Brain Health

Image of cluttered room with window and draperies. Room is jammed with clothing and other items making it unsafe

How Do I Get Dad Out of His Cluttered, Unsafe Home?

People want to stay in their own homes. You hear it and read about it all the time. And there’s some merit to that....

Shower with white subway tile and chrome and black fixtures. Two bottles of shampoo or conditioner are on built in shelf

What to Do When Older Adults Refuse to Bathe and Change Their Clothes

When it comes to caring for the elderly, hygiene issues are surprisingly common. Determining why their bathing habits have changed is the best way...

Some Tips If You Suspect Abuse in Your Parent’s Retirement Home or Facility

I think most of us approach the idea of sharing the care of an elder with a lot of trepidation. We have cared for...

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Alcoholism in the Elderly: How Can You Help?

Millions of people consume alcohol, but each person has their own unique relationship with this substance. While many can drink in moderation without it...

A grandma with short, stylish blonde hair, wearing a purple shirt holds an electronic tablet in front of her. She's showing two children something on the screen. One child is on each side and they sit on a couch.

Cognitive Capacity Defined by Ability, not Age

Dear Carol: You’ve addressed this before, but I need help. I’m 73 and feel like I’m continually under scrutiny as my adult children watch...

Affectionate older gray-haired couple, man in blue sweater and woman in red sweater.

Alzheimer’s: Theft, Paranoia or Forgetfulness?

The truth, as they see it, is still the truth in their eyes. Delusions, hallucinations, agitation, aggression and depression are all part of the...

Livingroom with white fireplace full of brown packing boxes ready to fill for a move

Should You Convince Your Aging Parents to Move Closer to You?

As a columnist for a newspaper on the northern plains, I often have readers write me that they are begging their parents to “come...

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How to Keep Older Adults Active and Engaged

As family caregivers, we strive to meet all our loved ones’ needs. We give medication reminders, cook meals, manage doctor’s appointments, and keep schedules....