I was recently speaking with my millennial son about a close friend whose elderly mother was having a health emergency. Her mom, Rita, lives in an apartment and has a caregiver during the day but has refused help at night. Rita could not be alone, and my friend had to cancel her plans and stay up all night with her mom and then go to her demanding job the next day.» Read More

My symptoms for the suspected COVID-19 illness began three weeks ago with a fever, fatigue, nausea, and a loss of my sense of smell and taste. While I was one of the extremely fortunate patients who ultimately did not struggle with shortness of breath, the fear that I could become short of breath at any moment was real and the anxiety almost crippling at times.» Read More

Shana and I recently had a new client, “Jane,” that came to see us because she was concerned about her elderly parents. Both are in their 90s and although they are still living independently, she is noticing both a physical and cognitive decline in both. » Read More

1. Emotional investment is different from a professional one.

I have been a Geriatric Social Worker for many years. A large part of my work with clients is helping them to plan for serious illness and supporting and advocating for them in hospitals and nursing homes.» Read More

Families whose loved ones need long-term care are often overwhelmed and confused about what level of care is most appropriate. As a social worker, I assess the client in their home gaining important insights into this decision. Each client is different so there is no “right answer” as to when to choose home care versus assisted living or nursing home, but there are generally five factors that should be considered.» Read More