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

I am full time giver for my older brother with cerebral palsy do I qualify for cash and couseling funds?


Not every state has cash and counseling, but if yours does, you should check with them (to to your state Web site for a start). You may... see more

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Does Medicare cover geriatric assessment?


Possibly. Try going to www.medicare.gov and type in the search words. They have a place to check what is covered.
Carol

Question

How do I help someone who doesn't think he needs it? Issues are hoarding, housekeeping, nutrition, organizatio...


Generally, it works best to have someone other than a family member talk with the person. If there is a trusted friend or spritual leader,... see more

Question

I took care of parents for 14 yrs, but did know I could get paid. Can I still get paid for those years?


It's unlikely, since it's hard to get paid at all. You can check with your state or with your social services and see if there is... see more

Question

Can a nursing home refuse to accept someone due to personal issues with an ex employee who is the daughter of...


I would think they'd have to have a better reason than that, but you could check with your state's ombudsman. Each state has one.... see more

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How can you manage acute arthritis related pain?


She should see a rheumatologist if her pain is not controlled. There are over 100 types of arthritis, and people can have more than one... see more

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Do you have questions about getting paid for taking care of your loved one?


Very good advice. We get many questions on the forum each day about this. Every state is different and each case is different. People need... see more

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Where can I find subsidized Senior Living for my elders?


You'll need to go through your county, most likely. Find aging services for your county - your social services people can help you.... see more

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My mother is unable to empty her bladder after having a foley catheter following surgery. Has anyone heard of...


You're welcome. Good luck and please keep checking back. There are lots of good people on this site.
Carol

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My mother is unable to empty her bladder after having a foley catheter following surgery. Has anyone heard of...


Her age is likely against her, but I would definitely try to find a geriatric urologist. It can't hurt - maybe something can be done... see more

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My father has dementia, my mother has osteoporosis and can barely walk, and my 50-year-old brother had a strok...


Medicare isn't likely to pay you for this. If they are on Medicaid, (for the poor) you may be able to get some pay. Each state has... see more

Question

My mother is unable to empty her bladder after having a foley catheter following surgery. Has anyone heard of...


I have heard of difficulties, but generally the bladder gets retrained. I hope the doctor can figure this out. If she isn't seeing a... see more

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My wife is suffering from lung cancer, what are some activities that she can do at home during the day?


Check with your local Retired Senior Volunteer Service (RSVP). They are wonderful and provide so much service for elders. They are very... see more

Question

What are the regulations and licensing requirements for nusing homes?


You'll need to check with the state or county in which the home is licensed. One reason nursing homes are so variable (sadly) is that... see more

Question

My husband does not understand reflections in mirrors or windows - he feels people are out there and feels thr...


Mirrors are a big problem, as people with Alzheimer's often ter so they don't recognize themselves in the mirror, just as they... see more

Question

How do I keep my elderly mother from moving to a location without adequate care?


The sad part is that unless you have guardianship, or she is proven incapable of making her own decisions, there may not be anything you... see more

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I had a very serious illness that requires frequent monitoring. How do others find the energy to deal with the...


This is very common for caregivers. Please remember that if you aren't healthy, you can't care for others. Try to find help for... see more

Question

Do you have to have legal papers to be a caregiver?


If you want to be paid caregiver for people other than your family, you should check your state employment laws. Having Certified Nursing... see more

Question

Who do i talk to about getting paid to give care to mom with cancer?


Paid leave is hard to get on our current system. You can try your state Web site and see if you get some information, as these things... see more

Question

My father is in rehab and is scheduled to leave, but the rehab center is putting restrictions on the family to...


I'd talk to the doctor and see if he is really ready to leave. You'd have to check your state laws to see if what they are doing is... see more

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