I’ve heard about sundowner’s syndrome, but is there a sunriser’s syndrome? My mom has Alzheimer’s and things are pretty crazy in the morning. She wakes up and seems to have hallucinations. She also has a terrible time getting dressed and getting her clothing all mixed up while trying to do so.

Can you force an aging senior to get home help?

We live in Southern California and my mom lives in her own house by herself. It gets pretty hot over here, and today it’s over 90 degrees out. Her house gets pretty hot and I worry about whether or not she is in danger. I called over and asked how she was and she said it was hot but she felt totally fine. Should I be doing something anyways? My m…[Read more]

What is the name of the state agency in California that handles complaints about hospitals?

Suggestions on helping my senior mom who is experiencing escalating panic attacks

My mom often forgets to take her meds, much less remember how much she takes. Does anyone know of a good way to keep meds organized and to keep track of correct dosing schedule?

My mom just moved in with me and she has early stage dementia. She insists on taking her dog out for a walk every morning, but I’m feeling very concerned that she could get hurt, or even lose her way back home. What should I do?

How do you break the news to an aging parent that he or she cannot live with you anymore—that they would be better off living in a retirement community facility?

I just started caring for my 68 year old mom last August and it has been extremely difficult. Her diet is terrible. She drinks beer every day and doesn’t seem to eat anything. I bring her groceries so she will at least have some basic supplies and all of the food goes bad. If I bring her a dish I made, she’ll either throw it out once I leave or…[Read more]