There are momentous occasions in a person’s life: getting a driver’s license, having a child, graduating school, or, often overlooked, becoming the caregiver of a parent or another older loved one.

Caregiving can take many forms. Family caregivers often accompany their parent to their doctor appointments and possibly even sit in the exam room with them. While there’s no studying involved for this exam, it’s important to be prepared, especially when you are advocating care for someone else. Below are 12 suggestions on what to do before, during and after a visit with the doctor.

Companionship is one of the most important necessities in life, like shelter and food. Having someone to talk to or attend outings with can make for better, happier days. Sometimes, though, the best companion is a furry, feathered or scaly friend to cuddle and care for. While owning a pet or interacting with an animal may not be possible for everyone, older adults can still gain the benefits of pets through robots.

For older adults, gardening can be beneficial to their overall health and well-being. While some seniors may not have access to a garden or be unable physically to plant and weed, they can still enjoy the beauty and health benefits of indoor plants, specifically those that purify the air inside homes.

RAISE (which stands for Recognize, Assist, Include, Support and Engage) focuses on providing relief to those who care for a relative or close loved one. Family caregivers don’t have to provide just personal care to qualify. The RAISE Act can help any family caregiver who provides housekeeping, financial and medical assistance.

The whirl of the holiday season is behind us, and while you’re left with happy memories, you may looking back and paying more attention to the irregularities you noticed in your older relatives’ home or behavior. Maybe you are starting to wonder if they need some help with everyday activities.

Adequate nutrition can help older adults maintain muscle mass, increase their energy levels, reach an appropriate weight and much more. Make it easier for your older loved one to eat well and be well: Try out these simple meal ideas that follow the guidelines of MyPlate.gov and the National Council on Aging. Be sure to talk to your loved one’s dietitian or doctor before they start a new diet or new foods.

Finding a home care agency to watch over a parent, grandparent, spouse or another older loved one is a serious responsibility. Do you know what to look for in a home care agency to ensure you’re choosing the best for your loved one?

Recently, my mom and I were watching the Hallmark channel and discussing upcoming gatherings and parties. By the time we started listing our to-dos for the season, we weren’t feeling the holiday spirit. It seems as you get older, the holidays become less joyous and more laborious -- cooking, cleaning, shopping, decorating, etc. Plus, if you are a family caregiver, then you’re doing the same on behalf of or for your older loved one.

This year, though, I’m going to hack the holidays and beat the system. I want my family to make memories and have fun without everyone being stressed. I can hear you shouting, “Yes, me too!”