Family Caregiver Blog

At Heather Hersee Care Management, we understand the pressures you are under as a family caregiver. This blog is designed to support you in the incredibly important work that you do.

As the greater Boston experts in family caregiving, we have resources, tips and information that can make your life much easier.

If you would like help, give us a call at: 617-283-1041.


Subtle signs of a heart attack

Subtle signs of a heart attackIt may surprise you to learn that the signs of a heart attack, especially in women, can be very different than those for men. Subtle signs of a heart attack We all know the classic heart attack portrayed over and over again in movies and on TV: Someone writhing in sudden, severe chest pain. But...

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When your relative is actively dying

When your relative is actively dyingIn the last two weeks, as a loved one is nearing death, it is natural to want to be at their side. But then, what? Especially if you have never been in this situation before, you may feel uncertain—even awkward—about what to do. The ideal is to be a calm, reassuring, and loving presence focused...

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Need a new doctor?

Need a new doctor?The pandemic has brought on a wave of physician retirements. Perhaps one of your relative's doctors has sent a letter announcing the close of their practice. Yikes! When choosing a new physician, it's worth the time to do some research. The right fit is critical to your loved one's health and well-being. Begin by asking...

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Friends? Who has time?

Friends? Who has time?If you are like most family caregivers, your social life has dropped in priority as you juggle your loved one's needs. There just aren't enough hours in the day to keep up all your friendships in addition to your family responsibilities. It may also be that friendships are now harder to keep. Many people don't...

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A spouse’s grief in the face of dementia

A spouse's grief in the face of dementiaGrief is the expected response to a loved one's death. We expect to mourn, and we receive comfort from others. But in the context of a dementia, such as Alzheimer's disease, the loss is not as clear cut. Your partner is "here but not here." And you do not receive the same support or acknowledgment...

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Making the best use of your time off

Making the best use of your time offTime off from caregiving is precious. But after a break, many family caregivers find they don't feel as refreshed as they hoped they would. Current research provides insights about how to get the most from a respite break. Common respite mistakes Unplanned time. It may sound good to "have no plans." But that can backfire...

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Writing the last chapter

Writing the last chapterIf your loved one has health challenges, they may be feeling a loss of control. Add to that a terminal diagnosis and a sense of doom may prevail. But recognizing that life is coming to a close does not have to mean one waits glumly for the end. Following are some of the many ways...

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Private pay services for care at home

Private pay services for care at homeTypically, it's family members who fill in to perform the necessary tasks. But for many, perhaps including you, there are obstacles to helping on a regular basis. (Quitting your job to provide care is risky. Leaving work midcareer jeopardizes your retirement options and savings.) Of course, you can hire people to support a loved one...

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Hearing the TV better

Hearing the TV betterIs your loved one having trouble hearing the television? Closed captioning isn't helping enough? Check out these possible solutions. Better sound from the TV. Check the TV for special audio settings that enhance dialogue and reduce background noise. Or purchase a "soundbar" to plug in to the TV. These improve audio volume and crispness. Place...

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Engaging activities for persons with dementia

Engaging activities for persons with dementiaIt is usually obvious what a person with dementia is no longer able to do. But finding things your loved one CAN do may feel like a challenge, especially if memory loss is severe. Here are some tips: Activities are important. They answer core human needs for identity and personal expression life purpose and meaning...

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