TECHNOLOGY FOR SENIORS

The recently concluded CES (consumer electronics show) had the usual showcases for new TVs, cutting edge computers and the newest home gadgets. But this year’s show had a new focus: technology for our aging population. Some of the products were riffs on classic CES products, but with a focus on senior markets. Including: A ball-shaped […]

A new study shows that one of the major contributing factors to Parkinson’s disease and Lewy Body Dementia may begin in the human gastrointestinal tract. New Atlas has a report on the study published in the journal Cell. The study shows that the development of Lewy Bodies – clumps of proteins that interfere with neurological […]

Could something as simple as an eye exam help detect Alzheimer’s before symptoms emerge? This is the question researchers at the University of Rhode Island are currently investigating.  According to the Providence Journal, the test would use non-invasive instruments to scan the eye searching for biomarkers and could be conducted in most ophthalmic practices. Previously […]

We talk a lot about caring for our loved ones, but we don’t talk enough about caring for ourselves as caregivers. If you are reading this, then chances are you know how…exhausting it can be caring for a loved one who has medical issues. Maybe exhausting isn’t the right word. Maybe, as a friend of […]

A new study out of Brazil shows that some relatively simple activities and exercises designed around fall-prevention can have significant beneficial effects for participants. The interactive session was split into two parts: a lecture session which highlighted the risks associated with falls, and a group memory game activity. Participants in the course were later quizzed […]

As we enter the winter holiday season, it’s the perfect time to think about fun and games. Specifically, about games and activities, you can play as a family, including your elder loved ones.  Lego – The evergreen classic. There is nothing like spilling a whole mess of Lego pieces onto the dining room table and […]

Eventually, most of our elder loved ones will get to a point at which they can no longer live independently. In many cases, we caregivers will offer to take that loved one into our home. The transition can be difficult emotionally, even before you consider what it’s like to live with someone who is in […]

Alzheimer’s patients who are exposed to pets such as dogs display more positive behavior, according to a study carried out on an Alzheimer’s special care unit. Additional studies show that pets can provide companionship, reduce isolation, and ease anxiety. Modern technology has now embraced the benefits that pets offer Alzheimer’s patients. These studies have resulted […]

At-home physical therapy – Creaky Joints has a great rundown of exercises for the hands you can do at home with no special equipment. These simple activities can help alleviate pain, improve flexibility, and potentially stave off any further degradation.  Learn which tools can help – As they say, the right tool for the right […]

Barely a day goes by without reading stories like this about seniors being taken advantage of by scammers. But, you and your loved ones don’t have to be victimized this way.  Here are some general tips to help safeguard your elder loved ones: Designate a financial “advocate” – Find someone – a spouse, a child, […]

As the days grow shorter and colder, it’s important to prepare for the season. This doesn’t just mean bringing the houseplants in and getting the fireplace cleaned. It also means making sure your elder relatives and loved ones are prepared for the winter.  If you have elder relatives who live independently: Do they have someone […]

Those of us who care for elderly loved ones have few fears greater than wandering. News stories like this one pop up, and a chill goes up to our spines. Thankfully, that Alzheimer’s patent was found by the police and returned home safe and sound. But we all know that stories like that end in […]

Ohio Northern University recently delighted the residents of the Vancrest residential facility with a visit from their music therapy specialists.  “It’s amazing seeing the residents that normally don’t talk they start singing along to the music when normally they don’t talk to you, so that’s just a cool thing to see, my favorite part about […]