Becoming a caregiver for an aging parent can be overwhelming. This list is a good place to start if you are looking for resources and advice on subjects relating to providing care, financial and housing concerns, and the emotional issues of Alzheimer’s Disease and dementia.
Dementia Caregiver Guide—by Teepa Snow, MS, OTR/L, FAOTA
Teepa Snow, an occupational therapist with 40 years of clinical practice experience and one of the world’s leading educators on dementia, uses “Dementia Care Guide” to offer better support and care practices so caregivers can choose more positive interactions; more productive communication; and care that is more effective and less challenging for all involved.
How to Care for Aging Parents, Third Edition: A One-Stop Resource for All Your Medical, Financial, Housing, and Emotional Issues—by Virginia Morris
Winner of the Books for Better Life Award, “How to Care for Aging Parents” was first released in 1996, and is completely revised and updated. The third edition features the most recent research and recommendations; current laws and regulations; and helpful online resources. This book is considered an essential guide to help you begin difficult conversations with your parents. Also available with this edition are fill-in worksheets to help organize important documents, keep a record of medications, and more.
Driving Miss Norma: One Family’s Journey to Saying “Yes” to Living—by Tim Bauerschmidt & Ramie Liddle
At 90-years-old, Miss Norma, a newly widowed woman, receives a diagnosis of uterine cancer. Instead of confining herself to a hospital bed, and heeding doctors advise to undergo surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy—she decides to hit the road! Miss Norma joins her son Tim Bauerschmidt, his wife Ramie Liddle and their poodle Ringo on a cross-country journey to live life on her terms as she tries regional food for the first time, takes a ride on a hot air balloon and more—proving it’s never too late for adventure!
The 36-Hour Day: A Family Guide to Caring for People Who Have Alzheimer Disease, Other Dementias, and Memory Loss—by Nancy L. Mace, MA & Peter V. Rabins, MD, MPH
In the sixth edition, revised and updated, this John Hopkins Press Health Book continues to be an essential resource for caregivers of loved ones living with Alzheimer’s disease or another form of dementia. Included in this edition is advice about what to expect; how to cope with emotional challenges and difficult behaviors; recent research information; choosing a senior living community; support groups; and more.
Protecting Your Parents’ Money: The Essential Guide to Helping Mom and Dad Navigate the Finances of Retirement—by Jeff D. Opdyke
The book title speaks for itself. Help your parents navigate the finances of retirement, including understanding Medicare and long-term health care; estate planning; searching for a qualified senior living community while factoring your parents’ assets; and other financial concerns.
No matter where you are in your caregiving journey, information is power. We hope these resources are helpful as you take on the important and enormous job of caring for your aging parents.
