Betty Berry - Senior Advocate

Wednesday, November 19, 2008

Q: In the past several years, I have attended the festive shopping event at Senior Concerns Thrift Shop and Boutique in Thousand Oaks. Do you know if there are plans for this event this year?

A: I am glad to hear that you enjoyed that special shopping event. But I do have to tell you that there are no plans to offer it this holiday season.

But don't be too disappointed because the shop is decorated and has its holiday merchandise, as well as regular merchandise,...

By Betty Berry November 10, 2008

Q: Some time ago, you wrote a column about how to help or give assistance to a person who is blind or visually impaired. I found it very informative and wonder if you have any suggestions when encountering those with other types of disabilities. Many times, I find I want to offer assistance but do not want to offend. Do you have a thought or two?

A: Many people want to assist and yet don't know what to offer or if help is needed or wanted.

To find out what...

 

By Betty Berry November 3, 2008

Q: I am the widow of a veteran, and friends have been telling me that I could be eligible for veterans benefits based on my husband's service. I don't know where to start looking. Any suggestions?



A: Your friends could possibly be right, and you should check out the possibility. Your question is also very timely. Senior Concerns' second presentation in the "Solving the Aging Puzzle" series addresses veterans benefits.

The seminar is...

 

By Betty Berry October 27, 2008

Q: As we grow old, many of us have what we jokingly refer to as senior moments. However, I think that when these senior moments occur, we are all a little worried that we are starting to have a memory loss problem. Can you shed any light on this?

A: This is a subject that is near and dear to every senior. Many times, I've heard someone say, "I just can't remember the name of that person," followed by, "I must be getting Alzheimer's." We joke about senior...

By Betty Berry Monday, April 14, 2008

Q: My mom who is a widow is considering downsizing and looking into purchasing a condo. In her search for new housing she has encountered, for the first time, homeowners association dues. She is concerned about these monthly charges and has questions I can't answer. Do you know where she could go to help understand the rules and regulations? A: This is a question that may be of interest to many seniors. It is also a question that falls outside my area of expertise....

By Betty Berry Monday, April 7, 2008

Q. I am confused about what Medicare will pay for when someone is in a nursing home. I've heard of cases where Medicare has paid nothing and others where Medicare pays for everything. Why would there be such a range of benefits? A. First, I am assuming that when you mention a nursing home, you are referring to a skilled nursing facility, also known as an SNF, and my response to your question will be based on that assumption. The difference depends on why you are in an SNF. If you are there because you need custodial care, then Medicare will not cover the cost of your stay. However, if you are there because your situation requires skilled care or therapy, then Medicare will fully cover part of your stay. ...

By Betty Berry Monday, March 31, 2008

Q. As I am putting my legal papers in order and completing my estate planning, I am wondering if I should leave particulars about funeral arrangements. I don't think I have ever encountered a presentation on this subject and not exactly sure what options are available. Have you any ideas on where I can find information on the subject? A. I don't think that I have encountered many presentations on this subject either. It is a subject most of us would rather not...

By Betty Berry Monday, March 24, 2008

Q: I am a senior who has just become computer literate. I am enjoying my newfound hobby of visiting the Internet, and have viewed a number of Web sites offering health information. How can I determine if the information provided is reliable? A: First, let me congratulate you on becoming computer literate. It is the way of the future, and seniors should take every opportunity available to keep up with technology. Seniors who don't learn how to use a computer will find themselves isolated from current methods of communication. ...

By Betty Berry Monday, March 17, 2008

Q: I am a caregiver for my mom and also hold down a full-time job. I would like to attend seminars or a support group but find most of them on weekdays. Do you know of any group that offers anything on a weekend? A: Yes, I do. The Alzheimer's Association is offering a half-day caregiver conference for Ventura County caregivers at the end of this month. It may be just what you are looking for. This spring conference, "Caring For You, the Caregiver," is scheduled...

By Betty Berry Monday, March 10, 2008

Q: I have heard that the Thousand Oaks Council on Aging is planning an outreach dinner at the Goebel Senior Adult Center. Can you provide details on this event? Also, I understand that a survey is being conducted for seniors and baby boomers. What is the survey looking at, and where can survey forms be found? A: Well, let's answer your question about the dinner first. Yes, the Council on Aging is hosting a finger-licking good barbecue chicken dinner with all...