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 [...]
Our ability to see is important for almost all of our day to day tasks. How would you cope with living with vision loss? This is a real issue that many older adults will have to face. According to the National Eye Institute, the majority of people with vision impairment are seniors. Yet losing this important ability does not mean you can't enjoy your life. Furthermore, there are ways to [...]
The statistics are shocking. Falling is the number one cause of injury for seniors. One in three seniors can expect to fall every year. All too often, they result in fractures and other injuries requiring emergency medical attention and loss of independence. Death can even be an outcome of a fall. However, there are many ways you can lower your fall risk. This article from The New York Times explains the risk of [...]
The aging brain undergoes many changes. A lot of these are completely normal. Increased forgetfulness and impaired thinking can be worrisome. Knowing what's normal and what's not is a challenge for many. Do you sometimes have a harder time learning new things than you used to? You possibly have forgotten where you put your glasses or keys on occasion. Often, these moments of mild forgetfulness are normal for the aging [...]
Sleep quality is surprisingly important in the aging population. Unfortunately, there's no magic pill. The quality of sleep in the aging brain diminishes greatly as we get older. Even as early as our 30's, our brains begin to lose the ability to maintain a deep and natural sleep cycle. This definitely does not mean that the elderly need less sleep. In fact, it's quite the opposite. If you think good [...]
Preventing malnutrition in seniors is a long standing problem. What does your typical breakfast consist of? If a cup of coffee and a donut is the answer, you may be struggling with malnutrition. Although many are unaware of the huge and costly problem of malnutrition, it often leads to increased disability and illness. According to this Tufts Now article, our nutritional needs change as we age. Metabolisms slow down and [...]
Preparing and eating food is a necessity. There are many cognitive and emotional benefits that can be gained from cooking. This article from Culinary Schools discusses guidelines for keeping Alzheimer's patients safe, while still enjoying the many benefits of being in the kitchen. Many Alzheimer's patients lose interest in activities they once enjoyed. Bringing back cooking can bring more freedom and independence despite their disease process. Cooking a meal that they used [...]
What do you think are the secrets to living a long life? We often overlook the importance of connecting with others. According to Susan Pinker in this TED Talk, the key to longevity could lie in your social life. Socializing can help you live a longer life. And no, we don't mean those text messages you send to your friend occasionally. Susan Pinker states that the quality of your face [...]
