There are no two ways about it: Being a caregiver for a friend or loved one poses an enormous challenge to virtually everyone, as you try to balance the needs of your care recipient with your own, all the while learning “on the job” how to do the best you can for the person for whom you’re caring. It’s fair to say that no one comes to the task of caregiving knowing exactly what lies ahead or what changes may arise that put your caregiving commitment to the test. Fortunately, several new books have been published recently that should provide guidance, practical suggestions, and support to those who bear this responsibility.

As most caregivers know, difficult or uncomfortable conversations are part of the regular territory of caregiving for older adults. That’s why it’s welcome news that 2 new books will be available to help you think through these conversations and perhaps even give you the words necessary to achieve a positive and productive outcome. First, consider the new book produced by the National Aging in Place Council, Difficult Aging in Place Conversations: What Industry Experts Have to Say. Addressing 5 essential topics relevant to all seniors aging in place- including housing, health, finances, transportation, and social interactions- this book is filled with expert advice and tips to help initiate and facilitate conversations about some of these difficult topics. Anyone helping an older parent or other loved one navigate the challenges of aging in place should find this a valuable tool and source of wisdom. And speaking of talking, later this month comes the publication of another conversation-support book entitled Let’s Talk About Aging Parents: A Real-Life Guide to Solving Problems with 27 Essential Conversations. Written by Canadian aging advocate Laura Tamblyn Watts, Founder and CEO of the Canadian advocacy organization CanAge, the book addresses a wide range of topics from driving to dementia, providing prompts, scripts, and roadmaps for the tricky conversations necessary to support both older adults living in the community and the loved ones who support and maintain them. 

Agebuzz Guest Blogger and Senior Care Influencer Lance A. Slatton has also just published a valuable new book, The All Home Care Matters Official Family Caregivers’ Guide. Taking you through the range of issues and emotions that start with the recognition that your aging loved ones need help until that caregiver journey ends, this book should be your companion as you navigate the challenges of caregiving. Lance is a hands-on healthcare professional and expert on all matters related to caregiving and home care, and you’ll be supported with his wisdom and guidance by your side.

Finally, Clinical Psychologist Anne Applebaum just published a book entitled Stand By Me: A Guide to Navigating Modern, Meaningful Caregiving. An Associate Psychology Professor at Weill Cornell Medicine and an Associate Attending Psychologist at Memorial Sloan Kettering (MSK) Cancer Center, Dr. Applebaum is the Founding Director of the Caregivers Clinic at MSK. She knows firsthand what the demands can be on caregivers and how the burdens and challenges can be eased while supporting the needs and conflicting emotions of the caregiver herself. In a recent interview with Maria Shriver, Dr. Applebaum set out 8 tips for caregivers to take some control in what is often an unpredictable situation. So breathe deeply, take a moment, and find out more here.