Elder Care Cafe

Often as we grow older, we may begin to experience problems affecting our body and mind, including a change in our sense of smell and taste. Sensory changes may affect how we eat, enjoy food and drink and also affect the type of nutrients we put in our bodies. Depending on how severe the loss [...]

[Read more →]

As we age, one of the most important things we can do to stay healthy is to keep our blood pressure under control. Blood pressure is defined as the force of blood pushing against blood vessel walls. The role of the heart is to pump blood into your arteries, which then carries the blood throughout [...]

[Read more →]

Throughout the year we have the opportunity to view the national flag of the United States of America. After all, it is a well recognized symbol of freedom throughout the world. The first American flag was officially adopted on June 14, 1777 with the original 13 stars. The 50-star flag we have today was adopted [...]

[Read more →]

While searching for a movie to watch that had something to do with aging, elder care, or living the senior life, I found a marvelous show staring Andy Griffith. Play the Game is a romantic comedy centered on Grandpa Joe (Griffith) who is currently residing in a nursing home. Grandpa Joe’s grandson David successfully works in [...]

[Read more →]

This week we are discussing Alzheimer’s and dementia. We have noted 10 warning signs revealing your loved one might have Alzheimer’s, a corresponding list of 10 signs that may indicate they are only showing symptoms of old age, and the importance of getting an early diagnosis so that proper care and attention can take place. Today we are [...]

[Read more →]

This week we are highlighting the signs and symptoms of Alzheimer’s and dementia, and whether our loved one has the disease or they are merely showing signs of old age. Today we want to take a look at the importance of early diagnosis of Alzheimer’s.

[Read more →]

One of the concerns in many families is whether family members are exhibiting signs of old age or Alzheimer’s. It is important to know the difference between Alzheimer’s and old age so that appropriate treatment and care can begin as soon as possible. There are a number of treatment options to consider and decisions to make [...]

[Read more →]

Every once in a while it is good to revisit the Alzheimer’s Association’s list of ten signs indicating whether someone has Alzheimer’s or they are merely struggling with old age. I say merely, but as I enter into my senior years, the signs of old age are increasing at a discomforting rate. This month we [...]

[Read more →]

Many people are still unclear as to whether it is okay to flush unused prescription drugs down the toilet. What most people do understand is that it is not safe to keep unused or no-longer-needed prescriptions around the house where children or adults can get ahold of them. Hopefully, this quick guide will help you [...]

[Read more →]

In last Friday’s post I reviewed an interesting and inspiring book by Robert and Patricia Gussin titled What’s Next…for You? The couple took retirement to an all time high as they reinvented themselves from corporate America to authors, publishers, and winemakers.

[Read more →]

The complete title of this wonderful book is What’s Next…for You? The Gussin Guide to Big Decisions, Big Changes, and Big Fun by Robert and Patricia Gussin. What’s Next is a fascinating story of two people who retired after long successful careers in science and medicine and then went on to writing, publishing, and wine [...]

[Read more →]

Managing caregiver stress is really on my mind this week. Not only have I had to deal with stress while caring for my elderly father since September 2006, but I have observed relatives who are caring for their family members. We are all of an age in our family where we are taking care of [...]

[Read more →]

As most readers know, I participate in several caregiver forums around the Internet. Depending on the situation, this can be a positive or negative experience. The positive side is that I can share what is going on in my life as a caregiver with others who understand. The negative is that I become emotionally involved [...]

[Read more →]

Family caregivers have been around for centuries. Many are unsung heroes who are willing to care for one or more family members, whether they are aging parents, a spouse, or children who are unable to care for themselves. They care for their family, their own needs often going unmet. But, if you seriously ask them, most [...]

[Read more →]

As the new health care law is put into place during the next few years, we will find out one way or another which side of the health care fence was the most savvy about whether this plan is good or bad for seniors. Recently, we received two pieces of mail that shows how broad [...]

[Read more →]