Four Books for Caregivers and Families Planning Ahead

Thoughtful reads for the conversations and decisions families often put off.

Estimated reading time: 4 min read
Last reviewed: 10/18/2026
Written by: Sherri Combs
Published: October 18, 2026

Caring for someone you love, or planning for your own future, raises hard questions. These books offer clear thinking, practical help and comfort. Each is an editorial pick; no one paid to be included.

Being Mortal by Atul Gawande. A surgeon explores how medicine can better support quality of life as we age and near the end of life. A good starting point for family conversations about what matters most.

The 36-Hour Day by Nancy L. Mace and Peter V. Rabins. A long-trusted practical guide for families caring for someone living with Alzheimer's disease or another dementia.

A Bittersweet Season by Jane Gross. A journalist's honest account of caring for her aging mother, with practical lessons about care options and the emotional toll on caregivers.

The Just-In-Case Plan by Sherri Combs. A practical guide to long-term care planning, aging strategy and family preparedness. Disclosure: Sherri Combs is the founder of Silver Streak. The book is a multi-category Amazon Best Seller and a Next Generation Indie Award winner.

Related directory help: End-of-Life & Care Support, Legal & Financial, and Family Caregiver Resources.

About the Author

Sherri Combs

Founder & CEO, Silver Streak Senior Services

Sherri Combs is the founder and CEO of Silver Streak Senior Services and the founder of Silver Streak Senior Solutions, a nonprofit dedicated to empowering seniors through education, trusted resources, and community support. She is the award-winning author of The Just-In-Case Plan and a nationally recognized senior advocate committed to helping families navigate aging with confidence.