Technology has done wonders to help us stay connected with family members. But beginning users have to learn new terms and skills. In-person classes are often available through senior centers or the library. And AARP's AgeTech Collaborative offers online video...

Persons over age 65 are 2.6 times more likely than the general population to die in a home fire. That's alarming! Older adults most often incur burns at home, typically when cooking or bathing. The most common burn injuries are from scalding hot water or flames. ...

Finances are bound to be a concern if your spouse has received a diagnosis of dementia before age 65. As in many households, your partner's job may cover important monthly bills. And perhaps essentials such as family health insurance or retirement funding.  In...

Regret tends to be one of those emotions we'd prefer not to feel. Which is unfortunate, according to researcher Brené Brown. Her point is that "regret can be a fair but tough teacher." If we don't let regret mire us in the past—with self-blame and guilt—then we can...

If the person you care for has a low-vision diagnosis, you are likely concerned about their ability to orient themselves and learn to move safely without falling or becoming injured. Many people with low vision rely on the assistance of a "human guide." You may...

The skin is the body's largest organ and its essential "armor." To maintain good health, skin needs extra attention as we age.   The skin has three layers. Working together, they act as the body's  shield by preventing bacteria and viruses from getting...

Your loved one's daily experience in a hospital, rehab, or assisted living community—even at home with paid home help—greatly depends on the aides who care for them. You can help ensure a good experience by building a positive relationship with those staff so they are...

Much of life's interactions occurs online these days. If your loved one is not tech savvy, has mild dementia, or has little access to support in a facility, you might consider a "senior tablet." They have limitations compared to the typical consumer tablet, but could...

As exciting as a trip can be, for a person with dementia, the loss of routine is confusing. And the loud, large, busy terminal spaces are often distressing. Too much stimuli! Your job is to keep the process as calm and unhurried as possible. If you are rushing,...

Did your mom teach you to "do what the doctor says"? If she's not following doctor's orders for medications now, you're probably feeling confused. And concerned.  It's common for patients not to take pills as directed. Some typical reasons:  "It's too...

Food and oxygen are the basic fuels that we need for the cells of our body to do their jobs. People with COPD have to expend more energy breathing. Because their exhales are not always efficient, they tend to develop high levels of carbon dioxide. Not good. ...

If you develop health problems—mental or physical—what happens to your loved one? Their well-being depends on yours. So it's vital that you keep yourself healthy and in balance, for your sake as well as theirs. Not taking the time to do this is the biggest regret of...