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

Why does my mom scratch her face and arms to the point of making sores?


If she has dementia, this is a common stage and hard to handle. A doctor may be of some help, but it tends to be a compulsive behavior.... see more

Question

My father’s put all his major assets in my mother’s name; can the hospital take the assets from her name to pa...


If it's totally in her name, maybe not. But you'd need legal advice about this, as they are married and state laws vary. Please see... see more

Question

How do you handle dealing with narcolepsy?


It's a difficult thing to live with but only a doctor can give you the help you need. Please get medical attention.
Carol

Question

I'm a disabled mother, and I'm looking for life insurance for myself. Do I qualify?


It's hard to get insurance when you aren't healthy. Many of us have been there. I'd suggest you find an insurance agent in your... see more

Question

My friend recieves $674 SSI per month. Due to the fact he can't provide proper identification, he is not elig...


Getting his identification straightened out is important. If he's receiving SSI, he must be in the system already. I think he needs to... see more

Question

My father is losing weight, unable to control his bladder and needs blood pressure medication. He won't go to...


You are in a difficult position (obviously), and you have lots of company. Unless you have guardianship over him, and to do that a doctor... see more

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Is it possible for my wife to stay home and provide care for my father instead of placing him in a nursing hom...


You'd likely have a hard time replacing the income. Check your state's Web site under "aging services" to see what is... see more

Question

I'm unable to work. Is there financial assistance for a caregiver who takes care of both elderly parents?


Try your state's Web site. Look under "aging services" or something similar and find local contacts. Good luck. It's not... see more

Question

My parents live with us and we charge them a small amount in rent. They are on SS too. Are there any programs...


If financial misery loves company, you have plenty. My heart goes out to you. You are just trying to do the right thing. Please go to... see more

Question

Is there financial aid for my mother who can no longer care for herself?


Is she on Medicaid? Whether she is or not, I'd go to her state's Web site and look under their version of "aging... see more

Question

The nurses at dad's nursing home said he is violent and just needs medication. Where can we find alternative c...


If the assisted living center thinks it would be a good place, then you may want to consider them. It's unfortunate that one episode is... see more

Question

How can I encourage my dad to get out of bed?


Your dad may be depressed, and should see a doctor. If there's no reason he can't get up and he doesn't want to, that seems to... see more

Question

My mom has been asking to see her mother once-a-day, but her mother has been dead since 1991. Should I tell he...


You may want to read this article: Dad died. Mom has dementia. Should I tell her? https://www.agingcare.com/133806 There's no right... see more

Question

We are having difficulty meeting the monthly expenses with my Dad living with us. We use more utilities, food...


Is your father on Medicaid? If so, he may qualify for some hours of in-home care. Please go on to your state's Web site and look under... see more

Question

What course of action would you suggest for an elderly neighbor who has no network of support, no living child...


I'd contact your social services. He needs a safety net. They will do a welfare check on him. I had a neighbor like that - I became his... see more

Question

I am unemployed (laid off office closed) and care for my wife 24/7. She gets SSI had a small pension and gets...


Please go to your state's Web site and look under aging services for support and help. There will be choices and contact information.... see more

Question

Does Medicare help pay for the electric bill if oxygen needed at home?


Medicare wouldn't, I'm pretty sure. Is the person on Medicaid? There may be help through your state if that is true. You need to... see more

Question

Can I get paid to care for my mom while she is ill with cancer?


It's not likely, but you may want to try your state's aging services. Go to their Web site and see what they list under such a... see more

Question

How do you pick up an elder when they have fallen?


It would be best to get training. You may want to check with a local ambulance company to see where you can get training in your area. The... see more

Question

Does the government allot money to help the elderly pay for expenses for having hair done in nursing home?


Everywhere I've known, hair care has come out of personal funds. However, Medicaid may pay for some of that care in nursing homes. You... see more

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