Suggestion for a Worried Boomer

Debra L. Wiley’s conclusion (“Boomers Will Inherit a World of Trouble,” Letters, Nov. 26) that her retirement savings may be depleted by the custodial care needs of her 81-year-old father may not be correct.

Of course, most people in her situation put their parents in a nursing home. Careful screening of such facilities should result in finding a caring and quality nursing home that will accept Medi-Cal (Medicaid) as the basis for payment. Such facilities usually have waiting lists but should eventually provide a solution. She could visit her father often and take him home on weekends.

Additionally, there is a county assistance program known as in-home supportive services that could help pay for a home attendant while Debra is at work. If her father qualifies, an allotment of wages is made.

The in-home supportive services programs are listed in the white pages. Look under the county listings in the front section. Look under Social Services Agency or Department of Social Services.

Be diligent and direct. With the anti-welfare hysteria, a lot of social service programs are understaffed and underfunded. Ask your county supervisor for help if you encounter a nonsensical denial of services.

In any event, be assured that I, for one, admire Wiley for her devotion to her father and to moral responsibility.

MARIO VILLA

Santa Ana