Managing our parents’ lives
can be overwhelming and you don’t need to do this alone.

It is so very common for us to be living our lives, working, managing daily issues, fitting in calls or visits with parents when suddenly - or gradually - we realize that their needs have increased. While many people love and want to help their folks, others may have had a complicated relationship with parents over the years. Either way, there comes a time when our role changes and we are needed in a new way. This affects everything - and can really feel overwhelming.

Most of us aren’t prepared to manage our parent’s health and lives. And we are often isolated. We’re not supposed to complain about it. After all, they are our parents!

But what do we know about geriatric issues? How are we to take on the additional responsibilities - especially if we live far away or have our own children, siblings, health or financial issues, or a partner to care for?

What if we don’t have siblings who can - or will - help us? What if we have siblings who make things harder, not easier?

What if, what if, what if?

Joining a peer support group offers comfort, connects you with others who can totally understand your experience, introduces you to new ideas/strategies, and generally puts things in perspective. Please reach out to learn more.

I work with clients to get a sense of the big picture of their project while also fleshing out and handling the details. I listen to your priorities and concerns, then I strategize with you, make referrals, offer guidance and resources, and provide hands-on help to get things done.

Some common projects include:

• Preparing to move, disbursing possessions, floor planning, moving, and settling into a new home

• Getting organized or tackling the piles in the closet/basement/garage

• Audio recording life stories

• Planning a celebration of life

Please reach out if you’ve got a project ahead and you’d like some help.