August 15, 2017 —
In June 2017, the United States Census Bureau released a population estimate showing that we have more seniors than at any other time in history. Census expert Peter Borsella explains that the aging of the baby boomers, who started turning 65 in 2011, is what’s behind this trend. Said demographer Lauren Medina, “Our country’s demographic... Read More
August 4, 2017 —
As we grow older, tooth and gum problems are more common. Some seniors think it’s inevitable that they’ll lose some or all of their teeth, or have chronic gum disease. But good oral hygiene and oral care lowers the risk of dental problems—so important because we know today that poor oral health is linked with... Read More
July 19, 2017 —
When it comes to the medicines we take, it’s so important to take the correct dose. Too much and we might experience an overdose and dangerous side effects. Too little, and the drug might not work as intended. With pills and capsules, it’s mainly a matter of remembering to take the right number every day... Read More
June 19, 2017 —
Loneliness is a serious health problem for older adults. Studies over the past decade have found that feeling isolated can cause depression, raise our blood pressure, suppress our immune system, hasten the signs of Alzheimer’s disease, and increase the perception of pain. Lonely people are less likely to exercise or eat a nutritious diet. A... Read More
June 13, 2017 —
June is Cataract Awareness Month, a great time to get an eye exam. During the exam, your doctor will check for the presence of cataracts, which are caused by the clouding of the lens of the eye. Cataracts cause dull, blurry vision and make it harder to take part in normal, daily activities. The bad... Read More
May 23, 2017 —
Maybe you’re looking to retire in the next few years. Or maybe you’re not sure you want to retire, but you want to be prepared for the unexpected, including age-related challenges. Studies show that today’s younger people have done very little planning for their senior years—but giving it some thought now makes it more likely... Read More
May 17, 2017 —
Many people, particularly older individuals, worry about forgetfulness and whether it is the first sign of dementia or Alzheimer’s disease. In fact, forgetfulness has many causes. It can also be a normal part of aging, or related to various treatable health issues or to emotional problems, such as stress, anxiety or depression. Although no treatment... Read More
May 2, 2017 —
The National Institute on Aging says seniors should review their medications first, to prevent dangerous drug-alcohol interactions. As we grow older, we’re more likely to develop health conditions that can affect our quality of life. The medications we take help us manage these conditions. But medications often have side effects, either by themselves, or in... Read More
April 25, 2017 —
Do you like to watch cooking shows? A recent study published in the Journal of Nutrition Education and Behavior suggests that the popularity of these programs might be one of the reasons that fewer Americans are taking precautions to avoid foodborne illness. According to researchers from the University of Massachusetts Amherst, during the past decade,... Read More
January 17, 2017 —
A pep talk to help us stick to our healthy plans for 2017. So here we are, almost a month into 2017. Did you make a list of healthy New Year’s resolutions? Are you still feeling enthusiastic about your goals of exercising more, eating right, quitting smoking, lowering your stress level – whatever good intentions... Read More