When providing care for a friend, neighbor, or loved one, understanding the diverse and often unfamiliar terminology can be as essential as understanding the intricacies of the care journey itself. I’ll never forget the first time a Home Health Aide asked to see my Dad’s care plan. We were standing in my parents’ kitchen and I was bleary-eyed, still in shock, and blinked at her as if she had just spoken to me in Klingon. A care plan? “No one at the hospital said anything about that – I’ll need your help.” Thankfully, she was one of those gentle souls who patiently guided me as I came up with a rudimentary rough draft on a piece of peach-colored paper.

As family caregivers, we often find ourselves in the delicate position of broaching challenging and embarrasing discussions with our loved ones. Whether it's tackling health concerns, navigating financial matters, or delving into personal issues, these conversations can feel like tiptoeing through a minefield. Shifting family dynamics are rarely easy but with a thoughtful approach and some practical strategies, we can transform these talks from nerve-wracking to nurturing.

I'm lucky - I have a younger sister and we have spent the past 44 years as best friends. We can talk about anything and rarely argue, except when it comes to what constitutes a good movie. We are caring for our aging parent together and this is what I have learned.