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…
Importance of Health Care Directives
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 document? A: It is estimated two…
Advocating for a loved one with dementia
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 has increased. The physical therapist who…
Post-traumatic stress isn’t limited to veterans
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 impacted but the rest of us have been able…
Fall Prevention Program can help one learn to avoid falls
Q: I have had one total knee replacement surgery and in the future will require the other knee to be replaced and possibly one hip surgery as well. I’ve had a few falls but fortunately was not injured other than bruises. I have made suggested changes within my house to reduce as many hazards as…
Involve elders in decision to clean out old stuff
Q: My 93-year-old mother is still living in her own home. The basement is filled with things that have been stored for years. I am concerned that if she continues to deteriorate both physically and cognitively she will require placement in a long-term care facility. If this happens at some point the home will need…
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