Q: A friend recently mentioned in confidence her physician approved the use of medical marijuana to help with the severe pain she has been experiencing. She doesn't want other people to know she is using the pot because they may think less of her. Does this really...
Moving out of state after retirement
Q: I read your column about the couple who wanted to downsize and find a new residence. I also will be retiring soon but unlike the other couple I am thinking of relocating out of state. All of my family live in other areas of the country and it would be good to be...
Avoiding isolation after retirement
Q: I will be retiring within the year. I should be able to live comfortably since I have made wise financial investments. The decision to retire was still a difficult one, so much of life has revolved around my career. Most of my close personal relationships are with...
Housing tips for empty nesters
Q: After raising five children my husband and I have been "empty nesters" for quite a few years. We've realized it doesn't make sense to stay in this large house and it is time to downsize. We have decided to purchase a new residence before we retire and want to stay...
MS can result in cognitive decline
Q: A friend of mine was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis many years ago. She has had excellent medical care and therapy since she was first diagnosed. Recently we have both become aware she is becoming forgetful but not what I would refer to as confused. She forgets...
Talk to a doctor before stopping aspirin therapy
Q: Almost 20 years ago my primary care physician suggested I should start taking a low-dose aspirin every day. After reading several articles over the past few months I stopped doing this. Recently I had a conversation with a good friend about taking an aspirin daily...
Bring up driving concerns sooner rather than later
Q: My mother has shown signs of dementia over the last year or so. There are several issues we have concerns about but driving is our biggest worry. She is used to going out every day shopping, running errands or out to lunch with friends. She hasn't gotten a ticket...
Many with diabetes aren’t aware they have it
Q: My husband was recently admitted to the hospital following a dizzy spell and falling. His blood sugar count was very high, and after several tests we found out he had Type 2 diabetes. This diagnosis was a surprise to me and my husband as he didn’t have any obvious...
No changes in services planned due to merger
Q: I live in Dracut and have been getting services from your agency. The homemaker helps me with personal care, housekeeping and shopping. My daughter told me she read in the paper you are merging with another agency this summer. Can I still get my services? A: Your...
Grieving spouses may need to find new life partners
Q: My mother passed away a little over a year ago after a long illness. My father was amazing as a caregiver and he was devastated after her death. They were married for almost 50 years. My siblings and I were shocked to discover Dad has been dating a woman he met at...