Ask Joan – Weekly Q and A Column

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…

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…

Q:  A few years ago my father decided my mother should no longer be driving due to her increasing confusion and a minor fender-bender. When this first occurred he was always willing to take her wherever she wanted to go. When his health started to deteriorate last year he didn’t feel well enough to continue…

Q:  I am worried about my friend of more than 55 years and her daughter. The daughter’s husband passed away in the early fall. This was not a happy marriage for the last 20 years but they remained together for their children’s sake and for financial reasons. Although he was not a good husband, he…

Q:  Several of my neighbors in the elder housing where I live disagree on whether or not it is still important for us to have regular dental check-ups. Some of us don’t have dental insurance so we have let this go the last couple of years. Can you settle this and tell us if this…

Q:  I spent hours watching television of the coverage of the memorial service for the late President George H.W. Bush. As a caregiver of a disabled spouse would you remind people of the role the late president had in the passage of the Americans with Disabilities Act? A: There are past U.S. presidents who will be…

Q:  A friend of mine moved her mother in with her after the recent gas explosions. The elder’s home had minimal damages and all the repairs have been completed. Her mother is terrified to return to her home. She has not been sleeping well at night and cries at the least little thing. My friend…

Q:  Several weeks ago you mentioned in a column the possibility to receive nutrition counseling if you are a diabetic. Could you provide more information? I am interested to find out if this would be a good opportunity for me. A: Thanks for reminding us about this. The nutrition counseling could be a great educational resource…

Q:  My primary care physician has strongly encouraged me to lose weight. My mobility is becoming more limited and my blood sugar numbers have gone up so he thinks taking off a few pounds would help with both issues. I have tried countless diets and joined exercise programs but I get discouraged and eventually give…

Q:  Sometime in October you had an article about the gas explosions in Lawrence, Andover and North Andover. That article focused on preventative measures for folks who use natural gas. How are things going in the aftermath of this accident? A:  As we move from crisis to restoration for those affected, we are stronger and more…