Ancient Bones Offer Clues To How Long Ago Humans Cared For The Vulnerable
The field of bioarchaeology look to skeletons that are thousands of years old for insights into the nature of long ago societies.
caregiving
Caring For A Loved One At Home Can Have A Steep Learning Curve
People caring for someone at home often have zero training. Many learn on the fly, and some states are passing laws to make sure caregivers get at least basic instruction in home care.
Seeing A Mother's Alzheimer's As A Time Of Healing And Magic
Dana Walrath used her skills as an artist and medical anthropologist to chronicle her mother's final years with dementia. The process helped her see beyond the loss and embrace the moment.
When Mom Has Alzheimer's, A Stranger Comes For Christmas
The holidays can be difficult for families dealing with Alzheimer's, especially if the person with the disease is the one who used to be the heart and soul of Christmas.
When Alzheimer's Steals Your Appetite, Remember To Laugh
Fresh grilled swordfish now tastes like rolled newspapers to Greg O'Brien, an unexpected effect of his Alzheimer's. And shopping without a grocery list is futile. But summer barbecues are still sweet.
When Losing Memory Means Losing Home
As his Alzheimer's progresses, journalist Greg O'Brien and his wife have decided it's time to leave the home where they raised their three kids. The move is turning up some sweet discoveries.
Are You Sick, And Sick Of Hearing 'Everything Happens For A Reason'?
Afraid of saying the wrong thing to someone with a serious illness? Now there are "empathy cards" that make fun of those well-meaning but tasteless remarks.
Supporting A Spouse With Alzheimer's: 'I Don't Get Angry Anymore'
Mary Catherine O'Brien says when she married her husband, Greg, in 1977, he was funny and outgoing. Alzheimer's disease has stolen much of that, she says, but the two are closer than ever.
As A Husband Becomes Caregiver To His Wife, A Marriage Evolves
Rick Rayburn became a full-time caregiver to Marianne, his wife of 42 years, after she developed dementia. She may not be the woman he married, but he says she's helping him become a better husband.