Q: My retirement income makes me ineligible for any subsidies or assistance. I still have to be careful and stick to a strict monthly budget since I have minimal savings. My biggest worry is the cost of my electric bill seems to keep going up each year. Do you have...
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Older adults can make decisions for themselves
Q: I am a mature woman, I prefer that description rather than saying I am getting old. I am independent and the only instance I need to hire help is in my yard. I admit I have a slight mobility issue but I am not confused and believe I use good judgment. I frequently...
Why do you need multiple vaccinations?
Q: The other day when I was picking up a prescription the pharmacist asked if I was interested in getting the new Shingles vaccine. He even volunteered to call my physician if I agreed. I had a vaccination for Shingles several years ago after suffering through the...
Losing weight gets harder with age
Q: Two years ago I attended my 50th high school reunion. It was wonderful to reconnect with people I haven't seen since we graduated. There was a small number of classmates I recognized immediately and the appearance of others had changed dramatically. One common...
Any indication a person may be contemplating suicide should never be ignored
Q: My friend of more than 50 years passed away a few months ago. Her husband is distraught, they were devoted to each other. I stopped to visit with him the other day and he said there wasn't any reason for him to go on living. I don't know if he is depressed or...
Voice your concern on behalf of your loved one
Q: A friend has a sister who resides in a nursing home in another state. She called me the other night and was so upset about the problems she has been having with the facility. Her sister's clothes consistently do not come back from the laundry, the room is not...
Water that’s too hot can pose a danger
Q: One of the ladies who lives on my floor in our elder housing is the resident "know-it-all." She actually is fun to be around and has a good heart but she can drive us crazy with some of her obscure facts. Yesterday she told us we should no longer take hot baths or...
Get an updated whooping cough vaccination
Q: My granddaughter recently had a baby which is my first great grandchild. I didn't go to the hospital because I had a cold and didn't want to pass on any germs. I was just informed I can not see the baby unless I have an updated vaccination for whopping cough. I...
Learn how to manage chronic pain
Q: I have arthritis that has resulted in joint replacements and ongoing pain. I try and stay as active as possible even though this causes discomfort. I have had side effects from most of the narcotics prescribed and do not want to rely on any of those. I am looking...
Volunteering doesn’t have to be full-time job
Q: I retired last year and have been traveling and enjoying spending more time with my grandchildren. I have decided I would like to get involved with volunteer work. My professional background was focused on nutrition and food safety so I thought about the meals...