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The Senior Community Lifestyle
How to Support an Aging Parent Without Being Bossy
Dear Donna: My dad has been on his own for about three years now since my mom passed away. During this time, his health has been slowly declining. My sister and I live fairly close to his house and have been trying to assist him whenever and however we can. The catch...
Brain Health and Diet: Exploring the Connection
Maintaining optimal brain health is essential to your overall health and cognitive function at every age. Genetics and lifestyle factors play significant roles in nurturing good cognitive health. The dietary choices you make are among the most important. The old...
Time-Saving Tips for Family Caregivers
Dear Donna: For the past 4 years my husband and I have been helping my parents with a variety of tasks. It started out with simple home maintenance like changing the light bulbs in overhead fixtures and mopping the kitchen floor. Over the last year or so, however,...
Tips for Managing Difficult Caregiver Emotions When a Parent Has Dementia
Dementia is a tough disease for the person living with it and those who love them. There’s no denying the physical and emotional toll it can take on a family caregiver. While it can be rewarding to care for a loved one during this journey, it’s important to...
Medicare Basics for New Retirees
The Medicare program was signed into law by President Lyndon Johnson in the summer of 1965. It is designed to provide health insurance to adults aged 65 and over, as well as younger people with disabilities. But the program actually dates back to President Teddy...
Vacation Ideas for Seniors with Mobility Challenges
Dear Donna: My mom and I have both had a pretty tough year. My dad was diagnosed with lung cancer and battled it for six months before his death. The two of us are pretty worn out and in need of some fun and relaxation. I would like to take my mom on a real vacation,...
Does My Mom Need Independent Living or Assisted Living?
Dear Donna: I’m hoping you can help me determine what type of care might be most beneficial for my mother. My dad passed away last year after a long battle with cancer. During his final years, she was very busy caring for him and had little time for herself. Now that...
Senior Safety: Hydration Tips for the Hottest Days of Summer
Dear Donna: My mom moved in with my family a few months ago after my dad passed away. Whether it’s swimming outside or attending our kids’ sports events, we are always on the move. Because my mom really isn’t safe staying alone, we’d like to include her in as many...
Tips to Host an Alzheimer’s-Friendly Independence Day Gathering
Every July 4th, Americans pause to celebrate our nation’s birth with family, friends, and neighbors. Festivities traditionally include parades, barbecues, street fairs, and, of course, fireworks. Independence Day activities often include everything from lighting...
Healthy Menu Planning: Incorporating Anti-Inflammatory Foods into Your Diet
As the medical research community continues to discover more about inflammation and the role it plays in disease management, they’ve also come to better understand how it impacts aging. Studies seem to indicate a link between inflammation in the body and a variety of...
What Are the Benefits of Independent Living Communities?
Dear Donna: I’m writing in hopes that you can answer a few questions for me. I’ve been living alone the past three years since my husband lost his battle with cancer. We had purchased a condo about two years before he got sick, and it’s been an easy place to maintain...
5 Ways to Prevent Loneliness in Seniors
Loneliness and isolation are more common as we grow older. A decreasing social circle, being out of the workforce, and mobility challenges are just a few contributing factors. Research is clear about the health risks linked to senior isolation. Some experts go as far...