Dutiful Daughters: Caring for Our Parents As They Grow Old

Book Overview

These first-person accounts portray, with thoughtfulness and clarity, a wide range of caregiver experiences: the possibility of deepening relationships; the opportunity for forgiveness; the ability to reach out and to look within to find strength; the sorrow of watching a parent grow old; and the chance to say goodbye.

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 1580050263
• ISBN13: 9781580050265
• Release Date: September 1999
• Publisher: Seal Press (CA)
• Length: 310 Pages
• Weight: 1.35 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.7" x 6.0" x 9.1"

Customer Reviews

A STRONG AND MOVING COLLECTION

This is certainly a strong collection of nonfiction about daughters and their parents. "Taking Care of Charlie," by Cathleen Calbert, is gripping, with some humor too. And "Chocolate," by Mary Anne Maier is the most moving piece of all. I admire it for its content and impeccable form, and I reread it periodically. Maier takes us with her on a quest to come to terms with her mother's death, but along the way we are given insight into the author as a daughter and as a human being.

One of those dutiful daughters ...

I wrote one of the pieces in this book about my own mother, and her death. It was cathartic and helpful to write it, but I can still not read it through without shedding tears. While your aging parents are alive and a burden, it is sometimes difficult to be patient, and to savor the last of their life with them. Aging is difficult to bear for both parties. Your parent becomes your child. Reading this marvelous, rich book will help you know what a fortunate thing it is to be able to offer your love and your support to those who gave you life. I was lucky to have my "story" included in this wonderful book.

Not just for those caring for elders

A friend of a freind of a friend passed this book to me. I was so pleasantly surprised. The book is not just for those who are caring for elder parents or grandparents. It is beautiful literature. The story called Margie's Discount was beautifully written, insightful, and moving. (This is the second thing I have read by BK Loren, but cannot find a book by this author.) Though it was so different, I also liked To Kill A Deer. It was funny and sad and right on target about parents. I recommend this book as general reading. I do not have aging parents, but if I did, I would think this book would be essential. I think it is essential already, as just the stories are beautifully told.

A very much appreciated publication for many circumstances.

We have read this book and find it suitable for future, present and past experiences. An excellent reading for those still healing from the care of elderly relatives.

Much needed as a guide and support for 50's generation

This collection of stories is just what is needed for the " Nelson Family " generation. There is too little know about how those over 50 deal with ageing parents. Many of the stories are mirrors of our lives. Thank you Jean Gould.