USA: Elderly aunt requires closer attention

. CHICAGO, Illinois / Post-Tribune / July 12, 2009 Lifestyles Ask Harriette Dear Harriette I visited my great-aunt the other day and noticed that she is taking a lot of medication. I know that older people often have lots of prescriptions, but this worried me. They were not well organized, and I began to worry about whether she's managing her medication well. She doesn't have anyone nearby who checks in on her every day. I can't do that, but I do want to help. When I asked her about it, she assured me she was fine. I want to call her doctor and check on her. Is that OK? -- Nan, Winston-Salem, N.C. Dear Nan I don't know if your great-aunt's doctor has the authority to reveal her medical status to you without her permission. I doubt it. During your next visit, why don't you offer to take your great-aunt to her medical appointment? Tell her that you want to support her as much as possible. Go with her, and ask key questions about how to care for her. Learn about her medications. Discover if she has any ailments that may require special attention. Furthermore, do your best to have a regular check-in time with your relative. Begin to call her a couple of times a week. Visit once a week or at least twice a month, if possible. Ask her neighbors to check in on her, and report back to you if anything seems off. While it may seem daunting to take on any responsibility for your great-aunt, it looks as if you are the one, for now anyway, who is aware of her potential needs. Be there for her. That's what family is for! [rc] © Copyright 2009 Digital Chicago, Inc.