According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, in 2017 (as of October 6) there have been 15 weather and climate disaster events with losses exceeding $1 billion each across the United States. Overall, these natural disasters have resulted in over 280 deaths. Disaster preparedness is important for all...
Grief is a normal, healthy response to a life changing event or loss. The elderly often experience more loss and grief than younger adults. While the death of a spouse or partner is the most significant loss an older adult may face, other life events also start to...
The right time to retire is an individual decision for every person. One of my clients worked as a bookkeeper until she was 87 years old. She loved working and only retired when she developed some cognitive impairment. She told everyone she met, "Work as long...
The term arthritis refers to more than 100 diseases and conditions affecting the joints. The most common type of arthritis is osteoarthritis. Other forms of arthritis are rheumatoid arthritis, gout, and lupus. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) an estimated 54.4...
As you grow older, it is important to maintain good oral hygiene to keep your teeth, gums, and mouth healthy for a lifetime. Furthermore, there is a connection between oral health and overall health. Research indicates an unhealthy mouth may increase the risk for serious health problems such...
For all ages, owning a pet can bring their owners great joy, emotional comfort, and companionship. They provide humans a secure attachment by giving unconditional love. Overall, pets brighten the day, and are often the source of laughter through their antics. And for older adults, the physical and psychological...
The thyroid is a butterfly-shaped gland located at the base of the neck just below the Adam's apple. It is part of the endocrine system and regulates the body's metabolism by producing and releasing hormones. The thyroid regulates many important functions including breathing, heart rate, nervous systems, muscle strength,...
A UTI is an infection in the urinary tract. Infections are caused by microbes which are organisms too small to be seen without a microscope. This includes fungi, viruses, and bacteria--the most common cause of a UTI. Normally, bacteria that enter the urinary tract flush through the body...
A family health history is a written record of a family's health--think of it as a family health tree. Older adults are in a unique position to create such a document because they have the most knowledge about the health of previous generations. Creating a family health history...
Age-related macular degeneration, also referred to as AMD, is a common eye condition and a leading cause of vision loss in older adults. The disease causes damage to a part of the eye called the macula--a small spot near the center of the retina. Essential for sharp,...