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

How do I deal with my brother-in-laws that only want to help out when it's convenient for them?


Solid advice, JA. SoAlone, you thought of complications a lot of us would have considered. Good questions. You people are awesome!... see more

Question

What questions should you ask when interviewing Nursing Homes?


Observation is key. ARe the employees treating each other with respect no matter what their job is? (such as nurses with CNAs) People who... see more

Question

Has anyone had a problem with a day care facility wanting to put their loved one in a diaper to make their job...


They can be a great help and the products keep improving. If the person really needs them (can't get to the bathroom reasonably often... see more

Question

Has anyone caring for someone with Alzheimer's heard about medicinal food?


Good point about the antibiotics. And even food can be an issue with those. There's a lot to keep track of, and I always think... see more

Question

Has anyone caring for someone with Alzheimer's heard about medicinal food?


Good caution, Beaone. People should always work with their physicians or a specialist in the interactions of drugs and herbs before doing... see more

Question

Has anyone caring for someone with Alzheimer's heard about medicinal food?


I haven't heard of prescriptions, but of course there are many supplements and proteins available. Antioxidants and fish oil are... see more

Question

How far would you go for people in your care?


Reading this, I'm remembering when my uncle was dying in the nursing home. He'd been difficult to care for, I know. But as I sat... see more

Question

Has anyone had a problem with a day care facility wanting to put their loved one in a diaper to make their job...


This should not be done for staff convenience. If she is totally incontinent and can't be managed any other way it may be necessary,... see more


Question

My mom is wealthy and my name is on everything she owns. What taxes will I have to pay when she dies?


Wow! Things have changed. Interesting. I think legal help and/or a good CPA would be handy.
Carol


Question

How can I leave my mom's side without feeling guilt? She has Alzheimer's / Dementia.


If it makes you feel any better (misery likes company), I still hate, hate, hate the red blinking light on the phone. A phone message to me... see more

Question

My mom is wealthy and my name is on everything she owns. What taxes will I have to pay when she dies?


That will depend on your state and the Federal government. Also, it will depend on how the wealth is distributed. At one time, there was no... see more

Question

What can I do about my father stealing my brother's and my belongings?


I'm glad we could help a little. Feel free to come back and let us know how it goes.
Carol

Question

What can I do about my father stealing my brother's and my belongings?


I'm assuming your father has dementia. He doesn't know he is "stealing." You can "confront" him, but he'll... see more

Question

Our mother has to go to a nursing home. If she gives us the deed to the home we are all living in, can the st...


There is a five year "look back" for Medicaid. Generally, iIf she gives the house to you, that's fine unless she goes on... see more

Question

Mom was recently diagnosed as having a "Personality Disorder." I'm wondering what this means, and where we go...


Yearight, you've made a huge point. Attitude is everything. We can still give good care and take care of ourselves. It's not easy,... see more

Question

How can I find a caregivers support group?


Some areas have temporary care for elders in private homes. Your local Social Services may have a list of these homes or of nursing homes... see more

Question

My Mother is in Assisted Living and fights every day with the Nurses about taking her pills, because she has t...


Yes, please let us know about this product! It sounds like one more solution. Generally, grinding them up and putting them in food works,... see more

Question

How do we try applying for medicaid to help pay nursing home when she makes too much w/ benefits to reduce VA...


Of course you can't do it all! Don't let anyone put guilt on you. Get in touch with your county aging services to see what can be... see more

Subscribe to
Our Newsletter