Ed Asner is well known for his Emmy-winning role as Lou Grant on “The Mary Tyler Moore Show” and it’s spinoff series, “Lou Grant.” Asner took part in a nationwide campaign for the Humane Society of the United States that posed the question: “What would happen to your pet if you were not here?” Its purpose is to encourage people to provide in advance for their pets in case of a serious illness, death, or an emergency which suddenly takes the owner away. He also hosted a video program on Elder Abuse Prevention. This is an extremely important issue for all family caregivers.

Gary Barg:  I am a real fan of your work with the Humane Society of the United States and trying to promote the idea of pet trusts.

Ed Asner:  Well, I think it is cruel not to make plans for what happens to your pets when you die. When I was married, we had three kids.  We had a vast menagerie of animals: three big dogs, four or five cats, turtles, fish, birds, you name it.  We even had a lab rat that got loose.  The animals filled our lives and were a wonderful glue to bind us together. Then eventually my wife and I divorced and for 26 years, I went without an animal.  I had 26 years without a cat in my life and it is night and day for me to have them in my life now...read more

Take Care

Gary Barg
Editor-in-Chief
gary@caregiver.com

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Feature Article

In Hot Water By Jennifer Bradley, Staff Writer

A hot shower is a must for many people to either start or finish the day. For the elderly, it can be the same, but also a risky undertaking. In all age groups, tap water scalds are the second most common cause of burn injuries. Elderly loved ones, however, are at a greater risk for scalding than other populations for a variety of reasons. The Burn Foundation says that hot water causes third-degree burns in one second at 156 degrees F, in two seconds at 149 degrees F, in five seconds at 140 degrees F, and in 15 seconds at 133 degrees F...read more

Guest Column

Strategies for Special Holidays By David Lowell, MD

The holidays can be a time of renewal - renewal of friendships through visits and cards, renewal of family relationships through gatherings and shared meals, and renewal of one’s faith. But the holidays also are a time that can be particularly challenging for a caregiver. It is a time during which the changes in one’s life are highlighted and there are additional demands placed upon on an already stressed life...read more

Caretips

Incontinence Tips As many as 13 million people deal with incontinence. Incontinence is a correctable, yet costly condition, with an excess of 30 billion dollars spent last year alone on treatment. Incontinence is a symptom of other problems such as nerve disorders, loss of sensation and weakening muscles. It can also occur due to medications or surgery and affects approximately 10-15% of seniors age 65 and over...read more

Carenotes

My grandfather just died. He had one caregiver for four years and another person who was part help around the house and part caregiver for 27 years. Both worked part-time. Our family isn't sure what is appropriate severance for these people. Are there any standards or do you have any suggestions? Thank you! Answer This Week's CareNote

Caregiver.com Support Group Directory. Click here for information about any caregiver support groups in your area. Caregivers need your help. Please add information about your local support groups to our Support Group Directory.

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