Karen’s 85-year old mother needs more and more help. Her mother has lived independently in her own home since Karen's father passed away nearly a decade ago. A recent diagnosis of heart disease has both women worried about  future medical problems, the impact being sick has on independence, and ultimately having to discuss end-of-life issues. Both Karen and her mom know that they need to have a plan in place, but neither one knows how to broach the subject without upsetting the other. The end of life is a frightening topic for both family caregivers and their loved ones.

Two years ago, Anna’s 84-year old mother was diagnosed with an Alzheimer's-type dementia. As the disease progressed, Anna was increasingly finding spoiled food in her mother's refrigerator. Now, though she claims she is eating just fine, Anna's mother cannot seem to recall what she's most recently eaten. Anna is concerned that her mother's nutrition is suffering. Knowing that adequate fluid intake and a balanced diet are essential to helping her mother stay as healthy as possible, Anna decides to research nutritional tips for people living with dementia.