Is caring for a loved one beginning to feel like a wallop to your wallet? AARP estimates that family caregivers spend an average of $7,242 out-of-pocket each year. Your family member's needs may also force you to reduce work hours or quit your job, affecting your...

Imagine living in a home you've known for years but that suddenly feels unfamiliar and confusing. This is the reality for many people with cognitive impairment. If you care for someone with dementia, you may be wondering how to help them continue living at home as...

Junk mail creates an annoying and potentially dangerous situation for older adults, especially if they have dementia or mild cognitive impairment. It's not just about clutter; important bills or tax notices can get overlooked, leading to missed payments or double...

Many of us have the habit of procrastination. We stall rather than move forward decisively. Ultimately, of course, decisions are made and things get done. But we tend to heap on self-criticism about having put things off. All that self-criticism is in fact misguided....

Being a family caregiver has plenty of sweet moments, but that doesn't mean it isn't also emotionally challenging. It's often stressful when you are searching for answers, wondering if you're doing enough, and coping with the confusion of your changing relationship....

If standing up causes dizziness for your loved one, even simple movements such as getting up from the couch or table can be unpleasant. The problem may be orthostatic hypotension (OH), also called "postural hypotension," which happens when blood pressure drops...

Older drivers are generally more cautious, but also more vulnerable to injury during a crash. Good news: Keeping your relative safe on the road may be easier than you think. But it could require upgrading to a newer car. Choosing the right car features can improve...

It's a common refrain and the bane of many family members: Your loved one is having trouble, yet he or she refuses outside help. This can put your relative at risk. But if the worst happens and things go south, it also ends up making more work for you. Doubly...

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), giving touch...

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 environmental support....

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 with reducing...

"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 gait (walking speed)...