Q: My mother and her neighbors were without electricity for more than 4 days. All of the food in the refrigerator was spoiled and had to be thrown out. Her housekeeper is making a list for the grocery store to replace the items lost. She called and asked me if there...
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Beware of scams targeting the elderly
Q: Last Christmas several family members all pitched in to buy my elderly mother a top of the line laptop and printer. We thought this would be a good way for her to stay in touch with all of her grandchildren who are in college or have moved away for new jobs. She...
It’s never too late to care for your heart
Q: As an aging adult I am sadly aware of the number of friends and relatives who have passed away over the last few years. What has come as a big shock to me is two close friends have recently been hospitalized for cardiac events. Both of these individuals appeared to...
Last wishes can be source of family disputes
Many years ago my mother casually mentioned to me that she wanted to be cremated when she dies. My step-father was alive at the time and he was adamantly against this. My mother's health is failing and I have told my step-siblings of my mother's wishes. Their beliefs...
What is a SCO and am I eligible?
Q. After a long wait an apartment in elder housing finally came available for my father. We thought it would be best to move him to be closer to where we live. Both my husband and I are working so it wasn't feasible for him to move in with us since he needs more...
Seek help for recovery from domestic abuse
Q. More than 40 years ago I was in an abusive relationship. Very few people are aware of the circumstances because I was embarrassed and ashamed of what was happening to me. Eventually I was able to move on with my life, met and married a wonderful man. The problem...
Should I continue to take antibiotics prior to my dental visits?
Q. Following a total knee replacement the orthopedic surgeon prescribed amoxicillin to be taken prior to any dental work. The other day when I picked up the refill at the drug store the pharmacist spoke with me about whether or not I should continue to take the...
Personal Care and Alzheimer’s Disease: How to Avoid the Struggle
Bathing can be difficult for someone with Alzheimer’s or Dementia and also then often becomes a daily struggle for their caregivers. Here are some suggestions that might help if you are providing bathing assistance for your loved one: Have all items ready for bathing...
Tips about staying healthy during this flu epidemic
Q. My elderly mother has several chronic conditions although she doesn't let this slow her down. She remains quite active in her church, local senior center and a card group. She got her flu shot in the fall and seems to think she shouldn't have to take any further...
Feeling comfortable in home after spouse passing away
Q. I always thought of myself as a strong, independent woman. After my husband passed away I no longer feel safe in my own home. Every little noise at night makes me jump and I have trouble getting enough sleep. I do not want to move so I need to find ways to make...