Why Behavior May Change If you care for someone with dementia, you may notice their symptoms feel worse in the winter—especially late in the afternoon and evening. Shorter days and less sunlight can lead to: More “sundowning.” Confusion, agitation, or pacing late in the day. Disturbed sleep. Napping all afternoon and then being awake all […]
Dementia and Dark Winter Days Read More »
Is It Time to Get Extra Help at Home? January is when many families realize, “The holidays were harder than we expected.” Maybe you noticed: Your loved one is forgetting medications or appointments. The house is less tidy than it used to be. Dressing, bathing, or getting to the bathroom safely is becoming a challenge.
Keeping Pets (and Their People) Safe in the Cold Pets are often seniors’ closest companions—but winter in Northern Virginia can be tough on both people and animals. If your loved one has a dog or cat, here are a few winter tips: Watch cold‑weather walks. Ice, snow, and dark evenings increase fall risk for older
I am a family caregiver, and I am honored to do that. My husband and I care for my father, and we cared for my mother as well until she passed away. When my parents moved into our home, we thought we knew what we signed up for…and we appreciated the opportunity. And I still
Respite Care is for Everyone – Including Me Read More »
…That Actually Work for Aging Loved Ones January is when everyone talks about big resolutions. For older adults, huge goals can feel overwhelming or unrealistic—but small, steady changes can make a big difference. Here are realistic “resolutions” you can set with your loved one: Move a little every day. A short hallway walk, gentle stretches,
New Year’s Resolutions… Read More »
How to Help a Loved One Feel Less Alone The holidays are supposed to be “the most wonderful time of the year,” but for many older adults, they’re actually the loneliest. Maybe your mom is in a senior community, and most friends have passed away. Maybe your dad is still at home, but family is
Holiday Loneliness Read More »
Grieving a Parent or Spouse in a Season of Joy The holidays are sold as a time of joy, family, and warmth. But if you’ve lost a spouse or a parent, this season can feel like salt in a wound. The empty chair at the table. The stocking you don’t hang. The songs that bring
When the Holidays Hurt Read More »
My first adult caregiver experiences were exhausting, emotionally and physically. I felt tired and terrified — like I was definitely doing it wrong. I thought that I was empathetic, have done basics to care for sick or aging folks before, and figured I would wing it. Oof. After I saw the way that the Certified
Keep the Honor, Get some help Read More »
I love the holidays. My childhood holidays were full of family fun, delicious food, and laughter. And by holiday, I will use my mom’s generous definition – any day can be an excuse for the three above items. And yet, I have lived through some rough holidays after deep grief. I see the loneliness that
Fa La La and Everything Read More »
Oldest Daughter Connection The Step-Up Moment It started with cobwebs. Cobwebs in the guest bathroom — one smallish corner of spider webs. Sounds silly, I know. But my parents were so meticulous about cleaning their house, so proud of it, and so serious about maintaining their home that seeing cobwebs was shocking. Could they see
Eldest Daughter Connection Read More »
Lavenderly caregivers help with bathing, meals, tech, pets, and companionship—so your loved one isn't alone, and you're not doing this by yourself.
We start with a 10–15 minute Friendly Care Call to learn what you need and build a simple plan.
