Prevention Is Best Way to Reduce Fall Risks

by Elizabeth Britton, CSA on 05/18/2012

Falls are among the leading causes of death and injury in the older population. But families can greatly reduce the risks of accidents by ensuring that their older loved ones have the proper medical care and support. Q. Grandma Inez suddenly seems unsteady on her feet. She had tried to stay active by walking and [...]

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Researchers Working on Pacemakers Without Batteries

by Elizabeth Britton, CSA on 05/16/2012

Q:  I am 78 years old and have had heart problems off and on for the past six months. Now my cardiologist recommends a pacemaker, but it sounds as if I will need another surgery later to replace the battery. My grandson, a pre-med major in college, said he thinks the whole battery situation with [...]

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Home Often the Best Retirement Haven

May 14, 2012

Many older adults fear they will lose their independence as they are age. If you’re one of those seniors, take heart. More options than ever exist for seniors who want to remain in control of their living situations. Top on the list — most seniors say — is remaining at home. Q.  It’s been about [...]

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Silent Strokes Are a New Suspect in Determining Seniors’ Memory Loss

May 11, 2012

Q:  My 82-year-old aunt lives alone, and I noticed that she’s starting to be more forgetful. I don’t believe she exhibits any other classic symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease, but I am a little worried. Could it be something else? Is it simply old age? In some cases, memory loss among seniors may be due to [...]

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Top 10 Smart Foods

May 9, 2012

They may seem like common staples for any healthy diet, but the following 10 foods hold special nutritional value for seniors and can help slow aging and the risks of diseases often associated with growing older. These items also are versatile enough to be used in a variety of recipes. Oatmeal: A great source of soluble [...]

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It’s Time for Seniors to Step Into Better Health, Fitness

May 7, 2012

Q: I’ve decided to take up walking regularly at age 80 because my doctor says it will help lower my blood pressure. But on some mornings, I just can’t seem to get out the door, partly because no one is there to order me to get out of the house. Toward the end of the [...]

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8 Memory-Sharing Activities for Someone with Alzheimer’s

May 4, 2012

“Remember that time when…” Uncle Bob began, launching into a story that soon had everyone smiling and laughing. “At Dad’s surprise birthday party, the real surprise came when Mary was carrying the cake into the dining room. She tripped over the cat and the cake went flying right out of her hands and into Mom’s [...]

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New Research Indicates Virtual Colonoscopies Suitable for Seniors

May 2, 2012

 Q.    It’s nearly time for my scheduled colonoscopy. I’m 79, and it has been five years since my last one. I am more fearful than ever about the procedure because of the prep work and the after effects. Last time, I felt “out of it’’ for almost two days. But my late wife was around [...]

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Knee Replacement for Seniors Also Lowers Risk of Death and Heart Failure, Study Says

April 30, 2012

Q.   This is a tough decision: I am 78, overweight and considering the possibility of knee replacement. Surgery would be a tough row to hoe because I live alone and might have plenty of problems just living day to day. With a new knee, I think I could get the exercise needed to lose weight [...]

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Whet Seniors’ Appetites by Making Mealtimes Fun

April 27, 2012

It’s no secret that companionship is considered the most important ingredient for dinner-table success. And as far as food goes, variety is the spice of life. Q.   My 80-year-old mother, who lives alone, just had a physical and is in good health for her age. I notice that she eats well during holiday dinners and [...]

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