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 [...]

Study Shows Smoking Causes More Rapid Cognitive Decline in Older Men   Q.     I have tried to persuade my 80-year-old father to give up smoking. Dad says he would like to quit, but he claims his habit helps him cope with his loneliness. His house is cluttered with so many old newspapers and magazines that [...]

Knee Replacement for Seniors Also Lowers Risk of Death and Heart Failure, Study Says Q.     This is a tough decision: I am 78, overweight and considering the possibility of knee replacement. Surgery would be a tough row to hoe because I live alone and might have plenty of problems just living day to day. With [...]

Statins Appear to Reduce Risk of Depression in Heart Patients Q.     My 81-year-old mother had been understandably blue for a year after my father died, and then she suffered a mild heart attack. After she recovered at the hospital and returned home, the doctor recommended that she go on a statin. He said it might cut [...]

Whet Seniors’ Appetites by Making Mealtimes Fun It’s no secret that companionship is considered the most important ingredient for dinner-table success. And as far as food goes, variety is the spice of life. Q.   My 80-year-old mother, who lives alone, just had a physical and is in good health for her age. I notice that [...]

More Evidence Physical Activity a Plus for Seniors If you need proof that exercise is a fountain of youth, check out the mounting research. Q.   My adult daughter is constantly after me to exercise more, but at age 85 I just don’t see the point. It’s all I can do just to keep up care [...]

Exercise Helps Both Mind and Body Much has been written about the benefits of exercise for mind and body. Sometimes all seniors need is someone to help motivate them. Q.   I read a lot about the benefits of physical exercise. But does exercise help the mind, too? I’m a 78-year-old widow who is interested in [...]

Top 10 Smart Foods They may seem like common staples for any healthy diet, but the following 10 foods hold special nutritional value for seniors and can help slow aging and the risks of diseases often associated with growing older. These items also are versatile enough to be used in a variety of recipes. Oatmeal: A [...]

Diet, Support Play Roles in Living with Parkinson’s A diagnosis of Parkinson’s disease doesn’t need to leave a senior and his or her family members dejected. Hope is on the horizon and support is available. Q.  My 78-year-old mother, who is divorced from our dad, has just been diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease. I’ve read a [...]