Dementia care consumed our lives for months. We're still learning how to cope.

The author and her husband had to care for a family member with dementia.

Courtesy of the author

Caring for aging parents or siblings is oftentimes stressful. It can also break apart solid relationships. My husband and I understand this, as caring for his sister nearly tore us apart.When my sister-in-law fell and broke her hip, we called her almost daily to check on her since she lives alone. At first, she seemed to be getting stronger and constantly talked about returning home to her Shih Tzu, her baby.

The author's sister-in-law wanted to come home to her dog.

Courtesy of the author