Katy Allen has three children and runs a business. She has no family nearby, and her husband is a touring musician. She relies on home assistants for about nine hours each week. This as-told-to essay ...

Dear Carol: How do people get a parent with dementia to take a shower or bath? I’ve argued with my mom. I’ve coaxed her. I’ve bribed her with treats. Yet when I say it’s time, she tells me she’s had ...