Q. It seems like the costs of everything is increasing these days: food, clothing, transportation and so many other things. It’s difficult to keep my own household finances in place and now I’m trying to help my aging parents manage their expenses. Not only are they...
Ask Joan: Home Care Services
Q. My brothers and I take turns calling and checking on our parents on a daily basis. Our parents are both in their 80s and have some health issues. We have started to notice that they may not be able to continue to stay in their home without some assistance. One of...
Ask Joan: The need for age-friendly communities
Q. I’ve lived in Massachusetts my whole life and can’t imagine living anywhere else. I feel a real “sense of community” in my town, where we work together to keep our neighborhoods safe and welcoming. As I get older, I’m noticing things that make staying in my...
Ask Joan: World Elder Abuse Awareness Day is June 15
Q. I live a few hours away from my great-aunt, so I don’t see her often. Lately, I have been concerned about her safety and wellbeing. The last time I saw her she had some bruises that she didn’t want to talk about. When I brought it up with the neighbor lady...
Ask Joan: Understanding the warning signs of Alzheimer’s
Q. My father is 79 and is generally in good health. However, I’ve noticed he is sometimes forgetful and doesn’t always remember where things are around the house. Just last week, he was confused about what day it was. I don’t want to assume something more serious is...
Ask Joan: Help with arthritis pain, management is available
Q. I have been recently diagnosed with arthritis. Sometimes it’s hard for me to stand, and my husband is having a harder time helping me around the house. Are there other resources that can help people in a situation like mine? A. I am so sorry to hear you are in...
Ask Joan: Taking care of our mental health
Q. Lately, I have been feeling more and more overwhelmed and anxious, and I’m concerned something more serious might be happening. I am 79 and caring for my husband, who has been seriously ill for several months. I don’t mind caring for him, but some days are pretty...
Ask Joan: Options counseling for caregivers
Q. I am 76 years old and the primary caretaker of my wife, who has Alzheimer’s. While I love my wife and want to help her, there are days when I am exhausted and struggling, especially when I’ve been up all night with her. Our doctor suggested trying an adult day...
Ask Joan: Traveling alone doesn’t have to be lonely
Q. I have so many fond memories of our family’s vacations, and since I’ve been on my own, I have taken some road trips with friends. While I’m no world traveler, I enjoy getting out and visiting new places. In fact, I’m thinking about taking a trip by myself. I...
Aging Unbound: Linda Vieira
A broken elevator and nine flights of stairs in the summer would be a deterrent to some people. Not to Linda Vieira, who week after week made sure her Meals on Wheels recipients still received their daily lunch, a wellness check, and a smile. “Some of them told me to...