Some self-medicating is necessary, but taken to the extreme it’s just plain dicey. Love yourself and those you care about enough to stop this vicious cycle. You’re toying with the most important commodity you have—your health. »

(click above to read full post) -- No easy answers here. The only thing that really helps is knowing and believing that by taking care of you—sleeping, medications, walks, friendships—you will actually be a better caregiver. And it’s true. »

When you factor in medications (that may alter how food tastes as well as your appetite), depression, loneliness, loss of spouse or companion to share meals with, and lack of exercise, it’s easy to see why many elders nibble or even turn up their noses at meals. Here, we offer lots of great, simple... »

Not being able to see well in our own homes can lead to tripping, falling, and misjudging our environment, such as not realizing the stove was left on or that something is on the stairs, or a bunched up throw rug just inviting us to take a tumble. Have your eyesight checked annually. »

You worry about them falling, not eating, forgetting to take their meds, or just being plain lonely.  But you need to work. You need the income and the benefits. You need the mental stimulation and outlet. »

Caring for an elderly loved one who suddenly becomes a picky eater can be very difficult, inconvenient and expensive. What we don’t always realize is that there may be more going on than just being a fussy eater—it’s may be the medications they’re taking that has altered their taste or appetite. »

Know that you didn’t cause this and you can’t fix it. Disease, pain, doctors, hospitals, financial concerns, a lifetime of regrets, the end of life…that’s what caregivers face on a daily basis. Tough stuff. You really do have a lot on you—acknowledge that—but also know that much of this is beyond you. »