Care Starts Now
A Practical Guide to Caring for Aging Parents
by Joanne De Rubeis

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Caring for aging parents, supporting older loved ones, or planning for your own future can be one of life’s greatest responsibilities. Care Starts Now offers a proactive approach to caregiving and aging in place—so every decision supports safety, well-being, independence, and peace of mind. Written by Joanne De Rubeis, RN, BScN—a passionate nurse educator, caregiving expert, senior’s advocate, and family caregiver—this reassuring guide draws on many years of hands-on experience helping families navigate care with confidence and compassion. Known for her high standards and genuine dedication to helping others, Joanne provides practical insight to help families communicate effectively, make informed decisions, and create safe, supportive environments. Her lifelong work in caregiver education and support has empowered individuals, families, and professionals worldwide to deliver safer, more empathetic, and proactive care. Inside, you’ll find guides, checklists, and practical tips to: • Recognize and better understand changes in health, memory, and mobility • Build personalized care plans and strengthen caregiving skills • Support nutrition, hygiene, safety, comfort, and dignity • Improve communication and teamwork among family and care providers • Manage records, finances, and legal documents • Access community resources and plan for end-of-life needs • Maintain your own health and well-being while caring for others Practical, compassionate, and experience-driven, Care Starts Now turns uncertainty into readiness and helps families approach caregiving with calm, strength, and confidence. The time to learn, prepare, and act is now—before a crisis begins. Disclaimer This book is intended for informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical, legal, or financial advice. Every caregiving situation is unique. Readers should seek guidance from qualified healthcare providers, legal advisors, and financial professionals regarding individual needs, treatment, and planning decisions.

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"This guidebook offers families exactly what they need: clear checklists, step-by-step direction, and compassionate support for every stage of caregiving." "Written with the heart of a caregiver and the expertise of a dedicated professional, this book is a compassionate and comprehensive guide to caring for aging parents with confidence and respect. Joanne De Rubeis brings remarkable insight to every detail and offers not just advice but trusted support families can rely on." "Joanne De Rubeis brings wisdom, compassion, and decades of real-world experience to every page. This guide is a gift for families. It is practical, respectful, and grounded in what truly matters most." "Every detail in this book reflects Joanne De Rubeis’ extensive knowledge and commitment to excellence. It is an essential guide for anyone caring for aging parents and wanting to do it with confidence, care, and integrity." "This guidebook answers the questions families do not always know how to ask. With step-by-step support, evidence-based tools, and a compassionate voice, Joanne De Rubeis offers exactly what caregivers need to feel supported and prepared."

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Joanne De Rubeis, RN, BScN, is a nurse educator and caregiver education specialist with over four decades of experience across hospitals, long-term care, home care, community programs, and healthcare education. She is the founder of an award-winning home-care agency and a recognized leader in caregiver training and program development. Joanne’s work emphasizes proactive, evidence-informed approaches that support person-centred care, clear communication, and dignity at every stage of caregiving.

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Contributors

Author

Joanne De Rubeis

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FriesenPress Editions

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