Problems & Solutions
Real Answers to the Everyday Problems of Caring for an Aging Parent
Falls at night. Forgotten pills. A parent who gets confused every evening. A mom who lives alone, far away. These guides explain why each problem happens, when to call the doctor, and what actually helps, starting with changes that cost nothing, then the tools and products worth considering. Written with a pharmacist’s eye for safety.
Falls & Safety
Elderly Parent Falling at Night? Causes and Practical Fixes
Why night-time falls happen, including medication causes most families miss, plus practical fixes you can start tonight.
How to Keep an Elderly Parent Living Alone Safe
Medical alerts and fall detection, daily check-ins, fall-proofing, medication safety and the signs living alone may no longer be safe.
Mobility
Elderly Parent Struggling to Get Up From a Chair? What Really Helps
Why standing gets harder, a safer technique physical therapists teach, the right chair, gentle strength exercises and equipment that helps.
Dementia & Memory
What Is Sundowning? Why Evenings Get Harder With Dementia, and What Helps
What causes late-day confusion and agitation, whether it means decline, when to call the doctor, and how to make evenings calmer.
Medication
Parent Forgetting to Take Their Medication? A Pharmacist’s Guide
Why doses get missed, what to do about a double dose, and five practical steps to make medications simpler and safer.
Trouble Swallowing Pills? Safe Tips From a Pharmacist
Techniques that really help, which pills must never be crushed, and easier medicine forms to ask your pharmacist about.
Comfort & Health
Elderly Parent Always Cold? Causes, Warning Signs and Solutions
Normal aging vs medical causes like thyroid, anemia and medications, the warning signs of indoor hypothermia, and safe ways to stay warm.
More help for families
See our Guides & Advice on care options, caregiver burnout and talking to aging parents; our free health tools, including a home safety assessment and printable medication schedule; and our product guides for the equipment that helps.
The information in this section is general and is not a substitute for advice from a doctor or pharmacist who knows your loved one’s situation. In an emergency, call 911.