Betty Berry - Senior Advocate

By Betty Berry Wednesday, June 24, 2009

Q: Recently a neighbor returned home from the hospital and needed some assistance. I was surprised when I was told she had to pay for these services. Doesn’t Medicare pay for in-home care?

A: Although it sounds simple, in-home care is a complex subject and you are not alone in your thinking.

Keep in mind that Medicare pays only for “medically necessary” services. Medicare does not pay for “custodial” care.

Custodial care essentially covers...

By Betty Berry Wednesday, June 17, 2009   Q: In May, a friend attended a seminar in Ventura on “Financial Safety in the Golden Years.” She came back raving about how informative it was. Is there any chance that it might be repeated somewhere in the east county?

A: I am very glad to be able to tell you that this panel presentation will be repeated in the east county.

“Financial Safety in the Golden Years” is scheduled for June 25, from 9 a.m. to noon, at the Goebel Senior Adult Center, 1385...

By Betty Berry Wednesday, June 10, 2009   Q: I have been a very busy person all my adult life and was looking forward to having free time. Now I find myself with time on my hands, and it is not all I thought it would be.

I’m considering volunteering my time but am not sure what opportunities are available. Can you provide some direction?

A: You couldn’t have asked this question at a more opportune time. With the budget crisis and many other problems now facing many nonprofits as well as for-profit...

By Betty Berry Wednesday, June 3, 2009  

Q: In the past few months, I have had several friends laid up because of falls. I believe this is one of the most serious things that can happen to a senior. Do you agree, and, if so, do you have any hints on how to avoid falls especially in the home?

A: Yes, I do agree. A fall in itself is bad enough, but it can, and many times does, result in additional problems. Some victims never fully recover from the effects of a fall. While not every fall can be prevented, many can be and so a little pre-thought on behalf of the senior and family can help reduce such occurrences. A fall can occur in any room of the house, but there are several rooms that can prove to be more dangerous than others.

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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...