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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How exactly can I determine if I have Alzheimer's disease?


You won't be able to determine that for yourself. Even fully trained neurologists need do several tests and they generally order a PET... see more

Question

Anyone know anything about Medical Health Records (MHR) offered by Medicare? (helps all your loved ones dr's r...


I'm not sure this is all in place yet - it's a goal. However, you can check at www.medicare.gov to watch for developments. If... see more

Question

What is the life expectancy of someone with COPD?


It can be quite long, but only a doctor can give you guidance. It depends on too many other issues, including more health problems and... see more

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My dad has COPD and his condition is getting worse. How do I ask him to give someone Power of Attorney?


Try the indirect approach. You may want to tell him (and follow through) that you are getting a POA and health directive set up because you... see more

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My mother-in-law has become increasingly bad tempered and aggressive over the past year, for no apparent reaso...


She needs a good checkup. She could have an infection, she could have a medication problem, or she could be developing dementia. Whatever... see more

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Are there benefits or financial help a person can receive if they are caring for a parent with Alzheimer's?


Unfortunately, there isn't a lot, but much depends on the state in which you live. I'd suggest you go to your state's Web site... see more

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My mother thinks people are stealing from her and and threatens to kill them or burn down their houses. How ca...


All good advice! Thanks, FyreFly. I think it's pretty routine in these cases that we need to get them to a doctor by saying something... see more

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My mother thinks people are stealing from her and and threatens to kill them or burn down their houses. How ca...


It doesn't sound to me like she should be living on her own. Her paranoia could be part of Alzheimer's - if she hasn't been... see more

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My 83-year-old mother lives at home, has a kidney transplant and is diabetic. How can I get financial governme...


I'm assuming she is on Medicaid. If not, you may want to look into it (unless she has a good amount of money). You can go to your state... see more

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My 87 year old mom will only get out of the bed is she has to eat or go to the bathroom. The doctors say she i...


I'd have her checked by a different doctor. The new medication could be the issue, since this is a recent change in behavior. Also, ask... see more

Question

Is there any type of assistance I can apply for to get funds for a nursing home? My mother is not qualified f...


You could see an elder law attorney, but likely you won't find anything. It doesn't hurt to check, however. Generally speaking... see more

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My parents need my help, and would be heartbroken if I "put them away", but I'm getting married in September....


I had similar thoughts. I know that it's often harder for adult children who have parents with deeply ingrained cultural norms that are... see more

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My parents need my help, and would be heartbroken if I "put them away", but I'm getting married in September....


Is your mother on Hospice care? They could help her with many things, from pain management to some in-home care. They also would be a good... see more

Question

How do you get paid to care for an elderly loved one?


Even federal funding is generally state administered. If you go to your state Web site and look for a heading somewhat like "aging... see more

Question

How do I get my father to wear adult diapers?


It's tough. First, of course, is you call them pads or something, not diapers. You are likely already doing that, but sometimes that... see more

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I found out today the nursing home physician has mother on dilantin and I have no idea why? She has never had...


Many drugs are given "off label" because a doctor thinks it may help. For example, migraine sufferers are used to anti-seizure... see more

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Taking care of parent in my home. After their death I am paid "compensation" of $111,000 from estate for 5 yea...


I would assume it is. You'd have to check with a CPA to be sure. But it is income, so likely it's taxable.
Carol

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We were told my dad needs hospice. I took him from his home in CA to be with me in FL. I'm active duty in the...


How often are the hospice people with your dad now? Will he be alone if you keep him there while you make this change or will some other... see more

Question

What questions should I ask the doctor when caring for my elderly mother with memory loss?


I feel your neurologist may be good at diagnosis, but he could communicate better. You could get some help by going to the Alzheimer's... see more

Question

How can I help my 76-year-old father-in-law is an alcoholic and a womanizer?


This is so sad. If someone could get to him and get him into treatment that would be good. Is he a veteran? They are generally very good... see more

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