Care Management ~ Eldercare Advocacy ~ Dementia Care

Dear Judie, 

My mother has Parkinson's and lives at home with an aide. Last week I saw two shelves packed with vitamins, supplements, and strange colored crackers. Mom was eating green oatmeal and making faces with every bite. She said my brother had her on a new diet! When I asked my brother if mom's doctor approved this change, he said, "don't worry, it's all from the health food store." How do I stop him?

- Charlie, Hutchinson Island

Dear Charlie, 

Your brother may mean well, but he is naïve. Over-the-counter treatments often contain some of the basic ingredients found in prescription drugs. Mixing the two may increase dosages and/or cause dangerous adverse reactions. Contact Mom’s physician and pharmacist immediately with all her medications plus the vitamins, supplements and homeopathic treatments your brother introduced. Use their response to show your brother the potential dangers of mixing treatments without professional oversight and the necessity of maintaining a stable, balanced diet for mom.  

Judie Rappaport, President & Founder
Preferred Lifestyle Services

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