Introduction

You may be among the tens of millions of Americans who provide care for your parent — or you may be among the ten of millions who will. So many children are caught unprepared when physical and mental health declines in aging parents. Life cannot readily prepare you to furnish excellent eldercare while balancing the demands on your time.

This book provides practical tips, realistic guidance, encouragement and insight into the time ahead. Among other things, it answers:

• How do you decide when your parent stays at home or moves to assisted living?
• What should you expect when caring for your elderly parents?
• Who should you ask for help?
• How do you balance caregiving responsibilities with your personal life?

The Successful Caregiver’s Guide includes extensive explanations of your options and checklists for differing types of eldercare to help you choose the best care possible for your loved one.