Many older adults carry life histories marked by trauma, whether from wartime experiences, abusive relationships, medical emergencies, or even childhood adversity. Dementia can blur the line between past and present, and what may seem like a small incident to a care partner can awaken a deep sense of fear or mistrust in the person receiving care.

When families face the realities of dementia, chronic illness, or the everyday challenges of aging, it can feel overwhelming. Questions pile up quickly: Where do we start? Who do we call? How do we make the right decisions for today—and for the future? That’s where a Certified Care Manager (CMC) comes in.

In today’s workplace, one word continues to stand out in conversations about employee well-being: “presenteeism.” It describes employees who show up for work physically but are distracted mentally, often because of caregiving responsibilities at home. While absenteeism is easy to measure, presenteeism quietly chips away at productivity and is often noticed first by the employee themselves.

Use these prompts to talk to your loved one about their care. Record their answers and wishes to share with other family members or the care team.

When a loved one begins showing signs of memory loss or a chronic condition like dementia, families often wait too long to talk. The result? Decisions made in crisis—when emotions are high, options are limited, and relationships are strained. At StilMee, we believe the best care begins with calm, clear conversations before the crisis. These early discussions can protect your loved one’s dignity, reduce family conflict, and pave the way for compassionate, coordinated care.