Caring for Aging Parents

By Tonia Boterf

Caring for aging parents can be challenging. With the right tools and information for both adult child and their parents, the caring process can be easier, less stressful, less time consuming and more joyful. The desire is for parents to continue to live as independently as possible in their own home and to help them with the challenges that aging causes.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Tonia Boterf
• Release date: May 26, 2011

Book preview

Caring for Aging Parents

Tonia Boterf

Copyright 2010 by Tonia Boterf

Smashwords Edition

Introduction

We’re never quite prepared for the day when our parents show their age more obviously and can’t do as much as they used to.

Perhaps your first realization of major changes in your parent’s health or independent living abilities is when you get an emergency call. It can be a shock that leaves you wondering what to do and what’s best for everyone.

I’ve experienced this situation, and I had to learn a great deal about caring for aging parents. I wanted others to benefit from the information I gathered and the ideas and knowledge I gained, so I’ve written 10 books on this subject. I hope this book and its companions help you make informed decisions as you embark on caring for your aging parents. We want them to feel happy and fulfilled—and not a huge burden on you.

Once you’ve begun to assist or care for your aging parents, you’ll need to get up to speed on information quickly—at a time when you likely have less time than ever. For this reason, the material in this book is presented in chunks that are straight to the point. No fluff, just information you can read and digest quickly. It answers many questions you may have and perhaps questions you hadn’t even thought of. It also provides you with a broad idea of what to do in certain situations.

So let’s get started!

The Basics

The Dignity of Risk

First I’d like to address a topic I think is critical for you to keep in your mind for the rest of your parents’ lives. As the adult child of aging parents, you may want to become involved or make decisions