When Lynette Whiteman's daughter went to college, she decided to get a dog. She called this pet her empty nest dog. Besides having someone else to care for, she stated that her new friend loved her non-judgmentally and didn't care if she gained weight or got gray hair. This is just one reason people adore their pets. Yet the benefits of seniors having a furry friend can be life changing. [...]
As we age, many of us develop chronic health conditions. This may be an inevitable part of growing older. But at the same time, there are ways to lower your risk of developing more serious health concerns. Health risks like high blood pressure, diabetes, and even osteoporosis can all be minimized. While you may not be able to completely prevent or get rid of certain health problems, the importance of [...]
Maybe your loved one has been diagnosed with Parkinson's disease? Of course, you want to be there for them in as many ways as possible. Yet supporting loved ones with Parkinson's is definitely a challenge. As the disease progresses, people tend to become frustrated and overwhelmed. They need support. It doesn't matter if it's offering transportation, doing household chores, or simply lending a listening ear. What matters in the face [...]
There's no question that exercise is a healthy habit. In addition, most can agree that you will feel better when eating a healthy diet. Yet many don't realize that these habits can actually aid in protecting aging brains. As we age, our brain functions decline. Regardless of whether someone has dementia, memory and other cognitive functions may suffer. However, new clinical trials have shown significant differences in the aging brain [...]
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 [...]
What do you think of when you hear the term "successful aging"? Personally, I think of my father. At the age of 91, he is out gardening in the backyard, cooking meals, and fixing things in his workshop. Yet for others, it may simply mean enjoying time with family or having hobbies you enjoy. Whatever the case may be, there are many factors to consider when defining successful aging. While [...]
Medical bills add up as we get older. Especially if you have a serious medical condition, you may quickly find yourself overwhelmed by expenses. An alarming $280,000 is the average cost for medical care for seniors. And if you are paying out of pocket for long term care, you can expect to add in an additional $4,000 to $7,000 per month. But on the bright side, nearly 9 million Americans [...]
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 of the elderly population relies on medication or medical devices of some type. It may be syringes for insulin. Or it could be blood pressure or pain medication. In addition, medical needs change as people age. Regardless, the proper disposal of medications and medical devices that are no longer needed is essential. Drug Watch outlines the guidelines for proper medication disposal. However, it is important to note that different things [...]
We have treatments and medications for some of the world's most debilitating diseases. Yet finding Alzheimer's drugs is not easy at all. The problem is not that we aren't trying. The brain is an extremely complex organ and is not easily accessible. Finding Alzheimer's drugs is a challenge for many reasons. It may seem frustrating to those affected by the disease. We are able to come up with drugs for [...]
