Guest blogger Michael LaMagna, Esq., specializes in elder care issues, and discusses below the implications in raising the Medicare eligibility requirement by two years. 

True multi-generational living rather than a Med Cottage “Granny Pod”

The term Granny Pod has made its way into mainstream media this week thanks to a company called MedCottage. The concept has even been fodder for late night comedians. PALS Built was also mentioned in these articles but there were a few inaccuracies which need to be addressed. Our company was founded on the belief that the best living situation for every generation is multi-generational living – under one roof.

Here are some things to look for:

I live in an area of Connecticut that was one of the hardest hit by Hurricane Sandy but I’m grateful – it was nothing compared to what some people in New York and New Jersey are still going through as I write this. 

Multigenerational living may be somewhat new to our culture and generation but, in reality what’s old is new again.  What we used to think of as “the in-law suite” (also known as “The Granny Pod”)  has become a viable solution for Americans who want to provide a private residence within an adult child or other caregiver’s home for one, two or even three elderly family members.

September is World Alzheimer’s Month and National Grandparent’s Month

While I was well aware that September is World Alzheimer’s Month and tomorrow is Alzheimer’s Action Day, until today I didn’t realize that it’s also National Grandparent’s Month.  I’m wondering if it was planned that way given that one in eight older Americans has Alzheimer’s and 70 million Americans are grandparents.  There’s a big overlap I’m sure.  My father, in fact, is one person who is in both groups.

I’m not sure what’s been harder, watching my dad decline and succumb to this horrific affliction or standing by as my mom tries to deny the situation and handle it herself.  Actually that’s not true – it’s been much harder dealing with my mom.  Truth be told, my father and I were never very close.  There has always been an emotional dis-attachment between the two of us.  My mother, on the other hand, has been my best friend forever.   I’ve watched her age before my eyes.  Nurses and social workers have all commented about the incredible care she provides my dad.  Her love for him is endless and, as a result, she has lost herself in becoming a 24/7 caregiver for her husband.