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Posted on August 19, 2018 - Too often we need a piece of information when we are least able to access it—during a medical emergency, at a doctor’s appointment, when meeting with a lawyer, or during a hospital admission. So, it makes sense to get organized ahead of time by pulling the information you may need into a convenient inventory.

Posted on August 16, 2018 - While there are no set criteria for determining when a person with Alzheimer's disease should be prevented from driving, there are warning signs. Keep in mind that in some states, driving privileges are based on the stage of the disease assigned by the physician. University of California Berkeley School of Public Health experts recommend applying the “grandchild test” when deciding whether a loved one with dementia is safe behind the wheel.

Posted on August 13, 2018 - Many studies show that owning a pet can benefit us in multiple ways, no matter what our age. Pets provide companionship, motivation to exercise, a context for socializing, stress reduction and a powerful emotional boost. But experts advise us that pet ownership is not a decision to make lightly, especially when we’re older. For some seniors, taking care of a pet can be physically difficult. A poorly trained dog, or a cat that’s always underfoot, can cause a fall. For people of every age, pets can sometimes interrupt sleep, which is an especially important issue for seniors, who have more trouble falling asleep and staying asleep.

Posted on August 8, 2018 - Though most seniors wish to stay at home for as long as possible, health challenges often mean that moving to a skilled nursing facility is the best choice. If you are helping a loved one with this process, maybe you spent a lot of time making the decision, and finding a place that is the best possible fit for their needs. Or perhaps, a health crisis led to a move that felt sudden. In either case, before, during and after the move, family and friends can help the move go smoothly and support the senior during the adjustment period and beyond.

Posted on August 6, 2018 - Family caregivers know it’s important to install smoke alarms and to take other steps to protect senior loved ones from home fires. But what if the fire comes from outside the home? Even from a distance, wildfires can create big hazards for older adults.