cover image Caregiving: How to Care for Your Elderly Mother and Stay Sane

Caregiving: How to Care for Your Elderly Mother and Stay Sane

E. Jane Mall. Ballantine Books, $15.95 (229pp) ISBN 978-0-345-36460-9

Addressing the women of the ``sandwich generation,'' those who bear the burden of caring for their elderly mothers and mothers-in-law as well as their own families, Mall ( And God Created Wrinkles ) focuses on the uniqueness of that relationship, which can thrive only if carefully planned. Mall speaks from both sides of the matter: at one time herself a caregiver, she is now recipient of her daughter's care. According to demographic studies cited here, such caretaking today is likely to involve a 10-to-20-year commitment since people are living longer. Ways to care for elders who are emotionally and physically stable so that the experience is mutually rewarding are demonstrated in this sensitive, helpful guide. (Aug.)