Category Archives: Uncategorized

Families should watch for warning signs such as difficulty seeing road signs, slower reaction times, confusion while driving, frequent close calls, and trouble managing traffic situations. During National Older Driver Safety Awareness Week, recognizing these changes can help families address driving concerns before an accident occurs. Aging does not automatically make someone an unsafe driver,… Read More

Older adults living with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) can often breathe more comfortably by making simple changes to their daily routines. Avoiding smoke and air pollution, practicing breathing techniques, staying physically active, eating balanced meals, and following prescribed treatments can help manage symptoms. During COPD Awareness Month, families and caregivers can learn practical ways… Read More

National Gratitude Month, observed throughout November, encourages people to recognize and appreciate the individuals, experiences, and relationships that enrich their lives. For older adults, expressing gratitude can provide opportunities to strengthen friendships, reconnect with family members, and develop a greater sense of belonging. Simple gestures such as making a phone call, writing a thank-you note,… Read More

Families should talk about their medical past during National Family Health History Day because understanding the health conditions experienced by relatives can help identify potential health risks and support better healthcare decisions. Family medical history may provide useful information about conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, certain cancers, and other illnesses that sometimes occur across… Read More

World Pneumonia Day, observed on November 12, is an important reminder that pneumonia can be particularly serious for older adults. As people age, changes in immune function and the presence of chronic health conditions may increase the risk of severe respiratory infections and complications. Recognizing symptoms, understanding prevention strategies, staying current with recommended vaccinations, and… Read More

Breathing changes should become a concern when shortness of breath, coughing, wheezing, or changes in mucus become new, persistent, or noticeably worse than usual. During World COPD Day in November, older adults and their families can learn to recognize symptoms that may indicate chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) or changes in an existing respiratory condition…. Read More

GERD Awareness Week can help older adults recognize when frequent heartburn, acid reflux, swallowing difficulties, or other digestive symptoms deserve attention. Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) occurs when stomach contents repeatedly flow back into the esophagus, potentially causing uncomfortable symptoms and irritation. Occasional digestive discomfort is common, but persistent, worsening, or unusual symptoms should not simply… Read More

Nurse Practitioner Week can remind older adults that managing chronic health conditions usually requires ongoing attention rather than waiting until symptoms become serious. Nurse practitioners can play an important role in evaluating health concerns, monitoring chronic conditions, reviewing medications, providing education, ordering appropriate tests, and coordinating care within their permitted scope of practice. For older… Read More

Thanksgiving gatherings can help families notice changes in an older loved one’s care needs because relatives often spend more time together than they do during ordinary phone calls or brief visits. Adult children may notice changes in mobility, personal care, eating habits, memory, household routines, or social behavior that were difficult to recognize from a… Read More

National Home Health Care Month in November can help families understand that, when medically appropriate, recovering at home may allow an older adult to receive needed services while remaining in familiar surroundings. Skilled home health professionals may provide nursing, therapy, and other services according to an individualized care plan. Families may also combine home health… Read More