Aging & Independence Archives

Telemedicine Is a Powerful Tool

Jun 15, 2020 · Orli R. Etingin, M.D. · Aging & Independence

The restrictions on face-to-face contact due to the coronavirus have prompted many changes in the way we deliver health care.Telemedicine—the practice of evaluating and treating patients remotely, most often via computer—has allowed physicians to provide services to their patients who would go without care otherwise. Telemedicine is not new—it’s been … Read More

Take Proactive Steps to Prevent Falls and Injuries

Jun 15, 2020 · Dawn Bialy · Aging & Independence

As the number of older adults rises, so does the number of injuries and falls suffered by this population. Among adults ages 65 and older, falls are the top cause of injuries and death from injury, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). “Many of the risk … Read More

Why Hair Falls Out and Gets Thinner

May 18, 2020 · JoAnn Milivojevic · Aging & Independence

Hair has a natural cycle of growth and decline (called shedding). So, if you occasionally find a bit more hair on the bathroom floor, don’t panic. Natural hair loss is individual and variable. “The estimated rate of shedding can be from 100 to 200 strands per day,” says Carolyn Goh, … Read More

Learn the Many Cognitive and Emotional Benefits of Living a Life of Purpose

May 18, 2020 · Jay Roland · Aging & Independence

Are you living a life filled with purpose? It’s not a question most people stop to consider, but living a purposeful life is associated with greater cognitive, emotional and physical health. Numerous studies in recent years have found that people who derive a sense of purpose from their lives are … Read More

Simple Steps to Prevent Falls

May 18, 2020 · Carrie Adkins-Ali · Aging & Independence

Close to one-third of people age 65 or older fall every year, and about 10% of them suffer serious injuries such as fractures, joint dislocations, and concussions. Even those who escape injury often develop a fear of falling that can have a devastating effect on activity levels and quality … Read More

Newsbites: Eating Fish; Daily Aspirin; Heart Disease Risk Factors

May 18, 2020 · UHN Staff · Aging & Independence

Eating Fish Associated with Lower Cardiovascular Disease Risk than Meat and Poultry While this study does not prove cause and effect, it does reinforce advice to replace processed meats (including bacon, sausage, hot dogs, and deli meats/lunch meats—including cured, sliced turkey) and unprocessed red meat (even lean cuts of beef, … Read More

Planning for Your Future Care

Apr 16, 2020 · Kate Brophy · Aging & Independence

Each year, about 100,000 Americans get an implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD), a device that constantly monitors the heart and delivers an electric impulse if this is needed to correct a potentially lethal heart rhythm. These are lifesaving devices, but research suggests that many people continue to be shocked by their … Read More

Guard Against Tuberculosis in Older Age

Apr 16, 2020 · Kate Brophy · Aging & Independence

You may think of tuberculosis (TB) as being a disease from another era, but this serious respiratory condition is not uncommon in seniors. Elderly nursing home residents are especially vulnerable. TB is caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis (MTB). The most common site of infection is the lungs, but it can involve … Read More

Ask the Doctor: Morning Headache; Finding Geriatric Doctor

Apr 16, 2020 · UHN Staff · Aging & Independence

Q: What causes morning headaches? A: There are many reasons why this could be occurring. Exploring what you did during the day or evening can provide clues and possible solutions. For example, dehydration can cause mild and even more severe headaches. Because some may lose the ability to sense thirst, … Read More

Do You Have Difficulty Swallowing?

Apr 16, 2020 · JoAnn Milivojevic · Aging & Independence

Dysphagia is the medical term for difficulty with swallowing. When this vital function becomes problematic, it’s important to let your physician know, even if it’s minor and occurs sporadically. And don’t ignore difficulty swallowing just because it is not painful. “Dysphagia is never normal,” says gastroenterologist Craig Gluckman, MD, UCLA … Read More

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