AARP Caregiving Expert: Barry J. Jacobs
Barry J. Jacobs is a clinical psychologist, a family therapist and a member of AARP's Caregiving Advisory Panel.
His passion for enhancing support for family caregivers led him to write or cowrite dozens of articles and several books on the subject, including AARP Meditations for Caregivers: Practical, Emotional and Spiritual Support for You and Your Family and the forthcoming Love and Meaning at 50. He served as caregiver for his mother and stepfather, both of whom had dementia.
Jacobs has appeared as a caregiving expert on Dr. Phil and given more than 600 presentations for family caregivers, community groups, and medical and mental health professionals. His areas of expertise include behavioral health integration, complex care management, enhancing family caregiver engagement and supports, team-based care, and provider wellness.
A former magazine journalist, he helped put together the first edition of The Rolling Stone Encyclopedia of Rock & Roll.
Connect with Barry
Barry's Latest Columns
Why Family Caregivers Should Say “No”
Occasionally declining help can assist the care recipient in the long run
How to Forgive Others After Family Caregiving Ends
Looking at the past with new insight may help caregivers get over lingering hurt, anger
Why Caregivers Should Become Champions for Other Caregivers
Helping others navigate their caregiving journey can reduce stress and provide emotional benefits
Why Caregivers Should Confront Rather Than Avoid a Dementia Diagnosis
Don’t let fear of the unknown prevent you from taking the steps to help your loved one
How Caregiving Can Liberate Caregivers From Past Trauma
Learn ways to face the challenges with dignity and resilience
How Caregivers Can Counter Family Gaslighting
Recognize the intentional deception and learn ways to stop it
How to Handle ‘Hard Feelings’ After Caregiving Ends
Guilt and emotional withdrawal can make the grieving process even more difficult
How to Write ‘The Letter’ to Uncooperative Sibling Caregivers
Make a straightforward appeal for assistance with a loved one
5 New Year’s Resolutions for Caregivers to Consider
Positive intentions to embrace in the year ahead
‘When I’m 64’ — and Hope to Never Need a Caregiver
Steps everyone can take to remain independent as long as possible
Managing Aging Adults With Personality Disorders
Strategies include staying calm during outbursts and balancing loyalty with limits
What New Family Caregivers Really Need to Know
Regular exercise, respite breaks and connecting with others will help you in this challenging role
How Guilt-Ridden Caregivers Can Set Limits
To make long-term caregiving sustainable, consider some boundaries
Family Caregivers Wonder: What Is My Loved One With Dementia Feeling?
Employing strategies to help communicate may ease some worries
Embracing Tender Memories in Family Caregiving
Take a break from the nonstop to-do list to pause and make an emotional connection
When Family Caregivers Feel Used — and Angry About It
To lighten the caregiving load, make small, direct requests for assistance
