Who is doing work that matters?

Dr. Peter Lichtenberg is a rare find — a combination of a first-class leader at the Institute of Gerontology at Wayne State, a respected researcher and author, a renowned thought leader in the field of dementia, and someone who deeply cares about older people.

For those of you that question the generosity of others, Dr. Lichtenberg will change your mind.

People often do not reach out for help during their eldercare journey, perhaps because caregivers are exhausted or they don’t want to burden others. You do not need to find one ideal person—instead consider a collection of people that you can call upon when you need help or reinforcement.

The words I hear most often from people who cared for an aging relative are: “I wish I understood then what I understand now.”

That is why my next series of blogs will highlight thought leaders, books, websites, and innovative concepts I wish I knew about BEFORE I cared for my parents.

The single most important message I can share is: don’t do it alone. Although I am an only child without children, I did not travel the labyrinth of eldercare alone. I was so fortunate to have so many wonderful people help me in the journey.