Being the caregiver for your mother, father or both can be a tough task. From rolling around wheelchairs to making sure medications are taken properly, caring for elderly parents can be both physically and mentally draining. Luckily, there are plenty of resources available to you to help you through this time in your life. Many other caregivers have experienced the same joys and struggles as you have. Check out our recommended books and support groups for caregivers of elderly parents:
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• When the Time Comes: Families with Aging Parents Share Their Struggles and Solutions by Paula Span
Described by the author as “a support group in print,” this book contains stories, interviews and other relevant information for caregivers of elderly parents.
• A Bittersweet Season: Caring for Our Aging Parents — and Ourselves by Jane Gross
In this book, Gross describes moving her mother into an assisted living facility and the valuable lessons she learned in the process.
• Caring for Your Parents: The Complete Family Guide — Practical Advice You Can Trust from the Experts at AARP by Hugh Delehanty and Elinor Ginzler
From locating quality health care to making your parents’ house elder-friendly, this book contains in-depth advice from experts at the AARP for caregivers of elderly parents.
• Can’t We Talk About Something More Pleasant? by Roz Chas
This quirky, cartoon-style memoir humorously recounts the author’s experience of dealing with elderly parents, along with all of the laughs and tears that come along with it.
• The Caregiver’s Path to Compassionate Decision Making: Making Choices for Those Who Can’t by Viki Kind
It’s hard making decisions for another person, especially if that person is your parent. This book contains tools and techniques to help you make decisions as a caregiver.
• Coping With Your Difficult Older Parent: A Guide for Stressed-Out Children by Grace Lebow and Barbara Kane
Being the caregiver isn’t always easy. This book contains advice on how to de-stress when your elderly parents are driving you crazy.
For information on support groups:
• The National Family Caregiver Support Program
• Family Caregiver Alliance
• Alzheimer’s Support Association
• Caregiver Action Network
• National Alliance for Caregiving