If you’re in your 50s or 60s, chances are you’ve either started caring for aging parents… or you see it coming. It’s one of the most emotionally complex – and often overlooked – challenges we face in the second half of life.
In today’s heartfelt and surprisingly humorous episode, I sit down with bestselling author Howard Miller, whose book Burdens & Blessings offers a lighthearted but deeply honest look at what it means to care for your parents as they age.
We explore the nuanced emotions of caregiving – guilt, resentment, grief, and even joy – and talk about how to navigate the messy middle ground between being a “good” child and a “dutiful” one. We also dive into sibling dynamics, end-of-life reflections, and how to embrace levity and gratitude in even the toughest moments.
Whether you’re deep in the caregiving trenches or just beginning to notice your parents slowing down, this conversation is packed with real talk, wisdom, and warmth.
In this episode, you’ll discover:
- The difference between a “good” son or daughter and a “dutiful” one
- How to handle caregiving without losing your identity – or your mind
- The power of humor and levity in the face of stress and grief
- Lessons in longevity, resilience, and preparing for what’s next
- Why the best time to start planning for your own healthy aging is now
Resources & Links:
Get Howard’s book: Burdens & Blessings: A Lighter-Hearted Approach for Middle-Aged Folks Dealing with Aging Parents
Visit Howard’s website:
https://www.fulcrumpointpartners.com/over50hw
Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100069856012226
LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/howard-miller-1b0210
In this conversation Howard mentioned the book Being Mortal by Atul Gawande:
