It's taken Judy Johns years to get to this point. Comfortable knowing her 89 year old mother (Kathryn Counter) is happy and well cared for even though she's not living under the same roof.

"Now it's time for me to be able to do stuff for mom," said Judy.

What Judy found out is that can be pretty taxing. Judy is like a lot of other people, at least 25% of the population. Torn between caring for aging parents while still looking after children and in her case, grandchildren too. Did I mention on top of all this, she's holding down a full-time job? Judy finally moved her mom to a nursing home.

"She's been here six years. She lived with us for five. Then prior to that, I did all of the grocery shopping -- because she didn't drive anymore -- and any errands, taking her to the doctor, things like that," said Judy.

Caregivers like Judy often feel overwhelmed. Dottie Brown at Immanuel Fontenelle Home says getting help and getting out once in a while are the key to survival.

"I think there are some good support groups,  and the other thing is just taking care of ourselves, giving ourselves permission to be away from that 24 hour caregiving," said Dottie.

And try to involve the entire family in taking care of aging parents. Judy gets a break about four times a year when her brother comes to town. She says taking care of her mom is both a blessing and a burden she wouldn't trade.