Everyone likes to go on fun outings. Not only are they entertaining, but there’s research that shows getting out of the house more often can increase a senior’s quality of life. Even though this is true, a recent study found that more than 2 million older adults (about 5.6% of the senior demographic) are homebound, making them more at risk for depression, anxiety, and physical health concerns due to lack of exercise.

From a young age, we’re taught the importance of dental and oral health: brush your teeth twice a day, floss regularly, avoid sticky candies, etc. And while it’s undoubtedly important to instill proper oral health habits in children, it seems like this practice and ideology declines with age.

Like many things, forgetfulness is a normal part of aging. As we get older, it’s completely natural and not usually a cause for concern when we misplace our keys, forget someone’s name, or miss an appointment.

It can be challenging to find the perfect gift for someone you love. What do you get for someone who has everything, or for someone who wants nothing? Or, in the case of your older parents, what do you get for someone who has received a lifetime of gifts, or may have a different idea of what a “good” gift is?

As adults, the consensus is that we should see our primary care physician once a year for a physical exam. As we get older, however, medical needs change and require more attention, and this annual exam may not be enough to stay proactively healthy. After all, “the goal for medicine should be prevention and wellness [instead of] chasing medical problems after they come up,” says Amber Tully, M.D., a family medicine physician at Cleveland Clinic. 

Did you know that six in ten Americans live with at least one chronic disease? For older adults, this number increases to 85%. Chronic conditions include diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, COPD, Alzheimer’s, and more.

With summer in full swing, it’s more important than ever for people of all ages to stay hydrated. Between increased temperatures and more outdoor activities, summer can cause dehydration in anyone. Seniors, however, are at particularly high risk.

We live in an era of near-constant technological advancement. Digital tools continue to be developed that aim to improve our daily lives by keeping us active and healthy, simplifying tasks, and providing information.

Those 65 years and older account for 34% of all prescription medication use. As we age, the likelihood of needing multiple medications increases. With that in mind, medication safety is a crucial aspect that can help protect you or a family member from misusing a medication.

With 1 in 3 adults in the United States having high blood pressure, or hypertension, it’s a health topic on the minds of many. While hypertension is very common, it’s also very manageable and preventable.