Book Review: The Modern Family Survival Guide

The Modern Family Survival Guide

By Nigel Latta

Release Date: 6 September 2013

Random House New Zealand

Book Review by Liam Butler

Nigel Latta is the clever clinical psychologist who has a popular following as he uses the best theories, intriguing case studies and good humour to give people tactics to cope with life’s testing times.

In The Modern Family Survival Guide Nigel tackles some of the toughest issues that face families.  

Question: Nigel, in the Modern Family you provide good advice for Grandparents raising Grandkids and detail supports that can help Grandparents manage the responsibility.  

Age Concern report that there are over 48 000 severely lonely older people in New Zealand Ref: www.ageconcern.org.nz/keeping-connected/action-social-isolation-and-loneliness

Which of the strategies in The Modern Family do you think lonely older people can use to become more engaged in their families or help out families in their neighbourhood?

Nigel Latta’s answer:

‘Because the book is really targeted at parenting (including grandparents raising their grandchildren) then obviously a lot of it focuses on the parenting role. That said, I think probably the most important thing for elders, and something I talk about in the relevant section of the book, is to make use of the community resources and groups out there.

There is no way around the fact that if you're lonely, then you have to get out, or call someone in.  No matter how big it might seem, or how difficult it might seem, you simply have to keep trying as hard as you can to connect up with people outside where you are.  They will want to get to know you, but they need you to make the first steps in their direction.’

In Modern Families Nigel continues to provide clear instructions as to how people can make their lives and those of their family members easier in trying and turbulent times.  The rewards from these lessons are of benefit to all family members no matter what their age.

Feel free to make comments on our articles at the Eldernet Gazette and enter the draw to win Nigels Book!!

ENDS

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