Dear Bebe, My dad has mild cognitive impairment. Sometimes he's completely out of it, while at other times he seems like himself. When he’s out of it, he does silly and sometimes reckless things involving money. What are some … [Read more...]
Critter Corner: Having a Furry Friend May Extend Your Life
Dear Bebe, I am considering getting a cat similar to you for my mother, who lives alone and doesn't get much exercise. I heard pets have been known to promote longevity and social interaction. If it's okay with her and her … [Read more...]
What is the Difference Between Hospice and Palliative Care?
Penny's father was being discharged from the hospital after his latest fainting spell from low blood pressure. Having suffered from Parkinson's for more than 20 years, he regressed during his stay, and he was having serious … [Read more...]
How to Maintain an Emotional Connection to Someone with Alzheimer’s
Geri Taylor (69) had recently retired from her job in health administration, when she started noticing changes in herself. For some time, she had experienced forgetfulness at work. For instance, when she was leading a staff … [Read more...]
Critter Corner: Driving Safely with Hearing Loss
Dear Ribbit, My father has hearing loss and I fear that it's affecting his driving. He gave me a ride to the airport yesterday, and we almost got into two accidents. Are their things that can be done to help someone with … [Read more...]
Groceries? Air Conditioners? – Extra Benefits for Medicare Advantage Policy Holders
Michelle recently had a discussion with her mother, Rose, about ways to make Rose's house more comfortable and easier-to-navigate. Rose's mobility isn't what it used to be and she can no longer walk, and is unable to drive herself … [Read more...]
They Never Visit, and It’s Killing Me!
Q. I live an hour away from both my daughters and their families, but they never visit me. I am aware that they are busy with soccer games and other activities, but I wish they could make the time to come see me once in a … [Read more...]
Can the Aging Clock be Reset?
No matter how old we are, most of us have had the fantasy of winding back the clock on our personal aging process. Whether it's having less wrinkles or grey hair, or even feeling like we did 20 years ago, most of us wish we could … [Read more...]
Long-Distance Caregivers: Making the Most of Your Role
Kate is concerned about her mother, a recent widow who lives alone in Kate’s childhood home in Fairfax County. Although Kate lives in Massachusetts, she grew up in Northern Virginia and it’s where her mother feels most … [Read more...]
Fasting to Live Longer
Q. I am so blessed and have so much to live for: an amazing wife, two successful adult children, five grandchildren, and a home on the beach in Florida that we visit frequently. I am aware that people are living longer these … [Read more...]