Ask Joan – Weekly Q and A Column

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 work? A: The use of marijuana for both…

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 closer…

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 people at my job. I am worried…

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 in the area since…

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 when we have made plans to go somewhere…

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 and she strongly disagreed with me. So how do…

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 or had an accident so…

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 symptoms. I am concerned that…

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 church. Now…