I'm so exhausted worrying about my parents' care and safety. They are both in their 80s. Caregiving responsibilities are overwhelming. What can I do to get some relief? I'm constantly thinking about what might happen to them.

--Elizabeth

You don't say whether your parents are living with you, but I'll assume that you are. It's imperative in such situations that caregivers get regular breaks from responsibility for their loved ones. Adult day care, for instance, is offered in many communities and can be a way for elderly parents to mingle with others while their caregivers rest, relax or catch up on errands.

If you haven't arranged for help with your parents' care, please check into it. Other family members may be able to spell you periodically, and home health aides can relieve you of some of the burden.

Above all, take care of yourself. If you spend all your energy on your parents -- either physically or mentally, by worrying about them -- you'll deplete yourself and run the risk of ruining your own health. Give to yourself as well as to them, in whatever way you need to manage your stress and maintain your physical and emotional health. Make sure to spend pleasurable time away from your parents, whether with other family members, your friends, or by yourself. Get regular exercise and good nutrition. Maintain your own support network, both online and in "real life."

If, after doing all of the above, you still have trouble letting go of worrying about your parents, consider consulting with a counselor or joining a support group for similar caregivers. Yours is a tough situation, and it's understandable for someone in your position to get overwhelmed and benefit from outside support and guidance.