"And it's basically trying to prepare for the worst but then expecting the best for older persons, families and caregivers and it puts into this handbook a little bit of advice and direction about planning for that inevitable future," said Jim Pietsch.

The handbook is filled with practical advice for seniors or those caregivers looking after seniors - things like sample advance health care directives that will ease decision making in the future.  Lenora Lee earned her doctorate with school work - - and grounded learning.

"I was a caregiver for 25 years for my mother and during those years, I had a lot of experience," said Lenora Lee. "I took her every where, to the doctor, to the grocery store, to look for excursions for her.  I was very, very lucky because my brother helped out."

Along with legal information and hints on what to do if you find yourself a caregiver - there is a special chapter on finding a caregiver if that's what you have to do.

"And in it, we have information about hiring a caregiver, what to expect, how to do an interview with a caregiver, the taxes a caregiver should pay, if they hire a caregiver on their own," said Lee.

The handbook is - to use a hackneyed phrase - chock full of valuable information for families, seniors - even employers.  And it's easily accessible.

"Well, we're very lucky," said Pietsch. "All the counties in Hawaii have gathered together and published this book for us.  We wrote the book, but the counties of Hawaii have published it and you can get it through the area agency on aging on your island."

To find out how to get the handbook, call 768-7700.