appreciate your support.
  • kiwisoutback Sep 15, 2010 @ 9:24 pm | delete
    Excellent tips, thanks for providing them. Congratulations on LOTD!
  • Gail47 Sep 18, 2010 @ 11:45 am | delete
    Thank you! And, thanks for stopping by.
  • prosperity66 Sep 15, 2010 @ 8:33 pm | delete
    There was a time, such things were absolutely normal: people used to live with their parents, who got occupied with the children while parents were working. This was a wonderful way to care for them. Sadly, our society makes us leave and live far away from our families; which implies that such organizations like this elder care cafe opened and remind us that, one day, we'll also need someone...
  • Gail47 Sep 16, 2010 @ 4:16 am | delete
    I researched and wrote an article about nursing homes a few months ago and was reminded that, before nursing homes families always took care of their own or people were left without anyone to care for them. That's why nursing homes were created. But usually, families just knew that was the way of the lifecycle - to care for your own.
  • SofiaMann Sep 15, 2010 @ 8:30 pm | delete
    Thanks for sharing your experience and teach us your wisdom. Congratulations on LOTD.
  • Gail47 Sep 18, 2010 @ 11:44 am | delete
    Not sure how wise I am, but certainly gaining experience. Now I am not only caregiver to my father, but helping with my grandson as well. Sometimes not sure if I am coming or going, but it is all good!!! Thanks for your kind comment.
  • kt_glasses Sep 15, 2010 @ 8:15 pm | delete
    Very useful information here! Both of my grandparents are in bad health, and I hope I can do something for them. Thank you for the information!
  • Gail47 Sep 16, 2010 @ 4:18 am | delete
    Hopefully this information will help you with your grandparents. I've tried to add as many resources as possible because there are so many people in need as our senior population now lives longer and the baby boomers are aging. It's all the more important for all of us to understand the role of caregiving.
  • KimGiancaterino Sep 15, 2010 @ 8:02 pm | delete
    I have a notary public business and deal regularly with people who are elder care givers. Thank you for providing such helpful information and support. Congratulations on LOTD.
  • Gail47 Sep 18, 2010 @ 11:43 am | delete
    I am sure you do deal with a lot of caregivers in that business. So much paperwork involved! Thanks for your comments, and for stopping by.
  • lizziebeth Sep 15, 2010 @ 8:02 pm | delete
    I like these great resources. I will definitely be back to check it out again. Thanks for doing such a good job on this lens.
  • Gail47 Sep 18, 2010 @ 11:42 am | delete
    I am glad they are helping. I still consider this a work in progress as I find more info to add. Thanks for stopping by and for leaving a comment.
  • Jerry_David Sep 15, 2010 @ 7:30 pm | delete
    A complete set of elder care tips you have given, great Lotd, congrats!
  • Gail47 Sep 18, 2010 @ 11:41 am | delete
    Thank you, Jerry.
  • imaginemdd Sep 15, 2010 @ 6:12 pm | delete
    This is a helpful page for older adults, their caregivers and other caregivers. Congratulations on a well-deserved Lens of the Day!
  • Gail47 Sep 18, 2010 @ 11:40 am | delete
    Thank you for your kind comment and for stopping by.
  • BevsPaper Sep 15, 2010 @ 6:06 pm | delete
    My parents were quite young when I was born so the joke has always been that I'll be old when they are old and need care. Seriously, you have outlined some wonderful resources to help people who are caring for an elderly family member. Blessed by an Angel. Congrats on the LOTD, too!
  • Gail47 Sep 16, 2010 @ 4:21 am | delete
    That's cute - you will be able to relate to what they are going through. I wonder what happens in small families who have no children. I tease my daughter, who is an RN, to be prepared - she just tells me I'm going right into a home. :)
  • ohcaroline Sep 15, 2010 @ 6:04 pm | delete
    Seeing to the needs of elderly parents is a reality almost everyone will face at some time and to some degree. Very useful information here when that time comes.
  • Gail47 Sep 18, 2010 @ 11:39 am | delete
    It does seem to happen in most families, doesn't it! My hope is that people can find useful information, comfort, and hope from reading this lens and also my website at ElderCareCafe.net. Thanks for stopping in.
  • jaktraks Sep 15, 2010 @ 5:47 pm | delete
    What a great resource - and nicely done!
  • Gail47 Sep 18, 2010 @ 11:34 am | delete
    Thank you. And, thanks for stopping by and leaving a comment.
  • Mikayla Sep 15, 2010 @ 5:44 pm | delete
    Great tips, thanks! Living in an old age home is not all doom and gloom. My great uncle had a blast (and a hot girlfriend) at his assisted living facility. There were plenty of excursions, fashion shows, lectures and lots of activites. If you check out my lens Video Games For Seniors you will see the seniors love playing computer games and they absolutely LOVE the Wii.
  • Gail47 Sep 16, 2010 @ 4:26 am | delete
    You make a great point. If someone finds the right nursing home, it can be a win-win situation for everyone. There is a movie starring Andy Griffith called Play The Game that is absolutely hilarious. He is in a nursing home and sad because of the loss of his wife. His grandson talks him into dating someone from the nursing home, and the results are just as funny as can be. Also, I'm going to add your lens to the list above. Thanks for stopping by.
  • awelldressedbullet Sep 15, 2010 @ 5:39 pm | delete
    What a huge resource of information, the time and effort you have put into this really shows, thank you, and most deserving of Lens of the Day, Congratulations! - Kathy
  • Gail47 Sep 18, 2010 @ 11:33 am | delete
    Thank you - I still feel like it is a work in progress, but it was a labor of love. Thanks for stopping by and leaving your warm words.
  • jptanabe Sep 15, 2010 @ 5:22 pm | delete
    What a great lens! I learned a lot of useful tips about caring for seniors. Congrats on a well deserved LotD!
  • Gail47 Sep 18, 2010 @ 11:32 am | delete
    Glad you were able to pick up helpful information. Thanks for stopping in.
  • stacy_mcdaniel Sep 15, 2010 @ 5:21 pm | delete
    Congratulations on lens of the day! Very helpful tips. Thanks for sharing.
  • Gail47 Sep 18, 2010 @ 11:32 am | delete
    Thank you and thanks for stopping by.
  • pyle_mountain Sep 15, 2010 @ 4:52 pm | delete
    Great resource for a very challenging topic. Although I've not been the primary care-giver for an elderly person, I've seen a lot of elderly person care. My grandmother took care of her mother, my mother took care of her mother and I also so my grandmother take care of her husband. The age when a person can no longer do things for themselves seems like it would be the most difficult age of all. Great lens and congrats on LOTD!
  • Gail47 Sep 16, 2010 @ 4:29 am | delete
    Caregiving does appear to be generational in most cases, doesn't it? There are many independent people who struggle when they can no longer do things for themselves. I know my Dad has. He still tries to do more than I think he should, but he needs to at least try for his own self-esteem.
  • eclinicmd Sep 15, 2010 @ 4:46 pm | delete
    Very informative! Excellent job!
  • Gail47 Sep 18, 2010 @ 11:31 am | delete
    Thank you. Very much appreciate your stopping by and leaving a comment.
  • SquidooKimberly Sep 15, 2010 @ 4:36 pm | delete
    Congratulations on your LOTD! Thanks for posting all this tremendously helpful info and for all the time you've spent supporting your family. We can't wait to see you as a Giant Squid!
  • Gail47 Sep 16, 2010 @ 4:30 am | delete
    Thank you - I am, finally, working on the Giant Squid goal. Took a while to get going, but absolutely love Squidoo!!!
  • BarbRad Sep 10, 2010 @ 9:20 pm | delete
    This is a useful resource for those who are facing the issues of what their parents will need as they age. I was able to arrange in care help for my widowed mom in her last few months so that she could stay in her home. I've told the story of caring for her in my lens: http://www.squidoo.com/dying-at-home
  • Gail47 Sep 11, 2010 @ 8:46 pm | delete
    Staying in one's home is such a blessing. That is where they feel most comfortable emotionally, and many want to stay there until the end. Thank you for leaving your Squidoo lens link - I will add it to the list.

    I am sure your mother appreciated the time and care you provided whether she was able to express that appreciation or not. Thanks for stopping by.
  • WendyKrick Jul 15, 2010 @ 7:31 am | delete
    These are wonderful tips.
  • Gail47 Jul 16, 2010 @ 10:15 am | delete
    Thank you, Wendy, and thanks for stopping by!
  • kab Jun 4, 2010 @ 7:56 am | delete
    You have some great tips here. Thanks.
  • Edie Jul 9, 2010 @ 8:44 am | delete
    Thank you! I try to help people who are caregivers or family members of elders. As a caregiver myself, I understand how difficult that role can be when we have little information. Thanks for stopping by.
  • JaguarJulie Apr 13, 2010 @ 4:47 pm | delete
    My hubby was an elder care giver for his Aunt Lou and his cousin Agnes. They came to depend upon him more than any other member of their immediate family.
  • Gail47 Apr 13, 2010 @ 5:14 pm | delete
    A special bond develops between a caregiver and the one they are caring for, whether a family member or not. The elder is so dependent on the one caring for them that they develop a special relationship. They both must have really appreciated what your husband did for them. He must be a special guy. :)
  • Msheehym Sep 21, 2009 @ 5:31 am | delete
    Great information!
  • Gail47 Aug 5, 2009 @ 1:27 pm | delete
    Thank you Mulberry. Very belated thank you, but much appreciated.
  • AdrienneJenkins Feb 19, 2009 @ 9:36 am | delete
    We're trying to make plans for my father-in-law who has Parkinson's and may not be able to get into a long term facility due to complications with his physical limitations and his unruliness which is the disease talking as he was such a kind, gentle man. It is a frustrating, debilitating disease.
  • Dr_Rozno Feb 12, 2009 @ 1:26 am | delete
    Fine lens, I truly enjoyed it. I also would like to complement your blog at http://www.eldercarecafe.net/ . I found it to be very inspiring. I would love to learn what you think on our home care concept and website
  • Gail47 Feb 2, 2009 @ 6:38 am | delete
    Thank you for including this lens. I will visit your site as soon as I finish this reply. I have much more I would like to do with the lens, so I haven't done any promotion. As a caregiver, it is important to me to learn as much as I can, and I really enjoy visiting the sites and lens' of others. Thanks for leaving a comment.
  • graysquidooer Sep 17, 2010 @ 5:35 am | delete
    I don't meant to belittle your lens, or the importance of the subject,but I just want to point out
    to you & to others,that there other caregivers
    Who like myself care for younger members of their family,as I have been a caregiver.for 27 years looking after my wife who suffers with epilepsy.
    Which in itself is difficult enough to cope with, without thee side affects of the medication
    Enough of my moaning, little jealous of you having a great lens
  • Gail47 Sep 18, 2010 @ 11:28 am | delete
    Yes, unfortunately, there are a growing number of older adults who are caring for those who are younger whether a spouse or a child. It's not what we planned, but it is what life has handed us. You have spent many years as a caregiver, and I am sure it has taken its toll. God bless you for your willingness to care for your wife. Thanks for taking the time to stop by and leave a comment.
  • mulberry Jan 31, 2009 @ 9:19 am | delete
    Excellent information. I'm going to feature your lens on my own entitled Caring for Parents.

by

Gail47

As caregiver to my elderly father, I understand what challenges caregivers and family members undergo. Hopefully, this lens will provide information a... more »

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