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

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My mother is on sleeping pills and is still not sleeping at night. What other medicine can she take to make he...


Her confusion is a clue that perhaps the combination of medications is wrong for her. I would definitely check with her doctor. If this... see more

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Who gets to keep my father's money after he dies?


I'm rather surprised he was allowed to keep that much money and still be on Medicaid. I believe the Medicaid people will have first say... see more

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I have medical power of attorney for my mom and I have everything I need from the doctors to get her help. Whe...


If your brother would agree, then your mom would likely go along. My guess is that you are the hands-on caregiver, and your brother only... see more

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Should I be concerned if my mom seems worse now and overmedicated ever since we moved her to rehab?


You are completely right. It's possible the pnuemonia set her back. Getting seriously ill, and being hospitalized can push some people... see more

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Do you feel like your relationship with your parent has become strained as a result of being a caregiver?


Unfortunately, this is common. I feel one reason for this is that elders resent the fact that they need care, so they take out their... see more

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What are the medical requirements when placing an parent in an Assisted Living Facility?


Likely, the ALF will want some medical history, so if you can get her in for a checkup that's great. They may need it for insurance... see more

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Will it help my mother to put her through Enhanced External Counterpulsation for her angina?


It seems to me that if she can tolerate the treatment and it would improve her quality of life it's a good idea. For people like your... see more

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Can the caregiver use my mom's debit care for groceries if my mom can't sign checks anymore?


She'll still need to sign, so that likely wouldn't work. However, I agree that having a separate account for the caregiver to use... see more

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What do you do when you have given your best and have no more to give so you have to let a caregiver take over...


You realize you have done your best - more than many people can do - and that you need help with caregiving. Then you can help oversee the... see more

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How do I get my siblings to understand the status of our 90-year-old mom's physical limitations when they don'...


Sad to say, far too many people experience just what you are. Relax in your garden? What a joke! They are incomplete denial and they want... see more

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My mother has lost her sight in one eye, how do I get her medical help and transportation to and from her doct...


Many assisted living centers can make arrangements for transportation. Some charge, some don't. Rarely do they send attendants. You can... see more

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What is respite care?


Respite care is when someone comes in to take care of your husband to give you a break. You can hire in-home care agencies to do this, or... see more

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I'm a pre-diabetic man, with a family history of diabetes. Should I use Metformin as a prevention medication?


If your doctor recommends it, you should listen to him or her or get another opinion. I'm sure the doctor also recommends the other... see more

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How can I find out who has Power of Attorney for my mother?


Frustrating as this is, you may have to ask an elder law attorney for assistance. This could cost some money, but you could at least find... see more

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Should my 88-year-old mother who has severe arthritis in her shoulder get a cortisone shot or take medicine?


Cortisone shots are painful and can only be given every so often, but they help many people. Medications all have side effects but can be... see more

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Can my father claim what he pays his live-in caregiver as a deduction on his taxes?


He may be able to, if a doctor has prescribed the care, however, he needs to check with a qualified CPA before he does so. I expect he can... see more

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Are there any devices to help an elder who has mobility problems into bed?


The only thing I'm aware of is the Hoyer lift that many nursing homes use. They are spendy, but helpful. Any ideas out there?
Carol

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My father just broke his hip and needs to go to a rehab facility. How can I find a good rehabilitation center...


The hospital will have recommendations, but you are wise to check around. Try using your phone book and ask each place if they have... see more

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How should I spend down $4000 in one month for my Mom to qualify for Medicaid?


You should get legal advice here, but my own feeling is that this must be spent on her needs only, and on health or other necessities. You... see more

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How do I get my mother’s benefits changed over after she moves from another state?


Lilliput had amazing answers as always! MyMedicare.gov will be a good start for the Medicare insurance changes, but you'll have to... see more

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