Tag: Aging
When Parents Downsize (or Not)
Downsizing is a logical step for many seniors, but rarely a welcome one. For younger people, moving is often associated with bigger and better things: a new job, a better location, room for a new baby, etc. For aging seniors, moving tends to be associated with less welcome changes: deteriorating health, less energy to take […]
Healthy Aging: Strength Training and Osteoporosis
Many of us associate strength training with weightlifting bodybuilders working on their six-packs. Strength training, however, can be beneficial for almost everyone. When people stick to it, strength training can help prevent multiple chronic illnesses, including osteoporosis. Osteoporosis, which causes a decrease in bone mass and an increase in the rate of fracture, or […]
Menopause and Osteoporosis
Entering menopause can have its pluses and minuses. One of the minuses is an increase in the risk of osteoporosis. Over the course of our lives, bone tissue is continually breaking down and being replaced. As long as it is replaced as fast as it breaks down, our bones remain thick and strong. The female […]
10 Tips for Healthy Aging
Healthy aging, like having enough money to retire, is largely dependent on choices you make long before old age actually arrives. Here are 10 tips that will help you look forward to a healthy old age. Know your family history and share it with your primary care provider. If your genetics put you at higher risk for particular health issues, the sooner you and […]
Screenings Catch Osteoporosis Early
If people get a broken bone when they’re young, it’s usually due to an accident. If they get one when they’re old, it’s often due to osteoporosis. Bone tissue is alive, like all other bodily organs. Over time, bone cells die and are replaced by new cells. There are ways to keep your bones strong […]
Menopause and Weight Gain-An Unhealthy Pair
Menopause and weight gain are an unfortunate and common pair. There are a number of reasons for this. First women in menopause often have trouble sleeping, which is associated with weight gain. Secondly, both menopause and aging are linked to a lower level of physical activity. This makes weight gain even more likely. Lastly, the decrease […]
The Challenges and Rewards of Caregiving
Sometimes a caregiving situation is short-lived, for instance when an injury or illness heals quickly. At other times, caregiving can last for years, or even decades. No two caregiving journeys are exactly the same. Caregiving challenges can include: Sleep deprivation. Having a living space that is cluttered with medical equipment. Being obliged to take someone else’s special diet into consideration at every meal. Being responsible for another person’s medications. Being […]
Tips for Organizing Medications
Organizing medications for yourself or a loved one can be exhausting. To make things easier, it helps to have a medication list and a pillbox. The MEDICATION LIST should contain the following information: Medication Name Name and phone number of prescribing healthcare provider What is it for? How much should be taken? How often […]
How to be a Long-Distance Caregiver
Over one in ten caregivers are taking care of a loved one long-distance, according to a 2020 AARP study. Long distance caregiving isn’t easy, but with the right amount of planning and “on the ground” help, it can be done. Healthcare Watching over a loved one’s (or recipient’s) health is one of the main responsibilities […]
Beating Insomnia After Menopause
The transition into menopause involves many changes, including changes in how well we sleep. As menopause approaches, women often begin to have difficulty falling asleep and staying asleep. When they wake up, they often don’t feel well-rested. Sleeplessness doesn’t just leave us feeling “out of sorts”. It’s also associated with a higher risk for depression, diabetes and high blood pressure. If you’re having trouble sleeping as […]