Carol and Bob invited his mother, Ginny, to spend the holidays with them, as she does every year. This year, her live-in caregiver expressed concern that it was not a good idea because Ginny’s dementia has gotten worse and she may … [Read more...]
Print This Page“Hide” is a Four-Letter Word
Q. I read in USA Today about an 83-year-old man who hid $1.1 million in offshore accounts to avoid paying taxes. I have also read about others who attempt to hide their assets to qualify for Medicaid, as a way to pay for long-term … [Read more...]
Print This PageDon’t Wait to Make Critical Decisions
Anyone who knew Hal five years ago, when he was 66, would describe him as sharp, clever, and quick-witted. He had a knack for trivia and always answered more questions on Jeopardy than anyone else in the room. He always handled … [Read more...]
Print This PageCan Being Cynical Cause Dementia?
Q. I am in my mid 60’s and I admit that I am generally quite negative-thinking and cynical. I have constant nagging back pain even though the doctors say there’s nothing wrong with my back. My grandchildren live 1,000 miles away … [Read more...]
Print This PageNine Things NOT to Say to a Parent of a Special Needs Child
Q. Recently, my friend Anna called and informed me that her 6-year-old son, Jeremy, was diagnosed with an autism spectrum disorder (ASD). She told me about some of his symptoms, including temper tantrums, outbursts, and the … [Read more...]
Print This PageBetter Care Coordination Will Save Tax Payers Billions
After experiencing discomfort, 75-year-old Stan visited his doctor and was ultimately rushed to the hospital and into surgery to remove a blockage from his large intestine. After a short time, he was transferred to a nearby … [Read more...]
Print This PageIntergenerational Care and the Magic of Girl Scout Cookies
Q. Five years ago my friend Jennifer, who is 91, met ten-year-old Emma when Emma was selling Girl Scout Cookies door-to-door. Emma never knew her own grandparents, and Jennifer’s family lives 1,000 miles away. They had the most … [Read more...]
Print This PageHonoring Our Veterans: An Underused Benefit
Memorial Day is a U.S. federal holiday where we take time to remember the men and women who died while serving in the United States military. The holiday, which is celebrated every year on the final Monday of May, was formerly … [Read more...]
Print This PageThe Five Biggest Estate Planning Mistakes
Q. I recently retired after 35 years as a federal employee. I funded my retirement plan, paid off my home, and amassed enough savings to cover future expenses and hopefully leave a financial legacy to my loved ones. When it comes … [Read more...]
Print This PageCasey Kasem’s Daughter Was Granted Conservatorship, But Where is Casey?
When we think of legal guardianship or conservatorship, several scenarios typically come to mind: an elderly parent with dementia; an adult who has been severely injured and can no longer take care of himself; and, … [Read more...]
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