In a Music USA: NAMM Global Report published in 2006, it was reported that “85% of Americans believe that music is a very important part of their life.” The benefits of music cannot be easily overstated. Clinically it has shown to reduce stress, depression, and pain while providing a myriad of other benefits. With this in mind, organizations and experts…
September 8 is Grandparents Day! Grandchildren are a great bonus of growing older. You may have heard the old joke: “If I knew grandchildren were going to be this fun, I would have had them first.” Grandparents and grandchildren alike benefit by this special connection. For example, a study presented last month by the American Sociological Association showed that grandparents…
When an older adult is dealing with incontinence, embarrassment may stand in the way of seeking treatment. Over 25 million Americans experience incontinence. Yet most seniors who are dealing with the condition may well feel that they are all alone, because this isn’t a topic that comes up very often! They may avoid discussing the issue, even when family caregivers…
For many seniors, medications play a big role in managing health problems. Remember, however, that all medications, whether prescribed by a doctor or bought over the counter, have potentially toxic side effects that can cause significant problems. Read on to find out several simple but important steps for avoiding the risk. There are two types of medications: prescription drugs (which…
You probably think that providing love, care, and support to an older member of your family is a personal thing. At one level or another, you feel a sense of responsibility. You have a role to fill. But remember, eldercare is also a family matter—an important, appropriate part of the family’s agenda. So, everyone’s goal has to be staying…
March is National Nutrition Month! This is a great time to pay attention to the foods that we choose. While the basic guidelines for a healthy diet are pretty much the same for people of every age, older adults have special needs and concerns. Nutrition affects the all-around health of seniors, is a factor in a senior’s ability to properly absorb…
The good news is that many falls can be prevented. Fall prevention programs can start by looking around the patient’s or elderly person’s home. The most important step you can take to prevent falls is to: 1. Maintain as much strength and coordination as possible, 2. By following your doctor’s instructions on taking your medications, 3. Eating properly and exercising….
