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As many as one in five caregivers will suffer from depression, which is about twice the prevailing rate in the general population. While many may show signs, many others who will not. Even after the loss of the person that is being looked after, research suggests that at least four in 10 caregivers will suffer from some degree of depression for a few years afterwards. More women than men caregivers...

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As we age, maintaining a healthy and balanced diet is less about growth and development, and more about maintaining and sustaining an active and healthy lifestyle for as long as possible. As we all know, there are weight and age-related conditions that can be made worse by poor food choices. When shopping for groceries, an elderly person or their caregiver should think about what they need to eat on a daily...

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At the onset of dementia, an elderly person will probably be able to manage on his or her own without too much intervention. However, it is worth considering the support that is available as this is a good time to plan where more help is likely to be required in the future. Many elderly people with early dementia are concerned about becoming a burden on their loved ones. While family members will...

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We all hope to get old and enjoy our senior years. Getting older can be daunting in many ways. As we age, we notice changes in how we used to function, including a reduction in our ability to maintain attention, slowing of our motor skills and lack of memory. Regular forms of mental activity can help to reduce these changes and promote lifelong well-being. From crosswords to playing certain forms...

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As we age and become less mobile, we exercise less. There is a tendency for elderly people to put on weight, and about three in 10 people over the age of 50 are obese. Waist measurements rather than BMI (Body Mass Index) should be used to assess the degree of obesity. Increased risk of mortality and morbidity is associated with visceral obesity, where there are large amounts of intra-abdominal and loss...

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Age in Place is the term used to describe the wish or ability of an elderly person to live in his or her own home and community independently and safely irrespective of their ability, health, age or wealth.  Age in Place (or 'Aging in Place') is about providing choice to elderly people who want to live at home – a trend that is increasing. As we age, we have various challenges to overcome and to live...

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While quality protein may be a difficult option for the elderly due to the cost and availability, it is important that protein is included in the diet for many reasons, including these:  Protein helps develop muscles and bones. The loss of muscle and bone density can cause osteoporosis and sarcopenia that can result in morbidity. Protein and diet are crucial for developing bone and muscle and increasing...

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There are many reasons why we should be concerned about depression in the elderly.   Many older people are at a greater risk of depression, and still many of them do not want to seek help and do not want to be a burden on their families. Depression is not a sign of getting older or linked with the dying process, so seeking mental health advice and help should not be seen as a weakness. Although...

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Millions, including our senior citizen population, have fallen victim to scammers. Financial fraud is the fastest growing form of elder abuse, and most states have comprehensive laws that make elder financial abuse a crime. The Better Business Bureau (BBB) encourages families to communicate openly and freely with their elderly members to make sure that everyone is on the “same page” in recognizing...

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It only takes a moment for a fear memory to become embedded in one's brain. It's part of the aftermath of either being involved in or witnessing a traumatic event. Overcoming the fear can take time, but scientists at Northwestern University say that it can be done in your sleep. They have been able to lower fear levels in people by using certain odors to trigger and then redirect the frightening memories...

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