Kathy Lawrence
Christmas gifts for older family and friends 2019
This is our gift list for 2019. Many of the ideas here are still available. But for the latest update, visit our new list of ideas for thoughtful gifts for 2021. Finding the right present for an older parent or grandparent gets increasingly hard. So we’ve been looking for gifts that add fun and luxury to […]
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The Stigmas of Elderly Life
Collaborative Post There are so many stigmas that surround old age, and some people assume that as soon as you reach the age of thirty, you’re old. And the feeling of fearing old age only comes from the stigmas that float around society. From the lack of social life, to the aches and pains that […]
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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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