We all think that we can help our parents as they get older and even as they begin to lose capacity. This may be true, but if a parent with dementia can no longer be safe at home, is combative, or can no longer manage their finances or basic needs, what do you do? Many people rely on estate planning…
Mary shook her head sadly. “I’m telling you, Sue, I have tried everything to get my mom out of the house. Since her friend Betty died, she just sits at home and knits. She and Betty went everywhere together. They were always on a new adventure. Betty’s death was sudden and I expected it would take my mom some time…
Sarah let herself into her father’s home, carrying several packages she had found in his mailbox. Her father asked, “What did you bring me?” Sarah frowned. “I found these in your mailbox. Have you been ordering from Sweepstakes, Inc? You know that stuff is junk, right?” Her father shook his head. “Nope, not me.” He pointed at a pile of…
Exposure to natural light–or direct sunlight–has long been believed to have significant health benefits. For example, researchers have established that regular exposure to natural light: Produces vitamin D in the body. Vitamin D promotes bone growth and aids in the absorption of calcium. It also prevents some types of cancer, heart disease, depression, and weight gain. In addition, Vitamin D…
Experts say more than 6.5 million seniors suffer from depression. While the illness is not uncommon at any age, seniors tend to face a variety of special challenges, including retirement, illness, loss of a spouse or significant other, and the prospect of being forced out of their homes due to illness or disability. When left undiagnosed or untreated, the depression…
Mary slammed the cordless phone onto the receiver. Her husband, Tom, peered at her over the top of his newspaper, his eyebrows cocked in concern. “Now what was that about?” he asked. “That was Beth Willis. She says we can’t use Dad’s long-term care insurance for his home health care because he doesn’t meet the criteria of the policy.” Tom…
The rapidly increasing population of dementia patients in assisted living facilities is challenging not only the facilities providing the care, but also the safety of the other non-afflicted seniors who reside there. Originally, assisted living facilities were created as an alternative to nursing homes. They were designed for those who were independent, but in need of some assistance with daily…