MY SUN DAY NEWS
December 13, 2012
For years, I’ve enjoyed hosting our annual holiday gatherings. I’ve done it all, and the kids have loved it. Earlier this year, my health has suffered, and now I don’t think I can make it all happen like I used to. None of my children have offered to take over, so I am wondering how to host the holidays considering my limitations.
Q. My family doesn’t want me to drive anymore. I am not ready for this and don’t want to give up my driving, because it really makes me think I will lose my freedom. I can’t imagine not being able to drive and having to rely on others for transportation. What do I do?
My mom has been in great health until recently. She is 81 and I see her decline, and I recognize she needs an extra set of eyes on her. I still work full-time and cannot afford to retire right now to care for her. Someone told me to check into adult day care, but quite frankly, I never heard of that before. Can you explain the difference between day care and home care options?
Q. I have two neighbors who are homebound, and I worry about them. One has a caregiver that comes to help her, but my other neighbor does not have a support system in place. Her family is not in the area, either. How can I help without over-extending myself?
Q. My children are always worrying about me. They think I am having issues keeping my balance. I think I am doing fine, but they insist I use a walker. I just can’t imagine myself doing this. Any suggestions?
Q. I am new to the area, and I decided to visit a few senior centers to get acquainted with the area and meet new friends. I could really use help in knowing how to navigate all the personalities. I felt like I was in high school again and didn’t know how to be myself!
Q. My husband and I have an on-going difference of opinion about generic versus brand-name drugs. Is there a difference between the two?
Q. I need to hire a caregiver for my father. I’ve been asking around for a good agency and have learned there are definite differences between agencies. I thought price would be my driving decision influencer, but now I’m not so sure. Can you explain the differences?
Q. I want to try water aerobics, but I have not stepped into a pool for years. I’ve heard so many good things about it from friends, but quite frankly, I am a little self-conscious about the whole thing.
I have been caring for my husband for just a short time, and I already feel stressed. A friend suggested that I join a support group, but I don’t even know what that is. Can you point me in the right direction?
Q. I hear the terms hospice and palliative care used, and I am not sure what the difference is. Can you clear up the confusion?
Q. I miss doing some of the gardening I used to do when I lived in my own home. I can’t move like I used to, but I’d don’t want to give up working in the garden. Any suggestions?
Q. My children want me and my husband to consider putting a power of attorney in place. What is that, and what do I need to do?
How do I really assess if I need help at home? My family keeps insisting I get outside help. I really don’t want a stranger in my home.
Q. I hate to admit it, but I am realizing that I just can’t do things as easily as I once was able. I want to retain my independence, and I am skeptical about asking for outside help. What can I do to help myself?
Q: I am a caregiver for a family member. Are there any tax benefits I should be aware of?
I have been hearing more and more stories about seniors getting “scammed” by con artists. How can I be more aware of what is going on regarding this?
