High blood pressure is sometimes called "the silent killer." This is because it is dangerous but has few outward symptoms. As the heart pumps, it pushes blood through the blood vessels, creating pressure on the artery walls. High blood pressure means that your heart...

People with Alzheimer's or other memory loss conditions often have trouble expressing themselves, sometimes right from the start of the disease. This can easily lead to confusion and frustration for both of you. Your willingness to exercise patience is key to...

Many older adults are embracing technology to stay connected with family and friends during the pandemic. Although some popular technologies—Zoom, FaceTime, and Skype—are relatively simple, they still require a computer, tablet, or smartphone. Plus some tech savvy....

In the context of COVID, many families are wondering if an older relative would be better off moving out of their assisted living, memory care, or skilled nursing facility. It's not an easy question to answer. The advantages of facility living. Facilities have staff...

Close to 2 million American soldiers fought in the Korean War from 1950 to 1953. More than half of those who served in what is often called the "Forgotten War" are still alive. Most of these soldiers were born during the 1920s and 1930s. They are now in their 80s and...

Caring for a family member often involves collaborating with other relatives. Sometimes you will agree. Sometimes you won't. Debating every item may not be the best use of family time. In some situations, the wisest course is to be quiet and let others do it their...

Increasingly, research shows that older adults can benefit in myriad ways from the companionship of an animal. Physical health benefits Pets seem to help us stay calm in the midst of stress: Reduced blood pressure and heart rate. Some research shows improvement even...

Between travel concerns and restrictions on group gatherings, holding a traditional funeral can be challenging. Many families are turning to "virtual funerals" using video conferencing programs, such as Zoom. About 20% of funeral homes offer virtual services. And...

Arthritis is a difficult condition to understand as an onlooker. The pain is invisible and unpredictable. Some days are good. Other days are not. Arthritis challenges the affected person's ability to accomplish the basics—simple tasks, such as opening jars or walking...

Life with a serious illness is not all dreary and glum. The condition and its symptoms can certainly take over. But daily life continues. And patients are more than their disease. Like everyone, they need to eat, walk, talk with friends and family, and enjoy pleasant...

Many people confuse mindfulness with meditation and Eastern religions. Mindfulness is a skill gained by training your mind to observe life situations in a less emotionally charged way. It is a mental skill that gives you a less-cluttered perspective. It lowers daily...

Dementia itself does not cause physical pain. But people with dementia still encounter pain, just like anyone else: headaches, arthritis, tummy aches. They just can't describe it. They might even deny having pain when you ask because they don't understand the...