The Dutiful Daughter's Guide to Caregiving: A Practical Memoir
Judith Henry, 2015
Broadcloth Books
164 pp.
ISBN-13: 9780996278805
Summary
For the sixty six million people in the U.S. who are assisting a disabled, sick or aging family member, stress has become a way of life.
Why? Because caregiving, even when performed with great love, is difficult work that few people are truly prepared for. For Judith Henry, it turned out to be a six year position with plenty of on-the-job training as she helped care for elderly parents.
Learning to laugh over the expanding contents of her leather life-support system, aka a purse, and making lemonade from her father’s tart comment about being a dutiful daughter, this experience has culminated in a book entitled, The Dutiful Daughter’s Guide to Caregiving: A Practical Memoir. It became her inspiration for creating a well-loved writer’s group in Tampa, Florida specifically for caregivers; and has garnered her national recognition by the U.S. Department of Women’s Health through their Spotlight interview series.
Her book, a reassuring combination of financial planner, family therapist, geriatric care manager, and cheeky best friend, offers personal stories and practical wisdom on topics such as:
- Addressing financial and legal issues
- Avoiding caregiver burnout
- Choosing a rehab center
- Dealing with grief and loss.
Filled with laughter, tears and lessons learned, it is a valuable resource for anyone taking on more responsibility for a parent’s well-being.