The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates 20% of people age 55 years or older experience some type of mental health concern. The most common conditions among older adults include anxiety, severe cognitive impairment, and mood disorders (depression or bipolar disorder). Anxiety Studies show that anxiety disorders...
Hoarding is the inability to discard or part with an excessive amount of items. Hoarders may focus on accumulating particular things such as paper and clothing or amass vast amounts of general clutter and garbage. Parting with these items causes hoarders great distress and anxiety. Hoarding...
Caregiver burnout, also called caregiver stress syndrome, is being in a state of physical, emotional, and mental exhaustion from caring for a family member. Burnout occurs most often in a family caregiver who has no help with providing care. The characteristics of caregiver burnout include...
A clique is a small group of people, with common interests, who exclude others from joining the group. Cliques can lead to social bullying and have always been a part of our culture. From kindergarten through high school, to the work place, or a neighborhood...
As we all age, it is important our homes are free from hazards which can trigger a fall or accident. However, for an elderly spouse or parent with dementia it is essential to go even further in providing a well-protected environment since these afflicted loved...
Many seniors find great value in writing their autobiography. Over time, older adults have acquired a lifetime of memories. Writing about personal memories and historical events of your life helps to organize your personal story. In fact, a written autobiography will provide more structure to...
Medical marijuana uses the whole, unprocessed marijuana plant or extractions from the plant to treat symptoms of illness or other medical conditions. To date, medical marijuana is legal in 29 states, the District of Columbia and the territories of Puerto Rico and Guam. Laws and restrictions...
From meeting a work deadline to passing a test, it is normal and even helpful to have some anxiety about the common stresses of everyday life. However, when the usual anxiety becomes excessive it can interfere with the regular activities and enjoyment of living. In seniors, studies show that anxiety disorders affect...