Bed bugs are insects that, as adults, have oval-shaped bodies with no wings. Prior to feeding, they are about 1/4 inch long and flat as paper. After feeding, they turn dark red and become bloated. Eggs are whitish, pear-shaped and about the size of a pinhead. Clusters of 10-50 eggs can be found in cracks and crevices. Bed bugs have … Read More
Make Gardening Easier for Seniors
Growing your own beautiful flowers and tasty fresh vegetables are a couple of good reasons to spend time working in the garden. But gardening can also save you money, boost your mood and improve your health. There are generations of people in North America who have never spent time with their hands in the soil or tasted a home-grown tomato, … Read More
Seniors Coping With Tinnitus
Are you hearing ringing, hissing, buzzing or roaring sounds in one or both of your ears? What you’re experiencing is called tinnitus. This ringing in the ears is most common in seniors, and though it can be extremely annoying, it is usually not a sign of a serious problem. Tinnitus can be caused by a number of conditions, including ear … Read More
Alzheimer’s and Wandering
Dementia can erase memories of familiar places and make it difficult to adjust to new surroundings. Because of this, people with Alzheimer’s may wander away from home and get lost, leaving them frightened and disoriented. Learning to curb or prevent this wandering is important for keeping a person with dementia safe. What causes wandering? Often, someone who is wandering is: … Read More
Maintaining a Healthy Weight as a Senior
People are living longer and enjoying active lifestyles well into their 80s and 90s. Research continues to confirm that eating well and being physically active can have a dramatic impact on quality of life for older adults. You are never too old to reap the benefits of a healthy diet and exercise. In fact, as we age, our food choices … Read More
Helping a Dementia Caregiver
Caring for someone with Alzheimer’s or other dementia is a 24/7 job. Dementia Caregivers need help and support. If someone in your life is caring for a parent or spouse with Alzheimer’s, here are some ways you can be there for them. Look for signs of caregiver stress Many people who have taken on a caregiver role believe they have … Read More
Alzheimer’s and Home Safety
Keeping your home safe is important for everyone, especially seniors. But home safety is especially important when there is someone with Alzheimer’s or dementia living there. Assess the situation. Think about the abilities, health and behaviour of the person with dementia. Do they wander at night? Are they capable of using the stairs on their own? Have they fallen before? … Read More
Seniors and Seasonal Affective Disorder
While seasonal affective disorder is found in adults of all ages, older adults may have lifestyle factors that put them at higher risk. Seniors with mobility issues may get much less time outdoors and less exposure to natural sunlight. The recent death of a loved one and feelings of isolation can also increase the risk of developing SAD. Here are some tips to help.
Dementia and the Holiday Season
The holiday season can be difficult for people caring for loved ones with dementia. Memories of past holidays can remind you how much has changed. The family may feel they should try and live up to the expectations of family traditions, but that may not be realistic. But, adjusting your expectations and making some changes to family traditions can allow … Read More
Senior Fitness: Exercise and Osteoporosis
Osteoporosis is a disease which causes bones to become fragile and easy to fracture. It is a major cause of disability for older women. A fractured hip or spine impacts personal mobility and independence for a lengthy period of time. People with osteoporosis may believe they should shy away from exercise to be safe and prevent fractures. However, keeping your … Read More