I have finished the book – a BITTERSWEET SEASON, Caring for our Aging Parents and Ourselves. I have carried it everywhere with me the last few weeks, trying to squeeze in a few minutes here and there.
It is so very well done and insightful.
And it is also so very honest.
There is no rosy picture of bridge games and shuffle board associated with the author’s tale of caregiving. She does not state what a wonderful privilege it was to watch her mother’s health deteriorate nor does she romanticize the difficulty in relying on “the system” of long term care to provide 24 hour care to her mother.
She shares the emptying effect of this season on all involved, and yet, manages to see a few moments of laughter and joy. That is why it is such a great book and a must read for anyone in their 40’s-50’s who have parents now living, who will likely live for another 10 plus years.
So before you need to call our office because you suspect a mistake, neglect, or something worse, go buy this book. Read it. Share it with friends in the same boat and perhaps, the more we all know as a community about long term care, the less likely my services will be needed in the long run.