Symptoms of Flu

According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), an annual flu vaccination is the most effective protection against catching the flu. Flu is a serious contagious disease that can lead to hospitalization and even death. If at...

Continue reading →

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 →

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 →

Aging and Your Metabolism, pt 2

The process of breaking down food for use as energy is called "metabolism". The body breaks down food molecules to release the energy stored within them. This energy is needed for vital functions like movement, thought, growth -- everything...

Continue reading →

Managing Sundown Syndrome, pt. 2

It is very important to create a daily routine, and repetitive structure, for seniors experiencing Sundown Syndrome. When you are caring for someone with dementia, routines aren’t just nice to have. They are essential. The same wake-up time, same...

Continue reading →

Elders Need to Reduce Sodium Intake, pt. 2

Sodium does occur naturally in most foods. Milk, beets, and celery all naturally contain sodium, as does drinking water, although the amount varies depending on the source. Vegetables, dairy products, and shellfish all provide natural sources of sodium. Fast...

Continue reading →

Social Security COLA Set at 2.8% for 2026

Social Security beneficiaries will get a 2.8 percent increase in their monthly payments next year, the Social Security Administration (SSA) announced on Oct. 24. The 2026 cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) is slightly higher than last year’s 2.5 percent increase, reflecting a...

Continue reading →

Older Adults and Mental Health, pt 3

If you or an elder is feeling isolated, lonely, or emotionally low, these steps that may help improve well-being: -- Visit your doctor and be honest about how you’re feeling emotionally as well as physically. -- Reach out to family and...

Continue reading →