March 29, 2024

Dear Manang,
I was taken aback when I saw my mother who seemed disoriented and hesitant. I had to pull her by the coat when I saw her walking off when we went to the doctor’s clinic. I asked her where she was going. She looked back at me with blank eyes and I pointed to the doctor’s clinic and told her that the doctor’s clinic was in the opposite direction. She said, “Oh yes!” Is this the symptom of Alzheimer’s? Is there something that I can do or must I just prepare for it at 85?
Dolly of Loakan Road, Baguio City

Dear Dolly,
I can only consult Google for my answers. According to alz.org., “Most of us eventually notice some slowed thinking and occasional problems with remembering certain things. However, serious memory loss, confusion, and other major changes in the way our minds work may be a sign that brain cells are failing.” Medicalnewstoday.com suggests, “The following are important elements of dementia care: effective management of any conditions occurring alongside Alzheimer’s, activities and daycare programs, and involvement of support groups and services.” It adds, “Modifiable factors that may help prevent Alzheimer’s include: getting regular exercise; following a varied and healthful diet; maintaining a healthy cardiovascular system; managing the risk of cardiovascular disease, diabetes, obesity, and high blood pressure; and keeping the brain active throughout life.” I hope you can learn some things from what they are saying.
Anything can help,
Manang

Dear Manang,
I wrote a few weeks back to ask you what I should do about the violence against women and children case I filed against my husband. Well, you said that the law has no punitive aspects and incarceration was not included. I got information that if an administrative case is brought against him by his superiors, he stands to lose his job and the support for the children will not be possible. Do I have to give in?
Dinah of Upper Quarry, Baguio City

Dear Dinah,
Your husband has powerful friends. Well, I can only sigh about the choice you have to make. It’s as if you have no choice at all. Your children are foremost and their welfare is the only thing that you can bargain with. Well, you need to be smart and protect yourself in the papers that you are going to sign. Make sure that the papers detail the support and include the details of the relationship you will maintain with him. Getting an annulment does not necessarily remove your children’s rights. But the ball game changes once he remarries and have kids. May I ask some of the lawyers to input their support for these things?
My prayers for you,
Manang