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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What options are available when elderly mother-in-law is asked to leave assisted living facility because of fa...


She sounds tough. With all of her health issues, I'm surprised assisted living even took her. She sounds like she may need a nursing... see more

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After two weeks in the assisted living facility my mom is intensely unhappy. How much time should we let pass...


That is awful - what your siblings did! It was awful for you and your dad. Good for you that you stuck to your guns, but they made it much... see more

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Mom has dementia and a great appetite, but she throws up every day after she eats. Is this a symptom of dement...


Amazing that the answer was this simple! My dad would choke on the denture adhesives. There can be so many reasons for vomiting after... see more

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Mom has dementia and a great appetite, but she throws up every day after she eats. Is this a symptom of dement...


Her not remembering she ate is definitely a symptom of dementia. Her throwing up could be something else. Either way, she needs to see a... see more

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If a person is moved to a nursing home, can they bring personal items and furniture from her apartment?


That depends on how much room there is. My folks all had their electronic lift chairs, plus some small items and then their own bedspreads... see more

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My mom wants to go to a nursing home in my hometown against the wishes of her sisters, what should we do?


Your mother should be listened to and it should be up to her if that is her choice. Who has Power Of Attorney for heath care (a health... see more

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How can I get paid and take care of my grandmother of whom i am living with?


Go on your state Web site and look for aging services. Under that you should get a contact for local services. If your grandmother is on... see more

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What should I do if I feel that my mother should stay in a nursing home, but she is resistant to the idea?


It's normal for an elder to not want to go to a nursing home. They have visions of the old style (and there are still too many of these... see more

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My husband 76 has Alzheimer but refuses treatment. He will not see a doctor and he needs medication. What can...


You can contact your adult social services people. They may be able to do a welfare check on him (and you?). They have some... see more

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What can I do if my husband has been without Medicaid due to a late recertification by his social worker?


That is horrible! Can't his doctor override this? I'd certainly ask.
Carol

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What are the flaws of assisted living?


Each assisted living center is different. They don't have the Federal regulation of nursing homes. Read the contract carefully so you... see more

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My father has enough money to survive, but he is not spending it wisely. It will be gone soon. What can I do?


No much, if he hasn't given you any authority. You could suggest, in a non-judgmental way, that he see a financial expert. You might... see more

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After two weeks in the assisted living facility my mom is intensely unhappy. How much time should we let pass...


Since she has lived in CA so long and has family members nearby, it seems you should give her more time to adjust. I hope the family... see more

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I'm caring for my husband 24/7. Can I get paid for that?


You can go to your state Web site and look for help. They should have "aging services", but if he's younger, there should be... see more

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My mom has severe arthritis in both of her legs, and she can't even fold them. How can I help her?


Try www.arthritis.org. This is the Arthritis Assn. and they have a lot of education on the disease. Her doctor should have suggestions, as... see more

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Where can you get adult diapers, with medicaid and passport insurance?


I don't know of any way to do that. Anyone else out there who has found a way to get them through Medicaid?
Carol

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My mother has Alzheimer's and my father is her primary caregiver. I live with them and he expects me to fill i...


Yes, you do. However, if your dad is abusive, you may have to move out to get away from your dad. If you leave and you don't feel... see more

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My dad can't use a shower, so I give him sponge baths, wash his hair in the sink, and frequently change his cl...


You are doing very well. If he will shower, a shower chair and walk-in shower may be easier on both of you. I'd say, if possible, you... see more

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I need assistance with daily living activities and house cleaning, but I don't have very much money. How can I...


It's a shame that people are put in this position. No one should have to feel as you do about getting care, and yet many do. First,... see more

Question

Where can I find financial assistance to help cover adult diaper expenses in Miami, FL?


I just checked with Depends, and they don't have a program. Anyone else know of places where there is financial help for these... see more

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