The following is a true story. I wish it weren’t.

I deleted the names and identifiable details because the caregiver is being sued by her siblings. I’m writing this blog to help those providing elder care so that the things described below don’t happen to them.

A woman was raising her three children by herself. She is separated from her husband. Her father showed signs of needing care so she started to provide elder care. The woman has three siblings who took no interest in their father’s care. At one point, her brother suggested that his sister take their father in his confused and weakened state to the park and abandon him knowing that someone would notice him and take care of him.

After the father died the siblings began to inquire as to what happened to the father’s social security money. They initiated a law suit against the caregiver to recover what they perceive as their share in his income.

My wife, my family and I took care of her elderly father starting when he was eighty nine years old. We provided care both while he lived semi-independently in his own home and when he lived with us for nearly seven years. Like most people who never provided elder care, we started with open hearts and empty heads. The mistakes we made were numerous and costly.

I learned from my mistakes. I interviewed other caregivers, spoke with the experts, and did my research.

It is my hope that this blog and the information available at homecaresurvival.com will be a useful resource. I will share with you the mindset necessary to provide elder care that is comforting and effective and is less stressful. I will provide with you ways to protect yourself and your assets from those who won’t lend a hand during the caring but want to be first in line for the sharing.