For younger folks, taking a trip out of the house isn't something special. Most leave the house every day for work, school, or other engagements. However, the value of taking trips outside the home for seniors is underestimated. Life typically slows down as we age. Enjoyable activities like going to a movie or museum often require more of an effort. Yet researchers from University College London have made some important [...]
As the saying goes, "home is where the heart is". This speaks to the reason why most older adults wish to age in their own home. The comfort and familiarity that our homes provide us may seem impossible to live without. However, we must factor in the costs of aging in place versus assisted living. Furthermore, the costs are not only financial. We will end up paying a price on [...]
We are generally advised to apply our own oxygen mask before assisting others during an emergency on a flight. This ensures our own safety and well-being. Some say this seems selfish. Yet without caring for ourselves, how can we care for others? Similarly, dementia caregivers often neglect their own needs for the sake of the person in their care. This reduces the quality of life for both the patient and [...]
Nearly 23 percent of people 65 years and older are either alone or are at risk of becoming alone. They have no spouse, no children, and no relatives nearby. This is the sad reality that many seniors face. "Elder orphan" is the term that gerontologists use to describe seniors in these circumstances. We live in a generation of elder orphans. The number of elder orphans is rising as the baby [...]
Safety can be a huge concern for families and friends of seniors. People talk a lot about lowering your fall risk. Yet regardless of how much we prepare for the risk of falling, the reality is that nearly 3 million seniors are sent to the emergency room due to falls each year. Injuries, loss of independence, and even death can occur following a fall. Depending on how and where you [...]
We live in a society that values independence and autonomy. The majority of seniors wish to remain in their home as they age. That being said, many older adults will decline mentally or physically as they age, putting their safety in jeopardy. Furthermore, this will ultimately affect their ability to remain in their home long-term. Lee Lindquist, MD is a gerontologist who has seen the pattern of seniors being reluctant [...]
We all have opinions on how we should be caring for aging parents. We tend to believe we know best. After all, they are our parents. Yet when siblings are involved, there are bound to be differences of opinions. This can lead to conflict, which ultimately makes matters even more stressful than they need to be. Knowing how to manage conflict and differing opinions between siblings can make all the [...]
Much of the population is living longer than ever before. This is wonderful! However, with this statistic comes not so wonderful news too. There is a higher probability that the majority of us will get to the point where we can no longer care for ourselves. Our capacity to manage our assets, finances, and health may diminish. Knowing and preparing for old age is essential. By planning in advance, you [...]
Most people want to stay in their homes as they age. A 2015 AARP survey found that nearly 90 percent of those ages 65 and older wanted this. However, simply wanting to age in place does not ultimately make it happen. Careful planning and evaluation are essential if you want to reach this goal. Furthermore, you should not want to just stay in your home as long as possible. You [...]
If we fear something, we tend to avoid it. For the fear of falling, this can be a vicious cycle for seniors. It is no secret that falling is scary and dangerous. It can lead to serious injuries and loss of independence. Yet the more you avoid moving around and being active, the higher your risk of falling becomes. Public health experts throughout the world grapple with this paradox. However, [...]
