Caring for Your Parents: The Complete AARP Guide

by Hugh Delehanty, Elinor Ginzler, Mary Pipher (Foreword)

Reflecting the expertise of the AARP, this helpful guide for children of aging parents explains how to cope with the unique challenges of dealing with older adults, covering such topics as finding quality health care, avoiding consumer scams, disposing of an estate, creating an elder-friendly environment, and more.

Genres: Health, Self Help, Reference

240 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 2005

About the author

Hugh Delehanty is a former editor for Sports Illustrated and People. He is also the coauthor of Phil Jackson’s bestselling memoir Sacred Hoops.

Reviews

[Sherri Anderson · Rating 3 out of 5]

I found some good information in the book not only about caring for my parents but things I need to plan for in my future. I wish the book had been revised to bring it more up to date as it was written in 2009.

[Mike · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the best of the three books on eldercare that I read. It is very much focused on children taking care of parents (as opposed to finding assisted living or nursing home arrangements, although those subjects are covered). This book has more practical information than the other books, and fewer anecdotal stories, although there are plenty of these as well. The book is quite honest in describing what dying is like, which is a little scary, since, as Adam said, it is frequently painful and miserable (and certain). The stages of Alzheimer disease were particularly hard to read. The book focuses more on the caregiver than the other books, covering subjects such as preparing for the parent's death and the grieving process afterwards. I will be buying copies for my siblings.

[Artnoose McMoose · Rating 5 out of 5]

My sister and I both read this book so that we'd be more or less on the same page with the situation of our aging parents. I found it to be very thoughtful and informative, helping with things like how to approach "end of life" conversations, basic tips on dealing with dementia, and checklists to determine what point your parents are at. The issue of sibling relationships was a much larger part of the book than I expected, which makes sense because after your parents pass away, your siblings are (most likely) still around.

[Bill Sleeman · Rating 4 out of 5]

Very good. Now that my wife and I have joined the sandwich generation I appreciate the many helpful comments and words of wisdom here. The copy I read came from a local library but I have ordered two copies (one for myself; one for a family member) it is that useful. What I liked about this book most was that it offered ideas and things to consider not only about my family but also ideas on how to better prepare for my (our) own future.

[Cymiki · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thumbed through this and found the checklists in the back of the book very useful and handy for when the time may or may not come to handle next stage issues in my parents' lives. Provides good guides to useful websites, too.

[Elizabeth · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a terrific primer addressing the issues of families with older parents. I was encouraged to read scenarios that are familiar to me--that they are perfectly normal and natural. The book was practical but also hopeful. I appreciated the tips about being sensitive and patient.

[Robin A. · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a good, basic guide to important information, and draft documents anyone concerned with caring for aging parents or other loved-ones should know. It is dated, printed in 2008. It provides a nice starting point, or supplemental information, for those seeking guidance.

[Jenni · Rating 4 out of 5]

A great practical overview of things to consider, questions to ask, resources to gather info on aging, long term health and end of life concerns for parents. Not just facts but also some helpful psychological tips for elders and their care givers. Recommended.

[Robyn · Rating 4 out of 5]

Good overview with lots of resources.

[Steven Spector · Rating 4 out of 5]

Excellent and helpful. Trust me!