Kathy Lawrence
News and views for caregivers
What’s happening in the world that can help – or hinder – families in caring for older relatives? Here are the stories we’ve found that caregivers should know about for the sake of their families and their own futures: HMRC has been charging too much on pension withdrawals More women than men are taking out […]
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Can a homeshare help my parent feel less lonely?
Can homesharing be an answer to the growing epidemic of loneliness and depression that is affecting our older population? We asked a homeshare expert, Sam Brandman of Two Generations, about how homesharing works in practice, and how we can make it work for our parents. What is a homeshare? A homeshare arrangement brings together a […]
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Care Home Alternatives: Is A Garden Annexe Right For Your Family?
Collaborative Post As our parent’s age, there comes a time when it’s no longer suitable for them to stay in their home. Perhaps you’ve noticed they’re a little more forgetful than usual, or they’ve had yet another fall, or perhaps they’re struggling to keep on top of the housework. When this time comes, there’s a […]
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How can we help our parents avoid the worst effects of air pollution?
We’ve known for a long time that pollution has a detrimental effect on health over the long term. And now it’s been identified as a risk factor for dementia. Research looking at hospital admissions in major cities has shown that high levels of pollution can bring on serious illness at speed, triggering heart attacks, strokes […]
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News roundup for caring families
In our latest summary of news and views that affect anyone caring for older family and friends, we’ve read that: State pensions are confirmed to rise by 4% next April Changes in state pension rules have accelerated topping up We can estimate how much pension we will need in later years Plans to increase probate […]
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Mum’s behaviour has always hurt. Now dementia is making it worse
Dear Lesley, I’m looking after my 90-year old mum who has some dementia. My problem is her nasty attitude. I’m single and have to work full-time, but I visit mum twice a week and call her a couple of times nearly every day. I try taking her out to new places and for dinner, but she […]
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What’s new for caregivers?
The latest roundup of news, views and reports affecting anyone caring for older family and friends, near at hand or from a distance. Deputyship refunds available for some Pain relief strength no longer indicator for benefits Extreme cold is more dangerous than extreme heat for the vulnerable Mindfulness is good for cognitive health Omega 3 […]
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How accessible are the UK’s top attractions?
Access to places and events for the less mobile has improved significantly over the last few years. It’s been driven by a mix of legislation and a greater willingness to be as inclusive as possible. This has meant installing ramps, lifts and accessible facilities for wheelchair and mobility scooter users. For those who walk independently […]
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Can being more optimistic help us live longer?
There have been certain elements in public life recently who have exhorted the nation to be more optimistic. Possibly easier said than done, especially if you’re trying to juggle the demands of work, family and care giving. Yet recent research has suggested that people with higher levels of optimism can increase their life span. The […]
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Avoiding Funeral Poverty: 5 Ways to Help Reduce Funeral Costs
Collaborative Post Losing a loved one is never easy but imagine not having the funds to be able to say goodbye to them. Unfortunately, this is what many grieving families are not facing due to rising costs of funerals in the UK. A Loving Tribute wants to highlight the severe issue of funeral poverty and […]
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