Overview

A Lifeline for Family Caregivers In The Family Caregivers 'Companion to Caring for Aging Parents, Karen McDermott and Janine Harriman offer an essential guide, drawing from both personal and professional experiences in elder care. As global populations age and caregiving costs rise, families are increasingly faced with complex emotional, legal, and practical challenges. Karen's 12-year caregiving journey-starting with her father's dementia diagnosis and continuing through her mother's end-of-life care-provides readers with crucial insights into navigating healthcare systems, managing legal affairs, and coping with the emotional toll of caregiving. Janine Harriman, a registered psychiatric nurse specializing in older adults' mental health, complements this expertise with practical advice and resources for caregivers. This book is a lifeline for anyone facing the daunting task of caring for aging parents. From understanding healthcare options to managing family dynamics and preparing for end-of-life decisions, McDermott and Harriman offer clarity and support every step of the way. For seniors and parents, reading this guide provides valuable clarity on the importance of active involvement in decision-making, ensuring that both generations are prepared to navigate the complexities of aging with confidence and mutual support. Whether you're just beginning or deeply involved in caring for aging parents, The Family Caregivers 'Companion will empower you to make informed decisions and provide the best possible care for your loved ones. Discover invaluable strategies and compassionate guidance to navigate your caregiving journey with confidence.

Full Product Details

9781069281807

Table of Contents

Reviews

This is a true gem! Definitely more than a companion!! It's a must have for everyone!!!Undoubtedly, we will all be involved in caregiving at some point: directly or indirectly providing care to elderly family members, providing support to someone who is providing and / or receiving care, and / or very likely, need care ourselves. In this book ""The Family Caregivers' Companion to Caring for Aging Parents"", Karen and Janine provide a well-researched account of international perspectives about aging and caregiving. They did not only dedicate a very well-written full chapter to highlighting the roles and responsibilities of parents, they extensively discussed the evolving dynamics in families with aging parents. The often very difficult topic - facing mortality - is also prominently discussed in this book. Furthermore, Karen and Janine, provided very valuable insights into preparing for the ""final chapter"" and going through the grief period. Their style of writing is highly commendable! In addition to this book being spiced with copious narratives from their personal experiences, the authors' brilliant choice to include an interview transcript further enhances the readability of this book.I have no doubt that ""The Family Caregivers' Companion to Caring for Aging Parents"" will establish itself as an authoritative text in this field. I cannot recommend this book highly enough to all and sundry!!! Dr. R.O. Tachere, MBBS, MPH, M.A, LL.M, FRCPC

Author Information

Karen McDermott spent 12 years as a dedicated family caregiver for both of her parents. What began as a journey marked by independence, a full-time career in healthcare and change management, a passion for traveling, and cherishing time with friends, evolved into an experience that many are only beginning to navigate and understand.Karen's caregiving journey began when she moved in with her parents ""temporarily."" Initially handling small errands, her responsibilities quickly expanded. Her father's misdiagnosis of early dementia led to his eventual move into long-term care, while Karen stayed with her mother until her passing. Over the years, Karen became adept at navigating the healthcare system, managing long-term care issues, handling legal matters related to Wills and Estates, and coping with the emotional and practical demands of caring for aging parents.Now, Karen is entering a new chapter of her life. She is reconnecting with friends, spending quality time with family, redesigning her home, discovering a new sense of self, and helping others navigate the complex world of family caregiving. Janine Harriman is a Registered Psychiatric Nurse (RPN) in Calgary, Alberta whose primary focus throughout her career has been working with older adults with various mental health concerns, with experience in long-term care, acute hospital settings, and as a consultant. Additionally, she holds degrees in Communication Studies and Psychology from the University of Calgary. She has witnessed the growing need for better understanding of the caregiver's role in our society and for better access and navigation of resources to both older adults and their family members who are involved in their care. In her spare time, she enjoys courses/podcasts/books and articles related to philosophy, spirituality, psychiatry, mental health, psychology, and health and wellness. She also enjoys cooking, gardening, walking, visiting with her family and friends, and playing with her two pugs Tucker and Jazz. She especially cherishes her time with her husband Scott.

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