Rochelle Miller, a retired home caregiver with 40 years of experience in the Pacific Northwest, will publish her first book, Home Made Care: A Comforting Blend of Memoir and Guide for the Weary Caregiver, on January 1, 2027. The announcement arrives as demand for home-based care continues to grow, and as many caregivers report feeling isolated and undervalued. Miller’s book aims to fill a gap by speaking directly to the emotional and practical challenges of the role.
Drawing on decades of caring for older adults, people with disabilities, and hospice clients in private homes, live-in arrangements, group homes, and care facilities, Miller combines personal stories with actionable lessons. She writes for new, seasoned, and aspiring caregivers alike, tackling exhaustion, self-doubt, communication breakdowns, and the quiet moments of connection that make the work meaningful. A deliberate choice throughout the book is her use of the term “your person” to refer to those receiving care, reflecting her belief that caregiving is deeply human rather than clinical.
Early chapters cover communication, finding the right fit in a caregiving role, and recognizing one’s own limits. Later chapters explore being present, knowing when to step away, and the small moments that make the work worthwhile. Reflection questions and “Try This” exercises invite readers to apply the lessons to their own situations, and a resources section points to further support.
Miller also takes deep dives into two critical issues facing caregivers: burnout and abuse. The burnout chapter helps readers recognize warning signs before they reach empty and understand when a break is needed. The abuse chapters address mistreatment from several angles, including when caregivers are mistreated by the people they serve and when neglect or abuse is committed by caregivers or agencies. They also explain how to trust your instincts, tell the difference between a bad day and a pattern, and document and report concerns. Chapters covering these sensitive topics include content advisories.
“Caregiving is as much about heart as it is about skill,” Miller writes. Her background shapes the tone of the book, which draws on lived experience rather than theoretical or clinical perspectives alone. The book is published by Cambridge Publishing House.
Beyond the book, Miller is building an online community where caregivers can connect, share experiences, and support one another, along with a website, Facebook page, and Instagram page with additional resources and updates. She plans to continue writing. Outside of writing, she enjoys photography, design, and helping her senior neighbors.
With caregiver burnout and elder abuse receiving increased attention from policymakers and advocates, Miller’s book offers a timely, experience-based perspective. By validating the hardships of caregiving while celebrating its rewards, it may help both current and future caregivers feel less alone and better equipped to navigate the demands of the role.
