Touch as a lifeline for elders

Touch as a lifeline for elders

We come into the world with an immediate need for touch—to feel safe and comforted. Touch is often described as our “first language,” and it remains essential throughout life. In our elder years, our other senses diminish (sight, hearing, smell, taste),...
Holiday dementia visits

Holiday dementia visits

Perhaps you are looking forward to visiting relatives this holiday season. If your loved one has dementia, however, consider their condition a “third guest” with very particular needs to be addressed. Here are tips for a smoother visit: Leverage...
Giving thanks: It’s good for your health

Giving thanks: It’s good for your health

Many of us regard the Thanksgiving holiday as an annual opportunity for counting our blessings. There’s good reason for practicing the giving of thanks throughout the year: Research suggests that cultivating an “attitude of gratitude” is associated...
Understanding frailty

Understanding frailty

“Frailty” used to be a rather vague description, like “old age.” Currently, however, it is recognized as a cluster of conditions that deserves medical attention. The following are signs of frailty: Complaints of fatigue Physical inactivity Slow...
What is “observation status”?

What is “observation status”?

Imagine that your relative goes to the hospital for an outpatient procedure. That’s no big deal. But their blood pressure skyrockets during the event. So the hospital decides to keep your family member overnight for monitoring. They have a bed and receive meals....