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My dad is still driving but shouldn’t be. What should I do?
I would start with your father’s doctor. Sometimes because of medication, driving should be
curtailed for a while. In the meantime, there are responsible, reasonably priced car services in the
area that do a wonderful job. They could help buy time while your father is being assessed. Even
preventative car maintenance or repairs might serve as a way of removing driving temptations
temporarily. As a geriatric care manager, I often drive clients to doctors’ appointments and shopping
which helps in this area.
I think my husband and I need help around the house and also with dressing. Where do we
turn?
Often, these are the beginning signs of help needed. A complete evaluation from a geriatric care
professional would be the first step. A professional would examine the home for safety issues and,
at the same time, assess personal needs. There are many excellent Home Health Agencies in the
area. Your geriatric care manager is the perfect partner to help connect you with the company that
suits your needs.
My husband is my POA (power of attorney) and is no longer well enough to carry through
with this task. Who should I contact?
It is important for your family to know what your medical and end of life wishes may be. An elder
law attorney is always a wise choice. A responsible adult child is often another good choice.
My children think I need to move into a nursing home. What steps should I take to convince
them I am fine in my own home?
If you are determined to stay in your home, a geriatric care professional can assess your situation.
Safety is the most common concern for seniors remaining at home. With the professional services
available, you may be able to convince your family it’s not that time just yet.
Our home is becoming too much for my husband and me to keep up. What are alternatives
for senior living?
There are different levels of senior focused living arrangements in communities today. Independent,
assisted living and skilled care are options for senior living and are based on your care needs.
Independent living is for those not in need of care but no longer wish to maintain a home. Assisted
Living is designed for those who need help on a regular basis, but want to maintain a level of
independence. And skilled care provides round the clock assistance in a nursing home or dedicated
medical facility. Today’s senior communities provide access to a variety of professional medical re-
sources such as nurses, physical and occupational therapists, speech pathologists and audiologists.