The Family Guide to Long-term Care

Decisions regarding the long-term care of an aging parent are difficult to make in the best of times, but unfortunately they are often left until a crisis situation arises and emotion replaces careful thought. This series helps adult children and their aging parents through the process of deciding at what point outside care becomes an appropriate choice, assessing the level of care necessary, selecting the right facility, and choosing who will manage the financial and medical affairs of the parent. The opening volume, Getting Started, helps adult children identify signs that a parent needs more assistance than can be provided by family, and explores the various care options available, including home-based services. In volume two, Making the Right Choice, healthcare professionals and senior living experts go into greater detail about evaluating the different types of facilities available, underscoring the importance of including the parent in any decision. Volume three, Staying Involved, guides families through the transition period and emphasizes the importance of continued family involvement in helping the aging parent successfully move into a new environment. Addressing a hot topic among those families who are trying to care for aging parents while raising their own children and juggling the demands of a job, this excellent series, which is presented in a sensitive yet realistic manner, will help families begin the discussion and plan ahead for a time when outside help may be needed. An excellent choice for academic nursing or gerontology programs, medical facilities, and general public library collections, this reasonably priced set is highly recommended. Aud: C, P. (L. Stevens)