Diagnosing Elderly with Cancer: Many Factors

In the past, the philosophy in dealing with the elderly diagnosed with cancer may have been to let nature take its course. A senior in their 70's or 80's, diagnosed with a slow growing tumor, may have been deemed...

Continue reading →

Medicare Is Costing More in 2026

For 2026, the standard Medicare Part B premium is $202.90 per month, up from $185 in 2025. The annual Part B deductible is $283, up from $257 in 2025. Some higher-income beneficiaries pay an additional surcharge on top of...

Continue reading →

Veteran Administration Aid & Attendance Pension Benefit, pt 3

VA Pension Provides Financial Assistance The Veteran Administration provides financial assistance for qualifying veterans (or surviving spouses) through the Aid and Attendance pension benefit. It is intended for those requiring help with routine tasks, or two or more “activities...

Continue reading →

Veteran’s Aid and Attendance Pension Benefit, pt. 2

The financial formula utilized by the VA can be somewhat confusing.  In simplest terms, we need to define household income.  (What is coming into the bank account on a monthly basis?) Next, we tally privately paid health/medical expenses,...

Continue reading →

AARP projects a 3.6 percent Social Security cost-of-living adjustment for 2027

AARP projects a 3.6 percent Social Security cost-of-living adjustment for 2027, based on current inflation data. That would increase the average retired worker’s benefit by $75 a month. The COLA is based on changes in consumer prices in the third...

Continue reading →

Understanding Sundowning, pt. 5

What should families remember about Sundowning? Simply understanding what you are witnessing with your elderly parents is a first, important step. Here are summary tips to remember: -- Sundowning is a group of symptoms that may occur later in the...

Continue reading →

Understanding Sundowning, pt. 4

Sundowning can be stressful for both seniors and family caregivers. Here are a couple of tips on engaging with affected elderly parents or seniors. -- Limit daytime napping: Long naps during the day may make nighttime sleep more difficult....

Continue reading →

Understanding Sundowning, pt 2

Elders with dementia frequently exhibit signs of Sundowning. But, what are the signs and symptoms to look for? Here are some of the most common signs of Sundowning. Be on the look-out for: -- Increased confusion or disorientation -- Anxiety...

Continue reading →

Understanding Sundowning, pt. 1

You may notice that your elderly parents, or aging loved ones, seem to become agitated in the late afternoon or early evening hours. These seniors are most likely exhibiting "sundowning". Symptoms can range from mild restlessness to...

Continue reading →

How to Spot Stroke Symptoms in a Senior, pt 3

Stroke symptoms in older adults can sometimes be more subtle or easily dismissed. Fatigue, mild confusion, or unsteadiness might be brushed off as a “bad day” or attributed to age, dehydration, or medication. Be especially alert if these symptoms...

Continue reading →