3/22/2013 Q: I have feelings of guilt every day that I should be a better caregiver. I keep asking “why?” questions from “why did this happen” to “why can’t I be more patient”. I go round and round with no answers. Is this normal? Louise H., Woodstock, GA

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A: Many caregivers experience “caregiver guilt” so in a way it is normal in that it is not unusual at all. Your feelings are appropriate for you and there are ways to cope and refocus your thoughts to stay mentally healthy.  First, it’s important to examine if it is really guilt that you are feeling.  […]

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3/11/2013 Q: I am exhausted and overwhelmed from being a fulltime caregiver for my father and resent not having any time for myself. Is there anything I can do to make things better? Carolyn P., Lawrenceville, GA

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A: It is very important to put plans in place to ease your stress, anxiety, and even anger at all the responsibilities of being the primary caregiver.  You recognize you need help and reaching out is a good thing. First off, know you are not alone in how you feel.  As people live longer with […]

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2/24/2013 Q: I think my elderly parents need help but my brothers, sisters and I can’t agree on how we should care for them. Can a Geriatric Care Manager help? Chuck S., Roswell, GA

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A: Absolutely!  You have taken an essential first step in realizing your parents possibly need assistance.  Experience has shown that using a “wait and see” approach usually leads to a crisis situation.  At that point, critical decisions may be made in an emergency situation with fewer options available and emotions running high between family members.  […]

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Do I have to use a Caregiver Agency? Couldn’t I just save a few bucks?

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1/31/13 Q: Why would I need to use an agency to find a caregiver for my parents? Couldn’t I just save the extra cost by hiring privately? John S., Atlanta, GA A: The short answer is: You get what you pay for… The long answer has to do with protection, for you and your parents. […]

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What Kind of Dementia is it?

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7/15/12 Q: The doctor gave my dad a diagnosis of dementia. How can I tell if it is Alzheimer’s or not? Denise S.; Decatur, GA   A: Well, allow me to clarify that dementia is a syndrome, or cluster of symptoms, pertaining to thinking and memory loss. It is not really a diagnosis. It is […]

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