Managing an elder with Sundown Syndrome can be enriching, and undeniably frustrating. Nobody will tell you this gets easy. Some days and evenings will still be really hard. That’s the nature of dementia, not a reflection of your...

So, it’s 6 p.m., and despite your best efforts, agitation in your elderly parent is building. What now? How do you manage a Sundowning episode? First, check your own stress level. The elder with dementia can pick...

You recognize a shift in behavior. Around 4 p.m. or 5 p.m., your Mom or Dad, who were calm at lunch, suddenly can’t sit still. Or your elderly client starts asking the same question over and over, “When is...

Stop Adding Salt to Meals and Food Preparation Sodium is an essential nutrient that regulates blood volume, blood pressure, and pH levels. Our bodies use the sodium to help control blood pressure and blood volume. Sodium is also needed for...

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...

Older adults, some of whom have difficulty with daily tasks — like bathing, dressing, cooking, or managing medications — are more likely to have symptoms of depression. In addition, depression is most common among older adults who have the least...

Every year on October 10, the World Health Organization (WHO) observes World Mental Health Day to raise awareness and improve access to care. Mental health matters at every stage of life—but for older adults, it often goes unnoticed and...

Seasonal flu is a contagious respiratory infection caused by different flu viruses. It follows a fairly predictable pattern, starting in the fall and ending in the spring. It’s important to understand flu symptoms so you can seek immediate...

“Seniorities” is a bi-monthly cable TV program discussing/highlighting issues of importance to our aging population. As Chairman of the Board, Scituate Council on Aging, I co-host with Linda Hayes, Executive Director of the Council on Aging. Our guest this...

Co-host, “Seniorities”, a bi-monthly cable TV program discussing/highlighting issues of importance to our aging population. As Chairman of the Board, Scituate Council on Aging, I co-host with Linda Hayes, Executive Director of the Council on Aging. This week's guest, Ed...