Hot weather can be dangerous for anyone, but seniors are more likely to be affected by heat than other adults. In fact, a recent study found that of all the heat-related fatalities in the United States, 40% were among...

Results from a recent health study, conducted by the Harvard School of Public Health, found that even a 1 degree Celsius increase, or 1.8 degrees Fahrenheit, in temperature during the summer can increase death rates for elderly people who...

Don't underestimate your elderly parents. Many seniors, even some with confusion, can understand and articulate their ailments. The elderly have a greater understanding of their limitations than we may give them credit for. Listen for hints. When you...

A very dear friend said to me recently, "Isn't it humbling that we are living as the "sandwich generation"? We had been discussing how busy life gets while tending to work, households, our own children (and maybe their children!),...

How do Medicare and Medicaid differ in regards to long term care planning? Medicare, by and large, does not cover long-term nursing home care. For example, Medicare Part A will only cover up to 100 days in a skilled...

Experts believe that any discussions on driving with elderly parents are likely to be emotional for all concerned, including family members. However, this meeting/discussion should not be put off. Here are some suggestions on the process: - Be prepared...

Truthfully, a difficult decision and discussion. There is no universal approach for family members and parents on this issue. It is normal and natural to question how best to broach conversation with Mom and Dad. Families are not sure...

Telling an elderly parent that he or she needs to stop driving is a conversation that most adult children put off as long as possible.  And rightfully so. It is a very touchy, emotional, and difficult subject to tackle...

The data that characterizes the definition of high blood pressure is changing. Now, the upper limit has been lowered. Which means many, many more Americans and older adults will now be diagnosed with medically defined "high blood...

Co-host, “Seniorities” As Chairman of the Board, Scituate Council on Aging, I co-host a regular Scituate cable tv program with Linda Hayes, Executive Director of the COA. Kim Stewart was recently named Scituate's Citizen of the Year, and is very active...