Grey Matters 7.31.26
Each month, we come across thoughtful articles, compelling research, inspiring stories, and practical resources that deepen our understanding of aging well. Some we share on social media. Others are recommended by members of the Geritas community. All are worth passing along.
Beginning this month, we're bringing them together in one place.
Who Will Care for Our Elders?
The senior-living industry, already grappling with a severe staffing shortage, is facing further challenges due to the current administration’s draconian immigration policies. Millions of immigrants—both eligible and undocumented workers—fill essential elder-care roles in the U.S. As they are forced out of these critical care positions—particularly as the population of Americans 65 years of age and older continues to expand—the crisis will only escalate.
The Ethical Dilemmas of Dementia Care
Is it ever acceptable to lie to protect the people you love? It's just one of the many heart-wrenching ethical dilemmas that dementia care presents.
As the WSJ article notes, thoughtful planning for one's later years can help mitigate some of these challenges. But planning alone isn't enough. As the U.S. population ages and people live longer, we also need a broader range of housing and care options.
Perhaps if more innovative and appealing models were widely available—such as friend compounds, intergenerational communities, and dementia villages—more people would choose to make the transition earlier. Doing so could ease the burden on loved ones while helping ensure greater safety, dignity, and quality of life for those living with dementia.
Caring About Caregiving
Health care providers, and other field professionals, recommend five books on caregiving—for the many who find themselves caring for family members, yet have no medical training or experience.