Healthcare can get incredibly complex with little warning. One minute you’re in the clinic for a standard checkup, then suddenly you’re making biweekly visits to specialists and visiting phlebotomists so often you have to check the orders to ensure the physician’s name isn’t Dr. Acula. So there’s no shame in taking a “just tell me [...]
The autism spectrum covers a surprisingly broad range of individuals, personalities, perspectives, strengths, and challenges. Especially in light of emerging research, improved diagnostic methods, and better awareness and public perception, people who previously assumed they were “just different” are learning there’s more to it than that. What autism looks like on the outside, and feels [...]
Looking after an elderly family member or loved one can be both rewarding and challenging at the same time. But transitioning to serving as the primary caregiver can be an unexpected escalation of the expectations, responsibilities, and demands on your time and resources.Even so, you may still feel you’re prepared to provide the support they [...]
We often take it for granted, but this whole “being alive” business is hard work. Sure, by the time we reach our 20s, many of us can at least go about our day without risking mortal peril, but we didn’t start that way, and many of us won’t end that way either. As we grow [...]
When a loved one has support needs, it can lead to a lot of very difficult conversations. Some of the hardest issues to address are if, and when, to look beyond the family for additional assistance. But putting off these concerns won’t improve things, and may keep you and your loved one from getting the [...]
Once you reach a certain age, there seems to be no shortage of “important” things to talk about. Sure, there are some weighty conversations to be had, and sometimes uncomfortable realities have to be addressed directly. But what use are the latter years of life if they can’t be actually lived? Especially for anyone who [...]
As parents reach their golden years, sometimes their children find themselves needing to step in and help them in unexpected ways. It’s a difficult reality to be presented with, one made even harder by how much we’d rather not think about it. But it’s a reality that a lot of us will have to face [...]
Hospice care is a specialized form of medical care for people nearing the end of their lives. It focuses on comfort and quality of life rather than curing an illness. Many people wonder about the average cost of hospice care when considering this option for themselves or a loved one. Let's explore the factors that [...]
Palliative care is a special type of medical care for people with serious illnesses. It focuses on providing relief from symptoms and stress of a serious illness. The goal is to improve quality of life for both the patient and the family. Palliative medicine is provided by a team of doctors, nurses, and other specialists. [...]
As our loved ones age, we often face tough choices about their care. A large concern surrounds their ideal living options. If living at home has begun to be less feasible, two common senior living choices are then an assisted living facility and a nursing home. But what's the difference? This article will help you [...]