My grandfather complained of blurry vision for years. When he finally succumbed to my grandmother’s nagging, he went to the eye doctor and was diagnosed with cataracts. To eighteen-year-old me, my grandpa was ancient, though he was probably in his late sixties. Now I was sitting in the exam chair, listening to my eye doctor…
Five girls became fast friends in Middle School. We weren’t exactly a clique, but no one else was encouraged to join our tribe. We enjoyed taking classes together, hanging out at lunch, and many slumber parties. We stayed friends during high school, even though two attended one high school, and three another. As we grew,…
As I age, the number of candles on the cake become less important. The big milestones have passed. The first one is age ten – double digits. Then thirteen – the beginning of the teen years. Eighteen – adulthood. Twenty-one means I could vote and drink. Thirty indicates I’m no longer a kid. Forty, fifty,…
What is it with those last five pounds that refuse to be banished into fat Heaven? Most women I know, even the most fit, moan about the five little lines on the scale that indicate they are not at their target weight. It could be ten, seven, or even more, but it seems like I,…
With the change of seasons, my website will be evolving and making some minor changes. Going forward, I will write on a number of subjects, including aging with grace, how others handle the end of their caregiving seasons, and even some book reviews. I welcome suggestions and guest blog posts. In the weeks ahead, Jane’s…
Caring for a loved one, whether a spouse, child, or aging parent, demands much from us. I know; I’ve been caring for my mother since my dad died eight years ago. At first, it involved taking her on errands and to the doctor. As her physical condition and eyesight worsened, I began walking her from…
Consider this scenario: Your father is a type 1 diabetic. His insulin pump stops working and he hasn’t received insulin for over 24 hours. He falls into a coma. Do you have the authority to call his health care plan and get an appointment and advice from a nurse? Do you have the right to…
Finding out that your loved one has dementia can be difficult and scary. You know their lifestyle will inevitably change, and you know one day, they might not remember who you are. It can be a very overwhelming and heartbreaking thought, and taking care of such a relative can be extremely challenging. It requires a…
Autumn colors, leaves falling, daylight savings; these are signs the season has changed from the lazy days of summer. There are signs of the changes in the caregiving season as well. • Your aging parent is becoming more forgetful • Your loved one is showing more fear of going out or falling down • He…
In my father’s house are many mansions. If it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. John 14:12 “I’m afraid to die.” I’ve heard this comment from more than one older person. And all are professing Christians. What is going on? Christians have an abiding belief…