My mother started losing her memory two years ago and recently wandered off while my parents were shopping.  Even though mall security called the police when they found her, my father continues to be reluctant to discuss her situation, insisting he can take care of Mom on his own.  I am really concerned.  How do I convince my father to get some professional help?

My grandma has congestive heart failure and is supposed to eat a salt restrictive diet to manage symptoms. She is very upset about this as she loves fast food and her favorite snack of potato chips. She just can’t eat like that anymore. She’s had 2 visits to the emergency room in the past 6 months. How do I help her eat a better diet yet not sound like a “jailer”? 

Since my father died 6 months ago, my mother has been growing progressively more sad.  Her mail piles up until I visit and she hardly leaves her apartment, even for activities she used to enjoy like spending time with grandchildren and going to church. I don’t know what to do for her.

My uncle had high blood pressure and diabetes for years but he’s never been one to eat healthy and admits he doesn’t always take the medications he’s prescribed.  Recently he had a minor stroke and although he doesn’t seem to have any permanent damage, I am worried about his ability to stay well going forward.

My grandmother recently fell for the third time this year and is now recovering from hip surgery. When the rehabilitation facility sends her home I know she will have very limited help for a short time. She refuses to hire a caregiver because other than her falling, she’s quite independent. I wish there were some way to keep her safe.

My older sister has had mental health problems her whole life. Since she retired, she seems to become increasingly confused and easily agitated. She never married, has no friends and frequents local shops for company.  The shopkeepers find her disruptive and have asked her to leave. Although she has always been physically healthy, she recently lost a lot of weight.  She has never gotten along with the family and we are at a loss of how to help her.

After complaining of severe constipation and nausea for months and undergoing numerous tests and evaluations, my grandfather was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. The lengthy diagnostic process, invasive treatment and emotional toll of watching his decline have been draining for the entire family. As we continue to coordinate doctor visits, testing, surgery, and chemotherapy, we’re overwhelmed and unsure we’re adequately advocating for him. On top of that, we fear the strain will compromise my grandmother’s health and safety.