How to find and hire a home health aide
When Richard Foye was looking for a home health aide to live with his 97-year-old mother, he found the search daunting. One applicant was bipolar and admitted that she didn’t always take her medication. Another was afraid to stay overnight alone with his mom. Finally, Foye found a caring and capable aide. But “it was a struggle,” he said. Care at home can be a lot less expensive ... READ MORE
Ways to recycle practically anything at all
You’re inspired to clean out your cluttered garage, basement and closets. But what should you do with your out-of-date clothes, ancient tube TVs and old mattresses?Long gone are the days of dumping everything into the trash and out on the curb. Here’s a rundown from Consumer Reports magazine of some of the most creative ways to get rid of unwanted... READ MORE
Is it time to move? Things to think about
As people age, and especially if they have chronic health conditions, at some point they’re likely to find that their current home no longer suits their lifestyle or their needs.This article summarizes many of the reasons people have for moving, mentions some of the most common options, and offers tips for planning ahead.Reasons to consider movingFreedom — To reduce... READ MORE
Going to live with your kids? Be flexible
When Mike Repak’s father passed away, he and his wife considered moving his mother, Maria — then 88 and suffering from mild dementia — into an assisted-living facility near them.But instead, the couple decided they wanted Maria to live with them and their two teenagers. “It was going to be a big adjustment for her without Dad around,” said Repak, now 53.... READ MORE
How to evaluate a retirement community
If you’re considering a move for yourself or a family member to an independent living retirement community, there are a number of criteria you should consider before making your final decision.Among the most basic things to consider is the quality of the staff, facility and programming. Concern for residents’ safety is especially important.Look for:On-site amenities, such as a... READ MORE
What to do when your house won’t sell
Spring can be an exciting time for homeowners ready to sell. But not so much when your home has lingered on the market through multiple spring selling seasons.Years of listings, open houses and showings without offers are weighing on many homeowners this year as the nation’s housing market continues to struggle from the Great Recession’s prolonged housing slump, credit crunch... READ MORE
