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 long do people with Parkinson's disease live?


People understand what you mean - the suffering and decline takes a toll on the patient and the caregiver - both suffer. How long people... see more

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My husband has diabetes and is now having a hard time keeping it under control, how do I make sure we control...


You are a double duty caregiver like so many of us. This means you'll be seeking support from several areas. I would strongly suggest... see more

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My mother is bipolar and has depression. Her depression is very contagious. I suffer from major recurring dep...


You need to take care of yourself or you can't help her in any way. Talk to your local aging services people about getting some paid... see more

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My husband is in the military and we currently live overseas. My mom has developed dementia but refuses to see...


Much depends on the medical access you have for her. You could try to get her to a doctor to have her blood pressure checked or something... see more

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What do I do with my elderly parent while I go on vacation?


Hire respite care for your loved one through an in-home agency. Try them out first so you feel comfortable. Some areas have assisted living... see more

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What does the hemoglobin level of an 88 year old woman have to be for a transfusion & how often can it be done...


You'll need a doctor's advice for this and one who has examined the person. Everyone is different. If you don't trust one... see more

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How do you make your parent understand that you are doing what you have to to help them, without them getting...


They will get upset, as they feel their independence is threatened. Please try to introduce help gradually, perhaps with the focus that... see more

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My mother in-law's only income is social secuirty. Are there programs for home care that she can use?


Please go to your state's Web site and look under aging services (or their variation on that theme). This will give you contacts and... see more

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What is the best way to monitor someone's medications to make sure they are taking the right dosage?


A lot depends on your relationship. However, you can enthusiastically let her know you've "found" a great pill reminder that... see more

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The Alzheimer's unit in the nursing home where my mother lives just contacted me to tell me they want to move...


I'd start going through the admin structure of the nursing home for more explanation. Start with a floor nurse and work your way up.... see more

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When it comes to daily life, what little things, such as lists and daily renewal activities can best assist so...


Family support and knowledge of what this person's limits are is essential. Lists of things to do can help. Depression often follows a... see more

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My father who has early alzheimers and dementia had his POA and health care POA changed over the phone while s...


You likely will need an elder attorney to look into this. It certainly sounds fishy. Be prepared for a legal fight if the person with the... see more

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I am concerned my mother is a hoarder. What do I do?


This is so hard and frustrating. I know you must be thinking "where would we start?" As long as she is okay alone, you may not be... see more

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I have glaucoma. Am I eligible for S.S. benefits?


Quite likely you are. Please contact Social Security and start the process .It's the only way you will know. And don't let up if... see more

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What should I do if my memory is fading and it's hard to get to the doctor?


Please ask for help from a friend or family member. Many things can cause fading memory - from depression to medications. And if dementia... see more

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How can I get help caring for my husband with Lewy-Body Dementia?


Check with the Alzheimer's Association in your phone book. Also, go to your state's Web site and look under their version of the... see more

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What makes dementia patients go to the bathroom in their clothes all of the time?


Confusion is a great deal of it. The brain may not tell them all of the steps they need to take. First, that urge means. "I have to go... see more

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My home still has mortgage and I can't give it to my daughter. Can I assign it to her?


You should see an estate attorney who knows Medicaid rules, as likely that is what you have in mind. If you are "assigning" it to... see more

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Where can I find financial assistance for incontinence supplies?


I wish there were as this is a huge need, but I don't know of any. If any readers know of some financial support for this, please let... see more

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What’s the best way to address my parents living situation with them?


This will be hard for you, particularly with the alcohol problem. That does make it worse. First, understand that alcohol problems are not... see more

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