Dear Ernie and Janette, I read somewhere that a simple eye exam can predict whether or not someone will get Alzheimer’s. Is this true? Thanks! Cici Cleary --- Dear Cici, You are correct. It may be possible to … [Read more...]
Critter Corner: Gift Tax Limit for 2019
Posted on March 22, 2019 · Leave a Comment
Dear Magic, Our daughter is getting married, and she and her fiancé are buying a home. She asked if my wife and I could contribute what we would pay for a wedding ($30,000) towards a home instead, since she only wants a simple … [Read more...]
Critter Corner: How Do I Know if Assisted Living is Right for My Dad?
Posted on March 15, 2019 · Leave a Comment
Dear Ernie and Jannette, My father is considering assisted living. He wants me to help him choose a facility. I honestly don’t know where to begin or if assisted living is even right for him. How can I know? Thanks!Anita … [Read more...]
Critter Corner: Why Should I Bother with Estate Planning?
Posted on March 8, 2019 · Leave a Comment
Dear Bebe, My mom keeps telling my wife and I that we should make an appointment to get our estate planning done. I am in my early 40's and in good health, and have a 10 year old child. Why should I think about estate planning … [Read more...]
Critter Corner: Did Karl Lagerfeld Just Leave $210 Million to His Cat?
Posted on March 1, 2019 · Leave a Comment
Dear Angel, I heard that Karl Lagerfeld, Chanel’s late artistic director, left the bulk of his £150 million fortune (approximately $210 million dollars according to today’s exchange rate) to his cat, Choupette. It makes me wish … [Read more...]
Critter Corner: Questions to Ask at a Family Meeting
Posted on February 15, 2019 · Leave a Comment
Dear Ernie and Jannette, My wife and I have a family meeting planned where we will be discussing senior housing and end-of–life options for her mother, who is in the initial stage of Alzheimer’s, so now is a good time to figure … [Read more...]
Critter Corner: Is a Last Will and Testament Enough?
Posted on February 8, 2019 · Leave a Comment
Dear Angel, My sister wants to save money on estate planning. She is considering Do it Yourself (DIY) forms that she saw online, or if she does go to an attorney, she said that a Will should be enough. Is that true? Thanks for … [Read more...]
Critter Corner: Can You Get Social Security Benefits if You Never Worked?
Posted on January 25, 2019 · Leave a Comment
Dear Ernie and Jannette, I am a recent divorcee who is getting ready to drop my last kid off at college next year, which, in essence, means that I am retired. The thing is, as a lifelong homemaker who raised five children, I never … [Read more...]
