COVID-19 Caregiver Resources

Elder Health

As we navigate our new normal with COVID-19, it helps to keep up with the ever changing information, and to know where to look for the information. The good news is there is no shortage of caregiver resources from the many organizations who work on our behalf. Here is...

Does Mom have a drinking problem?

Caregiving, Elder Health

Alcohol use is on the rise among older adults. And it’s not easy to spot. Many of the signs resemble common problems of aging. And who wants to think that when Mom stumbles, for instance, it might be because of drink?! There’s a lot of shame associated...

Cancer Screening Recommendations for Seniors – From the American Cancer Society

Elder Health

Healthy behaviors like healthy eating and refraining from smoking and too much alcohol, are likely to lessen one’s chances of developing cancer. Additionally, the American Cancer Society wants everyone to also be screened for some cancers on a regular basis....

Visiting Mom During the Holidays. Something Not Right?

Elder Health

The holiday season is here, and you may have visited, or will be visiting an elderly loved one. Are things different than the last visit? Are you seeing things that don’t seem right?  How do you know if something is wrong?  Below are some areas to consider (note...

Keeping Older Adults Safe in the Cold Days of Winter

Elder Health, Emergency Preparedness

While the snowy scene above can be so inviting to many, it is not to all. As we grow older, the cold of winter can affect us more severely.  Older adults can lose body heat fast – faster than when they were young.  A chill can turn into a dangerous problem before an...

Update to the Medicare “Observation Status” Problem

Elder Health

Several months ago, in September 2013 specifically, I wrote about the issue of being under “observation status” when in the hospital.  A problem occurs when a hospital deems a patient “under observation.”  Such a status means just that.  What...