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What I’ve Learned as My Aging Parents’ Caregiver: A Deeply Personal Story

In this post: If you’ve found yourself in reversed roles with your aging parents, you may benefit from what I’ve learned as my parents’ caregiver.⇒

What I’ve Learned as My Aging Parents’ Caregiver

I know my audience.

If you’re 30, you probably haven’t gotten past the title. If you’re 40, you’re too busy to do more than scroll through the photos. But if you’re in your 50’s and 60’s, you already know there’s something in this post that will be very familiar, that may perhaps touch your heart. And if you’re over 70 or 80, you’re bookmarking the post to send to your kids.

This past year has been one of the most difficult of my life. Yet in some ways, it was among the most special.

I’ve been wanting to write this post for a while. I know from the comments and emails I receive that many of you are in the same position as me, at the same or similar stage in life. But given the public nature of blogging, I couldn’t do it until now.

What I’ve Learned as My Aging Parents’ Caregiver

You see, last week, my dad passed away.

I’ve spent the past year and a half as his primary caregiver, a role I enjoyed, learned from, was exhausted by and will always cherish. Today I want to share my story with you, particularly what I learned to make this stage of life easier. At the bottom are my tips for those who are caregivers, along with some hints for those who need caring for themselves.

But before I get to the practical pointers, let me piece together the puzzle of emotions that has been the recent past. I promise to keep the medical details to a minimum, because that’s not what this post is about.

What I’ve Learned as My Aging Parents’ Caregiver

Up until a year ago, my dad had been living with well-controlled cancer for 5 or 6 years. He had various treatments that he had tolerated well. Every time one regimen stopped working, his doctors presented other options. Life went on pretty close to normal and his disease was barely an inconvenience. He and my mom continued to dance, a hobby that had become their lifelong passion. In fact, throughout this period, my dad had only one concern, a concern that would ultimately overpower their dancing career. 

My mom began to forget the dance steps. Then she had trouble finding her things. And soon it became clear that she had all the classic signs of dementia. This, unlike his own illness, became dad’s source of stress. I had always been close to my dad, but now we began talking or texting daily. As mom became increasingly disoriented, she also became highly agitated, even sometimes violent. 

The situation progressed for several years until finally, about a year and a half ago, we knew it was time to force a change. My parents were living about an hour away in another state. Mom refused to move (even when she was well) and also refused to allow help in the house. 

What I’ve Learned as My Aging Parents’ Caregiver

That year, when my parents came to visit to celebrate Father’s Day, dad and I had lined up several appointments to look at local apartments. Mom came along but reacted explosively to the idea. Two days later, dad called to tell me he wanted to proceed with one of the apartments. Given her reaction, I was both surprised and impressed, but I quickly got on board and became his advocate and accomplice. The rest of that summer he and I schemed and planned, through the purchase, minor renovations and decorating the place. I wrote about it in these three posts: The Plan, The Living Room, The Bedroom.

It was a joy to work on that apartment with my dad. We texted floor plans, furniture ideas and various details back and forth, all meant to honor my mom’s style and taste. But that summer also brought with it a medical challenge for my dad. His disease was progressing and after many years of avoiding it, he now needed to start chemo. I’ll never forget the lunch we had after that doctor’s appointment. We sat at an outdoor cafe on a Manhattan street and he was as cheerful and hopeful as usual. Then he gave me that big warm smile and said, “I’m not owed anything. I’ve had a good life.” 

What I’ve Learned as My Aging Parents’ Caregiver

A few weeks later we moved them into the new apartment. We knew it would be easiest if we left their furniture in their old house and simply took as many personal items as we could fit into the cars. By now, mom was so disoriented that she hardly recognized her own home and we feared the disruption would make matters worse. But the situation had become untenable and was a danger to their lives. Dad’s first chemo had made him terribly ill. Mom was incapable of taking care of him but still refused to have help in the house. It had gotten so bad that when we picked them up to move, we drove him straight to the emergency room near our home. 

I’ve always felt this was divine intervention. He was simply dehydrated, as he was not being cared for, and he stayed only a few days and was fine to go home. Mom stayed at our house while dad was in the hospital and this interim experience appeared to change everything. She rose to the occasion when he was released, worried about his health and willingly went to the new apartment. 

I honestly have no idea how we would have gotten her there had he not needed to go to the ER.

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Immediately, we got them round-the-clock care, but mom’s condition eventually deteriorated, and she wound up admitted to a memory care facility. I’m happy to say that she’s thriving there and dad had lots of opportunities to visit her, too. With mom appropriately cared for, they shared many lovely moments and their relationship returned to the beautiful romance it had always been.

What I’ve Learned as My Aging Parents’ Caregiver

The past year has been all about my dad and I cherish the time we’ve had together. We had time to say everything that needed or wanted to be said. We celebrated occasions and enjoyed the small moments, as well. Throughout his ordeal, his only concern was how my mom was doing.

And it turns out, he was right. He had a good life. He was loved by many and spread cheer and optimism everywhere he went. He and my mom shared a lifetime of love, the truest of sweethearts. To him, family was everything and he made sure we all knew that. I am the person I am today because of my dad, and I am surer about that after the past year, than ever before. I will miss him more than words can express, but as much as it hurts, I wouldn’t give up this time with him for anything.

What I’ve Learned as My Aging Parents’ Caregiver

Tips for Caregivers of Aging Parents

1. Divide and conquer. – If you have siblings, do your best to share the work, even if the tasks are not evenly split. Some help is better than no help. If siblings are not an option, accept help from friends. Even your kids can help ease the strain.

2. Talk to the appropriate experts. – Lawyer. Accountant. Elder care counselors. These professionals can offer immeasurable help and you will need them again at various stages. Establish a relationship as soon as possible.

3. Have the difficult conversations early in the game. – I cannot stress enough how important it is to know what your loved ones’ wishes are. Ask the hard questions. All of them. It’s a lot easier to have the conversation when the end is theoretical than when it’s imminent.

4. Say everything that needs to be or wants to be said. – Make sure you tell them that the remaining spouse will be taken care of. Try to find out anything else they might be worried about. Ask questions about their past. Not the obvious ones that were answered long ago, but the little known facts that were nearly forgotten.

5. Find out where everything is. – This goes without saying, but no matter how organized they think their affairs are, there are likely to be things that no one knows where they are.

6. Learn about Palliative Care. – This was a lifesaver for us. Long before you get to Hospice, Palliative Care can make everyone’s life more pleasant. It eased the transitions every step of the way.

7. Be sure to enjoy the person’s company. – Don’t forget this is the same person you always loved. Maintain their dignity by enjoying who they are.

8. Be kind to yourself. – I had a hard time with this one. Make the nail appointment. Get your hair done. Sleep late from time to time. You’ll need the strength this recharging can give you.

 

Tips for Those Needing Care

1. Don’t resist help. – Your family wants to help you. Let them. Accept the help of professional caregivers, too. If you’re open to it, you’re more likely to find people you connect well with.

2. Get your papers in order. – It amazes me how many people of advanced age do not have the appropriate papers filed. If you want control of your affairs, make these decisions as soon as you can. A will, a health care proxy and assign power of attorney. Don’t wait until it’s urgent. Do it while it’s still an eventuality.

3. Make your wishes known. – Your living will should be as specific as possible. Make sure your loved ones are clear about your wishes, which means talking about more than just a DNR. Talk about it clearly and thoroughly. Then it doesn’t need to be dwelled upon.

4. Share some stories you’ve never shared. – With the paperwork out of the way, you should enjoy your loved ones. Share the stories that got lost in the hustle and bustle of busy lives. Even better, write a “book” of stories. Some day your family will really appreciate it.

5. Gift your family with your interest in their lives. – It’s easy to get preoccupied with the details of aging. Maintaining an interest in your family will keep their visits pleasant and frequent. This is particularly important with grandchildren and younger family members. Now is the time to enjoy each other.

What I’ve Learned as My Aging Parents’ Caregiver

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Comments

  1. Oh Lory – I’m so sorry to hear this news, but so glad you had those lovely times with your dad. Thank you so much for sharing this – your advice is really useful. There are many of us who are in the same position, and it’s comforting to know that we’re not alone. The world will never be exactly the same, but those wonderful memories will help. Take care – you’ll be in my thoughts.

    Reply

  2. Lory, so sorry for your loss and you know I’ve been dealing with my aging mom all year. You have shared great advice and tips. It is so very hard and exhausting and yes, you have to make time for yourself to recharge. I’m so glad I have the support of my husband and my brother and his wife. My sister in law has been more help than she will ever know.

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  3. I am so very sorry for the loss of your beloved Dad. May he rest in peace.
    This blog must have been very difficult to write. Thank you for sharing.

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  4. I’m so proud of you Lory….that you were able to pen this and put it out there, were such a loving caregiver and have been able to hold it together all the while. Having been caregivers over here for 3 years, I know how difficult this can be. Hugs friend!

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  5. Lory, I am so very sorry for your loss. What a beautiful man your father was. His legacy will most definitely live on. Even through this post. It has touched me more than I can say. I’m nearing this point with my own parents. I plan to forward this to several people I love who are in the throes of this time w their own parents.
    May God bless you with His comfort and peace.
    So happy that your mom is now nearby and thriving in her environment.

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  6. I am so sorry Lory. I understand your loss as my dad passed away a number of years ago. My mother went first. Thank you for sharing all your sound advice as it makes me think I should be doing some of these things myself so my daughter will not have to worry about it. Once again thank you so much for sharing your insights.

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    • Thank you, Candice! I know many have had similar experiences. I also completely share the feeling of wanting to make things easier on our kids. My next post should be about cleaning out my parents’ house… and how every time I come home from there, I want to organize everything in my own home! 😉

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  8. You have written a beautiful caring memorial about your father. My heart goes out to you as I know the caregiving was difficult. My mother died with breast cancer many years ago. This brought back memories. Lori, take care of yourself as you go through the different stages of grieving. Remember all the wonderful times with your Dad. Many hugs to you! ❤❤

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  9. Thank you for sharing. After losing both of my parents within 7 months of each other I know how hard it is to be both caregiver and a shoulder to cry on. My husband and I have now come to the realization that we need to move closer to his parents even though it means disrupting a life we have created for ourselves in another part of the country. We both want to enjoy the time we have left with them and are fortunate enough to be able to take our careers with us to another state.

    Condolences and may your heart find peace….

    Reply

    • Thank you and best of luck to you, too. Sometimes we have to put our own lives on hold, even for a short time, to honor our parents’ needs. I would imagine people in various situations need to do some version of this. Difficult yes, but ultimately very worthwhile.

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  10. I am so sorry for your loss. I am so thankful that you shared your story, as we all will have to face this with parent(s) or ourselves and spouses.
    I really appreciate the reminder to enjoy the persons company – it can be lost in all of the other emotions that you are dealing with.
    Thank you again for sharing such a personal story and know that your readers support you

    Reply

  11. Thank you so much for sharing this very personal story. Both of my parents are gone now but this would have been so helpful years ago when I was helping to care for them and older sister. I’m sure it was both difficult and cathartic to write this. It definitely has some great information for the caregiver and the one who will be the care receiver.

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  12. This is a wonderful share, Lory. These are issues we all eventually need to deal with. Your list is spot on! The exact info that gets lost in the shuffle of caregiving and dancing as fast as you can. Do you mind if I print it and give to families going through this? You’re a wonderful daughter and I know so well the mixed jumble of emotions you’ll be experiencing. One will be relief. Don’t guilt yourself with that one. Love you, Lory.

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  13. I’m so sorry for your loss, Lory. I agree with your tips. My husband was diagnosed with dementia almost 6 years ago. He is very happy living in a care facility. He feels like he has control when he’s in his one-bedroom apartment which helps stabilize his mental state. I know he’s getting 3 meals a day and is protected by locked doors etc. His illness has meant many changes for me, including having to take change our trust. I found seeing a counselor very helpful especially her constant urging of self-care. Early on, my life centered completely around my husband and his care. Over the years I’ve learned I can’t care for him if I don’t care for me.

    Reply

  14. I’m so sorry for your loss of your dad. Your words were very beautiful and such a tribute to your parents. We do not even know how much strength we have until it’s needed. Great advice for all and much appreciated.

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  15. Lory, beautifully written and I have tucked it away to share, God Blessed you with great compassion, and Insight, Sandy in Vancouver, BC

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  16. Such a loving tribute to your dad. I followed along as you prepared the apartment for your mom and dad but had no idea he wasn’t well. Moving them closer gave you the time to enjoy your dad’s company and at the same time, look after his health. You’ve been the best of daughters and know your dad cherished every moment he had with you. God bless!

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  17. Dear Lory, I am sorry for your loss. I hope your mother understands what has happened.

    You mentioned dividing the responsibilities among siblings. In our family, one was caregiver, another had power of attorney and all that entailed, another was just great at staying in touch with the remaining parent every day, etc. The responsibilities may not have been equal, but they were all important.

    One other suggestion is about burial benefits for someone who served in the military and his or her spouse. Even if the non-service spouse passes first, he or she may be entitled to be buried in a National Cemetery. Both spouses will eventually be buried in the same plot, or ashes interred. To prepare for this possibility, locate the document showing the Honorable Discharge, and talk to the cemetery about the details. When my mother’s headstone was carved, it showed she was the wife of— and listed his rank incorrectly. Dad had the chance to authenticate his rank, so that when he passed, the stone was carved correctly. We have been very pleased with the National Cemetery, and there was no charge for the plot, headstone or service at the cemetery. I think a headstone may be provided at no charge if a service member is buried at a non-National Cemetery. It is something to consider.

    Thank you for sharing this story and also for helping others.

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    • Thank you for you kind words, and also for sharing those words of advice. My dad actually worked for the government at the Navy Yard, designing ships, so he was technically not in the service. But the info does apply to many, (including my mother-in-law).

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  19. Dear Lory, My deepest, heartfelt sorrow for your great loss. Your post is invaluable help even for those of us who have been through similar circumstances but face still others. I am so glad that you had the special times with your father and were able to just love him and receive his love in return. I will keep you and your family and your mother in my prayers. Thank you for sharing your life with all of us. May God richly bless you.

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  20. Can appreciate that he believed *family is everything*. It is the same thing my husband instills in our children even though they are all older.

    As I was never a caregiver, but have heard from others, this is article is a labor of love you are kindly sharing with us and I can better understand if this comes to my remaining parent and shall keep marked.

    Thank you, Lory for penning this article during this difficult time and may God bless and solace you my friend.

    Reply

  21. Thank you for sharing your heartfelt emotions. I welded-up reading your words. My near future will soon be faced with losing my darling husband to a dreaded incurable disease. Reading, I felt the endearing love for your Dad and deep compassion for your Mom. A journey filled with Blessings of Memories. My Deepest Condolences…

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  22. Lory, my heartfelt sympathy goes out to you in the loss of your dear and precious Dad. Somehow a Dad and a Daughter share such a special bond. You will have so many precious memories. Hold on to these! They just become more precious as the days go by. How wonderful that you were there for your precious parents.

    I nursed my Mom for over 10 years. Her heart was just worn out. Then, 5 months after we lost my dear Mom, my Dad had a massive heart attack. I always said that he just died of a broken heart because Mom and Dad were so very close to one another. I have never regretted this time spent with my precious Mom and Dad. It was wonderful to be able to be there for them.

    Will keep you in my thoughts and prayers, Lory. May you feel God’s arms of comfort around you.

    Thanks, too, for those wonderful words of wisdom which will be so helpful to all those going through some difficult times.

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  24. First, I am so sorry for your loss. Clearly you and your father had a special relationship and it will, in its own way, continue. Second, thank you for writing a difficult post. I have been in your shoes, and they are tough and often lonely to walk in. I can think of nothing more to add, You have done a beautiful job.

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  25. I am so very sorry to read about your father’s passing. It is so difficult to lose a loved one. The book I am reading now talks about “sorrowful gifts.” In and through sorrow we are given the “gift” of memories of that loved one. It is a gift to have these treasured memories to share, to visit over and over, and to think upon. I like that idea of a gift of our memories, that we are given through our sorrow. May you continue to have those treasured memories of your beloved father.
    Best to you, Nancee

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  26. I am so sorry for your loss, but I’m glad for the time you got to spend together. I am a part-time caregiver for my mom right now, and it’s so special. We do have a caregiver who I couldn’t do it without. It’s so neat to be able to take care of my mom and spend more time with her, but I also wouldn’t be able to do it full-time. Like you said, it’s important to take care of yourself too. That goes for during grief too. Take care of yourself and treasure those precious memories!

    Reply

    • Thank you for your kind words, Emma! I wish you strength and peace in your time with your mom, too. I absolutely believe that getting help is essential, if it’s at all possible. We had a wonderful team of people helping with my dad, and one still visits with my mom, too.

      Reply

  27. OH, Lory! What a journey you have been on. But how blessed you are to have such a special time with your Father. I really admire you so much for your loving care of your parents. What an example to all of us!

    And thank you for a wonderful, touching (I had a few tears) and informative post. I’m sure it will be my time someday!

    xo

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  28. Your story was beautifully written….and beautifully lived. I am so very sorry for the loss of your dad but know he is very proud of how well you told his story and yours. Thank you for sharing such a personal journey and know the tips will aid my daughters and my family in the future.

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  29. What a heartfelt and bittersweet story you have shared! Both my parents had Alzheimer’s (pretty much at the same time) and I believe I followed all of your tips for caregivers. The only one that didn’t work out was help from family . I have one sibling (older sister) who did not do one thing to help me, or help them. But, in the end, she was right there with her hand out for her inheritance. Sad, right? However, I have absolutely no regrets about anything that I did for my parents. I have a nursing background, so I guess it was somewhat easier for me in some ways for personal care. (Although, personal care isn’t something a daughter should have to do for her father), however my mind was able to separate him from dad to patient and it worked out ok. I left my fulltime job as a nurse to take care of them in their home for a year, before I knew it was time for them to go to a nursing home . Hardest thing I’ve ever had to do in my life! I was heartbroken. However, for their safety, it had to be done. They are both gone now (mom 11 years, dad 8). Time does heal the pain, and I could never wish them back in the condition they were in. I have LOTS of very good memories. Thanks for sharing your story.

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    • Thank you, Colleen! There were many times along the way I thought a nursing background would have been helpful, as I wondered how anyone could be good at dealing with this. I agree that you have to do what you think is right and be able to live with it comfortably. Perhaps your sister felt she wasn’t as equipped as you to handle it, but I also believe it’s likely easier for you to be at peace with your actions in retrospect. Having regrets is never a good thing.

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  31. My condolences to you Lori. I was in my early to mid-twenties when I cared for my mother. She was not able to see me married or even meet my husband and of course she never got to cuddle her grandchildren. 52 years later I still miss her. My Dad died in hospital some eight years later so from my mid-thirties I was an orphan with no siblings. However I am ever so grateful for having the experience of caring for my mother. It was a precious time.

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  32. Walking the road of Dementia now and for the last 7 years. My dad passed away 7 years ago. My mom was already showing signs of Dementia. But with frequent visits by me and eventually a part time care giver she was able to stay in her home. So now I visit her in Assisted Living and wonder what each visit will bring. Some days I’m her ” dad” and some days I’m ” Lorraine” I’m trying to hang in there so your post was like finding gold today. Thank you for your words.

    Reply

    • Ah, Lorraine, as I mentioned to someone else upthread, the dementia aspect could have been an entirely separate post. I feel for you! I found the best advice we were given with that (besides getting her on the appropriate meds) was to stop trying to be rational with someone who isn’t capable of understanding rational. Once I calmed down and stopped trying to argue or explain, things became much more smooth.

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  33. I am so sad for you and the loss of your Dad, Lory.

    I’m 63 years old and proud of being a “Daddy’s Girl”. He’s 88 and my Mom just turned 84. They still live in their townhouse condo, an hour away, rarely asking my brother or us for help of any sort. My Mom likes to complain about him and I have had to tell her to stop, that she’s talking about my Dad. He is the most patient man I’ve ever known; thankfully he taught that virtue to my husband! I’m beyond blessed ~

    I cannot imagine my life without my Dad. He (and our oldest son) “get me” like no one else does, not even my husband. Dad’s squeezy hugs always contain the words “I love you so much”. I have often said that I want to go before he does… However, at his age, such an event would devastate him and I can’t do that to my Dad.

    Someone here said something about the bond between a Dad and his daughter ~ in my case there is nothing sweeter… Unconditional love, feelings of being safe and cherished — him taking you dress shopping for that first school dance… Yep ~ that was My Dad! The dance at our wedding reception to “Daddy’s Little Girl” was monumental — we both cried. Which is what I’m doing now…

    This is likely too long to be posted ~ I’m sorry and somewhat embarrassed. Sometimes emotions take a while to be conveyed and I am guilty of “over-wording” the important things…

    Lory, I really appreciate what you wrote ~ your words spoke to my heart. Hold your memories close, stay well and know you are thought of with love and concern.

    Linda

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  34. Lory, thank you so much for sharing such a personal journey. I envy the time you got to spend with your dad…due to crazy family circumstances, I did not get to experience that type of situation and I feel the pain of that every single day. My sincerest condolences on the loss of your dad….I hope your mom is doing ok. ?

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  35. My story, though different, had many of the same elements. I lost my Dad 10 years ago, and my Mom just this past year. Things went along very well with my Mom until unforeseen medical issues turned her from an extremely independent woman into a wheel chair bound individual who needed assistance for everything. Needless to say her last 3 years were difficult at best.

    Though I miss them both tremendously, I do hope your very intimate time spent with your Dad allows you the deep feeling of peace that I found after my Mom’s death. God does indeed work in amazing ways.

    Peace to you,

    Patti

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  36. This is the most touching account of being a caregiver. Your advice is excellent. May peace surround you during this time and your sweet memories bring great comfort.

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  37. This was a well written post. Having seen my parents be the primary care givers to my grandmother who passed Dec. 2017, I must say I learned a lot and this post aligns perfectly with what I learned. Mom and Dad are barely hitting 60, but we’ve begun our discussions now so we can limit surprises later.

    My deepest condolences on your loss.

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  38. ThanK. YoU. ThaNk. YoU. Lory… —being of the just 70 Vintage I so appreciate the info. NOW to share it with the Mr. and family. God Bless. ?linda of no.cal.

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  39. Hi Lory, I miss my Dad’s big hugs. I miss being able to talk with him when Mom would say something that upset me. Now I am the caregiver of my Mom. I look up to the heavens and ask Dad for advice. We now have a new relationship from a distance and he is part of my soul. Getting to this new relationship has made all the difference in being able to move forward. That was three years ago. Lory, thank you for sharing. God bless you.

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    • Ah, Lynette, that too is a whole other post! 😉 My mom and I have always had… let’s call it a complicated relationship. I love the notion of a relationship from a distance, because I’ve also often wanted dad’s advice regarding mom. Wishing you the best.

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  40. Lory, The end of life days are really so very unique and special between those who love one another.
    I am of a different vintage (nearing age 80) but have been privileged to care for my own grandmother, aunt, in-laws, and also the love of my life, husband. This past summer I stayed with my lifetime friend who was like a brother for over 70 years during his end of life from leukemia. He wanted to be at home and I was present for his distraught wife as well. As a retired R.N. my nursing education and skills have helped me, but most of all it is a loving heart and serving others thing. Our heavenly father provides us with His love channeled through us in such difficult times. May God bless you and enjoy all of those close memories with your aged parents.

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  41. Thank you for sharing your beautiful story- it’s full of great practical advice. My Mom and Dad are struggling but safe in a facility, and will celebrate their 66th wedding anniversary in a few days. Mom has dementia, and Dad has more physical limitations but still manages to lovingly care for her. He told me this morning that “Mom looks prettier every day”. How sweet!
    May your memories comfort you and know that you’ve honored your parents well!

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  42. Lory…thank you for sharing your amazing journey. I just lost my 97 year old mother….the last seven years have been a struggle, but we were so fortunate to have loving caregivers to assist with her daily needs.

    Pre-planning is so important. Ask questions and get things in order while you’re still thinking clearly so you can spend your days with your loved one without worrying about loose ends. Having end of life issues finalized before you become incapacitated is the greatest gift we can give our loved ones.

    May your heart be filled with peace and God keep you safely in his arms.

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  43. Lory, I am so sorry about your father passing. I remember when you moved them into the apartment. Loved the photo you posted of them dancing. I am sure your father appreciated every moment you spent together. My mother had dementia for years and I was a long distance caregiver. Today, I am the aging mother and it’s complicated. Dementia patients remember certain things like the candy I put in every package. She never forgot me, but the years were fuzzy on her grandchildren. If something “big” happened, she lost more years. The best of luck with your mother. Thank you for sharing something so personal with us.

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  44. Hi Lory!
    My condolences on the loss of your precious father. I’ve been in your shoes the last few years. I lost both parents in less than 2 years. Mother had Dementia, we were able to take care of her in their home. She became ill and passed away within a week. Daddy didn’t do very well without her, sick constantly. We had moved him to the VA, and a bit more than a month in, he became sick, and passed within a week, also. It was so hard, but I wouldn’t trade the experience of taking care of those who cared so lovingly for me, for anything. Blessings to you,
    Pamela

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  45. So sorry to hear about your loss. We are dealing with some of these same issues with my in-laws. I understand the fine line you have had to walk while dealing with these issues. I’m glad you were able to have such positive times with your dad. I wish you strength and sweet memories over the coming holidays.

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  46. Hi Lory, so sorry for your loss. Your story is so deeply personal, we appreciate you sharing it. I am dealing with a difficult situation too, both my parents are in a memory care facility. I haven’t been able to separate them, I think they keep each other strong. Keeping them together isn’t necessarily the best decision for one of them medically…I just haven’t been able to do it. Thanks for sharing, maybe one day I will write about this as well.

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  47. I have been a care giver and I am now 74. Not knowing what the future holds I am keeping legal aspects up to date and am going to start eliminating so much household stuff. I am helping to settle one of my sister’s estate and it makes me so aware of the need to cut back. One of my great aunts told me “plan for old age”. My family and my cat and my gardening helps to keep me busy. God Bless you and your family.

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  48. Thank you for sharing during this most vulnerable time I, and so many of my friends, are facing this time as well. My mom moved in with us 4 years ago and, although it is not always easy, I am able to call it a privilege. It is obvious how precious your parents are and were and that there influence shaped who you are. What a blessing!

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  49. Lory, This was a very sweet post. My parents will be 89 and 85 in August, but unlike your dad, they don’t want to relinquish any control to my sister and I. My mother is losing her eyesight, but continues to drive. She also has Rheumatoid Arthritis, yet doesn’t take her medication as prescribed. My dad is an insulin-dependent diabetic but still eats too many carbs and sweets, which is causing his kidneys to fail. My sister and I become so frustrated because we live 4 and 6 hours away. We are truly the “sandwich generation.”

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    • Rhonda, I truly understand. It’s so hard for them to admit that things have changed for them. I did find that while they were initially resistant to help, when we forced the issue, they fell right into it gratefully. The most important thing is to get Power of Attorney. Explain to them that if they don’t give you that (and a health care proxy), then you can’t advocate for them and make sure that their wishes are served. Tell them you want to know what their wishes are, so they understand you’re more focused on that, then on taking control. Let them know you’re their partners. Good luck!

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  50. I’m sorry to hear about your dad’s passing, I’m going through something similar with my mom. She has just entered into Hospice but not cooperating with anything or anyone. After reading your post I am now convinced that she is also battling some dementia. I will now at least ask the nurses about it.

    I found that when you think of your loved ones whom have passed and become sad if you try very hard to think of a good time you shared or a special memory it makes the sadness go away and instead replaces the ache in your heart with something a bit lighter and it makes it easier at times. I hope that last bit makes some sense. My thoughts and prayers are with you!

    Thank you so very much for sharing this – I’m hoping it will help my family as well.

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    • Thank you for your kind words, Vicki! I do have a very warm feeling when I think of my dad and the time we spent together in the last year and a half. I wish the same peaceful feeling for you and your family. I hope my experience does offer you some help in dealing with this complex stage.

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  52. It seems that just when we get things in a good place in our lives the one spoiler is the loss of our parents. Your parents raised you well and you are and have been such a good daughter. As the first winner of your giveaways I feel immense pleasure and privileged to have something that belonged to them. Your post is informative and will help those that need guidance. I’m so glad that I’ve gotten to know you through this blog. Have a great Saturday, Lory.

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  53. Good Morning Lori,
    You have done a great service to many, THANK YOU!!
    My husband is 81 and I’m soon to be 77, although both of us are very healthy we know that should the Lord give us many more years the time will come when we are “your parents”. This post will be so helpful for us and especially for our beloved daughter. Just yesterday we heard of a dear friend who lived a noble Christian life was found dead on the floor of his garage of an apparent heart attack……what a way to go!…….leaving this world so quickly and although difficult for his beloved wife and children (he was only in his mid 60s) there wasn’t the long difficult road you’ve had to travel with your parents. Unfortunately we do not get to choose the way the Lord will take us home………therefore our appreciation to you for your wise counsel.
    Hugs to you dear girl, and God’s blessings on you as you continue to aid in the care of your mother,
    Carolyn

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  54. Lory, I’m so sorry to hear about your loss. Thank you for the post. My inlaws are both 91 and not in the best of health and still in their home. My mother-in-law is the primary caregiver for my father-in-law who has had a stroke. She is in the hospital this weekend, so my husband is taking care of his father. We have learned many of those things in the past few years, and they have been such a help. I hope the post helps others in the same situation.

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  55. I’m so sorry for your loss Lory.
    God truly is there for us when we need Him. I’m so glad you had this special time with your dad.
    When my dad was so sick, I took 2 weeks to help my mom find a nursing home for him.
    Those 2 weeks were so special to me, as I spent every day with him.
    I know how you feel.
    Your dad looked like he was filled with life, so special.

    You will remain in my daily prayers
    God bless you & your family especially at this time.

    Much Love,
    Rose 💕

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  56. Lory, I know the pain when a parent die,s having lost my dad some 4 years ago. Thank you for finding the strength to share with your readers what your journey has been and what you’ve learned through it. This post is a gift to all of us.
    I will keep you and your family in my prayers.

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  57. Lory, I am so sorry for your loss. I am glad that you had the opportunity to spend some quality time with your Dad. I am also glad that you moved your Mom to a memory care facility while your Dad was living. My Mom should have been moved to a memory care facility while my Dad was living, but my Dad didn’t want to “lose” her. As a result, she wasn’t getting the care she needed. We moved Mom to a memory care facility after my Dad’s passing. I thought she was strong and would survive a long time. Without my Dad, and with the major lifestyle change, she passed seven weeks after my Dad. Hopefully your Mom will have better success because she has already adjusted to her new home.

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  58. Lory, the words and great advice will speak to all of us at sometime in our lives. I lost my Dad at a young age and the unexpected suddenness of it seemed so cruel and painful. Yet now many years later after being widowed for nearly 30 years my Mom has dementia and is in an assisted living facility and watching the mind go is equally difficult and painful to live through. I am fortunate to have siblings to share the experience with and the three of us have a schedule so one of us is with her everyday. The hardest lesson we have had to learn is to get over our frustration of wanting her to be who she used to be. Many times she doesn’t remember our visits and will tell me upon my visit that she hasn’t seen anyone for days. While I know this to be untrue in the beginning I found myself arguing with her and getting frustrated, further upsetting her. Time has taught us all that if someone says that can’t remember, they can’t remember. It sounds so simple but amazing how many times you have to learn that lesson before it sinks in, not only about our visits but about everything. 🙁 So blessings to you and thanks for the timely topic allowing many of us to share our journey.

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  60. What a sweet post! I’m so sorry. I’ve been there, but I was caregiver in my 30s. Mom’s cancer came on quick and she passed 6 weeks from diagnosis. Dad’s cancer was controlled for 5 years, and he passed 6 years from his diagnosis. I cherish the time I had with both. Sending hugs.

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  61. Lory so sorry for your loss. Thank you so much for sharing your story, you have been so blessed to have such a close relationship with your parents. The list of information will be very helpful for many including myself. May the Lord comfort you through this difficult time.

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  63. Lory,so very sorry about the loss of your dad,my heart goes out to you my love..

    with the help of my husband we are caregivers for my soon to be 96 year old mother she has dementia to, very disoriented, the hallucinations are really bad at times..we have had many sleepless nights..we never know when we go to bed or when she wakes up in the morning what to expect…
    Thank God she’s herself at times it may not last long but I get my mom back for a little while…
    We do have home care, six hours a week that helps..she’s on a list for home but that could take years..
    We put everyday in God’s hands and do our best for mom while we can…that’s all we can do is our best..

    You gave a lot of good info, thank you

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  64. Lory,

    I am so sorry for your loss, I understand because I just lost my father this past December and then my mother-in-law 3 months later. My husband and I were very involved in their care and I can relate to everything you wrote in this post. It is such valuable advice to everyone (and there are many) who are trying to navigate this stage in their lives. I hope everyday brings you healing and peace, I’m sure your Dad is smiling upon you as you continue to care for your mother.

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