Identifying Mom’s Needs Key to Reaching Family Consensus The signs all point to trouble for Mom. You and your siblings are concerned, but not sure how to proceed, especially because your mother is reluctant to leave her longtime home. Leaving home, though, is only one option, and the least popular among older adults, many of [...]

Home Often the Best Retirement Haven Many older adults fear they will lose their independence as they are age. If you’re one of those seniors, take heart. More options than ever exist for seniors who want to remain in control of their living situations. Top on the list — most seniors say — is remaining [...]

Organization is Key to Helping Seniors Manage at Home A lifetime accumulation of possessions—combined with a daily influx of junk mail, bills and newspapers—can quickly overwhelm seniors who already may be struggling physically, mentally or emotionally. Go slowly on the cleanup and consider providing a helping hand each week. Q.  I just drove 800 miles [...]

Prevention Is Best Way to Reduce Fall Risks Falls are among the leading causes of death and injury in the older population. But families can greatly reduce the risks of accidents by ensuring that their older loved ones have the proper medical care and support. Q. Grandma Inez suddenly seems unsteady on her feet. She [...]

Long-term Alzheimer’s Care Options “Whatever happens to me, I don’t want to end up in a nursing home!” Ever heard your parents say that before? Older adults commonly express that wish, or some variation of it, fearing the possibility of becoming completely dependent on others and being left to the care of strangers rather than [...]

Researchers Working on Pacemakers Without Batteries Q:  I am 78 years old and have had heart problems off and on for the past six months. Now my cardiologist recommends a pacemaker, but it sounds as if I will need another surgery later to replace the battery. My grandson, a pre-med major in college, said he [...]

Silent Strokes Are a New Suspect in Determining Seniors’ Memory Loss Q:  My 82-year-old aunt lives alone, and I noticed that she’s starting to be more forgetful. I don’t believe she exhibits any other classic symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease, but I am a little worried. Could it be something else? Is it simply old age? [...]

It’s Time for Seniors to Step Into Better Health, Fitness Q: I’ve decided to take up walking regularly at age 80 because my doctor says it will help lower my blood pressure. But on some mornings, I just can’t seem to get out the door, partly because no one is there to order me to [...]

New Research Indicates Virtual Colonoscopies Suitable for Seniors  Q.    It’s nearly time for my scheduled colonoscopy. I’m 79, and it has been five years since my last one. I am more fearful than ever about the procedure because of the prep work and the after effects. Last time, I felt “out of it’’ for almost two [...]