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Caring Currents
Archive 2008
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Exercise and Dementia Prevention
January 02, 2009
New research finds that a lack of blood sugar in the brain may trigger Alzheimer's or certain forms of dementia. This means that improving blood flow to the brain may hold both the prevention and cure keys to some types of dementia.... Read more
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Helping Seniors With "A Soft Place to Land"
January 01, 2009
Senior caregiving tips: Learn how to foster longevity through spirituality. Studies have shown a connection between religion and long life. Caregivers can cultivate health by enabling participation in spiritual activities for those in their care.... Read more
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How to Celebrate the New Year -- with Cancer
December 31, 2008
A helpful article addresses holiday related concerns about how much socializing is healthy and safe for cancer patients. Get answers to commonly asked questions.... Read more
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2009: The Year of the Hug?
December 30, 2008
Hugging can be therapeutic to seniors, easing pain, boosting mood, and improving communication. Research on "therapeutic touch" is mixed. It probably can't actually heal illness.... Read more
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Middle-Age, um, Moment
December 29, 2008
A helpful article explaining how changes in the middle aged brain complicate caregiving. Chances are you're not having a senior moment, you're having a middle age moment.... Read more
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How Caregiving Can Help You Live Longer
December 28, 2008
Learn more about a new study on caregiving and life expectancy. It finds that a person who cares for an aging loved one may be significantly extending his or her own life.... Read more
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Alzheimer's and Dementia Resolutions
December 26, 2008
If someone you love has Alzheimer's, here are 6 New Year's resolutions to help you manage the stress of this difficult time. From Caring.com.... Read more
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How a Yoga Teacher and Caregiver Maintains Her Balance
December 25, 2008
A helpful article on how yoga can help a caregiver balance the demands of caregiving. Learn how many of the core concepts central to a yoga practice are applicable to caregiving as well.... Read more
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Discovered: A "Lint Brush" that Removes Cancer Cells from the Blood
December 24, 2008
Researchers are developing a "lint brush" that can filter free floating cancer cells from the blood. Michael King and his work on catching and killing free floating cancer cells early, could essentially amount to a commuted death sentence.... Read more
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Last-minute Gifts to Keep Elders Safe at Home
December 23, 2008
A helpful article with last-minute gift ideas that can help those aging in place hold on to their independence by keeping them safe. Home safety is high on the list of concerns for those with parents aging in place.... Read more
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A Flu Shot Mystery, or Family Lessons in Fuzzy Memories
December 22, 2008
When caring for someone with dementia or memory loss, advanced planning to give yourself legal access to their medical records is essential.... Read more
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Holiday Tipping
December 19, 2008
Use this 4-step formula to holiday tipping and giving gifts to the home health aides and other service workers who help us help our aging parents.... Read more
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Enter the Caregiving Tough Love Zone
December 18, 2008
When caring for seniors, sometimes "tough love" is the only way to help. I braced myself for what I knew lay ahead -- a tough love zone. Many of you probably know what I’m talking... Read more
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Why Blogging May Be Good For an Elder's Health
December 18, 2008
An interesting article describes why blogging may be good for the health of seniors and their caregivers. Get inspired by an often funny, frequently insightful blog by 84-year-old Claire Persily.... Read more
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Know Your Breast Cancer ABCs: New Drugs Boost Treatment Success
December 17, 2008
New breast cancer drugs boost chemo success and reduce breast cancer recurrence. If your mother or another family member or friend is fighting breast cancer, there was lots... Read more
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Federal Initiative Brings Nursing Home Patients Home
December 16, 2008
Learn more about a report that elders fear nursing homes more than death, and a federal initiative to fund less-expensive home care as an alternative called MFP. ... Read more
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"One More Thing": Lessons in Planning Ahead From Actor Peter Falk
December 16, 2008
Learn what actor Peter Falk's Alzheimer's disease can teach caregivers about planning ahead to avoid an expensive conservatorship appointment.... Read more
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Witnessing Dementia
December 15, 2008
Family and friends ofter underestimate people with Alzheimer's and dementia. In one case an Alzheimer's patient can still play ping pong with the best of them.... Read more
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The Secret Life of Parents
December 12, 2008
A helpful article on parents keeping secrets from loved ones in order to keep them from worrying. Unfortunately, their attempts may backfire and prevent them from receiving the support and care they need.... Read more
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Caregiving Advice From a Doctor Who's Been There
December 11, 2008
In a recent chat, McCullough shared his personal caregiving advice, gleaned from being in the trenches, just like the rest of us, but in his case, mostly caregiving from afar. * Take the time to spend some time with the people who support your parent. ... Read more
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8 Cancer Lessons: What We Wish We'd Known
December 10, 2008
Lessons of caring for someone with cancer: 1. Doctors forget to share the gory details. The list of what we don't know when we walk out of medical appointments sometimes seems longer than the list of what we do know. ... Read more
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Nursing Home Sex
December 09, 2008
Do nursing homes understand the sexuality of residents? What you need to know about seniors and sex in nursing homes.... Read more
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Medicare Hospice Time Limits
December 08, 2008
There are limits on how long Medicare will cover hospice care. Learn about one family's experience "getting kicked off hospice for not dying soon enough."... Read more
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Stepfamily Issues Make Caregiving Even More Complicated
December 05, 2008
A helpful article discusses how unresolved stepfamily issues can make caregiving even more difficult. But they also present an opportunity for healing when handled correctly.... Read more
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Now People With Dementia and Their Caregivers Can Both Breathe Easier
December 05, 2008
Sleep apnea is one of those disorders that suddenly every other person I know seems to have. I learned recently how much it affects people with dementia -- and those who care for them.... Read more
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Could Online Insomnia Therapy Solve a Senior's Sleep Problem?
December 04, 2008
Online insomnia therapy is a new approach to tackling a tired, old problem: difficulty sleeping. Chronic insomnia can also increase a person's risk for a variety of health ailments, including heart attack, stroke, and diabetes.... Read more
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Breast Cancer Alert: Follow-Up Care Is a Life or Death Issue
December 03, 2008
Breast Cancer Alert: Follow-Up Care Is a Life or Death Issue. Women with breast cancer need radiation therapy after surgery, or they increase their recurrence rate fourfold. ... Read more
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Financially Stretched Seniors Look to Mexico for Assisted Living
December 02, 2008
Learn more about seniors struggling with the rising cost of retirement care, and why some are moving to Mexico, where assisted living communities offer care at about one third the cost.... Read more
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Home-Spun Gift Certificates: Unique, Meaningful, and Budget-Flexible
December 01, 2008
Learn how homemade gift certificates are budget friendly, unique and meaningful holiday gifts for seniors and their caregivers. Get some ideas for the next holiday.... Read more
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National Day of Listening
November 28, 2008
Creating a family oral history is a gift for the ages. I've been conducting an informal poll, and it's remarkable how many people wish they'd interviewed their relatives before they died. They speak with longing about having missed an opportunity that's now lost forever.... Read more
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Give an Alzheimer's Caregiver the Gift of Being Pesky
November 28, 2008
A new study finds that Alzheimer's caregivers who receive intensive support, even when their charge is on medication, have much less depression. Don't let assumptions, dread -- or fear of being too pesky -- stop you from helping the helpers.... Read more
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For Seniors, Taking Care of Minor Health Matters Makes a Major Difference
November 27, 2008
For seniors, taking care of small health concerns can have a big impact on quality of life. For many older adults, taking care of the small stuff can have a big impact on quality of life.... Read more
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Exercise, Dietary Changes Help Cancer Survivors Stay Strong
November 26, 2008
Learn more about a program of diet and exercise that can help older cancer survivors stay strong and remain independent. A simple program of diet and exercise cut the amount of their physical decline in half.... Read more
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When Help and Control Go Head to Head
November 25, 2008
Seniors sometimes reject help they may need out of a desire to maintain a sense of control. How you extend a helping hand can make all the difference.... Read more
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Save on Seniors' Grocery Bills (and More) Online
November 24, 2008
These websites can lower the household shopping bills for seniors and the whole family. Need some useful advice on how to cut costs on groceries and other household items of special interest to seniors? Who doesn't, right? ... Read more
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Creating a Family Oral History: Asking the Right Questions
November 21, 2008
As I mentioned earlier, your oral history project will be more fun for everyone involved if you keep your approach casual and low-key. You'll get the best and most memorable results if your relative's memories unfold in the course of... Read more
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Holi-Daze Made Happier: How to Hang Out With Someone Who Has Dementia
November 21, 2008
Advice for interacting with someone who has dementia or Alzheimer's from Caring.com. If the person has early dementia: Don't be afraid. Your mantra: The person hasn't morphed into a disease; the person is the same person. Be yourself; that's the best way to make the person feel comfortable and happy.... Read more
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Slow Medicine: A (Not So) New Prescription For Aging
November 20, 2008
Learn more about the slow medicine movement and its goal to to reinstate a more measured, compassionate type of care for the elderly. It gives the seniors the option to focus on comfort over cure.... Read more
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Fighting the Stigma of Lung Cancer
November 19, 2008
Lung cancer causes one in three cancer deaths, yet stigma surrounds the disease and patients suffer from less aggressive treatment because they're blamed for bringing it on themselves. ... Read more
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Looking in on Aging Relatives: A Home-for-the-Holidays Checklist
November 18, 2008
Every year, nursing home and assisted living administrators share the same story: Around the holidays, admissions spike. The reason? Adult children who may not have seen their aging-in-place relatives since the last holiday season come home for a visit and are shocked by what they see: a once well-kept home now in disarray, or a formerly robust relative looking startlingly frail.... Read more
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What's The Hurry? Slowing Down Eases Stress
November 17, 2008
Slow down: It eases the stress of eldercare. The other day I read a piece of caregiving advice that cut through all the rest and really spoke to me. It applies to pretty much ... Read more
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Why You Should Care About Diabetes
November 14, 2008
Alas, diabetes denial is not reserved for the undiagnosed. If you're caring for someone with type 2 diabetes, you may encounter resistance to recommended lifestyle changes that can keep diabetes complications at bay.... Read more
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11 Kinds of Music to "Soothe the Savage Beast" of Dementia
November 13, 2008
Learn more about music therapy for Alzheimer's. 11 ways to use music to benefit someone with a dementing illness like Alzheimer's, Parkinson's dementia, or other dementias. ... Read more
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Oral Histories: Preserving Your Family's Stories
November 12, 2008
Preserve family stories through oral histories. A family oral history is a great way to safekeep family stories. Pass on oral histories during the holidays.... Read more
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Aggressive Cancer Treatments Are Buying More Time
November 12, 2008
New aggressive treatments for inoperable or incurable cancer can give patients as many as two or three more years of life. Two studies published this month have made this point explicitly by looking... Read more
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College-Linked Retirement Communities Connect Generations
November 11, 2008
Learn why college linked retirement communities are a rapidly-growing new retirement housing option, offering intellectual stimulation and an intergenerational community.... Read more
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Nursing Home Boredom
November 10, 2008
If you're worried about your loved one getting bored in a nursing home, discover 10 boredom busters for frail seniors.... Read more
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Final Messages
November 07, 2008
Learn about Nearing Death Awareness a "final gift" because it helps dying people make sense of their lives. It's a gift for caregivers, as well, because it grants them a more profound understanding of their dying loved one and of their own mortality.... Read more
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This May Be the Most Useful Alzheimer's Advice
November 07, 2008
This may be the most useful Alzheimer's disease advice. Alzheimer's caregivers can often resolve problem behaviors by first asking one question: "Why is this happening?"... Read more
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Flu Season Alert: Watch for Signs of Leukemia in Seniors
November 06, 2008
Leukemia in seniors can be easy to overlook because it can mimic the symptoms of the flu or a bad cold. Learn how to tell the difference at Caring.com.... Read more
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Distance Caregiving: Advice on Looking After Someone From Afar
November 05, 2008
A helpful article providing advice from 3 women who have all been long distance caregivers. Caregiving over long distances is time-consuming, costly, and your vacation days vanish in a flash.... Read more
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Gay and Lesbian Seniors Find Housing Niche
November 04, 2008
Gay and lesbian seniors often report discrimination in retirement communities. But now gay and lesbian-targeted senior housing options are springing up around the country.... Read more
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Caring for an Alcoholic Parent: A Special Challenge
November 04, 2008
Caring for a an alcoholic is one of the most challenging and thankless caregiving situations. Connect with others to find solace, sympathy and good advice.... Read more
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10 Signs a Senior Needs Assistance
September 01, 2009
A helpful article with 10 telltale signs that a senior needs stepped-up caregiving assistance. Make sure you know how to read the signs to avoid the pain, grief, or suffering of being too late.... Read more
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6 Ideas for Getting Time Alone at Home When You're a Caregiver
November 03, 2008
Find out why everyone needs at least some time alone at home, some personal time. Learn a number of ways to be a loving caregiver and get the house to yourself now and then.... Read more
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Let's Call It National Alzheimer's Disease Coping Help Month
November 01, 2008
National Alzheimer's Disease Awareness Month may need a new name. Awareness isn't the problem, coping is. The 25th annual National Alzheimer's Disease Awareness Month kicks off November 1. But perhaps it's time for a new name. ... Read more
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Social Security Increase: Will It Be Enough for Your Parent?
November 01, 2008
Find out why the 2009 Cost of Living Adjustment for Social Security recipients increased benefits by 5.8 percent, but people are still facing many double digit increases in the cost of living.... Read more
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It Takes a Neighborhood: Epilogue
October 31, 2008
Randi and Michele promised Andy they would take care of him until he died, so he wouldn't have to go into a nursing home. They kept their promise. Andy died last June in his own bed, in the home where he'd grown up.... Read more
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Should Someone With Dementia Vote?
October 31, 2008
A helpful article on voting with Alzheimer's or dementia. Although it's not illegal to vote, it can be problematic. Often it's up to the caregiver to decide whether it's ethical. ... Read more
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Facing the Fear: How Do We Talk About It When Cancer Spreads?
October 29, 2008
A helpful article with valuable resources for caregivers on dealing with cancer progression, recurrence and metastases. How to maintain courage and continue talking about it when the scan reveals new metastases.... Read more
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"Boomerang Seniors" -- More Aging Parents Are Moving in With Their Kids
October 28, 2008
The economic crisis and falling home values are contributing to an increase in aging parents and seniors moving in with their adult children. Learn how to cope.... Read more
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For Presidential Candidates or the Rest of Us, Caring for a Sick Senior Is a Juggling Act
October 27, 2008
Attention is on Barack Obama for leaving the campaign trail to visit his sick grandmother, but this work-life juggling act is familiar ground for anyone caring for a sick or frail elder. ... Read more
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10 Ideas for Getting a Reluctant Person Checked for Alzheimer's
October 25, 2008
A helpful article with suggestions for getting a reluctant person to be evaluated for memory problems with a screening for Alzheimer's or dementia. Reluctance to testing for Alzheimer's and dementia is a common problem.... Read more
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Tough Financial Times Bring Out the Scams
October 24, 2008
Scammers are finding more ways to take advantage of the current financial crisis -- and consumer advocates are warning people to be careful of new schemes designed to exploit people's fears about the economy.... Read more
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New Reasons Memory Screenings Are a Smart Idea
October 24, 2008
Many caregivers who notice memory loss fail to recommend a memory screening or evaluation to check for Alzheimer's or dementia. A new study suggests they should be more assertive.... Read more
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Fall Prevention: Take Steps to Keep Seniors Steady
October 23, 2008
A helpful article with fall prevention tips for older adults, including exercise options, products, resources, and home safety improvements. Falling remains a widely underaddressed yet pervasive problem for the elderly.... Read more
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Caregiving Marriages
October 23, 2008
How is caring for a spouse different from caring for an elderly parent or other relative? One obvious -- and enormous -- difference is that becoming a caretaker for your spouse creates a fundamental change in your primary relationship.... Read more
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Plastic and Cancer: How Big a Risk, Really?
October 22, 2008
Plastic containing BPA may indeed pose a cancer risk, particularly when heated or microwaved. Those caring for cancer patients need to take precautions.... Read more
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Elder Villages Offer Independence Plus Community
October 21, 2008
Find out how the elder village model is offering seniors a way to age in place with independence, support and a sense of community. An idea whose time has come, now they're spreading from urban to rural areas.... Read more
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Organizing Life Records Brings Relief to Seniors and Their Family
October 20, 2008
Her forgetfulness has become a safety concern. It’s also led to family tensions around her ability to manage her money and health. My friend's mom refused the class, saying, among other things, that her memory is just fine. My friend was in despair -- she’s in constant search mode for small and easy ways to help her mom stay independent. ... Read more
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Dietary and Herbal Supplements and Alzheimer's: What Works?
October 17, 2008
People often turn to vitamins and herbal supplements in the desperate search for something to stave off Alzheimer's and dementia. The science to date mostly says "save your pennies."... Read more
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Beware: Scammers Are Targeting Grandparents
October 17, 2008
The so-called Grandparent Scam has victimized hundreds of seniors. The Better Business Bureau advises verifying the identity of any callers before wiring cash. ... Read more
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Just Diagnosed With Diabetes: Now What?
October 16, 2008
A helpful article for people newly diagnosed with diabetes. A guide by diabetes educator Theresa Garnero called "Your First Year With Diabetes."... Read more
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Gone But Not Forgotten: Rituals That Honor the Dead
October 16, 2008
Learn ways that you can honor the dead, including a variety of rituals that can help keep the memories of your loved ones alive. ... Read more
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High Blood Pressure, High Cholesterol, Diabetes -- and Cancer?
October 15, 2008
Learn why the risk of colon cancer is 75 percent higher for those with metabolic syndrome, which includes high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and diabetes.... Read more
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Nursing Home Fears
October 14, 2008
Older Americans fear nursing homes more than they fear death. Find out how the senior care industry is changing to make nursing homes less scary.... Read more
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For Family Caregivers, Saying "No" Is an Act of Love
October 13, 2008
Here goes: When the final straw is dropping, when you’re maxed out, when you’re overloaded: It’s OK to say no! And this really, truly doesn’t mean you’re unloving or uncaring. The opposite is true: Taking care of yourself helps you take care of others. ... Read more
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Dementia and Driving: Is It OK?
October 10, 2008
Get the facts about driving and dementia. The question of whether people with Alzheimer's or other forms of dementia should be able to drive is controversial. ... Read more
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Look Online for Hundreds of Ways to Save Money
October 10, 2008
A helpful article with several money saving tips and resources. As the financial crisis shows no signs of slowing down, here are ways to save money and free up cash.... Read more
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Silence Not Golden -- Or Helpful -- For Dying Patients And Their Families
October 09, 2008
Should physicians talk frankly to terminal patients about end-of-life issues? For years, this has been a matter of debate in the medical community: Many physicians worry that... Read more
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"Chemo Brain" Can Be a Serious Concern for Cancer Patients
October 09, 2008
A helpful article on how chemo brain, or fuzzy thinking and memory loss from chemotherapy, may be due to long term brain cell damage, but new treatments are now available. ... Read more
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Fire Safety Tips for Protecting Elders
October 07, 2008
October, it turns out, is Fire Safety Month, and as part of its campaign, the Home Safety Council (HSC) is reaching out to older adults and their caregivers with tips and advice to help them prepare for and prevent home fires.... Read more
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Elders Keep Falling a Secret for Fear of Losing Independence
October 06, 2008
Learn more about the problem of elderly falls and secrecy. It’s common for seniors to hide their falls from their family for fear of losing their independence.... Read more
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How Furry Toys, Animals, and Dolls Help People With Dementia
October 03, 2008
The hottest tool for people with Alzheimer's and dementia is a toy. A soft stuffed baby harp seal. The toy stimulates the senses and encourages communication without the potential harm with a real pet.... Read more
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When Money Is Tight, More People Cut Back on Healthcare
October 03, 2008
When faced with skyrocketing premiums, deductibles, and prescription drug costs, more people are choosing to cut back on healthcare. 22 percent of people surveyed said that they were going to the doctor less often because of money woes, while in a different survey, 11 percent said they were cutting back on filling their prescriptions.... Read more
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Understanding What It Means to Be Old
October 02, 2008
A helpful article on understanding the experience of growing old in America and books that capture this experience. The book, Another Country, refers to the invisible border people cross as they age and the alienation and loneliness of this terrain.... Read more
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Silence Not Golden -- or Helpful -- For Dying Patients Or Their Familes
October 09, 2007
New study shows end of life conversations help dying patients and their families. ... Read more
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Second Opinions: 6 Tips to Seeking Alternative Advice
October 08, 2008
Follow your intuition and ask for another doctor's advice. How to go about the business of seeking a second opinion? I've pulled together six simple strategies to get you going:... Read more
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Second Opinions: If in Doubt, Seek One Out
October 02, 2008
Learn how second opinions can provide a fresh perspective, new information, and draw on different clinical experiences so that a diagnosis may result and better medical decisions may ensue, especially in complicated or baffling cases... Read more
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Cancer Claims Paul Newman but His Legacy Lives On
October 01, 2008
When Paul Newman died on Friday, we lost yet another truly great man to cancer. Newman, age 83, died Friday at home in Westport, Connecticut with his wife of 50 years, actress Joanne Woodward, and his five daughters by his side.... Read more
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Home Monitors Watch Over Seniors Aging in Place
September 30, 2008
Learn about electronic home monitors for seniors, which attach to the walls in seniors' homes and trigger a call for help. Home monitoring systems are an important option for aging-in-place safety.... Read more
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Diaper Humor is Best Left to Those Who Know What They're Talking About
September 29, 2008
An interesting article about humor and adult diapers points out the very thin line between offensive and funny. For many seniors and caregivers diapers are simply a necessary part of daily life.... Read more
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Euthanasia for End-Stage Alzheimer's? How About Humanity Instead
September 26, 2008
Should people with end-stage Alzheimer's disease have access to euthanasia? Get the facts about Euthinasia and Alzheimer's disease at Caring.com. Alzheimer's disease... Read more
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What the Financial Meltdown Means for You and Your Family
September 26, 2008
In light of the market meltdown of the past few weeks, it does make sense to reevaluate your financial situation and investment strategies.... Read more
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Lack of Energy: Not a Normal Sign of Aging
September 25, 2008
Find out why a lack of energy, or elderly fatigue is not normal of aging and may signal an underlying health concern that warrants medical attention. A lack of energy is the universal language by which the elderly talk about their health problems.... Read more
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A Grandchild Steps in to Help Her Family: The Sequel
September 25, 2008
Caregiving by a twenty-something grandchild does wonders for her elderly grandparents. Caregiving stories don't always have happy endings, of course, and things might have ... Read more
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New Scoring System Simplifies Breast Cancer Treatment Decisions
September 24, 2008
Breast cancer patients and caregivers have to make tough decisions in deciding on a treatment plan, but a new breast cancer test takes the guesswork out of deciding who needs chemotherapy and who doesn't.... Read more
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Technological Advances Keep Seniors Safe on the Road
September 23, 2008
New technologies in the works will help keep seniors safe on the road -- and help them live independently in their own homes longer. As anyone who's ever had to ask their parents to turn over their car keys knows, losing the ability to drive can be traumatic for elders, and can even precipitate an unwanted move to a retirement home.... Read more
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Personal To-Do Lists That Help You With Caregiving Challenges
September 22, 2008
This same week Caring.com launched a new feature: “To-Do” lists. These online checklists guide you through a variety of challenging caregiving situations including What to Do When a Loved One is First Diagnosed With Cancer, and What To Do When Someone Dies. A complete list is below.... Read more
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When Dementia Is "Pleasant"
September 19, 2008
Although pleasant dementia isn't an official medical term, it is a widely recognized phenomenon. Pleasant dementia is when a person's personality changes to being happy and in-the-moment.... Read more
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Medicare Hotline Leaves Callers Cold
September 19, 2008
Medicare patients looking for help with the complex and confusing government health insurance program are often told to first call the Medicare hotline for help.... Read more
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Doctors' Visits: Getting the Most Out of Appointments
September 18, 2008
A helpful article with advice on how to get the most out of a doctor's office visit when you're the caregiver for a loved one. Advance planning can make a big difference... Read more
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Benefits of Hospice
September 18, 2008
Hospice brings comfort to the patient, and also to the family caregivers. Find out why you might want to call hospice sooner than later. From Caring.com.... Read more
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Cancer Patients and Caregivers Hail New Anti-Nausea Patch
September 17, 2008
The FDA's approval of Sancuso, an anti-nausea medication patch, excites cancer patients and caregivers because nausea can sideline those undergoing chemotherapy.... Read more
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New Gadgets to Help the Old
September 16, 2008
Find out how hew innovations help address the challenges of aging. Here's an update on the latest gadgets, like the iShoe for fall prevention and video phones in nursing homes.... Read more
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Memory Classes: They Only Work if You Really Want to Be There
September 15, 2008
A helpful article on why classes to enhance memory are only beneficial if the student really wants to be there. Also, get tips on what to ask before the memory classes to see if its the right fit. ... Read more
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Is Age Too Great an Alzheimer's Risk for the Presidency?
September 12, 2008
Get the real facts about who's at risk for Alzheimer's. Some charge that John McCain is at risk for Alzheimer's, and that he's too old, at age 72, to become president. ... Read more
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Keeping Your Parents Safe From Scammers
September 12, 2008
Senior citizens are attractive targets for scammers but there are some simple and easy things you can do to protect them from fraud. Con artists go after older people for a few reasons... Read more
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The Case For Geriatric Care
September 11, 2008
How and why to choose a geriatrician for your aging parents' care. Senior care specialists aim to protect the frail elderly as much as possible from the ravages of disease and preserve function, but, just as importantly, they seek to support quality of life.... Read more
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New Screening Technology Catches Cancer Better Than Mammograms
September 10, 2008
Learn how a new breast cancer screening technology, molecular breast imaging or MBI, caught three times the number of cancers in women with dense breast tissue as mammography.... Read more
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Fighting for Breath: A Mother's Last Weeks of Life
September 10, 2008
Find out how Laura Juel had to advocate for her mother during her final days to help her get pain relief. It underscores the importance of being an advocate for elderly relatives even if this means challenging their health care providers.... Read more
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Lessons Learned From a Quitter: Memory Classes Only Work if You Really Want to Be There
September 09, 2008
Classes to enhance memory are only benefical if the "student" really wants to be there -- lessons learned from a quitter. ... Read more
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Adaptive Clothing for Seniors
September 08, 2008
If arthritis, Alzheimer's, or another debilitating condition makes getting dressed difficult for your loved one, you should know about adaptive clothing. What to look for and what to choose. ... Read more
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Tough Times Can Turn Seniors into Bargain Hunters
September 05, 2008
The tough economy is forcing more seniors than ever into bankruptcy, and leading many older people to find bargains available only to them.... Read more
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People With Dementia Need...People
September 05, 2008
Dementia often causes a person to retreat socially, whether out of embarrassment, depression, or an inability to keep up. Yet a growing body of evidence says that social connectedness can slow mental decline.... Read more
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A Grandchild Steps In to Help Her Family
September 04, 2008
A young woman with both a big heart and streak of cynicism steps in to help her aging grandparents. As my family's situation demonstrates, caregiving presents challenges, but it offers opportunities as well. ... Read more
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Diabetes Doughnut Hole Dilemma
September 04, 2008
Get tips on how to deal with the so-called doughnut hole in prescription drug coverage for seniors with diabetes. Find out if and when the doughnut hole eats into your family member's finances so you can plan ahead.... Read more
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An Unpopular Idea: Worried About Cancer? Cut Back on Drinking
September 03, 2008
I don't know why we're not talking more about the alcohol-cancer connection. When my father was dying of esophageal cancer--a type of cancer closely linked to alcohol consumption--I don't remember the doctor asking my dad about drinking.... Read more
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Nursing Home Evictions
September 02, 2008
Nursing home eviction is a growing problem for numbers of elderly residents. Learn how to protect seniors from nursing home eviction by establishing an eldercare plan.... Read more
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National Grandparents Day September 7: A Day to Reach Out to All Elderly
September 01, 2008
Learn how National Grandparents Day on September 7 was conceived as a day to remember lonely nursing home residents, but now honors all the seniors. A day to reach out to our elderly makes sense.... Read more
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Is It Hard to Get an Early Alzheimer's Diagnosis?
August 29, 2008
Early Alzheimer's patients have special challenges, according to a new Alzheimer's Association report, including getting an accurate diagnosis. A rampant negative stigma about the disease, much of it rooted in myths and misperceptions, especially regarding what the early stage is like. ... Read more
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Millions Falling Into the Doughnut Hole
August 29, 2008
Medicare Part D has a coverage gap, the doughnut hole, that forces millions of people to give up taking needed medications, according to a new Kaiser Family Foundation study.... Read more
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Diabetes A1c Test: New Use for an Old-Line Tool
August 28, 2008
The A1c diabetes test should be used to screen for undetected diabetes, or pre-diabetes say a panel of experts. Learn more about David Kliff, the Diabetic Investor, and the diabetes test debate.... Read more
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Sandwich Generation: Dispatches Part 2
August 28, 2008
Sandwich issues take a toll on the families and colleagues of caregivers. Polly's story reflects the wear and tear that caring for elderly relatives takes on those in the Sandwich Generation -- and on their families and colleagues as well.... Read more
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New Lung Cancer Vaccine Quadruples Survival Time for Some
August 27, 2008
Learn more about a vaccine called Lucanix. Clinical trials have shown promise for patients with Stage III or IV non small-cell lung cancer by helping them live longer with few side effects.... Read more
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Assisted Living in Challenging Times -- Planning Is the Key
August 26, 2008
A helpful article explains how assisted living faces rising costs and other pressures, which makes financial planning for assisted living both challenging and necessary. ... Read more
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Margaret Thatcher's Dementia and Her Daughter's Wise Reminder
August 25, 2008
Former British prime minister Margaret Thatcher is revealed to have dementia; her daughter's observations. Here's the part of the excerpt that resonated with me: "I had to learn to be patient. I also had to learn she had an illness and th... Read more
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Sandwich Generation: Dispatches From the Front
August 25, 2008
"When people talk about the 'Sandwich Generation,' they always mention the practical problems," my friend Polly told me. "But it was the emotional issues that stopped me in my tracks."... Read more
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When Older Eyes Fail, There Are New Ways to "Read"
August 25, 2008
... Read more
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Vision Problems: New Ways to "Read" When Older Eyes Fail
August 25, 2008
For seniors losing their eyesight, there's a world of services to help them read. Here are some big ones.... Read more
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Better Sleep for Dementia Caregivers: Two Fresh Solutions
August 22, 2008
Learn why a new study shows that the relation between sleep and dementia caregiving is significant; and two fresh solutions for dementia caregivers to get better sleep.... Read more
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Storm Watch: What About Reverse Mortgages?
August 22, 2008
With hurricane season upon us, it's important for reverse mortgage holders to understand the implications of natural disasters. What happens to my reverse mortgage if my home is damaged in the storm?... Read more
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Do Good Daughters Park Their Parents With Dementia in Respite Care Overnight?
August 21, 2008
A helpful article discusses why respite vacations for Alzheimer's caregivers made the front page of the New York Times. Get advice on overcoming separation anxiety.... Read more
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Diabetes A1c Test: Out With the Old and In With the New
August 21, 2008
A new diabetes measure, called an eAG, tracks blood sugar levels. Changes to the traditional, gold standard blood test (known as the A1c test), which provides a guide to glucose control over the past 90 days or so, may be coming soon to doctor's offices.... Read more
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R. I. P. Leroy Sievers, Who Taught Us to Talk About Cancer
August 20, 2008
Learn about the legacy of NPR blogger Leroy Sievers. He taught us to talk about cancer openly and honestly. The way cancer patients, caregivers, and doctors confront this terrible disease will be forever changed.... Read more
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Making Homes Safer for Seniors: Talking Points
August 19, 2008
Universal design principles can help seniors age in place safely. Here's how to communicate with elders about making home modifications based on universal design.... Read more
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Are Your Parents Driving Their Caregivers to Quit?
August 18, 2008
A helpful article on parents that continually drive caregivers to quit. This problem is pretty common but still hard to deal with. Understand why and what to do.... Read more
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High Blood Pressure? Put Down the Salt Shaker
August 18, 2008
A new study shows that too much salt can boost blood pressure. These resources can help you reduce salt intake at home and when dining out. Which, of course, is much easier said than done.... Read more
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End-of-Life Financial Lessons Learned the Hard Way
August 15, 2008
Francine Lipman discovered that even she was ill-equipped to prepare herself for the financial realities of her mother's death. The most important lesson she learned? No matter how unpleasant it may seem, talk to your parents now about their wishes for the end of their life. ... Read more
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Depression and the Too-Secret Grief of the Dementia Caregiver
August 15, 2008
We aren't just caregivers for the people we love with dementia; we're simultaneously grieving for them. That's why more than 25 percent of dementia caregivers suffer from depression.... Read more
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Watermelons for Healthy Living -- and Loving
August 14, 2008
It turns out that watermelons aren’t just delicious, refreshing, and easy to consume when the temperature’s high, they're also packed with nutrients that can improve everything from your immune system to your love life.... Read more
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Diabetes Drug Combo May Keep the Mind Healthy
August 14, 2008
Some diabetes drugs may stave off Alzheimer's disease, according to new research. In the investigation, people with diabetes treated with both insulin and an oral agent ... Read more
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Cancer and the Single Patient: A Special Need for Help
August 13, 2008
Facing Cancer alone: Caring for someone with cancer who doesn't have a partner is a special challenge, and a very important type of caregiving. I couldn't help but think ... Read more
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Universal Design Part 2 -- Breaking the Ice
August 12, 2008
Universal design can make seniors' homes safer, but many older people resist changes. Advice for getting seniors to agree to home renovations. For many parents a wall comes down... Read more
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Senior Safety Net at Your Fingertips: Dial 2-1-1
August 11, 2008
2-1-1 is a free nationwide telephone service that connects you to all kinds of local social service referrals, including for seniors. It’s like a giant telephone safety net over the whole country.... Read more
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Suspect a Stroke? Call 911
August 11, 2008
At the first sign of stroke, it's important to call 911, as a new study shows most victims don't get help quickly enough. When someone's having a stroke, every second counts. ... Read more
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New Type of Loan Turns Insurance Policies into Cash
August 08, 2008
A new type of loan will allow older adults to borrow against their life insurance policy. Similar in concept to reverse mortgages, LegacyLoans, soon to be offered through... Read more
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Decoding the Secret Language of Alzheimer's
August 08, 2008
Learn why certain communication patterns by caregivers led to spikes in resistance and agitation in Alzheimer's and dementia patients. Find out what not to say. ... Read more
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Prescription Addiction Part 4: One Family's Story
August 07, 2008
Prescription medication causes a senior to become addicted. Advice to those taking care of seniors: stay as involved as possible -- to find out exactly which medications they're ... Read more
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Exciting Clinical Trials for Advanced Prostate Cancer
August 07, 2008
Exciting new drugs such as Abiraterone, Apoptone, GVAX, Ipilimumab, and Provenge are available to late-stage prostate cancer patients through clinical trials that are now recruiting.... Read more
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"Universal Design" Helps Seniors Age In Place With Grace
August 05, 2008
Learn more about universal design principals and home design for seniors. Home design and making a home accessible to everyone, regardless of age or ability is more important now as the number of seniors aging in place continues to grow.... Read more
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National Grandparents Day Sept. 7: A Day to Reach Out to All Elderly
August 04, 2008
National Grandparents Day, September 7 is a reminder to reach out to all of our elderly, especially those who are lonely. ... Read more
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A Toast to Aging Well
August 02, 2008
A tribute to a dad on the occasion of his 75th birthday. Dad sounded especially sprightly over the phone line, like a little boy really, keenly anticipating his big birthday bash ... Read more
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Seniors May Need Less Sleep
August 06, 2008
Find out why seniors may not need as much sleep as previously thought. Based on recent research our drive and desire for sleep may drop off as we enter our twilight years.... Read more
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Dental Treatment for Alzheimer's Patients
August 04, 2008
Dental care for Alzheimer's patients can often be challenging. Learn how to find a specially trained dentist who handles Alzheimer's or dementia cases. Dental care... Read more
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Depression Increases Risk of Stroke in Elderly
August 04, 2008
If you're concerned that your parent might be depressed, take note: New research suggests that depression may increase the risk of stroke in elderly patients.... Read more
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New Alzheimer's Breakthroughs, The Cliff Notes Version
August 01, 2008
A quick guide to news from the 2008 International Conference on Alzheimer's Disease. What Might Be a Risk Factor for Alzheimer's: What Might Be a Risk Factor for Alzheimer's Thyroid hormones, in women: Very high or very lo... Read more
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Reverse Mortgages: Dragged Down By The Mortgage Mess?
August 01, 2008
Included in the new mortgage bill are overhauls to the rules governing reverse mortgages. But are the new rules enough to calm worried seniors? Seniors may react with more emotion ... Read more
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Prescription Addiction Part 3: No Magic Pill
July 31, 2008
To help avoid prescription drug abuse and dependence by the elderly, there are simple steps you can take, according to psychologist Fredric Blow, an expert on seniors and addiction.... Read more
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Diet Linked to Diabetes Risk
July 31, 2008
Diet does matter if you or your parents want to cut your risk for type 2 diabetes. The bottom line: Your best bet to stave off a diabetes diagnosis is to cut intake of high-energy, low-nutrient foods so you don't pack on the pounds.... Read more
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A "Pre-Dementia" Epidemic?
July 30, 2008
Mild cognitive impairment -- a mild mental decline that can be a precursor to Alzheimer's-- is on the rise. Worried about a loved one's memory slips -- but not that worried. ... Read more
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The World Mourns Randy Pausch's Death From Pancreatic Cancer
July 30, 2008
Learn more about pancreatic cancer patient Randy Pausch who gained worldwide fame with his "Last Lecture" video and book, a legacy that hopefully will translate into new treatment options for deadly pancreatic cancer.... Read more
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Virtual Tour Helps Make Seniors' Homes Safer
July 29, 2008
Learn how a new virtual tour tool online, from the Home Safety Council, offers caregivers advice on making the home safer for seniors and aging-in-place parents.... Read more
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On PBS: What's It Like to Have Alzheimer's?
July 29, 2008
Learn why "The Forgetting: A Portrait of Alzheimer's" on PBS is an excellent examination of the disease and what it is like to have Alzheimer's. Alzheimer's disease... Read more
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Bathing Blocks: When an Elder Refuses to Bathe
July 28, 2008
When your elderly parents refuse to bathe, there are ways you can help them stay clean. Read tips and solutions on bathing issues at Caring.com.... Read more
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Sleep Apnea May Trigger Nighttime Heart Attacks
July 28, 2008
Sleep apnea and nighttime heart attacks may be linked, according to new research. Know the signs and symptoms of sleep apnea. Some other signs of sleep apnea include:... Read more
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How to Talk to Someone With Dementia: New Insights
July 26, 2008
People with dementia may remember more than it first appears. Here are some tips on how to talk to someone with dementia to boost their understanding.... Read more
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Lewy Body or Alzheimer's: Do You Need to Know What KIND of Dementia?
July 25, 2008
Lewy Body Dementia accounts for up to 20% of all dementias, but only 30-50% of all LBD cases are accurately diagnosed. Lewy Body Dementia causes nightmares and other dementia-related hallucinations. ... Read more
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10 Signs Your Parent Is Struggling Financially
July 25, 2008
Learn why even if money problems may not be immediately apparent, there are 10 telltale warning signs that your parent or loved one is struggling financially.... Read more
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Fall Prevention: How to Stave Off Stumbles
July 24, 2008
Falls are a major concern for folks over 65 because fall-related injuries can cause physical or mental decline, restrict activity and independence, and result in... Read more
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Prescription Addiction Part 2: (Grand)Mother's Little Helpers
July 24, 2008
All medications can be misused, but three particular classes of drugs have the highest potential for abuse. These include: Opiods, Central Nervous System depressants, and Stimulants.... Read more
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Vision-Impaired Can Enjoy Walking and Reading With New Tools
July 23, 2008
Seniors with low vision can keep reading and walking thanks to new low vision aids and technology. These tools are especially helpful to caregivers and their parents or loved ones.... Read more
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For Those Who Want to Age In Place, Lots of New Choices
July 22, 2008
A helpful article for the majority of seniors who want to grow old in their own homes and neighborhoods. More communities are coming up with innovative solutions for aging in place.... Read more
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Giving up Moderate Drinking Could Cause Depression
July 21, 2008
Stopping moderate drinking may lead to depression. If you or your parent has to stop drinking, look out for signs of depression. In a study recently published in Neuropsychopharmacology, mice that were allowed to drink for 28 days appeared depressed 14 days after the alcohol was taken away. ... Read more
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10 Tips for Senior Care in a Rocky Economy
July 21, 2008
Ten tips for caring for seniors in a tough economy. Caring.com community experts provide a wealth of handy recommendations for caregiving on a budget.... Read more
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Fraud Protection for Your Parents (and You)
July 18, 2008
Learn to practice fraud protection by using these easy tips, and avoid scammers who are sending out fraudulent stimulus checks and letters to lure seniors into giving up personal information.... Read more
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Alzheimer's Memories: Are You Recording Them?
July 18, 2008
A helpful article reminding caregivers to chronicle a loved one with Alzheimer's memories. Preserving family memories while you can, before a parent or grandparent with Alzheimer's is too forgetful, is one of my favorite caregiver reminders.... Read more
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Weight Loss: Keeping a Food Diary Makes a Difference
July 17, 2008
Learn why keeping a food diary is an important first step for anyone attempting to lose weight. People who kept daily food logs lost up to twice as many pounds as those who didn't. ... Read more
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Over-The-Counter Driving Hazards
July 17, 2008
Even simple cold medications can undermine the driving abilities of elderly people. If there's a senior driver in your family, it’s important to remember that even non-prescription medications can have powerful side effects.... Read more
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Prostate Cancer Therapy May Do More Harm Than Good
July 16, 2008
Find out what experts are saying about prostate cancer and Lupron. Lupron is one of the most common drugs used in hormone therapy, but can it do more harm than good?... Read more
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Drugs That Up the Odds of Falling Down
July 15, 2008
Researchers have compiled a long list of prescription drugs that can increase the risk of falling among older people who take four or more meds. Prevent falls in the elderly by keeping an eye on the combination of drugs they're taking.... Read more
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Online Access for the Elderly? You Bet!
July 15, 2008
Turns out the image of the senior set as technologically challenged is as obsolete as a manual typewriter. According to new research from the AARP and the Center for the Digital Future, seniors log on at about the same rate as younger folks to check the news, socialize, play games, shop, and -- perhaps most importantly -- maintain relationships.... Read more
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Sudden Hearing Loss Could Signal Future Stroke
July 14, 2008
Get the facts on why sudden hearing loss may be a sign of stroke, up to two years in the future. Also, learn what to do in the event of sudden hearing loss to be safe.... Read more
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Navigating Senior Care in a Bleak Economy: Part 1
July 14, 2008
Find out how senior services are being affected in today's sagging economy. Rising costs and reduced funding are forcing significant cuts in all kinds of senior services, including transportation, home caregivers, and meal-delivery.... Read more
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Why People With Dementia Need Daily Exercise
July 11, 2008
Older people with dementia who exercise daily showed improvements in mental function. Get simple exercise tips & plans for those elderly dementia patients from Caring.com.... Read more
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Medicare Reimbursement Mess Fixed -- For Now
July 11, 2008
Learn more about a temporary increase in Medicare reimbursements for doctors, when Congress tried to solve a Medicare reimbursement mess that has lead to some doctors dropping Medicare patients.... Read more
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Diabetes: Can't Get No Respect -- And Why It Should
July 10, 2008
Why people with type 2 diabetes -- and their caregivers -- should take the disease seriously. This underrated deadly disorder is the leading cause of blindness, amputations, and... Read more
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Prescription Addiction: Are Your Parents at Risk?
July 10, 2008
Get the facts on prescription drug addiction and abuse, and why it is a growing problem among seniors. The explosion in drug use by seniors has a potential dark side.... Read more
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Red Wine -- Or Resveratrol Pills -- May Prevent Cancer Says Strong New Research
July 09, 2008
What is the connection in resveratrol and breast cancer risk? Resveratrol, an antioxidant found in red wine and blueberries, may prevent breast cancer and other types of cancer.... Read more
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A Toolkit for Starting Aging in Place Communities
July 08, 2008
A new website, norcbluerpint.org, offers tools for seniors aging in place who are interested in starting NORCs (Naturally Occurring Retirement Communities).... Read more
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Silent Stroke: Another Reason to Get Serious About Heart Health
July 07, 2008
Learn more about a new study showing nearly 11 percent of middle-aged participants had silent strokes. Addressing cardiovascular risk factors can decrease stroke risk.... Read more
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Yummy Soft Foods For Seniors
July 07, 2008
Soft food diets don't need to be bland. A growing body of cookbooks tell you how to prepare flavorful and nutritious soft meals for seniors. ... Read more
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Dementia Caregivers Deserve Summer Vacation, Too
July 04, 2008
A helpful article about dementia caregivers, who tend to be especially housebound, and the need for vacations. Find a helpful list of vacation ideas specifically for dementia caregivers.... Read more
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Seniors Hit Hard By Overdraft Charges
July 04, 2008
High overdraft fees are taking their toll on senior citizens, according to several new reports, which reveals that debit cards may be to blame. For seniors on fixed... Read more
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Does Older = Wiser?
July 03, 2008
Several recent studies confirm the notion that age confers a certain measure of wisdom. For example, researchers at the University of Texas found that people 60 and older reported more feelings of peace and calm than did their younger counterparts. ... Read more
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Cancer Patients Tell It Like It Is
July 02, 2008
Don't soft-peddle cancer news. That's the message from cancer patients everywhere these days, it seems. Go ahead, use the "C-word" -- we can handle it. The result is incredibly uplifting, a testament to bravery and spirit.... Read more
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How to Take a Vacation With Diabetes
July 03, 2008
How to help your parent with diabetes eat well -- and keep blood sugar and weight in check -- while on vacation. He's come back with a bag of tricks to share, including:... Read more
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Brain Injuries Are the Biggest Risk When the Elderly Fall
July 02, 2008
Learn more about an alarming study connecting elderly falls with brain injuries. Fifty percent of all elderly people who take a tumble and bang their head suffer fatal brain injuries, ... Read more
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New Fall Prevention Tools Keep Seniors Steady
July 01, 2008
Falls are a leading cause of injury and death among seniors. New fall prevention technology can help prevent falls among seniors. Unlike Personal Emergency Response ... Read more
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Parkinson's Meds Help -- But May Cause Scary Side Effects
June 30, 2008
Get the facts about a new study showing that dopamine treatments for Parkinson's can cause impulse control disorders, like excessive gambling, compulsive buying, and eating binges. ... Read more
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"Wings" For Frail Seniors Who Can't Travel On Their Own
June 30, 2008
Senior travel escorts and senior travel companions allow your parents to get up and go. Learn about senior air travel services, costs, and get a checklist for your parents' next trip.... Read more
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Vascular Dementia Resources for Caregivers
June 30, 2008
As a Vascular Dementia caregiver support is critical to be effective. Find helpful lists of blogs and resources intended specifically for Vascular Dementia caregivers.... Read more
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Your Parents' Estate: Not a Windfall Anymore
June 27, 2008
Our parents are living longer and are faced with astronomical health care expenses, blogger Ron Lieber says, pointing out that many seniors are also draining their home equity through reverse mortgages to pay for medical and monthly bills. ... Read more
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Alzheimer's Breakthrough: What It Can Mean to You Right Now
June 27, 2008
Scientists have isolated one of the keys to the cause of this awful disease. There are at least three different kinds of beta amyloid, the sticky protein that's known... Read more
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Falling Down and Feeling Down: What's the Connection?
June 26, 2008
Get the fact on new research that links depression with falling down. Seniors battling depression, especially those on depression medications, are at higher rick of falling down.... Read more
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Say What? Hearing Loss Common Among Adults with Diabetes
June 26, 2008
There's yet another test to add to the list of health checks and screens for your parent with type 2 diabetes. Turns out that hearing loss may be an under-recognized complication of diabetes.... Read more
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Catch Ovarian Cancer Early With a Simple Symptom Screening Test
June 25, 2008
Learn more about catching ovarian cancer early by recognizing the symptoms. A new screening tool for three key symptoms can help identify 80 to 95 percent of ovarian cancer cases.... Read more
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New Legislation (and You) Can Help Prevent Seniors From Falling
June 24, 2008
The Safety of Seniors Act aims to help prevent falls among the elderly. Here are ways to help reduce the fall risk for your parents. Here are a few simple steps you can encourage them to take right now to lower the odds of a fall ... Read more
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Should Family Members Who Provide Alzheimer's Care Be Paid?
June 24, 2008
A helpful article with advice for family caregivers and how to deal with the problems and pitfalls of getting paid to care for a family member with Alzheimer's or another form of dementia. ... Read more
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Elder Suicide: Know the Warning Signs
June 23, 2008
Find out why seniors have the highest rates of suicide of any age group. Know the suicide warning signs if someone you love shows signs of depression or is at risk.... Read more
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Help Seniors Beat the Dangers of Summer Heat
June 23, 2008
Tips for helping your parents avoid the risks of summer heat. There are several things you can do to help protect your parents from the dangers of baking-high temps.... Read more
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Social Security Benefits: Getting Carded?
June 20, 2008
Get the facts on Social Security benefits and the new option to get a prepaid debit card. Known as the Direct Express Debit MasterCard, the new Social Security debit cards bring convenience but possibly new headaches, as well.... Read more
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The Connection Between Diabetes and Sleep Apnea
June 19, 2008
A helpful article on the connection between diabetes and sleep apnea. Learn more about the reason doctors are encouraging patients be tested and how treatment can assist with both disorders.... Read more
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In Defense of Older Drivers
June 19, 2008
Statistics show that older people, in general, are safe, responsible drivers - despite recent media reports to the contrary. Get the facts about senior drivers and safety.... Read more
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Tired No More: New Drug Can Treat Cancer Fatigue
June 18, 2008
Learn how treatment with Provigil can help cancer patients fight off debilitating post-chemo fatigue, and may even help with depression, chemo brain, and improved alertness and memory.... Read more
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Cash and Counseling Program Offers a Paycheck for Care Giving
June 17, 2008
Learn how Medicaid's Cash and Counseling Program allows recipients to spend home care benefits as they see fit, including paying family members to care for them.... Read more
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Help for Elderly Drivers -- On and Off the Road
June 17, 2008
California's Senior Driver Ombudsman program helps elderly drivers and their families negotiate the whens and hows of giving up driving. In its first year, the program's small staff has given over 600 educational presentations to civic groups, senior centers, and other organizations.... Read more
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Getting to the Heart of Recent Diabetes Findings
June 17, 2008
A helpful article explaining the results of recent type 2 diabetes research. The studies , known as ACCORD, ADVANCE and the VA Diabetes Trial seem to be contradictory.... Read more
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A New, Cool, and Easy Way to Support the Fight Against Alzheimer's
June 16, 2008
Learn how Caring.com and the Alzheimer's Association have partnered to create a purple ribbon campaign to raise funds and awareness for the fight against Alzheimer's. ... Read more
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Heartburn or Heart Attack? Women May Miss the Signs
June 16, 2008
Women often attribute heart attack symptoms to indigestion, stress, and fatigue. Here's a list of the less typical signs of heart attack including neck pain, heartburn, nausea, dizziness, and more.... Read more
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High Gas Prices May Encourage Older Drivers to Choose the Bus
June 16, 2008
If you’re trying to nudge your parents away from driving, why not bring up the price of gas, followed by some quick suggestions on alternative ways of getting around.... Read more
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Transitioning to Life Without a Car
June 13, 2008
Discover practical tips to help your loved one adjust to life without a car. From Caring.com.... Read more
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Medicare: Billing Hassles Ahead
June 13, 2008
Medicare patients may be in for a billing nightmare this summer. They should check with their doctors to see if Medicare coverage will be affected. Under the current Medicare rules, reimbursements... Read more
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You're Not Imagining It: More People Have Alzheimer's
June 13, 2008
Alzheimer's disease is the leading cause of death. The number of people with the disease is growing -- now up to 5.2 million Americans. And so are Alzheimer's deaths. Here are the leading causes of death as of 2006,... Read more
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Healthy Gums May Keep Type 2 Diabetes in Check
June 12, 2008
Type 2 diabetes and gum disease are linked. Learn about how healthy gums can help keep type 2 diabetes in check. Here's a simple solution to dealing with this dilemma.... Read more
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Cancer Patients Fight for Access to New Drugs
June 12, 2008
Access to experimental cancer drugs and treatments can save the lives of cancer patients, and the issue has become a heated one. At one point or another, many cancer patients and their families face this intimidating scenario, often... Read more
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Do Parents With Dementia Need a "Sexual Power of Attorney"?
June 12, 2008
A helpful article brings up questions about the sexual rights of elders with dementia. What do you do when residents of a care facility fall in love, become sexually active and both have dementia?... Read more
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Parents' Driving Worries Baby Boomers, But No One Wants to Talk About It
June 11, 2008
Find out about a survey that finds widespread concern among Baby Boomers about their parents' driving and reluctance to talk about it. Seniors and driving safety is a deeply charged issue for contemporary families.... Read more
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Know Thy Father: A Guide to Dad's Day
June 11, 2008
Knowing your dad well is a good guide to celebrating Father's Day. Gift giving is tricky business, and is it just me, or is it particularly tough when you’re trying to find something for an older man?... Read more
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Aggression in Nursing Homes
June 10, 2008
Aggression and fighting can be common in nursing homes. Discover practical tips for handling aggression and fighting.... Read more
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Heart Attack! Do You Know the Warning Signs?
June 09, 2008
Find out why nearly half of patients with heart disease don't know the signs of heart attack. Here's a list of symptoms and what to do if heart attack strikes.... Read more
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To Protect Seniors in Natural Disasters, Talk About It Beforehand
June 09, 2008
Communication is key in protecting seniors in natural disasters. Covers such basics as: * Establishing a network of people to check on them and then to pass information to others # Making sure they have an emergency supply kit. Check o... Read more
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What Do You Give an Old Dad for Father's Day?
June 08, 2008
What aging dads really need for Father's Day can't be wrapped. He's like a lot of dads: failing, but resilient. He always was like a lot of dads of his era: A lifetime ... Read more
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Be Social and Save Your Memory
June 07, 2008
Can being social help prevent memory loss? Find out in this helpful article about the connection between memory loss and an active social life in adults over 50.... Read more
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Can You Keep Type 2 Diabetes at Bay With a Mediterranean Diet?
June 06, 2008
Type 2 diabetes may be kept at bay by eating a Mediterranean diet, a new study suggests. The traditional Mediterranean diet got another huge thumbs up last week... Read more
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Going For Broke? Seniors Turn to Newer Loans To Avoid Cash Crunch
June 06, 2008
Senior Loans: Seniors hurt by the tough economy are raising money using reverse mortgages, life insurance settlements and 401k loans. In exchange for up-front cash, your parent may lose future equity or investment gains, so help them make smart money choices.... Read more
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With Alzheimer's, Wandering Is a Merry Name for a Scary Problem
June 05, 2008
Innovations in dealing with wandering, which affects 6 in 10 people with Alzheimer's. Learn tips for how to locate an Alzheimer's wanderer if they're lost or alone. ... Read more
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Cancer Research Breakthroughs Offer New Cancer Drug Options
June 05, 2008
Get the facts on recent cancer news and why new cancer drugs offer hope for those with breast cancer, lung cancer, brain tumors, and pancreatic cancer. 5 new treatments to ask your doctor about.... Read more
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"Leisureville" Paints Retirement Community Seniors as 24-Hour Party People
June 04, 2008
Leisureville, a new book on the world's largest retirement community, raises an entirely different -- and fascinating -- question: What if our parents' own retirement fantasy involves escaping from us, and our children, entirely?... Read more
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A Stay-at-Home "Nursing Home"
June 03, 2008
Learn more about the iHouse, being dubbed a stay-at-home nursing home. It is a "smart house" for seniors, the latest entry in a trend toward high-tech aging in place.... Read more
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Shingles Vaccine Strongly Recommended for Seniors
June 02, 2008
A shingles vaccine is recommended for all seniors by the Centers For Disease Control, along with other adult vaccinations. Shingles is a pretty nasty skin condition that can be extremely painful and sometimes dangerous -- ... Read more
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Should All Stroke Patients Take Antidepressants?
June 02, 2008
New research suggests that doctors may want to treat stroke patients with antidepressants before they develop depression. More than a third of stroke survivors develop depression, a complication that may triple their odds of dying within 10 years. ... Read more
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Want to Participate in an Alzheimer's Disease Clinical Trial?
May 31, 2008
Clinical trials for Alzheimer's drugs attract too few participants to help speed promising candidates through research. Among the reasons too few participate: * Questions about informed consent among the mentally impaired.... Read more
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In Men With Type 2 Diabetes, Bedroom Blues May Signal a Broken Heart
May 30, 2008
Erectile dysfunction (ED) is an often hush-hush complication of type 2 diabetes. A pair of studies adds to existing evidence that more than romance is at stake. ... Read more
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Test Yourself: What You Don't Know About Alzheimer's Can Hurt You (or Your Loved One)
May 30, 2008
Learn why common misconceptions about Alzheimer's disease and related symptoms, life expectancy, diagnosis, and more are widespread among the public, caregivers, and even patients themselves. ... Read more
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Tax Rebate Update
May 30, 2008
Helpful advice for many senior citizens that filed taxes for the first time in years so they could qualify for the government's tax rebate, but never received the rebate check.... Read more
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Aging Artfully - Part II
May 29, 2008
More about aging artfully from Caring.com! Research shows a powerful link between creativity and healthier, happier aging. We don't usually talk about "aging" and "creativity" in the same breath -- but research... Read more
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With Diabetes, Diet and Dumbbells Make a Difference
May 29, 2008
Making lifestyle changes can help people at risk for type 2 diabetes prevent or delay the disease. Get the tips about diet and exercise from Caring.com. Big news this week on the diabetes beat.... Read more
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Cancer News We Can Use
May 28, 2008
New research presented at 2008 ASCO annual meeting offers news for those with breast, colorectal, and lung cancer. This year, ASCO took the unusual step of releasing abstracts of most studies... Read more
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Farewell to Falls
May 28, 2008
Prevent falls Physical activities that focus on balance include tai chi, pilates, and yoga, and specific balance training classes are popping up at many gyms and senior centers. ... Read more
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Elder Co-Housing Offers the Best of Both Worlds
May 27, 2008
Elder co-housing is an innovative retirement housing option for seniors who want both a sense of community and a feeling of control. The residents themselves design the communities ... Read more
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A Famous Mom Dies of Alzheimer's
May 27, 2008
Learn how the inspiration for "Mommy" in the cartoon "The Family Circus" dies of Alzheimer's at 82. It reminds us that Alzheimer's and dementia are more than a family tragedy; they're a cultural phenomenon shared by a generation.... Read more
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How to Keep Stroke Patients From Taking a Tumble
May 26, 2008
Stroke patients are at a high risk for falling after leaving the hospital. In fact, people who've had strokes fall almost twice as often as those who haven't had strokes.... Read more
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Don't Wait for a Doctor's Visit to Test for High Blood Pressure
May 25, 2008
If your parents have high blood pressure, add a home monitor to their shopping list. So suggests a bunch of high-powered and well-respected heart organizations, including the American Heart Association and the American Society of Hypertension. ... Read more
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Got a Parent With Diabetes? Chew on This
May 24, 2008
Learn about a new chewing gum, infused with the widely-prescribed diabetes drug metformin. Many who might benefit from taking this metformin pills avoid it because of side effects.... Read more
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Good Things Come in 3s for Aging Parents
May 23, 2008
A helpful article that highlights three good things about aging. Get pieces of good news for a change about the positives of getting older.... Read more
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Memory Problems? Don't Blame Bypass Surgery
May 23, 2008
Find out why new research suggests that coronary artery disease, not bypass surgery, may be to blame for heart patients' mental decline. This mental decline has often been blamed on the bypass pump used during surgery.... Read more
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Medicare Headaches
May 23, 2008
Navigating the Medicare maze can be a headache, but here are resources to help you along the way. Check out these Caring.com resources: Medicare Part A: a Beginner's... Read more
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Day Services Really Help People With Dementia -- and Their Caregivers
May 22, 2008
Learn more about "adult day care" for people with Alzheimer's and other dementias. There's more evidence of the benefit of adult day services for both patients and caregivers.... Read more
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Macular Degeneration: All Eyes Are on Hormone Therapy
May 21, 2008
Learn how new research shows that taking hormones cuts a woman's risk of macular degeneration in half. But hormone replacement therapy raises the risk for other health conditions.... Read more
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The Plot Thickens: Another Clue in the Alzheimer's-Diabetes Mystery
May 21, 2008
New research may help explain the connection between diabetes and Alzheimer's disease. Plus tips if you suspect your parent with type 2 diabetes has Alzheimer's disease. ... Read more
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Cupboards Bare? Rising Food Prices Affect Seniors
May 21, 2008
A helpful article on the rising cost of food and its affect on seniors. These rising prices aren’t going away any time soon, making these helpful tips all the more important.... Read more
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Aging Artfully, Part 1
May 21, 2008
In his book, The Art of Aging, physician Sherwin Nuland points out a positive aspect of aging that's often overlooked. Their lives all share a common theme: ... Read more
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Quick Quiz: Should Your Parents Stay at Home or Move?
May 20, 2008
The majority of seniors want to live in their own homes as long as possible -- which, as a caregiver, can cause you a great deal of anxiety. So should they move to a care facility?... Read more
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Kennedy's Cancer Has Everyone Talking About Brain Tumors
May 20, 2008
The announcement about Senator Edward Kennedy's brain tumor has the world talking about gliomas. Gliomas can be treated with surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy, but surgery is only an option if the tumor ... Read more
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Real Men Can Have Brittle Bones
May 19, 2008
Because osteoporosis is underdiagnosed in men, the American College of Physicians issued new guidelines to screen men for osteoporosis. These first-ever guidelines call for doctors to periodically screen older men using these risk factors: ... Read more
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Will You Act F.A.S.T. or Give Me 5 For Stroke?
May 19, 2008
Get the facts about common stroke mnemonics for remembering symptoms. Learn about Act F.A.S.T. and Give Me 5 for Stroke. The National Stroke Association and the Stroke Collaborative want to educate people about how to recognize stroke symptoms.... Read more
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Desperately Seeking Senior Care Specialists
May 17, 2008
A shortage of senior care doctors concerns baby boomers and their aging parents; find tips on how to locate a geriatric specialist. If you've had difficulty finding a physician ... Read more
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Mindbenders: Memory-Boosting Brain Games
May 16, 2008
Find a helpful starter list of memory boosting games for seniors. These brain games promise to boost mental skills for the elderly, preventing Alzheimer's, Dementia, and Mild Cognitive Impairment.... Read more
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Reverse Mortgages: Time to Look at Other Options?
May 16, 2008
If you're looking into a reverse mortgage for yourself or your parent, two new articles may give you pause. Under a reverse mortgage, the homeowner converts the equity he has... Read more
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Too Much and Too Little Shut-Eye May Be Bad for Health
May 15, 2008
Find out why too little and too much sleep can be a health hazard for seniors. If your parents sleep fewer than six hours a night, they're more likely to be obese than people who get the proper amount of sleep.... Read more
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Would You Rather Your Loved One Had Dementia or Alzheimer's or Frontotemporal Lobar Degeneration?
May 15, 2008
Find out why one doctor says the term dementia is a pejorative that should be retired, much like cripple, moron, or mongoloid. Could a technical description (e.g. Pick's disease, or frontotemporal lobar degeneration) be the answer?... Read more
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Call Us Cancer "Carepartners"
May 14, 2008
the unique challenges of caring for someone with cancer, suggesting that the term "carepartner" would be a better description of the role. Calling it, "one of the most ... Read more
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A "Hip" New Sound or a Noisy Nuisance?
May 14, 2008
Learn why some artificial ceramic hips squeak and what people with hip replacements are doing about it. The FDA issued a warning to Stryker for its failure to take steps to prevent squeaking, among other problems.... Read more
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The NEW Retirement Hot Spots
May 13, 2008
A whimsical yet practical tour of some 100 retirement hot spots offers an assortment of handy tools and checklists that can help make having "the conversation" about retirement both easier and more enjoyable.... Read more
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Stroke Awareness Month: Stroke Heroes and Their Stories
May 12, 2008
Caring.com provides a roundup of the best personal blogs about stroke to highlight national stroke awareness month each May. Find the best stroke blogs at Caring.com.... Read more
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For Older Gals: Bring on the Meat. And the Fish, Tofu, and Eggs.
May 12, 2008
Older women need to end plenty of protein to maintain muscle, which helps prevent falls. Add meat. (Lean, please.) And eggs, chicken, tofu and nuts. Yep, protein. And make that plenty of it, especially for your mom.... Read more
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A Healthy Gift for National Women's Health Week
May 12, 2008
National Women's Health is full of useful health prevention activities on-line and off. Even if you gave your mom a gift, here's an after-the-fact Mother's Day present with meaning any time of the year: A check-up. If you're a daughter caring for your mom, give it to yourself.... Read more
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Too Skinny? Too Fat? Both Raise Your Risk of Dementia
May 10, 2008
Learn more about the connection between weight and dementia. You've already heard that obese people are at greater risk for developing dementias, but people who are underweight also increase their general dementia risk.... Read more
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A Big Butt May Keep Diabetes at Bay
May 10, 2008
Learn why new research suggests that body fat found around the butt may help reduce the risk of developing type 2 diabetes. The key to the research is subcutaneous fat found in plentiful amounts under the skin.... Read more
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Brain Training and Dementia
May 09, 2008
Find out whether brain training can help someone with dementia. From Caring.com.... Read more
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Cell Phones That Won't Scare Mom
May 09, 2008
Many of us want our parents to have a cell phone to use in case of an emergency. Enter Jitterbug, a phone designed specifically for seniors and manufactured by Samsung.... Read more
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Note to People With Arthritis and Diabetes: Move It or Lose It
May 09, 2008
Learn why "Keep moving!" is the mantra people with diabetes and arthritis hear ad nauseum from their healthcare team. Also, find a list of activities for those suffering from arthritis and diabetes.... Read more
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Sex for Life
May 08, 2008
Learn how new research shows that many people are sexually active well into old age. The good news is that there's evidence that sex has a variety of health benefits for seniors as well.... Read more
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Should You Put Type 2 Diabetes to the Test?
May 08, 2008
People who religiously self monitored their diabetes self-reported more depression than those who didn't test. And: Those who self monitor spent more on diabetes care than those who didn't, but did no better healthwise and, in fact, showed reductions in their quality of life. ... Read more
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Weighty Matters: Diabetes Drugs Can Pack on the Pounds
May 07, 2008
Here's the skinny on some prescription meds: They can cause weight gain. Several diabetes drugs -- as well as some blood pressure pills and certain antidepressants -- are among common culprits.... Read more
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New Test Can Spare Breast Cancer Patients from Chemo
May 07, 2008
Get the facts on oncotyping. The new test Oncotype DX spares many women with early stage breast cancer from chemotherapy by revealing which cancers are low risk.... Read more
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Robots and Other High-Tech Solutions Help Seniors Stay at Home
May 06, 2008
Learn more about new high-tech home monitoring systems that allow seniors to age in place with greater safety and freedom. Although helpful, the home monitoring of elderly loved ones raises privacy concerns for some.... Read more
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A Drug for the Bones Causes Risk to the Heart
May 05, 2008
New research shows that the osteoporosis drug Fosamax nearly doubles the risk of atrial fibrillation. Neither osteoporosis nor atrial fibrillation is necessarily life threatening, but both can result in serious complications.... Read more
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Shingles Isn't The Only Vaccination Seniors Need: May As Well Check In One Fell Swoop
May 03, 2008
Shingles vaccination is recommended for seniors by the Centers for Disease Control; other vaccines are also on the list. The CDC’s adult vaccination list includes:... Read more
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Desperately Seeking Senior Care Specialists
May 17, 2007
A shortage of senior care doctors is cause for concern for both baby boomers and their aging parents; includes tips on how to find a geriatric specialist.... Read more
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Behind-the-Wheel Safety for Older Drivers
June 23, 2008
Research shows that older drivers get a bit of a bad rap: Most seniors drive cautiously, follow the rules of the road, and limit their driving to match their abilities.... Read more
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Mom Far Away? Cool Gift Ideas, and Yes, There's Still Time!
May 04, 2008
Mother's Day ideas for a mom who lives far away. You can always go the flowers, gift, or card route -- reliable standbys. Or, take a look at some off-the-usual-path ideas:... Read more
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Questions I Wish I'd Asked Mom
May 02, 2008
Is the first Mother's Day without your mother the hardest? There are so many things I wish I had talked to my mother about, and so many questions I wish I had asked my mom before she passed away.... Read more
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Diabetes Studies: Good News? Bad News? Who Knows?
May 02, 2008
How to make sense of diabetes drug study findings for people caring for parents with type 2 diabetes. If you're like most people, you probably find these headlines confusing at best, or worse, worrisome. Here's what they're not: Helpful.... Read more
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Solutions for Seniors Who Struggle to Get Enough Zzzs
May 01, 2008
Despite the common misconception, trouble sleeping isn't part of healthy aging. Consider: * Around half of all adults aged 60 and older suffer from insomnia. ... Read more
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Spending Time on Mother's Day
May 01, 2008
Looking for that "best" gift for mother's day? Talking to friends whose mothers have died helps this blogger focus on what's most meaningful.... Read more
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Unforgettable Mother's Day Gifts for a Mom Who Forgets
April 30, 2008
If your mother, grandmother, or godmother has dementia or Alzheimer's, look no further than this thoughtful list from Alzheimer's Daily News for inspiration and great gift ideas.... Read more
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Downward Dog May Keep Elderly Upright
April 30, 2008
Learn why seniors have long been encouraged to take up yoga for its mind, body, and soul benefits, and why research shows that their is another benefit. Iyengar yoga increases balance and stability to prevent falling.... Read more
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A Promising New Lung Cancer Vaccine
April 30, 2008
Get the facts on a new lung cancer vaccine. Long-term results from a clinical trial showed that a new immune-boosting treatment worked as well or better than chemotherapy at reducing relapse for non-small cell lung cancer.... Read more
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Big Brother is Watching....Mom and Dad
April 29, 2008
A new breed of high-tech retirement community is using technology to monitor seniors with dementia and other conditions, offering new freedoms while raising privacy concerns.... Read more
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Easy Money: It's Not Too Late!
April 29, 2008
Easy Money: It's Not Too Late! Although the April 15th tax deadline has come and gone, your parents may still be eligible for this year's rebate check -- even if they didn't file a return.... Read more
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In Case of Stroke, Better Call a Neurologist
April 28, 2008
Is your parent at risk for a stroke? If so, new research findings presented last week at the American Academy of Neurology meeting suggest that it may be worth having a neurologist's phone number handy.... Read more
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Embarrassment Assistance! The Gift of Plain Wrapping
April 28, 2008
Problem: Embarrassment about incontinence. Simple solution: Adult diapers (and other incontinence products) can be purchased on-line and shipped to your parents in a plain package.... Read more
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5 Surprising Ways to Use Memories to Help People With Memory Loss
April 25, 2008
Learn how reminiscence therapy improves mood and communication in people with Alzheimer's and dementia by prodding deeply held memories. It may seem counter intuitive in dealing with memory loss but results are promising.... Read more
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How Retirement Is Changing
April 25, 2008
Recently The New York Times tackled "Changing Retirement" in a special section, with a number of stories focused on the unintended emotional and financial consequences of ... Read more
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"Magic" Stoves, Sinks, and Other Inventive Elder care Helpers
April 25, 2008
Learn more about handy new products and appliances that address the memory slips, vision problems, and motor-skill issues common to aging. These ideas can help our aging parents stay in their homes longer.... Read more
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Surprising News About Who's Happiest
April 24, 2008
It's natural to see parents, and other aging loved ones as enduring a season of loss. Now factor in this surprise: They may be a lot happier than you think. Maybe... Read more
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Yelling and Nagging: Not the Way to Keep Someone With Diabetes on Track
April 24, 2008
Get practical advice on how to help your parent or partner with diabetes follow the doctor's orders. Most caregivers agree that compliance is one of the toughest issues they face.... Read more
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Five Tips for Keeping the Sandwich Together
April 22, 2008
Five tips to help sandwich generation members ease the stress of caring for aging parents in their homes.Happily, help is available for those of you caring for elderly ... Read more
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A Powerful New Weapon in the Fight Against Cancer
April 22, 2008
Research published this week finally confirms what researchers have long suspected: That vitamin D lowers the risk of breast and prostate cancer. Other studies have shown that low levels of vitamin D increase the risk of colon cancer and ovarian cancer. ... Read more
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After a Stroke: When Words Fail Us
April 21, 2008
Practical tips for communicating with someone with aphasia. A helpful article with creative ways to communicate with someone who has trouble speaking or understanding after a stroke. ... Read more
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Memory Trouble? Don't Assume It's Alzheimer's
April 21, 2008
Find answers to questions you have about memory trouble, memory loss and whether or not it could be a sign of Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, Dementia, or some other cognitive disease. ... Read more
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Art Therapy for Dementia Caregivers
April 18, 2008
You've heard about art therapy for dementia patients -- but art therapy can help you, the dementia caregiver, too. Discover 4 ways to take a break. ... Read more
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The Link Between Diabetes and Alzheimer's
April 17, 2008
Caring.com blogger Paula Spencer offers many strategies you can use to help you and your parent deal with these brain disorders. To begin with, keep an eye out for warning signs that your parent may have Alzheimer’s. ... Read more
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Fire! A Teaching Tool
April 17, 2008
Learn how a tragic death in Texas serves as a reminder of how vulnerable seniors are in fires and how prevention can really help. Tips on fire safety for seniors.... Read more
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It Takes a Neighborhood (Part II)
April 17, 2008
Learn how taking care of an elderly neighbor can enrich the lives of everyone involved. Unfortunately, social isolation is a widespread problem for the elderly.... Read more
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A "Sandwiched" Daughter Says Enough is Enough
April 16, 2008
The sandwich generation -- women caring for both children and elderly parents -- and a new study showing that, despite massive stresses, many suffer from "superwoman syndrome" and don't reach out for help.... Read more
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Memory Loss Is on Everybody's, Um, Mind
April 15, 2008
Many caregivers wonder about their own memory loss; these amusing readings offer a cheering perspective. If you fear you're among Brooks's memory have-nots, cheer yourself up with Martha Weinman Lear's Where Did I Leave My Glasses?... Read more
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Telling Our Stories: The Importance of Personal Cancer Blogs
April 15, 2008
In tribute to all the cancer warriors out there, here is a list of my favorite personal cancer blogs. Many brave souls in the blogosphere have taken the substantial risk of "outing themselves" as cancer patients in order to tell their stories and help others. ... Read more
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Doctors Don't Seem to Care for Medicare
April 14, 2008
Although the vast majority of doctors accept Medicare, many place limits on how many Medicare patients they'll take in their practice because the government reimburses them at a relatively low rate.... Read more
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Music Hits the Right Note for Stroke Patients
April 14, 2008
It's no secret that music can lift our spirits, but can it improve recovery from a stroke? New research shows that listening to music for a couple of hours each day can do just that.... Read more
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Playgrounds for Seniors
April 13, 2008
Senior playgrounds - honest-to-goodness, equipment-filled, outdoor play areas - are popular in many countries, except the United States. Learn more about these fun geriatric exercise areas.... Read more
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Insurance Coverage: Denied!
April 11, 2008
What do you do when your parent's insurance company denies coverage for the care that his doctor has ordered? What else can be done in this kind of situation?... Read more
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Dementia Caregivers: You Really Ought to Talk About It
April 11, 2008
New study shows one on one therapy helps reduce the burden on caregivers and their depressive symptoms. Providing care to someone with dementia is so hard that you really do need a hand. And an ear.... Read more
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Old Meets New: High-Tech Toys Help Seniors Deal With Diabetes
April 11, 2008
A helpful list of high-tech gadgets that can help take the hassle out of dealing with diabetes for seniors and their caregivers. From medication reminders to check in services.... Read more
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It Takes a Neighborhood (Pt. 1)
April 10, 2008
Neighbors pitch in to help an isolated elderly neighbor so he can stay in his own home. t turns out that strong social ties can actually prolong the lives of elderly people, according to a study conducted by Finnish researchers and published in the Journal of Gerontology in 2006.... Read more
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Nursing Home Restraints
April 09, 2008
Learn more about the laws that limit the use of restraints and belts in nursing homes.... Read more
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Adult Diapers & Politics Trigger Open Talk of Important Health Concerns
April 08, 2008
Being a strong advocate for our parents who wear diapers can help them stay comfortable and healthy.... Read more
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Aging Smokers: Who's Going to Get Lung Cancer?
April 08, 2008
It's a medical fact that smokers are at much greater risk for lung cancer than nonsmokers, but it's long been a mystery why some smokers remain cancer free. New research breakthroughs provide answers about lung cancer risk and diagnosis.... Read more
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Nursing Homes and Diapers
April 07, 2008
If your loved one in a nursing home wears diapers, see these practical tips to ensure comfort. From Caring.com.... Read more
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Depressed? Try Sleeping It Off
April 07, 2008
Research shows insomnia prolongs depression in some elderly people. Tips to help your parent sleep better -- and help her overcome depression. These tips might help your parent sleep better at night:... Read more
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Sandwich Generation "Massively Stressed"
April 07, 2008
A new study of sandwich generation women, caring for children and aging parents, finds them ill-prepared for the massive stresses of care giving.... Read more
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Are You a "Designated Daughter"?
April 06, 2008
Learn more about Designated Daughter: The Bonus Years with Mom by D.G. Fulford. In her new book she coins a new term for grown daughters who look after their parents: designated daughter.... Read more
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Alzheimer's Meds: Time for a Reality Check?
April 05, 2008
Alzheimer's Meds: Time for a Reality Check? Learn why the absence of good news about Alzheimer's medications reminds caregivers that learning behavioral therapy is paramount. ... Read more
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My Own Last (Online) Wishes
April 04, 2008
Learn how Facebook users can let friends and family know their final instructions via a new application called My Own Last Wishes. Online reaction to the program has been mixed.... Read more
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Caregiving: Does it Have to Be This Hard?
April 03, 2008
Many factors make caregiving different – and more challenging – today then it was in the past. We have the scientific and technological skill to keep people alive longer, but we don't have the social supports in place to help families take care of them. ... Read more
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The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People With Diabetes
April 03, 2008
Find advice on managing diabetes from self-help writer Stephen R. Covey in a guide for both people with type 2 diabetes and their caregivers called The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People with Diabetes.... Read more
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Dr. Death Wants Your Vote
April 02, 2008
The euthanasia debate has been stirred up again. In what is already a politically heated election, Jack "Dr. Death" Kevorkian is again fueling the fires of controversy by announcing plans to run for Congress in Michigan's 9th District.... Read more
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Alcohol Abuse Among Seniors -- the Last Taboo Subject
April 01, 2008
Alcohol abuse and alcoholism among seniors still tends to be secret, but new data show it's more common than most people suspect. Caring.com brings you a guide to how to talk about it.... Read more
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The Transformative Nature of Caregiving
April 01, 2008
The producer of the PBS documentary Caring for Your Parents talks about the ways eldercare changes families. Caring for Your Parents, a documentary portrait of five families that have taken on the role of caregiver to aging parents, premieres April 2 on selected PBS stations across the country.... Read more
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Mom Far Away? Cool Ideas, And Yes, There's Still Time!
March 31, 2008
Mother's Day ideas for far-away moms. ... Read more
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Downward Dog May Keep Elderly Upright
April 30, 2000
Recent research reveals that Iyengar yoga may improve stability and balance in older women, which could lower their risk of falling.... Read more
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Wii Senior Sports Craze May Get Your Parents Moving
March 31, 2008
The Wii senior games craze is sweeping through retirement communities and nursing homes. Wiis are showing up increasingly alongside weight benches and treadmills at senior rehabilitation programs.... Read more
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Exciting News For Heart and Stroke Patients
March 31, 2008
Two-drug combination blood pressure therapy lowers cardiovascular risk in patients with high blood pressure. If you have a parent with blood-pressure issues, a just-released international study -- known as the ACCOMPLISH trial -- may offer some promise... Read more
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Fat Belly Now Doubles Risk of Dementia Later
March 29, 2008
A new study links increased weight in midlife with an increased risk of developing dementia later in life. It's the first-ever study to link excess weight to Alzheimer's-type dementias.... Read more
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Back It Up
March 28, 2008
Bosses, want loyal employees? Give them access to employer-sponsored backup childcare and elder care referrals. Learn More about Backup care at Caring.com. to employers. ... Read more
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New Vocabulary Words for Caregivers
March 28, 2008
A helpful article highlights new words for caregivers. The whole concept of eldercare is going through a tremendous shift in a hugely productive direction and so is its vocabulary.... Read more
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Wanted: Companionship for a Dad with Diabetes
March 27, 2008
Non-medical senior care, it’s out there: She could hire someone to play cards, discuss current affairs, or read books with her dad through services such as Comfort Keepers or Visiting Angels. ... Read more
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Is It Time For Your Parents To Give Up The Car Keys?
March 27, 2008
Tips for how to know when it's time for your elderly parent to stop driving -- and what to do about it. Experts agree that age alone shouldn’t be the determining factor in whether a person should give up the car keys. ... Read more
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Tune in to PBS for Help and Hope on Caregiving
March 26, 2008
A new PBS documentary, "Caring for Your Parents," is Reality TV of the purest form -- recognizing that family members now provide 80% of the eldercare in the United States.... Read more
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Lifestyles of the Rich and Retired
March 25, 2008
Helping your parents sort through their retirement housing options is a big task. But with 6.1 million Americans expected to pass age 85 by 2010, those options are becoming more varied -- and lavish -- than you might imagine.... Read more
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Overweight Women at Greater Risk for Cancer But Receive Fewer Screenings
March 25, 2008
Being overweight is a risk factor for many types of cancer, but new research shows that overweight women are less likely, rather than more likely, to receive recommended screenings.... Read more
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Could You Have Diabetes -- And Not Know It?
March 25, 2008
Find out if you're at risk for type 2 diabetes by taking the American Diabetes Association's Diabetes Risk Test. It’s American Diabetes Alert Day an annual event and urgent call-to-action for folks to learn their risk for type 2 diabetes.... Read more
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When You Can't Check in With Your Parents, Cops (Often) Can
March 24, 2008
Learn about numerous services, including local police departments, that will check in on your parent when you can't. Find them by searching "senior check-in" and your parents' town. ... Read more
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Are You Worried Sick About Your Parent's Heart Disease?
March 24, 2008
Caring for someone with heart disease may increase your risk of heart disease and depression. Consider these tips for better heart health.... Read more
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Seven Words of Wisdom for Dealing with Diabetes
March 24, 2008
A helpful article with poignant words of wisdom for dealing with diabetes. In a hunt to find seven words of wisdom for dealing with diabetes, this is the resulting advice.... Read more
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Alzheimer's Statistics
March 21, 2008
A wake up call to Alzheimer's caregivers: 10 million baby boomers are forecast to get Alzheimer's -- that's 1 in 8.... Read more
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Easy Money
March 21, 2008
If your parents earned $3,000 last year, they're entitled to this year's tax rebate. Even if your parents haven't filed taxes in years because they're retired, they should file this year to ensure they receive their rebate.... Read more
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Caregiving Isn't for Sissies
March 20, 2008
Take a glimpse at this recently published book: An Uncertain Inheritance: Writers On Caring For Family, edited by Nell Casey. The essays in this anthology will help give you perspective on your own caregiving experience. ... Read more
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Medications vs. Lifestyle Changes: What's the Best Way to Tackle Type 2 Diabetes?
March 20, 2008
The Journal of the American Medical Association states that weight loss and lifestyle changes are a more effective treatment than intensive insulin therapy for people who are overweight and have poorly controlled, insulin-resistant type 2 diabetes.... Read more
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A Brave New World for the Old
March 18, 2008
Find out how new gadgets and technologies, like housecleaning robots and Personal Emergency Response Systems, can make living safer and more comfortable for seniors.... Read more
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New Research May Predict Risk of Cancer Recurrence
March 18, 2008
Cancer researchers have discovered clues to identify recurrence risk for when breast cancers will spread, suggesting possible tests and cancer treatments. Breast Cancer... Read more
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Talking Your Parent Into Trying Talk Therapy
March 17, 2008
Psychotherapy can help older adults beat depression. Here are some practical guidelines for talking your parent into giving psychotherapy a try from Caring.com... Read more
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Falling: A Deadly Problem Helped by Prevention
March 17, 2008
Learn why falls are a deadly problem for seniors that can be helped through prevention. A recent report on senior falling by the CDC says falls are the leading cause of injury and death for people over 65.... Read more
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What Alzheimer's Caregivers Need Even More Than a Cure
March 15, 2008
Alzheimer's caregivers need care resources as urgently as a cure. But while a cure remains elusive and, according to some researchers, far off, what Alzheimer's caregivers need immediately is more: ... Read more
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Alzheimer's Caregivers' #1 Challenge
March 11, 2008
Learn about a new survey of Alzheimer's and dementia caregivers reveals that daily care isn't the worst of it. Grief is. Alzheimer’s caregiving is especially painful because we experience two hard psychological states at once.... Read more
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The Link Between Depression and Heart Disease
March 11, 2008
With all the mounting evidence that links depression and heart disease, it's probably well worth having your parent's depression evaluated and treated. Here are a couple of ways you might approach it:... Read more
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Aging Parents and Dental Care: A Life-and-Death Issue
March 08, 2008
Regular dental care for your parents can be a matter of life and death. A 76-year resident of a Santa Rosa, California, nursing home died about a month ago from an oral abscess that went untreated.... Read more
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Media Focus on Patrick Swayze's Cancer Begs the Real Questions
March 07, 2008
They're asking specific, practical questions: what to expect from certain chemo drugs and regimens, when their hair might grow in again, and how to control coughing, just to name a few. Isn't that right?... Read more
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Parents Are From Venus, We're From Mars
March 05, 2008
40/70 Rule--a warning that once you reach age 40 and your parents turn 70, like it or not, it's time to have those tough talks about their finances, health, ability to age at home, and wishes for final arrangements.... Read more
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Should Cancer Patients Take a Chemo Vacation?
March 03, 2008
Should cancer patients take a chemo vacation? A study by Tomazs Beer of Oregon Health & Science University reveals the benefits of taking a break from chemotherapy.... Read more
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Reverse Mortgages: Looking for Trouble?
March 03, 2008
Learn how to help elderly homeowners avoid reverse mortgage problems. Although reverse mortgages are highly regulated, some lenders still deploy sleazy sales tactics.... Read more
