Care for the Caregiver

Originally published on MHANational.org. There are 91.3 million caregivers across the U.S., and of those, 14.3 million are caring for a wounded, ill, or injured service member or veteran. These military and veteran caregivers are the spouses, partners, parents, family members, friends, neighbors, and loved ones who provide countless hours of often unseen and unpaid care to their care recipient. Many…

How to Be an Effective Advocate for Aging Parents

Originally published on AARP.org. As family caregivers, we play many roles: scheduler, money manager, house cleaner, health aide, nurse, navigator, nurturer and more. Perhaps the most important role is advocate, as we ensure the best possible care for our loved ones when they are vulnerable. That includes understanding and respecting their goals and wishes for their care and quality of life, and ensuring…

Women in the Workplace 2024

Despite progress, it will take almost 50 years to reach parity for all women in corporate America Over the last 10 years, the number of women in senior leadership has steadily increased, and these women are reshaping the workplace and inspiring a new generation. However, there are clear signs that the pipeline may not be as healthy as the numbers…

Empty Nest, Full Heart: How Volunteering Can Ignite Purpose For ‘Bird Launchers’

For many parents, the transition to an “empty nest” can be bittersweet. The quiet bedroom, the sudden abundance of free time and the realization that a significant chapter of hands-on parenting has closed can leave even the most prepared individuals with a sense of loss or a diminished daily purpose. Yet, this pivotal moment isn’t an ending; it’s a profound…

How Nonprofits Can Help Post-Grads Find Fulfillment And Community

Originally published for Forbes Nonprofit Council. Graduation is a time filled with pride, celebration and possibility. But once the ceremonies and parties end, many recent graduates find themselves asking, “Now what?” The transition from college to life after school, without the built-in routines of classes, clubs and close friends, makes it easy to feel lost and disconnected. On top of…

Caregiving in the US 2025

The 2025 edition of Caregiving in the US, released by AARP and the National Alliance for Caregiving, reveals a rapidly evolving caregiving landscape that now includes 63 million Americans, a nearly 50% increase since 2015. This surge underscores the growing demand for family caregivers who provide essential support to those with chronic, disabling, or serious health conditions. The report outlines key policy areas, such…

Get the Facts on Women and Aging

Originally published August 15, 2024 by NOCA. While everyone has the right to age well, women face unique challenges to aging with optimal health and economic security. These include: Problems with health and health care access Caregiving responsibilities that can drain health and retirement security  Lower participation in employer-sponsored retirement plans Women often make less money than men; they often…