This interview is with Barbara Sparacino, MD, FAPA, Physician at The Aging Parent Coach, LLC.

Barbara Sparacino, MD, FAPA, Physician, The Aging Parent Coach, LLC

Barbara, could you please tell us a little bit about yourself and your professional background, particularly as it relates to the care of aging parents?

My name is Barbara Sparacino, MD, and I’m a triple board-certified psychiatrist with specializations in adult and geriatric psychiatry. Throughout my career, I’ve worked closely with older adults and their families, helping them navigate the complex emotional, cognitive, and practical challenges that come with aging. As a geriatric psychiatrist, I’ve supported aging parents and their adult children in managing issues like cognitive decline, emotional health, and long-term care planning.

I’m also the founder of The Aging Parent Plan, a coaching program that provides adult children with the guidance and strategies they need to care for their aging parents effectively. Drawing from my medical expertise and personal experiences, my program focuses on everything from legal and financial preparedness to managing family dynamics and stress.

Additionally, I host The Aging Parent Playbook podcast, where I share insights and expert advice on caregiving, aging, and family relationships. As a public speaker and advocate for elder care, I’m passionate about helping families find balance and peace as they navigate the later stages of their loved ones’ lives.

What experiences in your life led you to focus on this area of expertise, and what are you most passionate about in your work with aging individuals and their families?

My focus on aging parents and family caregiving was shaped by both personal and professional experiences. Early in my career, I worked with older adults as a psychiatrist and witnessed the significant challenges both they and their families face as they navigate the aging process. It became clear to me that adult children were often left feeling overwhelmed, unsure of how to best support their parents, and conflicted between honoring their parents’ independence while managing their growing needs.

On a more personal level, I’ve seen the emotional toll caregiving can take on families. Through my experiences helping others, I realized there was a gap in resources for adult children who were suddenly thrust into this caregiving role, without the tools or guidance they needed. These insights led me to create The Aging Parent Plan and eventually, The Aging Parent Playbook podcast, which provide support to families going through these transitions. What I’m most passionate about in this work is empowering families with the knowledge and confidence to navigate these complex dynamics, so they can care for their aging parents without losing themselves in the process. I believe that with the right resources, families can transform the caregiving journey into one that is fulfilling and meaningful, rather than stressful and overwhelming. Helping people feel more confident in their caregiving role and supporting them in maintaining strong family connections is what truly drives me.

Many people find themselves thrust into the role of caregiver for their aging parents with little to no warning. What advice would you give to those who are just starting on this journey?

For those just beginning the journey of caring for an aging parent, my first piece of advice is to take a deep breath and acknowledge that it’s okay to feel overwhelmed. Caregiving often comes with little warning, and it’s natural to feel unprepared. But the key to navigating this role successfully is to approach it with both patience and a plan. Here are a few practical steps to help you get started:

Start by assessing your parent’s needs. Begin with an honest conversation about their physical, emotional, and medical challenges. Ask about their current routine, any struggles they’re facing, and any upcoming medical appointments. Understanding their specific needs will help you prioritize the type of support they’ll require.

Educate yourself about their medical conditions. If your parent is dealing with specific health issues, such as dementia or mobility limitations, take the time to learn more about these conditions. Being informed will help you anticipate changes and provide better care. Don’t hesitate to consult with their healthcare providers to get a clearer picture of their needs and how you can help.

Organize legal and financial matters early. Ensure that legal documents like a healthcare proxy, power of attorney, and a will are in place. These are crucial for making medical and financial decisions on your parent’s behalf, especially in emergency situations. Understanding their financial situation will also help you plan for future care costs.

Set realistic expectations for yourself. Caregiving is not something you have to do alone. Ask for help from other family members, hire professional caregivers if possible, and explore community resources. It’s essential to acknowledge your own limits and avoid burnout by setting boundaries and delegating responsibilities.

Prioritize your well-being. It’s easy to neglect your own health when caring for someone else, but remember that you can’t pour from an empty cup. Carve out time for self-care and seek emotional support, whether through friends, family, or support groups for caregivers. Keeping yourself healthy—physically and emotionally—will make you a more effective caregiver.

Starting this journey can feel like a whirlwind, but with thoughtful planning and the right support, you can build a caregiving plan that works for both you and your aging parent. Remember, you don’t have to have all the answers right away. Take it one step at a time and reach out for help when needed.

Caring for an aging parent can be emotionally and physically demanding. What are some common challenges caregivers face, and what strategies can they use to manage stress and avoid burnout?

Caring for an aging parent can be deeply rewarding, but it also brings emotional and physical challenges. Many caregivers feel overwhelmed by the responsibilities and emotional strain. Recognizing these challenges and adopting strategies for managing stress is key to avoiding burnout.

Here’s some common challenges caregivers face:

Emotional Strain: Watching a parent’s health decline often leads to guilt, grief, or frustration. Family dynamics or unresolved issues may add to the emotional toll.

Physical Exhaustion: Caregiving tasks like assisting with mobility or providing constant supervision can lead to sleep deprivation and exhaustion.

Social Isolation: Many caregivers feel isolated, as the demands of caregiving leave little time for socializing or maintaining relationships.

Financial Pressure: Caregivers may face financial strain if they reduce work hours or leave their jobs, while also managing care-related expenses.

To avoid burnout, caregivers must prioritize their well-being. By asking for help, setting boundaries, and practicing self-care, you can continue to provide the best support for your parent while maintaining your own health and balance.