Nathanson Family Resource Center
 

FAQ > GERIATRIC ISSUES

How does one tell the difference between Alzheimer's and typical aging?

Some decline in memory function is common in the elderly, making it difficult to distinguish between normal aging and early Alzheimer's disease, the most common form of dementia. The best thing to do is to consult your doctor, or your elderly loved one's doctor, regarding such questions. To learn more about the signs of Alzheimer's disease, as well as the signs of normal aging consult:

My elderly loved one is very independent and has always lived on her own. I know now that she needs more help, but she doesn't want to move to a retirement home. Are there good ways to approach this subject? Also, where would I go to find information on licensed services that provide care in the home?

You may want to consult your loved one's doctor for suggestions on how to bring this issue up. In addition, you may also want to talk with other family members. The Home Caregivers Accreditation of America (877-947-3472, www.hcaoa.org) is a great resource to help you find homecare services. Other resources include:

How do I approach my elderly loved one about the fact that I am concerned by his continuing to drive? It is a sensitive issue and the last thing I want to do is make him feel awkward. However, I am concerned for his safety, and the safely of others on the road.

Again, you may want to consult your loved one's doctor for suggestions on how to bring this issue up. The American Automobile Association (www.aaa-calif.com, 800-400-4111) also provides tips on such matters. You can also get advice from the following organizations:

I'm concerned about the safety of my elderly parents. My father has been diagnosed with Alzheimer's and is abusive to my mother. The illness has caused changes in his personality and my mother is reluctant to do anything because she doesn't feel that he knows what he's doing or doesn't mean to be hurting her. Is there someone I can talk to for advice?

You should contact your parent's doctor. He or she will be best equipped to give you advice regarding this matter, and will know the appropriate steps to take to insure the safety of your parents. You can also go to medline plus and do a search for "Alzheimer's caregivers". There are many articles and advice regarding caring for peo ple with Alzheimer's Disease. The direct link is: http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/alzheimerscaregivers.html

What is a Conservatorship? And what does the term "living trust" mean?

A conservatorship is a legal arrangement in which an individual has the court-ordered authority and responsibility to manage another individual's financial affairs. A conservatorship is permitted when someone is disabled to the extent that he cannot manage his own financial affairs. A living trust is an arrangement under which one individual, called a trustee, holds legal title to property for another individual, called a beneficiary. To learn more about Conservatorships you can read the book:

The Conservatorship Book for California by Lisa Goldoflas


 
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