This innovative book shows administrators and directors how to develop programs that help families adapt to the experience of having an older family member living in a long-term institutional care setting. It recognizes that families continue to be involved in various ways in the lives of relatives who no longer live at home. This involvement ranges from visiting to providing hands-on care. The book also recognizes that care facilities need to be more active in supporting families' efforts. It therefore features seven model programs that have been successfully implemented in care facilities to enhance family involvement with residents and staff and promote resident quality of life. Uniquely, this book includes training manuals from each of the featured programs. These materials provide valuable guidance to practitioners who wish to implement any of the programs in their own care settings. Widely recognized and acclaimed gerontology professionals contribute to the book.

2006 National Mature Media Award (Merit Award Winner)