Crossroads at Midlife

ISBN: 9780275981839

作者: Frances Cohen Praver

出版社: Greenwood Pub Group

出版年: 2004-6

页数: 175

定价: $ 49.66

装帧: HRD

内容简介

With medical science, health care and healthy lifestyles extending our life spans as never before, more and more 'midlife' adults are finding themselves caring for their aging parents. This role can trigger not only logistical and financial challenges, but also great emotional upheaval. There is a reversal of roles as the "child" - often in the midst of raising his or her own adolescent or young adult offspring - becomes the carer of the parent. A parent's aging and mortality elicits strong feelings of loss, and a stark realization of one's own aging and mortality. Past, present and future paths converge, and the carer is at the centre of that crossroads. Psychologist Praver - a specialist working with such carers - shows us their inner worlds, and how they used a difficult point in their lives to embark on a journey of self-understanding and self-transformation - a journey toward a more meaningful life for themselves. Readers can gain a better understanding of their own lives - and know they are not alone in their struggles to contend with and find powerful benefits from the emotional side of caring for an aging parent. Distress can become peace of mind, as we see in the stories of men and women who sought Praver's help. Relationships that might be weakened by a carer role - relationships between carers and their children, spouses, and friends - can actually grow stronger with the experience. Profound issues affecting carers are shared in this evocative book, which is an enlightening and enjoyable read.