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

Can we select someone in our family to be the primary caregiver and get paid for providing care?


You should get this done legally through an attorney so there are no questions down the road. Also, the amount would depend on costs in... see more

Question

Where can I obtain a copy of my father's Military Discharge papers?


I'd contact your local VA. They should have a way of tracing them through his Social Security number or they could tell you how to go... see more

Question

My father has alzheimer's and my Mother is also disable. Can she get any type of assistance?


Hi, I'd go to the state Web site and look under aging services. The Family Caregiver Support Program is available in some form in all... see more

Question

Help, I am in a "no-win" situation with my elder mother, brother, and husband! What do I do?


Musiclady, you shouldn't feel guilty for wanting a life. Even though your mother doesn't want to go to assisted living, I think... see more


Question

Can a person cry without tears?


Yes they can. It's still an emotion, even if tears don't come.
It hurts and people can sob, but no tears.

Carol

Question

How can I gather more patience when my dad asks me the same questions over and over again?


I'd recommend two things: One, contact your local Alzheimer's Association for information and training (even if he's not... see more

Question

My mother pays me $2,400 a month for room and board and I am her full time caregiver. Do I have to claim this...


I'd see a CPA for this, or a tax attorney. You'd have to go with what the government allows, and that will depend on the cost of... see more

Question

I am Power of Attorney for my demented and abusive parents. Can I turn it over to one of my siblings?


You will probably need an attorney to do this properly. Generally, a POA has an alternate person listed. But if you want out, totally,... see more

Question

Are there any Assisted Living Facilities that have two bedrooms?


Yes, there are. You'll have to do some checking, but many are like apartments and have two bedrooms. Of course, they are more... see more

Question

Please help. Am I a selfish horrible person if I want my mom to leave me alone sometimes?


We all need some time to ourselves - or at least nearly all of us. Many of us love our elders intensely, but that doesn't mean that we... see more

Question

How can I get my grandmother to do the physical therapy for her knee replacement?


As you've found, kemilie, we really can't make anyone do what they won't do. Nagging generally makes people resist. I am sure... see more

Question

Who takes care of the elderly, in Arizona, when there is no one to take care of him?


Any time you see an elder with no one to help him, you should call your county social services. They can do a welfare check and see what... see more

Question

How much are a veteran's nursing home costs compared to regular nursing home costs?


Every area is different, as regular nursing homes are regulated by the states. But since your dad is a veteran, by all means check out the... see more

Question

If your parent was in a Nursing Home and needed to go to the hospital, but they refused to send them, what wou...


I never had that problem, so I'd appreciate hearing what you did. The home where my parents were gave very good care and the only... see more

Question

Has anyone had a bad experience with a nursing home?


Seeking out your ombudsman was the right thing to do. I'm glad you are pursuing this for the sake of others. There are many fine... see more

Question

How can I convince my elderly aunt to get her legal affairs in order?


Of course you are fried! Good heavens, you have a plateful. Your aunt is likely living in denial. Getting papers prepared for one's... see more

Question

What can I do about my mother who takes pictures of my father, who is in a coma?


No, you are not overreacting! I'm appalled. How would your mother like to have pictures of her in such a conditon? I do hope that you... see more

Question

Which Parkinson's treatments and medications have worked best for your family members?


Hi Lilli, I, too, think the terms are often used too loosely. Doctors are so pressured, and many are diagnosing on the fly. Some of these... see more

Question

Can I receive money for taking care of my elderly mother by the federal government?


There are resources available, but they are scattered. You may want to read this article: https://www.agingcare.com/135476
Carol

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