My extended family from Ghana 13 years later — What A Blessing— Often times family may not be blood relatives…..read more..

Excerpt. © Reprinted by permission. All rights reserved.

MAKING CAREGIVING A FAMILY AFFAIR

Even if one person is the primary caregiver, caregiving is accomplished more effectively when it is a team effort. Caregiving consumes time, energy and financial resources. Relatives of a primary caregiver can make the caregiver’s life easier by providing emotional support, financial support and the support of being present so the caregiver can take some time off . The everyday care of your loved one should not be left entirely to the primary caregiver simply because this person lives closest or has volunteered. In some cases, relatives or others may live in another state or country, at a distance that makes it difficult for them to contribute care. If you’re far away, you might make a point of visiting for a week every year so the primary caregiver can take a vacation from the duties of caregiving.

In general, family caregivers are not paid to do the work. However, they often change their work schedule or even quit their job so they can be present for the ailing family member, and this can put a strain on their finances. In my own case, I eventually changed jobs, assuming the post of a sales rep in the local area and taking a sizable cut in my salary, so I could continue working and take care of my dad. Keep in mind that the person most prone to burnout in a caregiving arrangement is the primary caregiver, which is why a caregiver deserves to be rewarded with your support in any form you can give it, including financially. In short, it is in the best interest of a family to unite to help the caregiver and the chronically ill or dying loved one. How different family members step in at such a time to offer assistance depends on the relationship dynamics of the family. Ultimately, your role in your loved one’s care depends on many factors, not the least of which is your willingness to be involved, and your loved one’s competence in making decisions and his or her desire for your participation.

Here are some other considerations:

•  Is your loved one married or single?
•  Is your loved one’s spouse capable of handling the demands of the situation?
•  If the care is for an aging parent, are you his or her only child or do you have siblings? …..read more

Dedication

To my dad, Pastor William L. Brent, Th .D.

I will be forever grateful to have been blessed with him,

the most wonderful and amazing parent I could have

ever hoped or asked for. And a special dedication and

thanks to the unsung caregivers throughout the world.

LIBRARYJOURNAL“Not limited to addressing the needs of Alzheimer’s patients, this compact manual from Brent, founder of Caregiver Story and Grandpa’s Dream, two nonprofit organizations geared toward providing comprehensive support for caregivers, walks readers through the crucial issues of moving their aging loved ones into an assisted-living facility as well as discussing emotional, medical, legal, and financial issues with them. Checklists are provided for gathering important information. A particularly helpful chapter delves into the frequent dilemma of dealing with the loved one’s resistance to even talking about these issues.VERDICT An excellent, comprehensive guide to everything both new and seasoned caregivers need to know.”

Click photo below review the article in its entirety:

Book Trailer: Award Winning | Bestselling

Carolyn A. Brent, MBA      Caregiver Solutions
                 Reviewed on APRIL  01, 2015 | Self-Help
                 EDITOR’S CHOICE—Canada’s Caregiver Solutions Magazine. Read more...

• AARP PrimeTimeRadio interviews: Carolyn A. Brent, American award winning author of bestselling books, caregiver and elder care legislator advocate, teams up with Stuart Furman, Esq., elder law attorney, and the author of ElderCare Ready.

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• “Why Wait? is a timely, thought provoking page-turner that should be considered a desk reference for caregivers and those who would be caregivers of all ages. Thank you, Carolyn Brent!”Click link below to read testimonial in it’s entirety.
  Rawle Andrews, Jr., Esq., Regional Vice President, AARP

• Media Room | Press Release

The Caregiver’s Companion & Why Wait?

Everything you need to know to ensure that your elderly loved one is being properly cared for — while taking care of yourself.

Where to Get your copy

Click photo below to review TV  interviews….