Because we are living longer than ever, more psychologists and social workers have begun to study ways of caregiving to improve care of the elderly. They have found that all caregivers share a common characteristic: they all feel that they can do the job better than anyone else. Social workers interviewed caregivers to find out why they took on the responsibility of caring for an elderly, dependent relative. They discovered three basic reasons. Many caregivers believed that they had an obligation to help their relatives. Some stated that helping others made them feel more useful. Others hoped that by helping someone now, they would deserve care when they became old and dependent. When people care for an elderly relative, they often do not use available community services, such as adult day-care centers. If the caregivers are adult children, they are more likely to use such services, especially because they often have jobs and other responsibilities. In contrast, a spouse, usually the wife, is much less likely to use support services or to put the dependent person in a nursing home. Social workers discovered that the wife normally tries to take care of her husband herself as long as she can in order not to use up their life savings. Researchers have found that caring for the elderly can be a very positive experience. However, even when caregiving is satisfying, it is hard work. One consideration is to ask parents what they want before they become sick or dependent. Perhaps they prefer going into a nursing home, so they can select one in advance. On the other hand, they may want to live with their adult children. Caregivers must also learn to be assertive and ask for help from others, especially siblings. Brothers and sisters are often willing to help, but they may not know what to do. We can expect to live longer lives than ever before. Caring for the elderly and being taken care of can be a mutually satisfying experience for everyone involved.