Would You Rather Spend an Evening with Your Dog Than Your Partner?
Or perhaps you feel you don’t need friends because you have your dog? If these questions resonate with you, you might be wondering if your love for your furry friend is reaching new heights.
Dolly Dorms: Grow Old Disgracefully With Communal Living
Does the thought of a traditional care home make you cringe? Does the idea of living alone feel like a recipe for loneliness? As we age, our living options often seem limited and less fun. But what if there was another way?
When Children Cut Contact: Understanding and Healing the Rift
While it often makes headline news when high-profile families experience disputes, such as the recent issues within the British royal family involving Prince Harry and his children, Archie and Lilibet, many ordinary families face similar challenges.
When Love Is Tested: Managing Personality Changes in Loved Ones
When the ones we love change before our eyes, whether due to old age, an accident, or illness, it can feel as though we've lost them while they're still right beside us. Their altered personality might make them seem like strangers, and it's a painful adjustment for everyone involved. Here are some practical steps to navigate this difficult journey with understanding and compassion.
From Love Letters to Facebook: The Evolution of Keeping in Touch
In Jojo Moyes' novel and Netflix film "The Last Letter from Your Lover," we dive into the world of 1965, where a secret love affair blooms through a series of heartfelt letters. Jennifer Stirling, stuck in an unhappy marriage, finds comfort and excitement in her correspondence with Anthony O’Hare, a charming journalist. These letters, hidden for decades, are discovered by Ellie Haworth, a modern journalist. Ellie becomes absorbed in the romance and passion of these old letters, which is so different from how we communicate today.
Calm Your Mind with the Art of Journaling
In our fast-paced, digitally-dominated world, finding moments of introspection can feel like a luxury we can't afford. Yet, the simple act of putting pen to paper, a practice known as journaling, has been championed by psychologists as a powerful tool for mental well-being.
A Member’s Response: Discovering My Father Wasn't in Control of His Medication
After reading the article on ensuring parents take their prescribed medicines, I felt compelled to share my own experience with my father. I had noticed that my dad was becoming more forgetful recently, and his behavior had started to worry me. It began with small things, like misplacing items or repeating questions, but then it escalated to much more concerning signs.
The Surprising Healing Power of Poetry
Many people wouldn't think of turning to poetry for therapy or guidance, or even select to read poems, but those who do are often pleasantly surprised by the profound impact it can have.
The Hidden Shifts: Understanding How Age and Illness Can Alter Personalities
Life, with all its unpredictability, has a way of surprising us in unexpected ways - not always in a good way but always something to learn from. It may be something happening to those we care for - in particular, age and illness can bring about profound changes, not just to our bodies but to our very essence.
Replacing Guilt with Laughter: Finding balance in Dementia Care
As we go through the challenging journey of caring for a loved one with dementia, we often find ourselves grappling with a multitude of emotions. Among these, guilt can be particularly insidious, especially when it comes to finding moments of joy or sharing humorous anecdotes about our experiences. However, it’s essential to recognize that sharing and laughing about these situations with friends is not only normal but can be incredibly therapeutic.
How Watching My Parents Age Transformed My Perspective on Life
Watching my parents get older and struggle with illness was like seeing my heroes lose their superpowers. The strong, lively people who raised me were now tired and confused, needing help with things they used to do easily. It made me realize how fragile life is and how quickly things can change.
How Caring for a Someone Else Makes You Reflect on Your Own Health
Caring for someone else’s health can be a rewarding experience, often making us think more about our own health. When we become caregivers, (sounds formal but actually that is what you are doing) we might realise …
Turning Everyday Encounters into Friendships
You can meet strangers on holiday who become lifelong friends, or start talking to someone you see every day on a train when suddenly an issue on the line means the train is still for a while. Friendship often begins with a smile, a shared laugh, or a simple hello.