Many seniors are taking multiple prescriptions and it is often hard to determine which medications were originally prescribed and which were substituted for generics. Sometimes, the generics may be confusing. A recent New York Times column noted that the practice of giving drugs two names, a brand name and a…
The holiday season is supposed to be a nurturing time for family members to reconnect and celebrate. But for many seniors, the holidays can bring feelings of sadness, loneliness and isolation. “It’s not unusual for seniors to hide their feelings of isolation and sadness from family members during the holidays …
There is new evidence that women with heart disease might be at increased risk for dementia, according to a story in HealthDay News. A study reported in theJournal of the American Heart Association found that U.S. women aged 65 to 79, who had healthy brain function when the study started,…
The pharmaceutical and drug manufacturers provide many options for treatment of healthcare conditions that in the past were fatal. While these medications have benefits they also have risks. The risks of medication are due to their chemical nature. One medication in isolation may not be problematic, but the cumulative effect…
It’s a natural for home bound seniors to resist exercise. Many would rather sit in front of the television all day. There are lots of reasons to avoid activity, some seniors are fearful of falls and avoid activity because of the risk of falls, but is inactivity a good remedy for…
Senior placement agencies can provide safe and comfortable living options for seniors. While the majority of seniors with health problems prefer to stay at home so they can enjoy the comforts and familiarity of their surroundings, sometimes staying at home may no longer be an option. For example, skilled medical…
Many seniors have chronic health conditions that left untreated, can result in hospitalization. Seniors living alone are most at risk if there is no caregiver or home aid that can monitor signs of a worsening health condition and seek professional help. AARP recently listed the most common health conditions that result…
“Where did I park? ” You dashed into the mall, visited a few stores, and now, shopping bags in hand, you realize you can’t remember where you left the car. “I’ve met that fellow several times…what is his name?” Names, phone numbers, even familiar words…things sometimes seem to be “on…
Nobody likes to make a decision about getting extra care for an aging parent, patient or client, but studies indicate that most older adults have at least one chronic condition, and some have multiple illnesses that require in-home assistance. While nursing home care is often an option for serious medical…
A recent LA Times story quoted data from a study conducted by Kaiser Health News found that nearly half of patients misunderstood what it or other common label instructions meant on medicine bottles. Consequently, they are advocating that the Food and Drug Administration should aim to simplify, clarify and standardize…
