Q: I went to the doctor with my older sister the other day. She was scared to go alone as she was afraid of bad news. She had fallen twice and had noticed her voice was softer and she had to strain sometimes to be heard. She was frightened that these issues were...
Q: On a recent Sunday I gave an older woman who attends our church a ride home. When we arrived at her residence she was unsteady as she got out of the car. I asked if she was not feeling well and she became teary eyed as she finally admitted she hadn't had a full...
Q: My elderly parents live quite a distance from me. Due to chronic medical conditions they both have been hospitalized during the past year. My family and work responsibilities make it difficult to get away and travel back home each time they get sick. I make every...
Q: When I was working I had my taxes prepared by a CPA. I am now retired and since my income is significantly lower I can't really afford to have this done by a professional. I should be able to figure all the forms out but frankly it overwhelms me. With the new tax...
Women, particularly those over 40, increasingly find themselves in the role of caregiver to an aging parent, often while raising their own children AND working outside the home. Many find themselves without much of a support system as they work to balance daily...
Q: I have gained weight since I retired. No matter what suggested changes I have made in my diet the excess pounds just won't come off. I realize exercise may be the key to weight loss. Are there any exercises that are geared to an older adult who hasn't been active...
Q: A friend of mine made a comment the other day that I shouldn't be drinking diet colas anymore because of my age (70 years old). I have been drinking diet colas for most of my adult life. She tends to be a "know it all" so does this have any merit? A: Actually your...
Q: Every year when I have my annual check-up or have a scheduled medical procedure I'm always asked if I have an advance directive. I must admit I don't. I know this is important but I keep procrastinating. Are other people as reluctant as I am to execute this...
Q: My 93 year old mother just had surgery after falling and breaking the top of her femur. It was discovered the next day that she had a urinary tract infection and also required a blood transfusion. She has dementia but with all she has gone through the confusion...
Q: I live in an area which was evacuated during the gas explosions. One of my neighbors supposedly has been diagnosed with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder. I always thought this only happens to soldiers who have been in war related incidents. All of my neighbors were...