Book Review: Caring for Caring by Jane Edwards
Lately, I find myself spending an enormous amount of time taking care of my dad’s business. After my mother got very ill nearly seven years ago, I promised my mother that I would take care of their books and help my parents with their finances. When my mother passed in 2012, I began taking over other things to help make life a little easier for my father. As time is passing, I’m finding that I’m taking over more and more so that he can enjoy his life, instead of worrying about the daily stress of life.
When the book, Caring for Caring by Jane Edwards came to my door before I left on vacation, I thought, “this will be perfect and will help me to better care for my father.”
The book starts off talking about Ms. Edwards’ background and how she got into helping to care for the elderly. Part 1 of the book discusses what Edwards and her staff learned through the years of helping seniors and the second part of the book takes real life stories and anecdotes (by changing most of the names) and providing a “caring for caring suggestion.”
I think the book is geared for people who would potentially hire Edwards’ agency, Caring for Caring, for their loved one. It’s not particularly helpful for those who are taking care of their family. For example, tips like “practice generosity,” “practice patience,” or “remember that goodness triumphs over ignorance,” didn’t really help me care for my aging father.
However, reminders like “encourage humor,” “trust your instincts” or “enjoy the present moment and see through the elder’s eyes,” I did find useful.
I am sure that Edwards and her team are amazing at what they do, and if looking for an agency is something that you are seeking, they may be the ones to call. However, if you are looking for a book that will help you take care of your loved ones, this isn’t the book for you.
I didn’t realize that the book was a promotional piece for Ms. Edwards’ company. If I knew that, I probably would not have agreed to receive it but since there were a few interesting tips, I thought I would share it here.
If you have tips on how to care for your parents or loved ones, share below.
