Dear Lyn: I'm retired and single. I've been taking care of my elderly mother at home. Her memory is good, but she's declining physically. Our family doctor recently told me she should be in a nursing home. Her condition is getting worse and she needs more care than I can provide. We found a nice place. It's close, so I'm able to see her often. But I'm feeling guilty — like I should be doing more. Any suggestions on how to shake this feeling? I really want to spend time at the facility, but I'm a fish out of water. I should be more cheerful when I visit. – Anna ...more

October 18, 2007

Dear Lyn: I take care of my older brother full-time. He's 80 and was diagnosed with progressive dementia a few years ago. Lately he can't seem to sit still, and he's constantly pacing or fidgeting. He doesn't wander outside, but I did get him a Safe Return bracelet. My problem is that his pacing is really getting to me. I took him to the doctor to see if something was physically wrong with him that would make him nervous or upset. The doctor examined him and said he was fine, but he didn't give me any advice about dealing with this. Any suggestions? –- Uptight Little Sister ...more

September 13, 2007