"Caring for the "Ancient Ones": A Look at Judith Millar’s Insight

Here on Cape Ann MA, we have some of the most awe inspiring sea vistas in the world, the best lobster of your life, great festivals and a tight knit hearty community of seriously incredible people. One of them, though, is a truly exceptional woman named Judith Millar. Her book focuses on the “Ancient Ones,” a respectful term for those 90 and older who face medical, cognitive, and functional challenges. And let’s be real—if you’ve hit 90 or above, you DEFINITELY deserve a special title.

Millar’s career has revolved around helping families and healthcare teams navigate the unique and complex needs of our oldest generations. From chronic conditions like COPD and Alzheimer’s to dealing with the slippery slope of dementia, she covers it all in her book. But don’t worry, it’s not all heavy reading—Millar blends her deep expertise with real-life stories, making it as relatable as chatting with a wise friend.

One of the key takeaways is that caring for elders is truly a team effort. Millar stresses the importance of having an interdisciplinary team (fancy term for a squad of people with different skills) who can help establish both short- and long-term goals, craft treatment plans, and figure out what services are covered by insurance. And if you’ve ever tried navigating insurance paperwork, you know this is no small feat. 

The stories at the beginning of the book immediately pull you in. They highlight the sudden vulnerability faced by two once-independent elders after some minor accidents. It’s a bit of a wake-up call for anyone who hasn’t thought about how quickly life can change. Millar’s twelve chapters dive into practical solutions for some of the most common problems faced by elders and their caregivers—everything from mental health to ensuring safety at home, and, yes, even making sure they’re “up, dressed, and looking good” (because who doesn’t want to look their best at 90?).

Throughout the book, Millar emphasizes something we all need to hear: caring for the elderly isn’t a one-size-fits-all situation. It’s about finding balance—helping them maintain as much independence as possible while preparing for the tough decisions ahead. And most importantly, when the time comes, helping them leave this world with the kindness and compassion we all deserve. 

Now, if you’re thinking this sounds a bit somber, hold on. Millar’s approach is anything but depressing. In fact, a recent editorial in Geriatric Nursing busted two myths about caring for elders: 1) It’s boring, and 2) It’s sad. According to the authors, elder care is an amazing opportunity to work with a strong team, constantly learn, and believe it or not—have fun along the way. (Yes, fun. Apparently, there’s more to it than just Bingo night.)

Millar’s book is an essential guide for anyone caring for the elderly—whether you’re a nurse, a family member, or just a neighbor lending a hand. It gives you the tools to handle the big decisions, navigate the healthcare maze, and, most importantly, ensure that the people you love are well-cared for in their final years.

So, if you’re looking for a book that’s not only informative but also heartfelt, Care of the Ancient Ones is a fantastic read. Whether you’re dealing with elder care now or just preparing for the future, Millar’s insights will leave you feeling a little more prepared—and a lot less alone. Plus, who wouldn’t want to learn from someone who has taken care of two generations of centenarians? That’s some serious wisdom!

Ready to dive in? You can grab a copy on Amazon and get started. Trust me, it’ll make you feel a bit better about all those “complex decisions” ahead.

Happy reading!