It might surprise you to learn that older adults watch more television than younger people do. Watching TV comprises most of the leisure time for adults aged 70 to 105 years old. Television can be an avenue to learning new things, connecting with the world, creating a diversion, and providing some light entertainment. However, it can also supplant physical or…
When thinking of starting a fitness regime, many people may envision smelly gyms, sweaty feet, and plenty of grunting and pain. Often lofty goals, such as races or competitions, distract people from starting a sensible routine and result in abandoning the effort. Fitness goals should be about improving our health and how we interact with the world. It's never too…
Our skin is the first thing other people see and is the first thing most people are concerned about displaying signs of aging. As our skin ages, it becomes thinner, which can add to the appearance of wrinkles. We lose fat, elasticity, and moisture. Scratches and bumps often take longer to heal and are more visible. Depending on the sun…
July is Healthy Vision Month. Vigilance about senior eyesight is crucial to catch conditions early for easier, more reliable treatment. As we age, vision impairment is one of the most common physical losses. Many eye conditions that cause sight loss and blindness aren’t diagnosed until extreme measures are necessary. Vision impairment is not simply an annoying symptom of aging –…
Getting outside during the summer offers actual health benefits to seniors. A Harvard Health study explains that time in the sun raises Vitamin D levels and improves moods. (health.harvard.edu) For many seniors, a regular mood boost provided by outdoor activity can significantly enhance quality of life. With health and safety in mind, seniors and their caregivers can enjoy being outdoors…
Making the decision to get help for a parent or family member can be tough. It’s hard to know what to look for when evaluating how your loved one is doing. Here are some things to look for: Things becoming disheveled in home Your loved one is not changing their clothes each day Clothes are not being washed The home…
After 15+ months of juggling school and work from home, as well as taking on extra family caregiving responsibilities for your elders, perhaps you’ve just finally gotten into the groove... and now your employer wants you back in the office. Just one more big adjustment, and it may feel like you’re about to go over the edge! Get the support…
June is National Men’s Health Month, and there is no better time than to raise awareness of the issues men may face as they age. Often men are less likely to report symptoms that may be concerning and are more likely to put off regular medical check-ups and testing. Senior men should be aware of these 10 health problems in…
A wide variety of conditions can be the cause of short- or long-term memory loss. Thinking and behavior changes are normal as we age – but what if you believe you are noticing more than just forgetfulness? How do you bring up the serious topic of Alzheimer’s or other dementias with your family or the loved one who is causing…
As we age, vision impairment is one of the most common physical losses. June is Cataract Awareness Month, and many are surprised to learn that cataracts are a leading cause of blindness among older adults in the United States. More than half of all Americans have cataracts by the time they are 80 years old. Vigilance about senior eyesight is…
