Insomnia in older adults
Older adults need about seven hours of sleep at night. But they often have difficulty falling asleep and staying asleep. They frequently wake up early and are not able to go back to sleep. This is due in part to normal changes of aging. We just don’t spend as much time in the deep phases…
Read MoreWhat is a “life plan community” (aka “CCRC”)?
Life plan communities—sometimes called “continuing care retirement communities” (CCRCs)—are private communities that offer residents a full range of care levels, depending on need. For those in independent living, amenities such as a golf course, gym, pool, and tennis and pickle ball courts are typically provided. Some communities even offer college-level classes, a salon, and grocery…
Read MoreWhat is “assisted living”?
There are many options for older adults who can no longer live at home independently. Assisted living facilities (ALFs) are tailored to individuals with health concerns that do not require the 24-hour medical attention provided by a nursing home. ALFs enable residents to be freed from the chore of meal preparation and housework and be…
Read MoreDealing with disgust
The emotion of disgust is a natural response. It evolved to protect us from potentially dangerous, scary, or infecting situations. But when it arises in the course of caring for a loved one—you involuntarily gag, for instance—it may cause you both distress. Getting to the other side of the disgust response can lead to deep…
Read MoreMaybe it’s not Alzheimer’s
“Dementia” is not a diagnosis in and of itself. It describes a collection of symptoms that involve memory and thinking that are enough to interfere with daily life. Alzheimer’s is the most common cause, but there are many other reasons a person might have dementia symptoms. Most of the conditions that cause dementia cannot be…
Read MoreTech support for your relative(s)
Technology has done wonders to help us stay connected with family members. But beginning users have to learn new terms and skills. In-person classes are often available through senior centers or the library. And AARP’s AgeTech Collaborative offers online video tutorials and classes through SeniorPlanet.org. Even if you seek to provide less complicated devices, it’s…
Read MoreBurn and fire safety
Persons over age 65 are 2.6 times more likely than the general population to die in a home fire. That’s alarming! Older adults most often incur burns at home, typically when cooking or bathing. The most common burn injuries are from scalding hot water or flames. Many factors contribute to an older adult’s high susceptibility…
Read MoreLiving apart together
Can two households be better than one? In a trend called “living apart together” (LAT), a growing number of older adults are experimenting with committed relationships that also allow for autonomy. These are people who prefer intimacy and companionship in their lives. At the same time, marriage—or even living together—brings more entanglements than they want…
Read MoreKeeping the Well in Wealthy
Tune in to a new episode of Keeping The Well in Well-thy | Supporting a Loved One Diagnosed with Dementia with Susy Elder Murphy, BA, CMC Dementia manifests in a variety of ways. In its early stages, it can be easily mistaken for mere forgetfulness or the natural aging process. However, understanding its root causes can…
Read MoreEarly-onset dementia: Money issues
Finances are bound to be a concern if your spouse has received a diagnosis of dementia before age 65. As in many households, your partner’s job may cover important monthly bills. And perhaps essentials such as family health insurance or retirement funding. In the early stages, your partner may be able to reduce hours or…
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