Betty Berry - Senior Advocate

By Betty Berry Wednesday, May 27, 2009    Q: I am attempting to help an elderly relative select healthcare coverage. I am so confused and I can’t believe that a senior is required to understand all of the options available.

I have run into Medicare, Medi-Cal, Medicaid, Medigap and Medicare Advantage. Everything starts with “m” and they all sound alike.

Also, can a senior have only one of these items or can they have a combination? Can you help a nonsenior make sense of all of this?

A:...

By Betty Berry Wednesday, May 20, 2009   Q: In the past, I have participated in Senior Concerns’ Love Run. It seems that this is about the time of year it usually takes place. Will it be an event again this year?

A: The 16th annual Love Run is scheduled for Sunday, June 7. Registration and the start of activities will take place at 3011 Townsgate Road (corner of Townsgate Road and Lakeview Canyon), Westlake Village.

This event provides something for every member of the family.

Race day registration is at 7 a.m., with runs scheduled to start at 8 a.m. for the 5K runs, at 8:50 a.m. for the 10K runs and at 9 a.m. for the 1 mile run/walk. Races will be microchip timed, with awards to the top three male and female finishers. Children younger than 12 also will be recognized.

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By Betty Berry Wednesday, May 13, 2009   Q: I am about to sign up for Medicare and have more than a few questions. But the question I currently have regards doctors and how, when selecting a doctor, you should ask, “Does he or she take assignment?” What does that mean?

A: There are many questions that could and perhaps should be asked about Medicare before enrolling. The subject you have asked about is one that many enrollees have trouble understanding.

Many doctors and other healthcare providers...

By Betty Berry Wednesday, May 6, 2009

Q: All you ever hear or read about anymore is crime; the nightly news just reports one crime after another. It makes one reluctant to leave home.

I’ve heard that seniors are more vulnerable to crime and, if so, is there anything that can be done to reduce chances of becoming a victim?

A: I don’t know if there is more crime happening or if we are just more aware of what is happening due to instant media coverage. But whether crime has increased or not, it is always wise to take steps to ensure against being the next victim.

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By Betty Berry Wednesday, April 29, 2009    Q: I am dealing with a family member who has dementia but still insists he can drive. My dad is very stubborn and no matter what I say to him, he tells me he is a safe driver. Whenever he can he sneaks out and takes a ride, I’m at my wits end. What can I do?

A: Explaining anything to a person with dementia can be difficult at best. However, when talking about taking away driving privileges, it becomes even more difficult as this loss represents a tremendous...

By Betty Berry Wednesday, April 22, 2009  Q: My dad has always handled the finances and paperwork for the household. My mother has said she didn’t want the responsibility, but now I am concerned about what will happen if something happened to my dad and he could no longer do it. Any suggestions as to how to get my mother involved?

A: The situation you describe is more common than most people would believe. In many marriages, the household responsibilities are separated, with each spouse concerned...

By Betty Berry Wednesday, April 8, 2009   Q: I am a pre-senior in my 50s and beginning to plan for retirement. I am wondering if there are any events that might address issues that would help make that transition?

A: I know of an event scheduled this month that could be of interest to you.

The Ventura County Area Agency on Aging (VCAAA) and the Ventura County Star, publisher of the Elder Care Directory, are sponsoring an event on April 18, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., at The Ronald Reagan Presidential...

By Betty Berry Wednesday, April 1, 2009   Q: I, like many others, have not thought about planning for retirement since it is in the distant future. But now with the economy the way it is, I’m beginning to have some questions. Do you have any referrals as to where to begin my research?

A: You certainly are not alone, and there is no time like the present to start making plans.

Even when the economy has improved, you will need to have a plan in place so you can look forward to retirement.

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By Betty Berry Wednesday, March 25, 2009   Q: I just received an e-mail from a friend that explained how a bystander could detect the possibility that someone was having a stroke and by doing so could perhaps save a life. I thought perhaps it might be a good item for your column.

A: Thank you for sharing. I too received an e-mail explaining how to recognize the symptoms of a stroke. I will be glad to share what that e-mail said as it encouraged all who received it to spread the word.

Sometimes...

By Betty Berry Wednesday, March 11, 2009   Q: A family member has been diagnosed with a terminal illness and while hospice services are not needed at this particular time, I am beginning to think about them. What should I consider when selecting a hospice provider?

A: I commend you on preparing for future needs.

It is something most of us fail to do and then when faced with the actual problem must act in haste, sometimes requiring us to make ill-informed decisions.

Most Americans know...