Carol O'Dell, Caring.com contributing editor
Carol D. O'Dell is the author of Mothering Mother: A Daughter's Humorous and Heartbreaking Memoir, about her experience caring for her mother through Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, and coronary diseases. Visit her blog that explores the joys and challenges of caregiving at Caregiving, Mothering Mother and More. Carol is a featured speaker at caregiver workshops and conferences of caregivers and healthcare and geriatric professionals.
Recently Published on Caring.com
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E-mails Without a Computer — May 16, 2013Wouldn't it be nice to send your loved ones a photo or an e-mail when you think of them? You just know you could brighten up their day if only they could connect with moder...
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Cell Phones for Seniors — May 10, 2013How did we ever survive without cell phones? Gone are the days of pay phones on street corners or courtesy phones in business lobbies. Cell phones not only allow us to conn... -
Caregiving Organizer — May 09, 2013Have you ever been at a doctor's office, or even the hospital, and not had on hand all the information you needed? Caregivers have a lot to keep track of -- medication... -
Senior-Friendly TV Remote — Apr 26, 2013Have you ever tried to help an elder understand and operate a TV remote control? Perhaps you've found yourself so frustrated you felt like throwing the remote clear across ... -
Meditation and Stretching Routines — Apr 20, 2013How do you prevent falls? By becoming as strong, as balanced, and as agile as you can be. The Relaxation With Celeste audio guides aim to help older adults and their caregi... -
18 Great Caregiver Stories on the Web — Feb 27, 2013Being a caregiver can feel a lot like being a lone ranger. We know other caregivers are "out there," but our day-to-day lives don't allow us to meet with others who are fac... -
Centenarians' Secrets — Jan 30, 2013Blowing out 100 birthday candles is more possible than ever. According to the U.S. National Institute on Aging, we're on the brink of a watershed moment in history. Quite s... -
Top Assisted Living Trends — Jan 16, 2013How will you find a good assisted living community for yourself or your loved one? A place that's affordable and safe, with excellent care, warm surroundings, and a friendl... -
Quote Board — Jul 09, 2012Does your mom or dad (or another family member) have a million great sayings? Why not capture a favorite quote and display it? What's great about your own quote board is th... -
Gratitude Tree — Jul 02, 2012It's easy to complain. Remembering to be grateful needs a nudge. Studies have shown that being grateful boosts the immune system, curbs depression, and even contributes to ... -
Organize a Care Items Swap — Jun 18, 2012Do you have a walker you're no longer using? Or a bed rail or cane? If your older loved one attends an adult daycare group, Sunday School class, or a bridge or book club, a... -
Family Trivia — Jun 11, 2012Do you know who was president the year you were born? Which celebrity shares your birthday? What famous person is from your hometown? Start a family trivia collection title... -
Home Documentation — Jun 04, 2012Home documentation is a practical and often necessary way to spend a few hours. You may choose to videotape your items for insurance purposes. Also, be sure to keep notes a... -
Airfield Picnic — May 28, 2012Need some Dad-time? Why not plan an airfield picnic? Pack some goodies and head out to your local/smaller airfield to watch the planes take off and land. It's a super way t... -
Write Your Memoir — May 21, 2012Have you ever thought of writing a memoir? Does the task of writing an entire book seem daunting? It doesn't have to be. A memoir simply means "memory." It isn't as much ab... -
Stamped Thank-You and Thinking-of-You Cards — May 14, 2012As delightful as it is to receive a card in the mail, it's just as satisfying to send one. Saying thank you to the nurse who took extra time with you on your last doctor's ... -
Watch Deconstruction — May 07, 2012Chances are, you've inherited a watch, and it's probably not working. You keep meaning to get it fixed, but why not let your dad or another male loved one deconstruct it an... -
Storytelling — Apr 30, 2012Family storytelling is as fun today as it ever was, and it's an easy way to capture memories and preserve a legacy. Stories need listeners, and creating a welcoming time an... -
Memory Books — Apr 23, 2012Memory books provide an easy and touching way to remember loved ones. Less busy than a traditional photo or scrapbook, a memory book can bring comfort to those who have dem... -
Couponing — Apr 16, 2012It seems that everyone is trying to find ways to stretch a dollar, making couponing hipper than ever. You might feel that you don't always have the time or concentration it... -
Antiquing With Mom — Apr 09, 2012Want to make your mother's eyes light up? Suggest that the two of you spend an hour or two antiquing. Most communities have antique stores, and it's not as much about what ... -
Car Shows With Dad — Apr 02, 2012Most men enjoy cars. That's why a car show is a great activity to enjoy with your dad (or husband, or any guy). Car shows take place all over the country, ranging from a ga... -
Reading Aloud — Mar 26, 2012Reading out loud to your loved one is a wonderful way to pass time while providing an easy, mini cognitive workout (for both of you!). Choose a favorite classic, poetry, in... -
The Sunday Drive — Mar 19, 2012Sunday afternoons have their own rhythm. They're great times to take a nap, gather with family and friends, or take a Sunday drive. Remember when you and your family used t... -
Checkers and Tiddlywinks — Mar 12, 2012When was the last time you played checkers or jacks -- or tiddlywinks? It's still fun -- and you already know how to play. Classic toys have made a comeback. And they're a ...
