Tips

Butterscotch Candies Ease "Tinny" Mouth From Chemo

Class To cut the metallic taste in the mouth that's one of the most complained-about side effects of chemotherapy treatment for cancer, doctors often suggest sucking on hard candy. Not all candy works equally well, though: Butterscotch, peppermint, and coffee-flavored candies do the best job of masking "t...

Even Frail Older Adults Can Exercise

Class If someone in your care is frail and sedentary, even on bed rest, he can still benefit from gentle and appropriate exercise tailored to his condition. It's dangerous for an untrained person to move anyone who's sick or frail, so don't try to figure out a routine by yourself. First consult with a phy...

Flu Shot Could Cut Cardiovascular Risks

Class Believe it or not, a yearly flu shot might help prevent a stroke or heart attack. Several different groups of researchers have reported that the influenza vaccine can reduce the risk of stroke and heart attack, especially for people under the age of 75. September through November is the best time to...

Discussing an Advance Health Care Directive With Your Parent

Class It's never too soon to prepare an advance health care directive -- also called a power of attorney for health care, living will, or other similar name. Anyone could have an accident or sudden, unforeseen medical crisis at any time. But a bonus to preparing your own advance health care directive is t...

To Ease Parkinson's Movements, Change the Sheets

Class Are stiffness and slowness of movement making it hard for your loved one with Parkinson's to turn over or get out of the bed? Buy a set of fitted satin bedsheets. The slippery fabric makes it easier to scoot around.

Encourage Older Adults to Volunteer to Stay Engaged

Class Research shows that elderly people find life far more satisfying when they have a sense of purpose and a connection with their community. If your older family members are lonely or bored, you may want to encourage them to join Senior Corps or pursue other volunteer opportunities. Senior Corps, which...

Identify Hospitals That Have Received Stroke-Center Certification

Class Not all hospitals have tPA medication. It is only available at larger hospitals and those designated as "primary stroke centers." Studies indicate that patients who go to primary stroke centers have better outcomes. Because your survivor is at increased risk, it would be a good idea for you to ident...

Look for Programs to Help Pay for Modifications to Vehicles

Class If your vehicle needs modifying, research costs and ask dealers about financial assistance programs. Nonprofit agencies sometimes offer grants to pay for modifications, and some health-insurance plans and workers' compensation programs offer financial assistance. Check with your state's department o...

Make Swallowing Easier by Thickening Foods

Class Surprisingly, thin liquids can be more difficult to swallow than thick ones. Learn why and how to thicken foods to help swallowing.

Thicken Foods at Home Using Products From the Grocery Store

Class For someone with dysphagia, thicker foods can be easier to swallow than thin ones. Learn how to thicken foods using common grocery store items.

Switch to Plastic Utensils to Banish Metallic Taste

Class People with cancer, Alzheimer's, or Parkinson's may complain that food tastes metallic. Here's one way to get rid of the metallic taste in foods.

Save Pureed Foods in Small Servings

Class Pureed foods can be easier for people with dysphagia to swallow. Here's a convenient, easy way to save pureed leftovers in small portions.

Tip: How to Get Your Loved One to Listen

Class Does your loved one seem to ignore what you say half the time? Learn what’s probably going on, and how you can fix it.

Tip: How to Make Difficult Discussions Go Smoothly

Class Trying to gain consensus about an upcoming decision? Try empathy. Learn the simple secret to making it work.

Tip: How to Channel Your Anger

Class Instead of holding anger back, let it out, experts say – but in healthy ways. Learn how.