Dear Mary,
When I received my 96 year old mother’s death certificate I was quite surprised to see that the attending doctor had given the cause of death as Alzheimer's disease instead of aspiration pneumonia, which clearly was the cause. There is no question she did have a dementia, but it's not at all clear that it was Alzheimer's and that's certainly not what killed her. However, I suspect it is more trouble than it's worth to have the record corrected. Do you have an opinion on this?
Dear Reader,
It used to be that Alzheimer’s disease was not stated as a cause of death. Typically we would see “pneumonia” or “natural causes” on the death certificate. Today we know that Alzheimer’s disease is a fatal condition and aspiration pneumonia is a consequence of it.
I am not sure why the attending physician diagnosed her with Alzheimer's disease except maybe he made an assumption due to her advanced age and cognitive changes.
It will take time and energy to have the death certificate changed, but if it is something you feel strongly about do it.
Dear Mary,
I brought my 89 year old mother to live with me from another state. She has severe back pain and some memory problems. I took her to a spinal doctor who ordered many tests. Much to my surprise I found out her Medigap plan is not recognized in Maryland and I had to payout of pocket to get them done. I called Medicare and they directed me to another insurance program, but it will not take effect until January. This new company promised to send written confirmation but I have not received it yet. Mother has money in savings and, although I am listed on her accounts, I do not want to touch it until absolutely necessary. I am not wealthy am feeling at a loss as to how to pay for her care. Can you guide me in the right direction?
Dear Reader,
Each state has its own laws and regulations that are not always transferable to another. The first thing you need to do is call the Senior Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) at the Department of Aging and Disabilities (410-222-4464). Someone there will be able to answer your questions about Medigap plans in Maryland and also determine if your mother is eligible for any other supplemental insurance programs. I also suggest you call the insurance company who promised written confirmation and ask them to fax it to you today. The second thing to do is: use your mother’s money to pay for her care. This also includes reimbursing yourself for any money you have already spent.
It is advisable to consult with an elder law attorney to obtain financial and durable powers of attorney. Durable powers of attorney allow you to make decisions for your mother when she can not longer make them for herself. And, if your mother does not have a Health Care Advance Directive, she needs to sign one now. You can get the forms, again, by calling the Department of Aging and Disabilities.
Dear Readers,
As another year begins, I wish you peace and acceptance in your journeys, health and happiness in your lives, and hope for the future. Blessings for a very Happy New Year ~ Mary
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