In today's Asking Eric column, R. Eric Thomas responds to someone who is anxious and uncertain about how to prepare for retirement.

Dear Eric: I guess I don’t know how to let it go. My sister is five years older. There was a problem during a visit she made with her grandson more than 10 years ago. Her husband caused chaos and confusion, but she blamed me. She said she would never speak to me anymore and she hasn’t.

First the hoarding. Your local fire department might have a hoarding task force that can make a house call. Or your local Area Agency on Aging might have additional resources. Yes, escalating your concerns will likely create conflict, but I’d argue the conflict is already simmering in your relationship.

In a recent Asking Eric column, R. Eric Thomas responds to parents who are concerned about their adult daughter being able to support herself financially.

Dear Eric: I guess I don’t know how to let it go. My sister is five years older. There was a problem during a visit she made with her grandson more than 10 years ago. Her husband caused chaos and confusion, but she blamed me. She said she would never speak to me anymore and she hasn’t.

"We all know prices have skyrocketed, but when we add the 'recommended' 10 percent to 15 percent tip, restaurant dining becomes unaffordable."

DEAR ERIC: I have a few longtime friends. After four years of caretaking, my mom passed away from dementia. After that, I had to arrange for the selling of furnishings and the house. My 65-year-old brother who shared the house with her has cerebral palsy and required round-the-clock care. So, I had to arrange all that.

In a recent Asking Eric column, R. Eric Thomas responds to a mother-in-law who was cut off by her son and daughter-in-law after an argument at a birthday party.