Caregiving and Elder Care Directory
Some people are thrust into the role of caregiver abruptly, such as when a loved one has a sudden illness. More often, caregiving is a gradual process that requires preparation. Key to successful caregiving for an older parent or relative is support; experts suggest that caregivers seek out resources such as a local Area Agency on Aging to identify and help resolve problems, and connecting with other caregivers. Follow the links below to find WebMD's comprehensive coverage about caregiving and elder care, how to manage as a caregiver, questions to ask as a caregiver, resources and tips for caregivers, services available for caregivers, and much more.
Medical Reference
-
Tips for Managing Caregiver Stress
Learn how you can ease your stress if you're a caregiver for a loved one, including relaxation techniques, biofeedback, and guided imagery.
-
Tips to Look After Yourself While Caregiving
Get tips on how to take care of your own health while you're a caregiver for a loved one.
-
Physical Demands of Caregiving: Time to Get Help?
This assessment can help caregivers evaluate the situation for themselves and their elderly loved one.
-
Legal Issues of Caregiving
Being a caregiver also involves making legal preparations for your loved one's future. WebMD helps you understand some of the legal issues and how to plan for them.
Features
-
How to Choose Long-Term Care
WebMD has tips on how to choose long-term care for your loved one.
-
How to Choose Assisted Living for Your Loved One
Here's what to look for when you're choosing an assisted living residence for your friend or relative.
-
What You Need to Know About Nursing Homes
Learn what nursing home care does and how you can choose the facility that's right for your loved one.
-
What It's Like to Be a Caregiver
Taking care of a parent or spouse will change your life. It can be hard work and unpredictable, but it can also bring rewards and fulfillment.
Video
Slideshows & Images
-
Everyday Tips for Caregivers
WebMD shows you some caregiving tips that will help simplify your loved one's daily life.
-
Senior Living Options
Independent living, assisted living, nursing home -- all the different types of senior housing or care can be confusing. Find out what they are and which one might be right for you or a loved one.
-
Slideshow: 14 Ways to Avoid Caregiver Burnout
Pets, music, pill organizers, and webcams are some ways to make caregiving a little easier -- and avoid caregiver burnout.