Visiting the doctor after a fall

Visiting the doctor after a fall

A surprising number of conditions, from simple to serious, can contribute to an older adult falling. If you observed the fall or arrived soon after, find out if your loved one had a warning or felt dizzy beforehand. Any chance they fainted? Was the fall from stumbling...
The habit of happiness

The habit of happiness

Happiness is in our nature. We are born with the ability to be happy. And then life happens. Our life experiences affect our attitude about happiness. They influence how much we believe we deserve happiness or convince us we don’t deserve it. Especially in...
Who needs a pacemaker?

Who needs a pacemaker?

The signs of needing a pacemaker can be easy to miss at first. You might notice fatigue, dizziness, shortness of breath, or confusion in your loved one. Or hear them commenting, “I just don’t feel right anymore.” If a slow heart rate (bradycardia) is...
When reasoning becomes a concern

When reasoning becomes a concern

When an aging loved one starts making what you consider poor decisions, it’s worrisome. Are they no longer thinking straight? Is this normal aging or something more serious? There are two terms to know when concerns arise about cognition: capacity and...
Options for taking a break from caregiving

Options for taking a break from caregiving

If you’re providing care for your loved one, you may long for a night to call your own. Better yet, a few days and nights of R&R. Go to bed when you’re ready, sleep deeply, and do what you want all day! A respite break isn’t indulgent, it’s...