Finding help with pension problems
Joan Hatem-Roy Chief Executive Officer Question: My sister’s husband died several months ago. When she applied for the survivor benefit from his pension, she was told she wasn’t eligible to…
Help is available to find local services for seniors
Joan Hatem-Roy Chief Executive Officer Q: I am trying to gather information for my elderly next-door neighbors. Over the past year, they seem to be struggling to take care of…
Adapting to hearing aids
Joan Hatem-Roy Chief Executive Officer Q: My elderly mother has experienced hearing loss during the last few years. She has denied she had a problem, which has frustrated her family and…
Visiting after vaccination
Joan Hatem-Roy Chief Executive Officer Q: I am fully vaccinated against COVID-19 and feel a great sense of gratitude and relief. Is it finally OK for me to visit my…
Coping with a difficult diagnosis
Joan Hatem-Roy Chief Executive Officer Question: My husband was diagnosed with a debilitating neurological condition. We have been told there is no cure, but medication may slow his deterioration. Neither…
Understanding herd immunity, and what it means for vaccination
Joan Hatem-Roy Chief Executive Officer Q: I am 72 years old and received my second COVID-19 vaccination two weeks ago. I am somewhat relieved to have this added protection, but others…
Easing fears about the vaccine
Joan Hatem-Roy, Chief Executive Officer Question: Some of my friends are afraid of getting the COVID-19 vaccine because they think it will give them the actual disease. What can I…
Helping a loved one with a drinking problem
Joan Hatem-Roy, Chief Executive Officer Q: I am concerned about my sister. Her husband of over 50 years died six months ago. Several times when I have called, I noticed that…
Ombudsman can help navigate concerns at long-term care facilities
Joan Hatem-Roy, Chief Executive Officer Q: My neighbor made the difficult decision to place her husband in a long-term care facility as his needs became more than she could handle. She…
Benefits, responsibilities of a power of attorney
Joan Hatem-Roy, Chief Executive Officer Q: Years ago, my parents met with an attorney to put their home and financial assets in a trust. I was named my mother’s health care…