Published: November 3, 2009

This time of year many older adults and their families are in the process of determining what health insurance plan best fits their needs. At times, this can be frustrating or confusing. But there is help in making these decisions. Let’s take a look at some of the differences:

Medicare

In Medicare, you can choose different ways to get the services covered by Medicare. Depending on where you live, you may have several choices.

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Published: October 2, 2009

Many older people need help paying for prescription drugs, healthcare, utilities and other basic needs. Ironically, millions of older Americans — especially those with limited incomes — are eligible for but not receiving benefits from existing federal, state and local programs. Ranging from heating and energy assistance to prescription savings programs to income supplements, there are many public programs available to seniors in need if they only knew about them and how to apply for them.  read more »

Published: September 1, 2009

Caregiving is not easy for anyone, not for the caregiver and not for the care recipient. From a distance, it may be especially hard to feel that what you are doing is enough, or that what you are doing is important. It usually is.  read more »

Published: August 3, 2009

How do you talk with your parents about their ability to remain living independently, managing their medication schedules and driving safely? This conversation is often difficult for everyone involved, but where the safety and quality of life of those you love is at stake, ignoring the issue can be dangerous. The good news is that if you plan in advance—before problems arise—those conversations aren't as hard as you may fear. An AARP survey found that most parents feel better about having this kind of discussion when things are going well.  read more »

Published: July 1, 2009

An estimated one in three adults 65 years old and older experience a fall each year. While all age groups are vulnerable, 60 percent of fall-related deaths occur among people 65 and older. Falls are the No. 1 cause of injury-related death for males 80 and older and for females 75 and older. Persons who have suffered a fall are twice as likely to suffer another one within six months.  read more »

Published: June 1, 2009

Hot weather has arrived early this season, draining both human energy and electrical power,  While some are basking in the warmth of the sun, the elderly can suffer from heat-related illnesses in disproportionately high numbers because our ability to sweat and cool our body through evaporation changes with age.

If you are caring for your aging parent or checking on an elderly neighbor, keeping these tips in mind can help make the hot, lazy days of summer safer and more comfortable for everyone.  read more »