More than 5.3 million Americans live with brain injury-related disabilities. For people 65 years and older, traumatic brain injury (TBI) is a significant problem, sending more than 80,000 seniors to the emergency room every year. Falls and vehicle crashes are the leading causes but, regardless of the cause, age negatively affects outcomes and recovery from... Read More
The end of February marks the end of National Senior Independence month, but not the end of helping older loved ones maintain their autonomy. By 2050 the number of U.S. adults will reach 88.5 million; most will want to remain in their homes, living life on their terms. We can all help make that possibility... Read More
Are you one of those who made a New Year resolution to exercise more? In a recent survey, 52% of respondents said that was their goal. It’s not too late to start, but it is important to start safely – especially if workouts are a new activity or if a lot of time has passed.... Read More
Winter solstice is finally past, which means days will grow longer, chasing the darkness away. But the solstice also brought us winter, and reports predict ongoing arctic blasts and life-threatening cold conditions. Cold weather is especially dangerous for older adults, who are more vulnerable to hypothermia, frostbite, and falls due to snow and ice. Here... Read More
To most people, November means one thing: Thanksgiving! But November is also American Diabetes Month. While the holiday season may bring plenty of carb-heavy and sugary food to the table (perhaps with a side of alcohol), there are simple ways to take to make the meals diabetic-friendly. Planning Potatoes, stuffing, macaroni and cheese, and dinner... Read More
Witches and goblins and ghosts – oh my! Halloween is upon us yet again, so is dressing up for free candy and a little bit of scary fun. But there is more to do than just begging for sweets to get you in the Halloween mood. Here are five activities that the entire family can... Read More
September 18–24 is National Falls Prevention Awareness Week. Every year the National Council on Aging (NCOA), the national voice for every person’s right to age well, sponsors this national health campaign with the goal of increasing awareness around preventing falls and injuries. Six out of 10 falls happen at home; many are due to hazardous... Read More
Prescription and nonprescription drugs help seniors manage a variety of health conditions. They preserve both life and quality of life. Of course, they only work if we take them properly. How much do you know about your medications? True or false? If my doctor prescribes a drug, and then I start to feel better, it’s... Read More
Long summer days are a treat. More daylight means more time to spend outdoors, which promotes both physical and mental health. But the nights are shorter, which can mean less sleep. And artificial light can make getting that good night’s rest even harder while also damaging health. A recent study found that dim light, like... Read More
Did you know that overall cancer death rates have been steadily declining since the 1990s? This means the number of cancer survivors has increased. National Cancer Survivors Day® on June 5 honored these individuals and those who care for them. For 35 years, the first Sunday in June has been a time to celebrate all... Read More