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The Senior Community Lifestyle
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...
Using the Prompting Technique for Loved Ones with Dementia
When a senior loved one has Alzheimer’s disease or another form of dementia, their verbal communication skills are impacted. Because of this, it’s essential that families explore new ways of communicating. Some families find it useful to provide visual reminders....
Should We Sell Our House Before or After Moving to Independent Living?
Dear Donna: My husband and I are about to begin the search for an independent living community in Michigan. We are tired of home maintenance, repairs, and being tied down. Independent living seems like a solution that offers freedom and flexibility. We are trying to...
Benefits of Container Gardening for People with Dementia
Dear Donna: A few years ago, my mom was diagnosed with dementia. As a family, we’ve been managing the disease fairly well so far. But I do feel like we need to find more meaningful activities for her to engage in. I hope to give her more productive ways to pass time....
What to Know about Over-the-Counter Hearing Aids
The price of hearing aids has been a much-discussed challenge for years. In fact, the high cost of these devices has kept many older adults from making a purchase. The struggle it causes for couples and families isn’t always obvious. Partners may not be able to watch...
Can Olfactory Enrichment Improve Memory Loss?
Dear Donna: My mom was recently diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease. At this point, we are trying to learn more about the disease and if there is anything we can do to slow the progression. We are also trying to plan for her current and future care needs. It feels like...
How to Make New Friends after Moving to a Senior Community
Dear Donna: I’m planning to relocate to a senior living community this summer. While I live in Florida now, my search is taking me to the Holland, Michigan, area to be closer to my daughter and her family. It will make it easier for us to be more involved in one...