Be wary of TV pitches for back and knee braces
Q: I’ve been having lower back pain for quite some time. It gets worse after too much physical activity. I’ve seen commercials on T.V. promoting back and knee braces covered by Medicare. If it isn’t going to cost me anything is there any reason why I shouldn’t call the number? A: So glad you contacted…
Telephones can be lifelines for isolated seniors
Q: I live in a small rural community with a population of less than 1,200 residents. I love our little town, but know that some elders who live in the “country” may not have someone to talk to or connect with if they need help. Years ago I lived in the Merrimack Valley and remember…
Medicare coverage for inpatient rehab varies
Q: Our church has a weekly social gathering for older adults. We provide light refreshments in addition to information gathering about topics related to aging. Several members have asked questions about who pays if they have to go to rehab in a nursing home. Does Medicare covers those costs? A: This is a complex question,…
Seek support promptly after receiving diagnosis
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 symptomatic of…
Food resources to help supplement an individual’s food needs
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…
Patient advocates can help with care planning
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 attempt to stay involved by calling the hospital…
Help is available for elders at tax time
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 law…
Working Women and Caregiving
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 demands. They often suffer career setbacks and lose wages and benefits as…
Weight loss is just one benefit of exercise
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 for awhile? A: The…
Drinking diet soda may put women over the age of fifty at a higher risk of stroke or heart disease
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…
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