While browsing through the magazine racks at your local variety or grocery store you are not likely to see any publications dedicated to caregiving for a variety of ages - but they do exist.  In fact, two excellent Canadian magazines are readily available - one by subscription and the other is free. 

You may be thinking, “Why would I want to subscribe to such a magazine?  Isn’t it depressing to read?”  Judging from the letters to the editor, readers are grateful for any information that makes their caregiving easier.  In addition, reading about others who are facing similar situations is reassuring.

Solutions is a glossy, full-colour, professionally produced magazine published 4 times per year.  Each issue is over-flowing with short news items and longer articles, often written by health care practitioners. Another section, “Tales From The Homefront” is a forum for caregivers to share their experiences.  The stories address ‘hard to talk about’ issues and offer practical suggestions.  For example, “The Slippery Slope: When Aging Parents Resist Help” by Betty Macpherson-Veitch, BSW, RSW appears in a recent issue.  She tackles the questions which arise  when facing this situation and offers insights that respect the dignity and rights of seniors while addressing the concerns of caring family members.  The question “When should you intervene?” is answered, ...”A family member needs to intervene when she or he sees a parent acting in a way that is not normal, when a parent doesn’t seem to be coping as usual, or when behaviours don’t fit with the required action. ... It is vital to show your parent that you are not there to take away her rights.  You simply want to support her to remain in her own home with a good quality of life.”

A subscription to Solutions can be ordered by calling 1-800-798-6282.  There is also an on-line version at www.solutionsmagazine.ca.

You can get more than paint and nails at Home Hardware Stores these days.  It is now one of the distribution points for The Family Caregiver Newsmagazine, published 6 times a year.  The most recent issue is devoted to information about caring for a medically fragile child or a child with special needs.  There are articles on pediatric assistive devices and helpful professional services.  The April issue examined technology and innovations for homecare.  Included are descriptions of a variety of devices now available that allow for greater independence and improved mobility.  Pick up a free copy at your local Home Hardware Store or call 1-800-209-4810.

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