Over the span of two decades, author, columnist, consultant and speaker Carol Bradley Bursack cared for a neighbor and six elderly family members. Her experiences inspired her to pen "Minding Our Elders: Caregivers Share Their Personal Stories," a portable support group book for caregivers.

Answers

Question

If I were to fax a copy of my POA to my mum creditors, will they hold me responsible for paying her bills?


They shouldn't. A Power Of Attorney only means that you can pay her bills from her funds. The creditors need to be told that your mum... see more

Question

How many stages are their in Alzheimer's?


The Alzheimer's Association gives 7 general stages, however every person is different. The general stages listed by the Association are... see more

Question

What are some ways to motivate my Parkinson's 90-year old mother to do daily activities that she can do but wo...


This could be manipulation, but it could be that dementia is the issue. A significant number of people with Parkinson's develop... see more

Question

Does a revocable trust protective the assets from a 5 year look back?


Probably not, but there may be some trusts, in some states, where it does. You'll need to have an expert in trusts and Medicaid examine... see more

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My dad doesn't use the Veterans Assistance clinic, does that mean he cannot get long term care benefits?


I don't believe he'd be limited to VA doctors only. Depending on where he lives, the VA may or may not have the right doctors to... see more

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At wit's end! How do you deal with answering the same questions over and over?


You'll have a lot of company on this site. understand that your dad isn't doing this on purpose, helps. However, being his only... see more

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How much does it cost to obtain legal guardianship of an elderly parent?


You'll need an attorney and to pay court costs, so it will be substantial. Much will depend on how complicated the case is. If it's... see more

Question

My mother-in-law just dismissed the home health care provider, now what?


Even though she doesn't go to church, could her pastor talk with her? Does her church have Stephen Ministers? These are trained lay... see more

Question

Mom died suddenly 2 months ago and now dad doesn't want to live. Is there hope?


I'm sorry to say that this isn't unusual. My mother lasted five months after my dad's death. I've know couples who've... see more

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My grandmother and I are getting on each other's nerves and can't seem to get along right now. What should I d...


She needs a good checkup, I would think. A doctor may be able to help you decide how to help her agitation. I don't think you should... see more

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If mom can prove that the money was spent for her care will she lose community home care?


I think her attorney is the one to listen to, here. Let him know you have proof of how the money was spent. Much will depend on New... see more

Question

I recently got diagnosed with COPD, could anyone share experiences they have had with COPD?


COPD is tough to live with, but it can be managed. Being a caregiver as well makes it even harder. Remember that it's important to take... see more

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Is there a checklist of what should be in place before a parent moves into a daughter's home to live?


I'm glad you are considering this move carefully. It can work out very well, but once it's done, if the move doesn't work for... see more

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I have been dropped from Medicaid saying between me and my husband I my over the limit. What can I do?


Jeannegibbs said it. You need to call a case manager. And sadly, you are right. Some people would be better off financially divorced, which... see more

Question

How can I stop the drama queen from her drama?


It sounds to me like your mother is developing a form of dementia or a mental illness. I'd suggest that she see a brain specialist or a... see more

Question

Does dad need a will if he owns nothing and his money is in my sister and my name?


To avoid a long probate time with your state, I'd still advise that he has a will. It simplified matters a lot at the time of death.... see more

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Can a nursing home tell you that you are going to see your parent too much?


I don't think you are visiting too much. I visited all of my elders who lived in a nursing home nearly every day. You don't want to... see more

Question

My mom is depressed, how can I deal with her depression without getting depressed myself?


Try calling or writing to her doctor and telling him or her that your mom IS depressed. It's so common for elders to gloss over their... see more

Question

My mother has been diagnosis with the beginning stages of dementia, has a heart condition ,now she has started...


Sleeping medications, especially, could be an issue. Try calling her pharmacist and ask him or her to do a side-effect check on ALL of your... see more

Question

Can a nursing home discharge a patient knowing they need full-time care?


If you feel that the patient needs to be in nursing home care and that they are unfairly trying to discharge him or her, try your local... see more

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