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The Senior Community Lifestyle
Do Seniors Need Colonoscopies?
Dear Donna: My father is 81 years old. He last had a colonoscopy at 70. It’s always been tough getting him to comply with doctor’s orders, especially when it comes to this screening. We have an appointment with his primary care doctor in two weeks. I suspect the topic...
Independence Day Safety for Adults with Alzheimer’s
Independence Day celebrates the birth of our nation. It’s typically filled with parades, picnics, and barbeques. For many, attending a community fireworks event or launching a few small firecrackers in the yard are a favorite part of their annual July 4th tradition....
How to Evaluate the Quality of a Memory Care Program
Dear Donna:My husband is the guardian for his great-uncle who has Alzheimer’s disease. Since his diagnosis a year ago, we’ve found ways to keep him safe in his own home. The time has come, however, to begin searching for an Alzheimer’s care community. We aren’t sure...
Stay Connected with Friends While Caregiving
A challenge shared by many caregivers is the loneliness the role often creates. As their loved ones’ need for assistance increases, many people find themselves cut off from friends when they need emotional support more than ever. This situation can easily result in...
Tick Prevention: How to Stay Safe Outdoors This Summer
As the threat of coronavirus lingers, many older adults continue to adhere to strict social distancing standards. Spending time outdoors is one way to safely enjoy summer. Strolls in local parks and gardening combine exercise with stress relief and improved mental...
3 Tips for Making a Senior’s Physician Appointment Easier
Dear Donna: Like many men his age, my dad isn’t so great about going to the doctor. It’s been especially difficult since my mother passed away. She could usually gain his cooperation more easily than I can. My dad is 79 years old. Although he is in fairly good health,...
Is It Safe for a Senior with Dementia to Garden?
Dear Donna, My mom was diagnosed with early-stage dementia two years ago. She’s managed to live independently until this year. After much debate, she moved in with my family and me. We are modifying our home and would also like to make some changes to the yard. Mom...
How to Help a Senior Avoid Common Heat-Related Illnesses
Spring and summer are seasons many people enjoy spending outdoors. Picnics, swimming, and family reunions are popular warm-weather activities. If you are an older adult, it’s essential to learn how to stay safe from heat-related illnesses. Seniors are more sensitive...
7 Skin Cancer Prevention Tips for Older Adults
Before summer officially kicks off in the Great Lake State, it’s important to talk about skin safety. Skin cancers are among the top ten leading types of cancer in this country. Non-melanoma skin cancer tops the list with an estimated one million cases a year, and...
How Can I Convince My Parents to Accept More Help?
Dear Donna, My family and I live about 30 miles from my parents’ home in central Michigan. We try to visit and help with errands and household tasks every weekend. It’s not easy, especially in winter. My mom gave up driving years ago. Over the past six months or so,...
4 Tips for Traveling with Loved Ones with Alzheimer’s
Dear Donna, My dad is in the early stages of Alzheimer's. Our family reunion is coming up, and we are nervous about traveling. It will be his first trip away from home since his diagnosis. How can I keep my dad safe and comfortable while traveling? We all want very...
5 Purposeful Activities for Seniors with Dementia
It's not uncommon for seniors to lose their sense of purpose after they receive a dementia diagnosis. But feeling useful is essential to overall health and wellness. Research has linked living purposefully to a longer life span, better sleep quality, and improved...