Winter brings increased risks of illness, especially for older adults and those with compromised immune systems. As a caregiver, protecting both your loved one's health and your own is essential for maintaining quality care throughout the season. Understanding Immune System Changes The immune system is a complex network of cells, tissues, and organs that work together to defend the body against infections and disease. As people age or manage chronic illnesses, their immune re

For many caregivers, the holiday season can bring stress, frustration, and exhaustion rather than peace and joy. The added pressure of traditional celebrations, combined with ongoing caregiving responsibilities, can feel overwhelming—especially when caring for someone with cognitive impairment. You may feel resentful toward family members who haven't offered enough help, or worry that your caregiving duties will prevent you from fully participating in gatherings. Holiday prep

Eight years after my first mentor died, a dream summoned me to contact his young widow, Marie. Was it a dream, a nightmare or a premonition?  People can be like that: one second, a knight in shining armor, and the next, the dark horse trampling on your lucidity. And, as much as I would like to write off Marie as a “bad person,” I cannot in good conscience deny the gifts she shared with me during our professional collaboration and spiritual tutelage.   Relationships change for

Stay Safe This Fall As respiratory viruses ramp up this fall, it’s more important than ever to stay informed and protected. This season,...

Our experiences shape who we are and make us unique. For many people with Alzheimer’s disease, memories from long ago may be the only...

When communicating with someone who has memory impairment, it’s important to remember that emotions often outlast words. Your loved one’s...

Julia Cruz-Moreno As summer temperatures rise, caregivers must take precautions to protect older adults and individuals with chronic...

Cynthia Zavala Caregiving is one of the most meaningful things we can do for someone. But let’s not sugarcoat it: it’s also one of the...

Lory Carriedo On Mother’s Day, caregiving can be especially meaningful and is a great opportunity to show your appreciation and make the...

By Melissa West-Kevan 🧊 Keeping Seniors Safe with Proper Hydration During Summer As temperatures climb, seniors face a higher risk of...

Julia Cruz-Moreno Dementia affects individuals differently; no two cases are alike. People with dementia may experience a range of...

By Maria Quiroz Caregivers play a vital role in caring for those who can no longer care for themselves. Being a caregiver is both a...

Jessica Mattila, MSW, LCSW Since I started writing these articles in September 2024, I have been reflecting on my cancer diagnosis and...

Cynthia Zavala William Bridges’ model of transition —comprising the phases of Ending, Neutral Zone, and New Beginning—offers valuable...

A few years ago, my dad—who happens to be a funeral director and one of my favorite people in the world—leaned in during one of our conversa

Jessica Mattila, MSW, LCSW This holiday season my husband, 12-year-old son and I traveled to Indiana to visit my in-laws. I looked...

Jessica Mattila, MSW, LCSW “It is not the load that breaks you down. It’s the way you carry it.” - Lena Horne Before starting to write...

Christina Andrade Becoming an informal family caregiver to someone suffering from a degenerative condition can be an overwhelming...

By Maria Quiroz Have you ever experienced a mixture of feelings and emotions as a caregiver? I believe there are times when we all...

Melissa West-Kevan You've probably heard of Lecanemab or its brand name, Leqembi, and you're curious about what it's all about....