By Gary Hightower, 9:00 am on November 26, 2021

Spina bifida is a congenital condition in which the spine doesn’t develop properly. Sometimes the condition remains undetected and individuals with spina bifida go through the usual signs of aging. However, seniors may display certain signs that indicate they have spina bifida. Here’s a list of five symptoms commonly associated with spina bifida that a senior with the condition can…

By Gary Hightower, 9:00 am on November 12, 2021

The image of a hunched-over senior whiling the days away knitting has become passé. Today, seniors are staying active and enjoying better health than ever before. Here are a few so-called “truths” about aging that have been revealed to be little more than myths. Myth #1: Seniors Should Stick to Chair Exercises While it’s true some seniors may need to…

By Gary Hightower, 9:00 am on October 29, 2021

Loneliness can lead to various health issues for seniors, including obesity, high blood pressure, chronic stress, and even death. As a family caregiver, you need to keep your elderly parent happy, stimulated, and active. Here are some of the ways you can cheer up a lonely senior loved one. 1. Go for a Walk Together Being outdoors can relieve stress…

By Gary Hightower, 9:00 am on October 15, 2021

Berries are one of the many recommended fruits seniors should add to their diets. Acai berries contain higher levels of certain nutrients than most other berries. These berries are common in the Amazon rainforest and grow on massive palm trees. They’re purple in color and look similar to blueberries. Local cultures favored the berries for centuries due to their healing…

By Gary Hightower, 9:00 am on September 24, 2021

When the grandkids come over to visit, your aging loved one knows great things are going to happen. While it’s always fun to watch the different generations of your family mingle, you can enjoy knowing these family bonding moments also offer significant benefits for your loved one’s health.  Maintain an Open Mind Older adults can easily get set in their…

By Gary Hightower, 9:00 am on September 10, 2021

The long-term health effects of a stroke can vary depending on its severity and location in the brain. However, most people experience some changes in their mobility and thinking skills that can pose challenges during recovery. Fortunately, receiving high-quality care during the first few weeks at home helps seniors have the safest recovery possible.  Understand the Discharge Instructions The discharge…

By Gary Hightower, 9:00 am on August 27, 2021

With so much attention on other types of cancer, it seems as though pancreatic cancer gets overlooked. However, seniors should be aware this type of cancer rarely shows symptoms until it spreads. Taking these preventative actions may help seniors reduce their pancreatic cancer risk and boost their overall health.  1.  Maintain a Healthy Weight Pancreatic cancer is one of the…

By Gary Hightower, 9:00 am on August 13, 2021

If you’re caring for an elderly loved one with Alzheimer’s, you know the importance of maintaining a strict schedule. And if you’re new to caregiving, you may not understand why sticking to a daily routine is so essential. Learn about the benefits of following regular schedules for seniors with Alzheimer’s disease.  Encourages Better Sleep  Seniors who go to bed at…

By Gary Hightower, 9:00 am on July 30, 2021

It seems like everything is a dietary no-no these days. The ever-growing list of foods to avoid sometimes makes it difficult for seniors and their caregivers to prepare appropriate meals, especially ones based on favorite recipes calling for any of the questionable ingredients. Fortunately, some of these "bad" foods are now considered acceptable and even beneficial for senior health.  1.…

By Gary Hightower, 9:00 am on July 16, 2021

Arthritis is a condition in which one or more joints become inflamed. This causes swelling, pain, and the inability to freely move the affected joints. The hands, elbows, knees, ankles, spine, and hips are affected most often. Although every type of arthritis causes inflammation, they’re classified as either inflammatory or non-inflammatory. To help family caregivers better understand the two, here…