Dear Annie: My sister, “Laura,” and I have always been close, but ever since she got engaged, there’s been a bit of a distance. She’s constantly busy with wedding planning, and when we do talk, all she wants to discuss is flowers, seating charts or her bachelorette party. I’m happy for her, but at a certain point it feels like she has forgotten that I have problems and things to discuss, too. The world doesn’t revolve around her wedding!

The final straw came last week when I asked if we were still on to go to the farmer’s market like we had planned. Laura laughed and said, “I don’t have time for that right now.” I get that weddings are stressful, but it feels like I’m no longer important in her life.

I want to support her, but I also want to address how I feel without adding to her stress. How do I talk to her about this without sounding selfish? – Sad Sister

Dear Sad Sister: Weddings can be all-consuming, especially for the bride, but luckily, this season won’t last forever. Try to manage your expectations of your sister for this wedding planning phase; her tunnel vision doesn’t mean that your relationship isn’t important to her. Being patient and supportive now will strengthen your bond once the wedding frenzy is old news.

That said, it’s always better to communicate your feelings rather than to let them turn into resentment. If your sister’s behavior persists and continues to bother you, explain calmly that you miss spending quality time with her.

Dear Annie: I regularly read your column and have seen stories involving individuals over 60 being taken advantage of or outright abused. Your recent letter from “Desperate Sisters,” the duo that has been caring for their volatile nephew for almost 20 years and are trying to remove him from their home, is a prime example.

I do hope you will continue to support and refer people to domestic violence helplines and resources, but I also urge you to include local elder abuse hotlines in cases involving older adults. Since agencies vary by location, the National Eldercare Locator is a great starting point. Abuse comes in many forms, but laws like the Elder Justice Act protect the vulnerable. If someone, whether a relative, friend, neighbor, home health aide or stranger, is taking money, medication, food, or shelter from an elder without their consent, it’s illegal.

As a former elder abuse investigator, I’ve successfully intervened when law enforcement failed. I’ve helped evict offenders, retrieve money and belongings, and connect victims with resources to ensure their safety. To find the available resources in any U.S. area, the Eldercare Locator can be immensely helpful; their number is 1-800-677-1116, or there is an online locator that requires only entering the elder’s zip code (eldercare.acl.gov). There are many, many resources available to victims of crime, but only if you know where to look for them.

Thank you, and keep being the support you are! — Elder Advocate

Dear Elder Advocate: Thank YOU for your letter and years of service in this area. Protecting the vulnerable is crucial but especially the elderly who are far too often exploited and abused. I will absolutely continue to spread the word about helplines and now this incredible resource, too.

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Annie Lane’s second anthology — “How Can I Forgive My Cheating Partner?” featuring favorite columns on marriage, infidelity, communication and reconciliation — is available as a paperback and e-book. Visit http://www.creatorspublishing.com for more information. Send your questions for Annie Lane to dearannie@creators.com.