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The Senior Community Lifestyle
How to Prevent a Parent from Becoming a Victim of Cyber Crime?
Dear Donna, My father is in his late seventies and has recently developed mobility problems. He’s at home alone a lot, but luckily he has the internet. He loves being online, emailing, sharing photos, and reading about politics. He and his old friends,...
Art as Therapy for Adults With Alzheimer’s
Alzheimer’s is a tricky disease. We don’t know what causes it, and we can’t cure it. Not yet, at least. But in the meantime, we can help those with the disease cope. If your loved one has Alzheimer’s, there are many options to help them continue to enjoy life. Art...
When to Bring Parents on an Assisted Living Tour
Dear Donna, My parents asked me to help them find an assisted living community. Every time we have plans to visit a community, they come up with an excuse to not go. I am happy to help them, but I am starting to think they don’t want to find a place. Should I take my...
4 Foods That Help Fight Caregiver Fatigue
Caregiving comes with a never-ending list of responsibilities. The mental exertion required often leaves caregivers stressed out and exhausted before the day has even started. This is so common that it has a name: caregiver fatigue. One way caregivers can alleviate...
What Is the Difference between Assisted Living and Independent Living?
Dear Donna, I am trying to help my parents find a senior living community. I am not sure if I should be looking for an independent living community or an assisted living community. Can you please explain the difference between independent living and assisted living?...
What Causes Wandering in Adults with Alzheimer’s?
Wandering is a common behavior among people with Alzheimer’s disease. An estimated 6 in 10 people with dementia will wander. This behavior is dangerous regardless of what stage of the disease they are in. The longer they are missing, the greater their risk for serious...
How Do I Start a Conversation with My Mom about Assisted Living?
Dear Donna, After visiting my mother over the holidays, I noticed a few signs that she may no longer be able to live on her own. She had dishes piled in the sink and her laundry basket was overflowing. This is very unusual for my mother because she has always been...
6 Ways Walking Leads to Healthier Aging
Age-related changes can make it difficult for seniors to exercise regularly. Reduced mobility, a fear of injury, and a lack of confidence can make exercise unappealing. There is one form of exercise that is suitable for most seniors: walking. Walking is great for most...
How Can I Tell If It’s Time for My Uncle to Give up Driving?
Dear Donna, My uncle recently turned 86 years old. He’s in pretty good shape for his age, but I’m concerned that he is getting too old to drive. How can I tell if it’s time for my uncle to give up driving? Sincerely, Melissa from Holland, MI How to Tell When...
7 Tips for Talking to Young Children about Alzheimer’s Disease
Understanding Alzheimer’s disease is challenging for people of all ages. For children, the disease can be downright confusing and difficult to accept. In efforts to protect their children, parents often avoid talking about a grandparent’s Alzheimer’s diagnosis. This...
How Does the Family and Medical Leave Act Help Caregivers?
Dear Donna, My dad’s health recently took a turn for the worse. I want to take time off, but I am concerned I will lose my job. My coworker said I should look in to the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA). I thought that was for new parents....
5 Experience Gifts to Give a Senior This Holiday Season
When people think about gifts, they often think of tangible items and forget about gifts that are experienced. But these types of gifts can be great for seniors for various reasons. Experience gifts are often more thoughtful, they take up less space, and they usually...