Lynn Alexander

Lynn Alexander, author of “Caregiver Tsunami,” grew up in an intergenerational household, where she developed a passion as an advocate for the elderly.

“I was born into a very interesting household,” Alexander said. “I actually came home to a caregiver household.”

While in their 20's, Alexander’s parents took on the responsibility of caring for her grandmother and grandfather.

“Caregiving is in my DNA. My parents eventually took care of all four of my grandparents,” she said. “Not long after that, I was taking care of my own parents. So, you could say that I have been preparing for this my entire life.”

With a keen understanding of the challenges that come with advocating for the elderly, Alexander set out to help others by authoring the book, “Caregiver Tsunami.”

“Caregiving for elderly parents can be a stressful undertaking,” Alexander said. “So I wrote a how-to, self-help book for caregivers,” she said. “I feel very strongly that this book can be very helpful for people. It’s not just for lay caregivers but professional caregivers as well. There are strategies on how to weather the storm.”

The book teaches caregivers how to advocate for the elderly, manage stress and embrace the joys of caregiving.

“We forget that you can find humor in caregiving,” she said “My dad was blind, but he would still tell jokes and wear different hats for his caregivers. My parents were as sharp as tacks until the day they passed.”

Alexander also stresses the importance of acknowledging the humanity of the elderly and respecting their lived experiences.

“It’s important to look into their eyes, hold their hands, and have compassion and humanity.”

Since authoring “Caregiver Tsunami” 12 years ago, Alexander has gained more experience and skills. She decided to write a second edition of “Caregiver Tsunami” to include more ideas and tips for those caring for the elderly.

The second edition was launched in August 2025, and is currently one of the top new releases on Amazon.

“I know the book is really resonating with people. The caregivers are really doing the bounty of work,” she said. “The more we support them, the more competent they will be. They’re doing such important work that they should be recognized. It’s also about understanding the positive aspects of intergenerational relationships and that connection. It’s important to maintain those intergenerational relationships with grandchildren and great-grandchildren.”

Alexander received her BSW in social work and an MA in psychology. Subsequently, she was a Michigan state cabinet official and the vice chair of the Michigan Health Endowment Fund.

“I was on the board for seven years,” she said. “I was one of the original appointees under Governor Snyder and served two terms. I helped create quality of life for all Michigan residents.”

Additionally, Alexander implemented innovative strategies to assist the elderly.

“We created adult daycare services and respite care,” she said. “We helped them build better facilities.”

Alexander also headed up the My Choice Waiver Program. The innovative program offered in-home respite for the elderly.

“With this program, the elderly don’t need to go into a nursing home to get the care they need.”

Alexander and her husband, retired Oakland Circuit Court Judge James Alexander, have been married for 43 years and have resided in Bloomfield Township for 41 years.

“We are great champions for each other,” she said. “And we love Bloomfield Township. There's a real sense of community. It’s a beautiful place to live. Phoenicia (in Birmingham) is my favorite restaurant.”

After more than 25 years of advocating for the elderly, Alexander intends to continue helping others.

“What I often tell people is that you’re not going to be perfect and you are not alone in this.”

Story: Katey Meisner

Photo: Laurie Tennent