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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When should I seek a conservatorship for my mom?


If she hasn't given you Power Of Attorney and she is considered, medically speaking, past the point of being able to take care of her... see more

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Should I redeposit my mothers funds back into her account in order to pay for a prepaid funeral?


Is she on Medicaid? If she is, then you should talk with them about how to set up a pre-paid funeral. If she is not already on Medicaid,... see more

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Is there financial aid to help pay for a room addition for my crippled dad?


Check your state Web site under "aging Services" or something similar and you should find contact information. Once you find... see more

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My mom doesn't remember anything anymore. The other day I took her to a place she went when she was younger an...


It was still fun for her! You just have to get used to the fact she won't remember. Even celebrations are like that. It's worth... see more

Question

My niece and her three children have been living with my parents for 23 years now. Both parents have suffered...


Your mom could be depressed. She is not lazy. But she may not have the will to push herself as much as she was told she could do. She may... see more

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My wife and I take care of a friend with ALS in our home for the past year. He is 100% dependent on us. How ca...


Try going to your state Web site. Find contact information under "aging services" or something similar and then email or call... see more

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Medicines do not help my father sleep, they make him more agitated and awake. We have seen Neurologists and Ps...


Does he have Alzheimer's? This is normal (sadly for the caregiver). Other than quiet moods, not letting him sleep during the day, maybe... see more

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What can I do when my mom forgets to take her medicine and when my dad reminds her she thinks he is treating h...


Maybe you could coach your dad if his approach seems too harsh. He does it because he loves her, but it comes across as nagging to her. Few... see more

Question

How do you handle family members who start attacking you about your caregiving ways?


I agree that it's common for some families to resent the person who is giving care. The responses from all of these good people are... see more

Question

I am currently caring for an elder loved one who recently had a stroke. What should I do that would be benefic...


Ask ahead what the ADC you are looking at offers for those with impairment from stroke. Some even have physical therapy, but most... see more

Question

Do all SSDI people get the $250.00 rebate from Medicare?


You will automatically get the $250 if you went into your "donuthole" for the year - maxed out the program so you've been... see more

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I am caring for both my parents, is their financial assistance for me, since I am unable to work? Does Social...


I'd see an elder law attorney and see if something can be drawn up to make this legal. Then you are protected. You might find one... see more

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How do I get my mom to agree to sell her house and either move in or move closer to me?


My suggestion would be to back off as a family and ask a third party to start working with her. A faith community leader or a long-time... see more

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This is new to our family and we need to know if there is any help with paying for someone to stay with Dad, l...


Try your state Web site under "aging services" or something similar. You'll find out what local options are available. Some... see more

Question

How can I get my mother to go to Assisted Living?


You are right to understand ahead of time that living together won't work. Good for you! It works for some, but not for others.... see more

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My mother has recently started swatting at anyone who tries to help get her up besides me. How do I stop this...


Fantastic! Thanks for letting me know. I was wondering about that. People need to speak calmly and not surprise her. I'm glad you all... see more

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My sister negated our dual Power Of Attorney and became Mom's legal guardian. She is making decisions that my...


How did your sister negate your POA? You may want to see an elder attorney about this. Something doesn't seem right here.
Carol

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My mother is well, for 92. She is being evaluated by Sartori Memorial Hospital's psych ward. My only sister...


If you mean legally help, that would depend on why your sister is the guardian and what permissions she gives you. Otherwise, you may not... see more

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How can I get my father to remember to take his medications?


You'd likely have to check with in-home agencies in your area. You could also see if your local public health service or the county has... see more

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My mother has recently started swatting at anyone who tries to help get her up besides me. How do I stop this...


She may be unable to understand what others are trying to do, so she gets frightened. Obviously, you can't do this all yourself.... see more

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