Senior Advocate

Q: I am always forgetting people’s names right after I am introduced to them. What does this mean and what can I do about it? A: Many people can relate to this issue. You are introduced to a new person at a party and immediately you cannot remember what name was said. Most of [...]

Q: My husband has dementia, and I am finding it challenging at home. How can I arrange my home to help him function better? A: There is a lot of information on how to create a home environment that is more friendly and comfortable for people with dementia. It is wonderful that you are [...]

Q: My father is in a skilled nursing facility following a hospital stay. He is complaining and wants to go home, but we cannot care for him at home until he gets stronger. How can I make him understand he needs to be there? A: Having rehabilitation in a skilled nursing facility after a [...]

Q: I am worried about my elderly neighbor. She hardly comes outside anymore, and I am afraid she is not able to take care of herself. What can I do to help? A: It is wonderful to hear neighbors caring about each other and noticing when there are changes that may indicate a problem. [...]

Q: My friend convinced me to join her Medicare plan, but my costs have been very high this year. What do I need to know about open enrollment for Medicare for next year? A: It is common for friends to share information about their health plans and, while this is well intentioned, every person’s [...]

Q: I am never prepared when the power goes out! What can I do to be ready if it happens again? A: I believe it is never too late to get prepared. Recently we have experienced a heat wave that brought with it a flex alert, meaning the electricity grid is under stress and [...]

Q: My husband recently had surgery and has been in the hospital for 4 days. What do I need to do to prepare to bring him home? A:  Having a plan in place to ensure for your husband’s care and comfort at home is important to make his transition smooth and ease his recovery. Start [...]

Q:  I am having trouble with my words. I have started saying the wrong words and have trouble recalling the word I need. Is there something I can do to help this? A:  Trouble with language can be caused by several different medical issues. Often it stems from a functioning problem within the brain. It [...]

Q:  What is Dementia Friendly America? Do we have a local group in Ventura County? A:  Dementia Friendly America (DFA) is a nationwide network of communities who strive to support people with dementia and their family caregivers. A dementia friendly community is informed, safe and respectful of individuals with the disease, their families, and caregivers. [...]

Q:  Why is nostalgia such a powerful thing as we get older? A:  Nostalgia is that longing feeling we may have as we look back on memories with fondness. It can often feel like looking back onto the “good old days.” It is not a surprise that this feeling grows as we age, especially in [...]