Caring for Aging Loved Ones

We desire to provide compassionate support and relevant information to those navigating the challenges of caring for their aging loved ones. This page offers a list of upcoming events, links to websites and podcasts, and reading suggestions that may be helpful.

Our team would be happy to walk along side you in your journey and help in any way we can. If you would like someone from our Caring for Aging Loved Ones Support team to contact you, please fill out the form below. 

Support Team Members: 

 Tammy Gregory | Mark Cooper | Becky Coady | Bob Ruch | Dennis Vogel | Dana Means | Dawn Reece

Resources

Agencies & Non-Profits: 

Aging Resources of Central Iowa: The mission of Aging Resources of Central Iowa is to lead, advocate and serve as well as plan and coordinate resources in the provision of services to persons in central Iowa, their families, caregivers or representatives.

Eldercare Locator: Run by the Administration on Aging, this research tool will lead you to the “area agency on aging” for local services, benefits and options where your aging loved one lives. Search by zip code or city and state. 

Senior Health Insurance Information Program (SHIIP): A free, objective and confidential service offered through the state of Iowa to help people sort through confusing information about Medicare and health insurance.

BenefitsCheckUp: Run by the National Council on Aging, this search tool shows you what federal, state and local benefits an aging loved one is eligible for. Search is by zip code.

For a longer list of agency and non-profit resources, click below to view. 

Books

"Helping Your Aging Parents: A Guide For Caregivers With Practical Tips To Take Care of Your Loved Ones, Stay Organized, and Maintain Balance in Your Life" by John Fagan MD (2023)

"How to Care for Aging Parents, 3rd Edition: A One-Stop Resource for All Your Medical, Financial, Housing, and Emotional Issues"  – by Virginia Morris (2014)

"Mom, Dad…Can We Talk - Helping Our Aging Parents with the Insight and Wisdom of Others" by Dick Edwards (2009)

"My Silly Granny" by Terri Leedom (2023)

This children's book was written to provide some insight into how people with dementia behave in hopes of reducing children's anxiety about their elderly relatives who may sometimes forget important things or act in strange ways.

Articles

 "9 Tips on Visiting Someone with Dementia"

"When to Say No, and How to Say No to Caregiving"

Podcasts

"Caring for Aging Parents" from Ridgemont University

Miscellaneous

Straight Talk Senior Living Series: This groups hosts live events and videos of talks with professionals in Des Moines on a variety of topics. 

AARP Caregiving Guide with Checklists