Caring for an elderly family member can be overwhelming. But fulfilling life experiences are still possible for both caregivers and their loved ones, despite the stress and fatigue of caregiving. Even an elderly spouse, parent, or other family member who is significantly impaired or increasingly dependent can enjoy simple pleasures and share their joy and wisdom. In this book, Ann Kaiser Stearns explores the practical and personal challenges of both caregiving and successful aging. In her engaging, conversational tone, Stearns shares stories and lessons from many resilient caregivers. She couples findings from the latest research with powerful insights and problem-solving tips to help caregivers achieve the best life possible for those they care for-and for themselves as they age. Topics include* improving the quality of life for the one giving and the one receiving care* distinguishing normal aging from early warning signs * understanding caregiver sadness, resentment, guilt, and grief* using strategies and skills to minimize an impaired elder's distress and emotional outbursts and the caregiver's own anxieties about growing old* finding resources to aid in the care of the loved one and protect the caregiver from stress overload * moving forward after the death of a loved one to have a meaningful life of one's own * overcoming ageist stereotypes and deciding what kind of "old person" one will be* making life easier for those who someday will care for us Redefining Aging will help readers think differently about caregiving and their own aging. It will also help them empathize with and interact positively with their elderly loved ones while imagining a positive future for themselves.

A comprehensive guide to the challenges of elder care for family members that is both practical and profound. This book distinguishes itself by its insight into the deeper psychological and emotional challenges of caregiving, as well as the sources of resilience that allow some family members not only to meet the challenges of providing care but also to lead a rich, flourishing life. -- Jesse F. Ballenger, coeditor of Treating Dementia: Do We Have a Pill for It? Dr. Stearns brings her own unique skill set to the drawing board of the caregiving literature and suffuses the pages with expertise in pastoral counseling, grief work, and resilience. The main themes of this volume will resonate with most caregivers of older adults. -- Victor Molinari, coeditor of Supporting the Caregiver in Dementia: A Guide for Health Care Professionals Blending her own experience with those of others and a careful reading of published material, Ann Kaiser Stearns offers a wide-ranging and thoughtful discussion of lessons learned about the joys and challenges of caregiving for a chronically ill loved one. -- Peter V. Rabins, MD, MPH, coauthor of The 36-Hour Day: A Family Guide to Caring for People Who Have Alzheimer Disease, Other Dementias, and Memory Loss

About the Author
The author of the national best seller Living Through Personal Crisis, published in seven languages, Ann Kaiser Stearns, PhD, is a professor of behavioral science at the Community College of Baltimore County. She has received excellence in teaching awards from the Maryland Psychological Association, Johns Hopkins University, and Loyola University Maryland.

Reviews
Ann Kaiser Stearns, a professor of behavioral science at the Community College of Baltimore County, combines research, insights and problem-solving tips in her new book, "Redefining Aging: A Caregiver's Guide to Living Your Best Life".
-WYPR



Book Information
ISBN 9781421423685
Author Ann Kaiser Stearns
Format Paperback
Page Count 312
Imprint Johns Hopkins University Press
Publisher Johns Hopkins University Press
Weight(grams) 431g
Dimensions(mm) 229mm * 152mm * 19mm