When we’re young, we look mostly to the future. In later life, a lot of our joy comes from looking back. It makes sense. The young have more future than past, while the older folks have more past than future. Sometimes we forget as adult children of seniors to include conversations that bring them satisfaction […]
In the memorable words of Mark Twain, “Travel is fatal to prejudice, bigotry and narrow-mindedness.” That is more than ample justification for everyone to travel — and that includes seniors. For seniors, though, travel presents a number of special challenges that go with travel’s considerable benefits and opportunities. What follows are some suggestions to make […]
Did you know that your voice and manner of speaking may change with age? As we age, the reality is that our voices change. Some people also experience changes in their ability to speak and communicate. These changes can make some feel like they are losing their edge, or worse, losing control over an important […]
Hearing changes are normal with advancing age. I’ll admit to having a hearing issue (or “loss”) myself, although it is a result of a past major surgery. I prefer to call it “an issue” or “a loss” rather than a disability; there is something more uplifting and correctable about having “as issue” or “a loss.” […]
Good nutrition is important for people of all ages. But not all seniors are capable of managing their nutritional needs easily. And those with dementia can experience mental and physical hurdles that interfere with their abilities to eat and maintain healthy diets. Dementia may also make it more difficult for them to understand or express […]
Many caregivers suffer from an ailment called “tunnel vision.” This dilemma is caused by an overwhelming amount of work and needs that need to be met to the point you focus on what’s right in front of you — more work. There’s laundry and housework. There’s personal care for your loved one. There are doctor […]
Caring for someone who has dementia is a uniquely stressful experience. The person may be forgetful, engage in bizarre behavior, have trouble speaking, become incontinent, fall, and have trouble eating, dressing, or bathing. He or she may even forget who you are — which can be particularly distressing for family members. Caregivers and family members […]
It’s an old adage: A man’s—and a woman’s—best friend is a dog. Dogs and humans have been companions since dogs were wolves. Wolves came out of the prehistoric forests to join our human ancestors around warm fires and eat discarded food scraps. Wolves became prehistoric man’s hunting partners. They saved lives and eased human fear […]