More than 30 million people in the U.S. are living with diabetes, a disease that happens when blood glucose (blood sugar) is too high. Diabetes sometimes happens when the pancreas cannot manufacture enough insulin, a hormone that helps glucose from food get into the cells to be used for energy. Or, it might be that Read More
Since the pandemic began, most of us have been thinking about our immune systems more! We are lucky enough to have a vaccine that can help ward off the virus that causes COVID-19. And we should be getting our seasonal flu shot for 2021, if we haven’t already. Certainly, a lot of us are thinking Read More
If you’re like most people these days, you’re spending a certain amount of time fretting. Given what’s going on in the world right now, that’s understandable. But what if you can’t stop the bad thoughts that are going through your mind? A team of experts from the UK studied a group of seniors and found Read More
Not so long ago, scientists thought we were born with all the brain cells we would ever have. But using modern brain imagery, neurologists now tell us that the brain can continue to grow new cells, even in our later years. This process, called neurogenesis, protects our memory. We can promote neurogenesis by eating and Read More
Social Security is the major source of post-retirement income for most older adults, so if a senior receives a call from the Social Security Administration (SSA), they are likely to pick up the phone and listen! But the SSA is warning seniors that these days, con artists have been impersonating SSA officials to steal the Read More
Prescription and nonprescription drugs help seniors manage a variety of health conditions. They preserve both life and quality of life. Of course, they only work if we take them properly. How much do you know about your medications? True or False? If my doctor prescribes a drug, and then I start to feel better, it’s Read More
Every year, this national observance is held to call attention to the need for vaccination for people of all ages. It’s hard to believe that a year ago, this event did not include a recommendation to get our COVID shot—because we didn’t have that life-saving option! Getting our COVID vaccine will get families together and Read More
Gerontologists tell us that feeling we make a difference in the world provides a powerful healthy aging boost. A study of 7,000 older adults published in the journal Proceedings of the National Academy of Science showed that those who engaged in activities they consider worthwhile have more positive health outcomes. Study author Prof. Andrew Steptoe Read More
If we live long enough, we’ll notice changes in our memory and thinking. Or maybe our spouse or another family member will be the ones to point out these changes. In any case, it’s important to be aware of changes that might mean something is amiss, and which should be reported to the doctor, such Read More
Every summer, many Americans suffer from heat-related illnesses. Seniors are at higher risk of these conditions and should receive prompt medical attention if they display the signs of heatstroke. But it’s important, says the American Heart Association/American Stroke Association, not to confuse heatstroke with stroke, because although both should be treated immediately, the treatments are Read More