Most people will be a caregiver for a loved one at some point in their lives, whether it’s for a child, a partner, a parent or a friend. At some point, every person is a patient navigating unknown waters, from the difficulties of childbirth to the unexpected illness or injury. Learning how to advocate for… Continue reading How to be an Advocate for Your Loved One

Plan Ahead: Three Key Steps for Aging in Place There is no wrong time to think about, or plan for, aging in place. Many of us wish to stay in our own homes as we age, and to maintain independence for as long as possible. By starting early, you can organize the resources and coordinate… Continue reading Aging in Place: Home Safety Tips for Older Adults

If your child has recently been diagnosed with Fragile X, it can be overwhelming and scary. Fragile X can present a unique set of challenges for individuals and their families.

For Charlie who uses a wheelchair and is mostly nonverbal, YouTube is his gateway to the world. It opens doors to other adventures...

An estimated 6.7 million Americans are living with Alzheimer’s disease. As the size of the 65 and older population continues to grow, so too will the number with Alzheimer’s or other dementias. Alzheimer’s is a progressive disease and symptoms gradually worsen over several years. It can start with mild memory loss in early diagnosis, and… Continue reading Living with a Loved One’s Alzheimer’s Diagnosis

Women's Health Week begins on Mother's Day each year. Join Shield HealthCare in raising awareness for women's health.

What Should I Say? How Much Should I Say? Young children and teenagers are curious creatures. They hear and see things that they don’t always understand. They pick up on the emotions around them and can feel overwhelmed or confused.  The natural next step is for a child or teen to approach their parent. As… Continue reading Talking to Your Children About Current Events

Mother’s Day is complicated for many reasons. For those of us who spent years trying to conceive, we remember that day as a celebration for what felt like the rest of the world and absolute isolation for us. For those of us who have lost a child, this day is full of mourning. For those… Continue reading When Mother’s Day is Complicated

Adolescence is a time of immense physical and emotional growth, and of wanting independence. A teen with special needs is no different...

My family has a long history of substance abuse, and as someone who has a propensity to go BIG with everything I do, I am very aware of how one drink can turn into many drinks, which can turn into a habit of drinking. Alcohol is a social activity, a bonding tool, and an escape… Continue reading Disabilities and Addiction