Summer is here. Finally! However, along with high temperatures comes humidity, and some heat exhaustion. It’s more important than ever for the elderly, and family caregivers, to remain alert to water in-take and proper hydration. Many times we rely on...

In general, members of the elder population who are being abused demonstrate discomfort and anxiety when in the presence of an abuser. They may even tell someone, if possible, that they are being mistreated. But those who suffer with...

Sometimes, family caregivers will insist on the use of a restraint to avoid falls when concerned about the safety of their loved ones. However, there are negative consequences when utilizing restraints. Families and caregivers need to investigate alternatives. Family caregivers...

When an elder falls, it can result in significant physical problems, including broken bones, and surgery. Rehabilitation and recovery can be lengthy and slow. Unfortunately, falls in hospitals and nursing homes are an everyday occurrence. In many instances, elders...

Last year, nearly 18 percent of Medicare patients who had been hospitalized were re-admitted within a month. While that is lower than past years, roughly 2 million patients return a year, costing Medicare $26 billion. Officials estimate $17 billion...

Medicare Advantage plans — private plans that offer benefits beyond those of traditional Medicare — will receive somewhat lower government payments in 2015, due to the Affordable Care Act. That move prompted speculation that more plans would withdraw from...

Passing along important information concerning Medicare 2015 enrollment and individual plan coverages... Millions of Medicare recipients could be hit with rising prescription drug premium costs in 2015. Nearly 10 million people now enrolled in six of the 10 largest Part...

Dehydration increases with age -- which is a simple way of noting that our elders are more prone to dehydration than other age groups. During the hot summer months, our community elders and family loved ones need a little extra...

Knowing the vital signs of a stroke could mean the difference between life and death... I just found out last week that a friend and colleague had recently suffered a stroke. I was stunned. But I shouldn't be....

Colorectal cancer usually starts with polyps in the colon or rectum, abnormal but benign growths that if left untreated can turn into cancer. A painless test called a colonoscopy, performed under sedation, can help find and remove the polyps....