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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Has anyone used hospice to help with Alzheimer's care?


Yes, that's a starting point. Qualifying will need a doctor's opinion, but if your loved one is in late stage dementia, likely... see more

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If I am paid from my mother's assets to provide 24/7 care in my home is this taxable income...would I also nee...


That probably depends on the amount you are paid and how the paperwork is set up. I strongly advise that you see a CPA to make sure all is... see more

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Have others experienced flashbacks while being a caregiver?


Oh, yes! We can go back to our years growing up - these are our parents we are watching detriorate. There is pain in the flashbacks, but... see more

Question

Has anyone used hospice to help with Alzheimer's care?


I haven't used hospice for Alzheimer's care, but I did for other dementias. They were a godsend. I can't tell you how much I... see more

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I'm the primary caregiver for my mother, and have been for the past 5 years. Can I receive financial assistanc...


Try your state Web site. Each state is different (these programs are federally funded but state administered). So, try going to your state... see more

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My father received benefits and AL wants to trace how much was paid out. How can I find out how the benefits w...


It depends on the benefits and who is in charge. You'll need access to your father's records for this. Hopefully, you have Power Of... see more

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Is it legal for my aunt to take things from my grandmother if she has POA?


This seems to be more of an issue of morality than legality. The POA isn't supposed to just take things at will. You are entirely right... see more

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Wasn't there a plan to change Medicare benefits to assist the elderly with paying for services instead of payi...


Each state is a bit different, even with federal programs. And many of these changes, unfortunately, won't take effect for awhile. You... see more

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I have a hearing problem and now I sometimes hear noises in my ears. Is this Tinnitus or a more serious proble...


Likely it's tinnitus, but that can be caused by medications and other issues, so you really need to see your doctor. You don't want... see more

Question

What are the legal issues I need to know about placement in a NH in Texas?


You may want to check with an elder law or estate attorney. Do you mean Social Security for income and Medicare for health? You can get... see more

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I need to know how do I apply for assisted for caregiving for my mother?


I wish it were that easy. Is your mother on Medicaid. They sometimes can pay for some care. However, each state is different (these... see more

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My elderly parent won't sleep at night. What do I do?


Has your parent been diagnosed with Alzheimer's? This is common with the disease. Either way, it's time for an appointment with the... see more

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When do I know it is time to get Hospice?


As early as possible after a terminal diagnosis. Many people use six months as a guideline, but call them any time. People can go off of... see more

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I have been diagnoised with normal hydrocephalus and trigiminal neuralgia. I will be receiving radiation soon....


Unfortunately, our system doesn't take very good care of people in situations like you are in. I'm so sorry you are going through... see more

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What legal forms do I need to have in place for my mother so I can care for her, medically and otherwise?


You need to see an estate attorney with her and have a Power of Attorney for financial reasons, and also a Health Directive which includes... see more

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How do I get paid for taking care of mother?


Medicaid often helps some. However, each state is different (these programs are federally funded but state administered). So, try going to... see more

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What does Medicaid pay for? Do you still need private heath insurance if you have Medicaid?


Generally, Medicare pays for nursing home care, occasionally some home heath care, and other health needs, but you need to check with your... see more

Question

Is there a camera system that would allow me to view the room(s) while you are not in there?


There are a lot of these out there. Does anyone know of a good company? We'd like to hear.
Carol

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He is not on Medicaid or Medicare at this time. I am wondering what the cost is?


Contact the Veteran's Administration where you intend to move him. They may be able to help. He's too young for Medicare under... see more

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Mom's hearing is pretty much gone, but she won't wear her hearing aids. How can I convince her?


Unfortunately, this is not uncommon. She could find the hearing aids physically uncomfortable. However, she could find the sounds she... see more

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