nursing – Madison Catholic Herald Archive (2001-2025)

CROSS PLAINS — Students at St. Francis Xavier School focused on the true meaning of Christmas through prayer, service projects, and spreading holiday cheer.

During Advent, the entire school came together on Monday mornings for a prayer service. Surrounding a large Advent wreath, the students looked on as candles were lit. Students then took turns leading the school in prayer and singing.

Students in kindergarten, first, and fourth grade classes spread holiday cheer by caroling at local nursing homes.

Ask Jean

On March 22, 2012

Jean Mueller

Does Medicare cover nursing home care?

Q What exactly does Medicare cover? My father is in his late 70’s and in failing health.

He has told me when the time comes he would agree to go to a “home,” (my mother died many years ago).

He seems to think Medicare will cover the cost of a nursing home. I don’t think it does. Who is right? (From a son in Beloit).

Ask Jean

On December 18, 2011

Jean Mueller

Keeping a family tradition alive with help

Q. I am getting ready for my annual trip out east to spend time with my mother over the holidays.

Mom is in her 80s and it is getting more and more difficult for her to do everything — yet she insists on keeping up all of the old traditions and will not allow any of us to help.

By the time I leave she is exhausted and I am stressed and feeling guilty. Is there any way to convince her all the “fuss” is not necessary, without hurting her feelings?

(A daughter in Dodgeville)

Ask Jean

On October 20, 2011

Jean Mueller

Helping an aging parent from a distance

Q. I am becoming more and more concerned that my mom is not doing well.

She has lost many of her friends and when we speak I think there may be some depression going on.

I live on the West coast and can’t be there to actually see what is happening. What can I do? How do I get mom to accept help? (From daughter in San Francisco, Calif.)

A. Your concerns are very legitimate. Losses can be very hard to deal with especially as we get older and have fewer options to replace the loss.

Ask Jean

On October 20, 2011

Jean Mueller

Alzheimer’s and dementia

Q. I have heard people use the term dementia, and then others will say Alzheimer’s disease. What is the difference and how can I tell if my dad is developing either one of them? (From a son in Southern Wisconsin.)

This is a very common question and there is a lot of confusion about this, so I am glad you asked.

Dementia is used as more of a general term that describes some symptoms.

The symptoms included in dementia are forgetfulness, repeating words or statements, and loss of judgment, to name a few.

Guest column

On October 6, 2011

Peggy Hamill

On medical decision-making

Each fall, as we observe October, Respect Life Month, we are reminded of our obligation to combat the relentless attacks on all innocent human life.

Our experience throughout this past spring and summer indicates that in addition to the tragic killing of our preborn brothers and sisters, assaults on vulnerable elderly, sick, and disabled people are definitely on the rise, especially here in Wisconsin.

Providing advice, advocacy

Pro-Life Wisconsin is being enlisted to provide more and more materials, speakers, advice, and direct advocacy regarding end-of-life and medical decisions.