Mental health is equally as important as physical health. The U.S. Surgeon General once defined mental health as “the successful performance of mental function, resulting in productive activities, fulfilling relationships with other people, and providing the ability to adapt to change and cope with adversity.” This holds true for everyone – including the elderly. Sadly,…
With more and more of the elderly using technology, especially our aging Baby Boomers, assistive computer technology can go a long way in helping those whose abilities begin to wane. There are very useful options like automation, voice commands, and dictation, for those in need of assistive technology. These could make otherwise difficult tasks much…
As we age, the health challenges we face become more complex. Chronic conditions, as well as the list of medications can quickly pile on. As such, a more holistic view of the geriatric patient may become essential. Therefore, if you or an aging loved one is beginning to become overwhelmed, it may be time to…
The website Minding Our Elders liked one of Anita’s articles so much that they posted it for their followers. “Ah.. to this there are no easy answers. There are situations where the need for moving a senior from their comfortable home is not altogether apparent, nor are its benefits. There is a pervasive attitude that moving…
Just as patients were steered clear of using hospitals for certain surgeries in an effort to cut costs, that same impetus is forcing people out of their alternative, cost saving surgical facilities, way too soon as well. Today’s trend of using these facilities instead of hospitals for surgery should set off warning messages. With inadequate…
It is difficult to accept that a senior adult in your life is no longer able to perform the same tasks they once could on their own. You may have started noticing small signs that have raised concerns. At first, you may have even turned a blind eye. However, when those signs become more frequent…
How many times have you heard someone say their father or mother was fine before he or she fell? For many, an unexpected elderly fall can touch off a series of events that end in serious or fatal complications. Significantly, it can lead to extended hospital stays and disabling conditions that make living independently more…
Aging and losing the ability to perform the day-to-day tasks that once defined us can be a tough pill to swallow. Relinquishing those responsibilities to someone else can be even harder. At David York Agency, we understand that dignity, above all else, is the key to good eldercare. In her novel Unbroken, Laura Hillenbrand wrote,…
Elderly Substance Abuse It’s something that we never associate with the elderly, but it does, in fact, exist —- it’s substance abuse. According to the NYS Office of Alcoholism and Substance Abuse Services (OASAS), this is a “hidden national epidemic”. While 60% of substance abusers in younger demographics are diagnosed, only 37% in the…
While teens have moved on from Facebook, the older generation has found that it serves them quite well. They have recognized that others in their stations in life are also online. As such, they have used it to start discussion groups for life and health issues pertinent to them. Doctors and other professionals have keyed…