Aging & Independence

Medicare Changes Make Vaccines Free

Apr 25, 2023 · Rosanne Leipzig, MD, PhD · Aging & Independence

In last month’s issue we touched briefly on a change to insulin prices for people with Medicare Part D prescription drug plans. The change has lowered the copay for insulin to $35 per month, without a requirement to first pay the Part D deductible. Another change that may benefit you … Read More

Newsbriefs: Dementia and fall risk; cannabis safety; social isolation; nursing home audits

Apr 25, 2023 · Kate Brophy · Aging & Independence

Dementia and Fall Risk Research suggests that people with dementia have twice the risk of falling and three times the risk of incurring serious fall-related injuries, like fractures, compared with people who do not have dementia. A recent study from Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health (Alzheimer’s & Dementia, … Read More

Ask the Experts: Adult Daycare Decision; Worrying Bowel Habit Changes; Endometrial Cancer Prognosis

Apr 25, 2023 · UHN Staff · Aging & Independence

I am the sole caregiver for my husband, who has Alzheimer’s disease. Caring for him is sometimes stressful and difficult. His doctor has suggested adult daycare, since this would give me a break, but I feel terribly guilty at the thought of handing my husband over to someone else so … Read More

Mortality Risks of Major Surgery for Older Adults

Apr 25, 2023 · UHN Staff · Aging & Independence

Yale researchers found striking differences in the mortality rate of older Americans (mean age 79.2) within a year of having major surgery. These differences were particularly pronounced for geriatric-specific conditions such as frailty or dementia. According to lead author Thomas M. Gill, MD, Professor of Geriatric Medicine at Yale, “… … Read More

Preserve Your Independence

Apr 25, 2023 · UHN Staff · Aging & Independence

Do you ever wish there was some easier way to put your socks on or get that darn lid off the jar? The good news is that there are many assistive devices that can make these and other tasks of daily living easier. “My mother had a stroke, which made … Read More

Cope with and Overcome Family Estrangement

Apr 25, 2023 · UHN Staff · Aging & Independence

The arrival of summer heralds for many a season of family reunions and vacations, or even backyard barbecue get-togethers between parents, their grown children, and maybe a grandchild or two. And yet many families are denied these simple pleasures because of estrangement, a dynamic that affects about one out of … Read More

Ask the Doctor May 2023: STICKING TO A ROUTINE

Apr 25, 2023 · UHN Staff · Aging & Independence

Q: As I get older, I find that having a routine helps me remember things, concentrate better, and keep calm. But I also often feel like I’m in a rut and would like to mix things up a little. Is one approach better than another? A: Sticking to a routine … Read More

MGH Research Identifies 8 Social Factors That Affect Longevity

Apr 25, 2023 · UHN Staff · Aging & Independence

When you consider factors that affect longevity, you may first consider physical health issues, such as cardiovascular fitness, history of smoking, or even family medical history. And while those are all important considerations, certain social factors can also help forecast longevity. According to a study led by Massachusetts General Hospital … Read More

Ask the Doctor: Conversation Starters

Apr 24, 2023 · Maurizio Fava, MD · Aging & Independence

Q: My father just turned 90, and while he’s still fairly sharp, it’s getting harder to know what to talk about with him. I don’t want to bring up sad subjects, and he seldom starts conversations on his own. Any suggestions? A: It can be difficult to start conversations with … Read More

Virtual Reality Comes of Age

Apr 1, 2023 · UHN Staff · Aging & Independence

Virtual reality (VR) and video gaming are typically associated with young people racing fast cars and slaying zombies. But some researchers and businesses have turned their attention to developing VR exclusively for older adults. From exotic armchair traveling to opera performances to physical therapy, VR’s expansion into the senior market … Read More