An estimated 30 billion dollars are lost every year to financial elder abuse scams. Most of the time we assume the thief is a total stranger. But far too often, even trusted family and friends are the root of this form of abuse. And unfortunately, so many cases of financial elder abuse go unreported. It may be because the victims are too ashamed to report what happened. Or maybe they [...]
As we age, we need more health care. Of course, this leads to the medical bills piling up. Surprisingly, experts say that up to 80 percent of medical bills contain errors of some kind. Therefore, it is crucial to make sure you are aware of what you are paying for. This can be difficult, especially for seniors who receive what seems to be never ending bills. But by following a [...]
Most of us know the basics of maintaining physical health. Keeping your weight, cholesterol, and BMI in check are just a few things that most can agree will improve your health. It's been drilled into our brains through advertising, self-help websites and books, and our healthcare providers. However, what about the brain itself? It is important to remember this vital organ is responsible for the majority of our functioning. Lifestyle [...]
It's overwhelming to prioritize what is important in today's chaotic world. Between managing a career, home, and even a Facebook feed, knowing what to prioritize in life can be confusing. However, a 75 year long Harvard study found the one "secret" to living a fulfilling and happy life. Connection and love. It is as simple as that. You can have all the money in the world. Maybe you're the CEO of [...]
We all know the elderly population requires more specialized care than younger people do. This may be due to chronic conditions, weakened immune systems, and lowered muscle tone. However, special consideration should be taken when helping elderly patients through surgery. It could mean the difference between going back to normal life and long-term disabilities. According to the Philly Inquirer, knowing the patient's baseline functioning is the first step. This is [...]
If you see something, say something. The U.S. Department of Homeland Security advises us to follow this rule in regards to suspicious activity. Seniors are often easier targets for financial scams. A 2017 AARP survey found that nearly half of financial fraud victims were over 70. However, the sad reality is that 43 out of 44 elder financial scams go unreported. Therefore, it is vitally important for people to report [...]
Cognitive decline is a normal part of aging. Aging brains naturally have more of a build up of toxins. Although this is a natural part of growing older, certain lifestyle factors can influence the severity of impairment. Exercise, sleep, and diet all play a powerful role. However, it's never too early to pick up one of these brain boosting habits. We may not be able to totally prevent cognitive decline, [...]
Most can agree that a healthy diet and a regular exercise routine both have a positive impact as we age. However, research has shown that something as simple as your attitudes and beliefs about aging play a role as well. Exposure to aging stereotypes have a correlation to the development cognitive decline and other health issues. Therefore, the beliefs you internalize matter. Because how you think about your aging process [...]
Unlike heart disease or diabetes, strokes occur without much warning. The sudden onset of strokes often leaves both patients and families in a state of shock, fear and loss. The drastic changes in the patient can be hard to cope with. Trouble walking, talking, swallowing, and memory loss are just a few among the large amount of effects strokes can have. The challenges do not end after the patient leaves [...]
Internet use among seniors is continually on the rise. Nearly 70 percent of seniors now regularly browse the internet. Whether you use it for social media, online banking, or emailing, seniors can unfortunately be easier targets for internet scams. Scammers perceive seniors as more vulnerable. Therefore, they usually target them first. Everyone should prioritize internet safety these days. But for seniors, this is especially vital. It could mean the difference [...]
