Judith Henry is a writer, teacher, and speaker.

The connection between a caregiver-in-training childhood and assisting her elderly parents during the last phase of their lives is the heart and soul of The Dutiful Daughter’s Guide to Caregiving: A Practical Memoir.

As a non-traditional student, meaning she was well beyond the age of her classmates, Judith received her bachelor’s degree in psychology from St Leo University, and a master’s in education from Indiana University.

The creator of a well-loved writer's group for caregivers, she also gives workshops and presentations on a variety of topics that include caring for older adults; dealing with grief and loss; the benefits of expressive writing; and how to create a legacy letter for family and friends.

Offering humor, hope and practical help, Judith brings sensitivity and a fresh perspective to even the most difficult of subjects.

When Judith’s mother and father became ill in 2007, even her reputation as a pragmatist, a planner and a dutiful daughter (her father’s term) couldn’t prepare her for what lay ahead – a long list of concerns that included navigating an unfamiliar healthcare system, addressing financial and legal issues, dealing with stress and family dynamics, choosing a rehab center, and ultimately, making hospice arrangements.

Doing what came naturally to her, she captured these experiences on paper – writing about what worked and what didn’t; about finding humor in the oddest places; and the ways in which the past, present and future often intersect.

As Judith looks back at her childhood, and reveals intimate stories about assisting both her parents years later, she also shares practical suggestions and critical information on topics every son and daughter should know as their own caregiving journey begins.

Delivered in a no-nonsense style, with a healthy dose of humor, this is a guide to buy in bulk – one for you, and the rest for all your friends with aging parents.

Reviews

“Reading Judith’s book is like having a close, smart friend guide me around the potholes of caring for an aging parent. She writes with both humor and poignancy on this complex and sensitive subject.”
Val Perry, Coordinator/Instructor
Bloomingdale Life Story Writing Program, Valrico, FL

“Judith has delved with humor, complete seriousness, and full knowledge into one of the most complicated aspects of relationships – helping people leave their lives through the gift of active love. Readers will find meaning and support on their own journey as caregivers.”
Marilyn Lairsey, Ph.D.
Clinical Psychologist, Portland, ME

“If you want to become more proficient in caring for your loved one, have your self-esteem raised, and understand those sad and humorous moments in the job of caregiving – read this book! The author is on your side.”
Ronnie Goldstein, LCSW
Licensed clinical social worker and family therapist, Philadelphia, PA

Praise from Amazon Readers

“This is an excellent sensible guide to caregiving. Filled with understanding and humor this little book has the most intelligent, comprehensive information on caregiving of any self help book I have seen in my 30 years of working with families in caregiving crisis.”

“Worthy of your time, helpful to the core and very funny to boot!”

“I highly recommend The Dutiful Daughter’s Guide to Caregiving. Since reading the book, I have given it to several friends who have been thrust into the world of caregiving.”

“This cleverly designed, handbag-sized book contains the wisdom Judith gleaned from managing all the details of her parents’ lives and illnesses. I plan to make use of the thoughtful to-do lists and suggested issues for families to discuss.”

“I just finished reading Judith Henry's wonderful book, The Dutiful Daughter's Guide to Caregiving, and how I wish it had been available back in 1999. It is certain to help many people faced with taking care of elderly parents...”