Dear Jennifer,

We are all our own fiercest advocates -- for ourselves and loved ones.  Do not hesitate to jump in the fray and work for better care for your mother.

Call the nursing home.  Call area doctors.  Talk to your own doctor for advice.  You do not have to settle for anything less than the best care possible for your mother.

If nothing progresses, consider traveling to where your mother is to track down these people in person and talk to them.  Or consider moving your mother closer to you to make in-person meetings easier.

Remember that your mother did exactly that for you during the first decades of your life.  No one should hesitate returning the favor.

-- M

Have a question for Ms. Meniscus?

• To send her an e-mail, click here.  (Please log-in.)
• Or to submit a question anonymously, click here.  (No log-in required.)