My father was just “ripped off” again: “Dad, I have told you that buying items online is not a good idea if you don’t know the reputation of the company.” Bill’s father had been scammed by buying items from companies with poor reputations. He has been swindled out of money and had his identity stolen by making bad choices and giving out information that should be protected.

Most adult children or older adults are aware that at some time in the journey of life they might need a different level of care either in their home or in a retirement setting. In reality, the majority of families have not done any homework relating to this matter. There is something about human nature that procrastinates planning for something we have no desire doing. We don’t act and then we are forced to react during a crisis. Sometimes the decision is left up to family members or friends who might not have the background information or legal powers that might be needed.

Thousands of families had the support of day care or short hour shifts prior to the pandemic. They might have even had support from volunteers, family or friends. But, Covid-19 has shut the door on most in person support, leaving caregivers at their wit’s end, burned out, tired and feeling guilty because this person is loved at the same time as being a great burden.