You have managed to successfully raise your family and are now enjoying your independence that the empty nest affords.  You have a daily routine and are used to being in control and on your own. Sometimes, however, life throws us a curve ball.  Perhaps you have recently lost your spouse, or you have been dealing…

In this webinar, which was recorded on May 14, 2020, Nurse Attorney Cathleen Summers and Attorney Phil Summers discuss the details of probate – how long the process takes, what’s involved, and why you want to avoid it now and at any time in the future. In order for you to easily access this information,…

In this video webinar, Nurse Attorney Cathleen Summers discusses how to effectively advocate for a loved one who is hospitalized. Cathleen covers the basics from what estate planning documents should be in place and how to know what your loved one’s wishes are, to more in-depth information regarding effective communication with health care providers, and…

It’s heartbreaking to comprehend losing a loved one; losing a loved one from complications of the COVID-19 virus can be even more difficult to bear. The swift and sudden onset and extreme contagiousness of the illness means patients are dying without loved ones by their side. These factors can make it especially challenging for those…

The call came into my husband’s cell phone as we were sitting down for his 50th birthday dinner: “Your father has fallen and requires emergency surgery.” Since Bob had dementia and didn’t have family in the area, the doctors immediately looked to contact his health care proxy. Fortunately, years before the dementia set in, Bob…

How Coronavirus has changed the way we say “hello” I’m a hugger, there is just no getting around it.  When I meet someone I know, my first inclination is to give them a hug.  It’s my way of saying how happy I am to see the person and to convey the message that they are…

Q: Mom lives alone in the family home where we all grew up.  She seems lonely since Dad passed away several years ago.  I’m worried about her safety; she lacks socialization and it seems getting around is becoming more difficult. Taking care of a big home by herself is getting difficult.  As her daughter, I…

If you are a fan of the TV series “This Is Us”, then you have been following the story line about Rebecca and her diagnosis of dementia.  According to the Alzheimer’s Association 2019 Facts and Figures, 5.8 million Americans are living with Alzheimer’s Disease, which is just one form of dementia.  Additionally, 1 in 3…