Medical Conditions Commonly Faced by Seniors

Healthy Lifestyle Associated With 92 Percent Lower Risk of Sudden Cardiac Death

By Editor, on July 5th, 2011

A new study by Harvard researchers has found that adhering to a healthy lifestyle, including not smoking, exercising regularly, having a low body weight and eating a healthy diet, lowered by 92 percent the risk of sudden cardiac . . . → Read More: Healthy Lifestyle Associated With 92 Percent Lower Risk of Sudden Cardiac Death

Motivational Talk Therapy After Stoke May Increase Chances of Survival & Reduce Depression

By Editor, on June 30th, 2011

A new study has found that stroke patients who, in addition to receiving standard stroke care, met with therapists to discuss recovery, life expectations, and potential obstacles, within one month after stroke experienced a 50% lower death rate, and . . . → Read More: Motivational Talk Therapy After Stoke May Increase Chances of Survival & Reduce Depression

Telemedicine Allows Parkinson's Patients to Visit Their Doctors by Video Conference

By Editor, on June 29th, 2011

A new telemedicine program at the University of Rochester Movement Disorders Clinic in Rochester, New York, supported in part by funding from the National Parkinson Foundation, is allowing patients with Parkinson’s Disease to see their doctors remotely via video-conference. . . . → Read More: Telemedicine Allows Parkinson’s Patients to Visit Their Doctors by Video Conference

Calcium + Vitamin D Reduced Melanoma Risk by 57% in Women with History of Other Skin Cancer

By Editor, on June 28th, 2011

A new study led by scientists at Stanford has found that a daily supplement of 1,000 mg of calcium plus 400 IU of vitamin D3 lowered the risk of getting melanoma by 57% in women with a history of . . . → Read More: Calcium + Vitamin D Reduced Melanoma Risk by 57% in Women with History of Other Skin Cancer

TV Viewing Linked to Higher Risk of Type 2 Diabetes, Cardiovascular Disease & Death

By Editor, on June 19th, 2011

A new study has found a correlation between every two additional hours of television viewing per day and an increase in risk of type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and death. The study, by researchers from Harvard School of Public . . . → Read More: TV Viewing Linked to Higher Risk of Type 2 Diabetes, Cardiovascular Disease & Death

Screening for Melanoma Found Most Effective in Patients 50 Years or Older

By Editor, on June 18th, 2011

June, 2011 issue of the Archives of Dermatology, a Journal of the American Medical Association, concluded: “Screening and surveillance efforts should focus on patients 50 years or older and those with a personal history of skin cancer or a . . . → Read More: Screening for Melanoma Found Most Effective in Patients 50 Years or Older

Midwest Parkinson Disease Conference, June 17, 2011

By Editor, on May 27th, 2011

The National Parkinson’s Foundation is holding the annual Midwest Parkinson Disease Conference in Des Moines, Iowa, on Friday, June 17, 2011. Registrants can participate in person or by Free live webcast. HelpingYouCare™ has received the following announcement, inviting you . . . → Read More: Midwest Parkinson Disease Conference, June 17, 2011

Top 5 Recommendations for Improving Primary Care Issued Today by National Physicians Alliance

By Editor, on May 23rd, 2011

The National Physicians Alliance (NPA), an organization of 22,000 physicians in the U.S., has developed and issued today, three lists of “Top 5″ recommended changes in common clinical practices in primary medicine. They say, based on scientific literature and . . . → Read More: Top 5 Recommendations for Improving Primary Care Issued Today by National Physicians Alliance

New Tool Issued by HHS to Help Reduce Medication Errors

By Editor, on May 22nd, 2011

The U.S. Department of Health & Human Services (HHS), Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ), has released a new tool to help consumers reduce medication errors — a revised booklet, with detachable wallet-sized card, entitled: “Your Medicines: Be . . . → Read More: New Tool Issued by HHS to Help Reduce Medication Errors

More Emergency Rooms Adopt Online Reservations Systems: You Can Book An Appointment & Wait at Home

By Editor, on May 21st, 2011

Ten hospitals in South Florida have recently joined a growing national trend by adopting online reservations systems for their Emergency Rooms. These systems allow patients with non-life-threatening conditions to go online, enter their symptoms, and, for a fee, book . . . → Read More: More Emergency Rooms Adopt Online Reservations Systems: You Can Book An Appointment & Wait at Home

Tips for Traveling With Diabetes Issued by NIH and CDC

By Editor, on May 20th, 2011

The National Diabetes Education Program, jointly sponsored by the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention(CDC), has issued a checklist of tips to help you travel with diabetes. These may be helpful to . . . → Read More: Tips for Traveling With Diabetes Issued by NIH and CDC

May is Healthy Vision Month

By Editor, on May 16th, 2011

The National Eye Institute, part of the U.S. National Institutes of Health (NIH), has declared May as “Healthy Vision Month.” The purpose of Healthy Vision Month is to “encourage people and organizations around the world to recognize the value . . . → Read More: May is Healthy Vision Month

Prevent Falls by Older Adults

By Editor, on May 15th, 2011

The HHS Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality reports that fall-related injuries are responsible for about two million visits to hospital emergency departments per year, according to a May 12, 2011 HealthBeat report issued by the U.S. Department of . . . → Read More: Prevent Falls by Older Adults

Govt Finds Dangerous Antipsychotic Drugs Given 95% "Off Label" in Nursing Homes

By Editor, on May 10th, 2011

The Office of Inspector General (OIG) of the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services released an investigation report on May 4, 2011, finding that among elderly Medicare patients in nursing homes, dangerous antipsychotic drugs are being given predominantly . . . → Read More: Govt Finds Dangerous Antipsychotic Drugs Given 95% “Off Label” in Nursing Homes

Obesity and Even Overweight in Mid-Life Linked to Higher Risk of Dementia

By Editor, on May 4th, 2011

A new study conducted on 8,534 twin individuals in Sweden has found that those who were obese in midlife were 288% more likely to develop dementia in later life, and even those who were merely overweight in midlife were . . . → Read More: Obesity and Even Overweight in Mid-Life Linked to Higher Risk of Dementia

Warning Signs of A Heart Attack

By Editor, on April 30th, 2011

Heart Attack/ Heart Disease is the number one cause of death in the U.S. Knowing the warning signs and symptoms of heart attack, and calling 911 immediately, can save your life or the life of your loved ones. Though . . . → Read More: Warning Signs of A Heart Attack

National Women’s Health Week May 8 – May 14 -- Focus on Older Women's Heart Health

By Editor, on April 29th, 2011

As part of National Women’s Health Week, May 8 – May 14, 2011, a new initiative of the HHS Office of Women’s Health called, “Safety, Health for Older Women (SHOW),” will focus attention on older women’s heart health. . . . → Read More: National Women’s Health Week May 8 – May 14 — Focus on Older Women’s Heart Health

Low Health Literacy Linked to Higher Death Rate Among Heart Patients

By Editor, on April 26th, 2011

A new study conducted by a team of researchers from the Denver Health Medical Center, Kaiser Permanente Colorado Institute for Health Research, the University of Colorado Denver, and other institutions, has found that low health literacy among patients with . . . → Read More: Low Health Literacy Linked to Higher Death Rate Among Heart Patients

Weight Loss and Walking Exercise Improve Memory, Studies Find

By Editor, on April 23rd, 2011

Recent studies have found that both weight loss and walking exercise may improve or preserve memory. Weight Loss A new study led by John Gunstad, associate professor in Kent State University’s Department of Psychology, and a team of researchers . . . → Read More: Weight Loss and Walking Exercise Improve Memory, Studies Find

Studies Find Calcium Supplements May Increase Risk of Heart Attack

By Editor, on April 22nd, 2011

New studies, conducted by medical researchers at the University of Auckland, New Zealand, and the University of Aberdeen, Scotland, found that post-menopausal women taking calcium supplements (with or without Vitamin D) may be at increased risk of heart attack. . . . → Read More: Studies Find Calcium Supplements May Increase Risk of Heart Attack

Healthy Sounding Labels Are Not Always Low In Sodium!

By Senior Editor, on April 21st, 2011

According to doctors, too much sodium increases the risk of high blood pressure, heart disease, kidney stones, and osteoporosis. Watch Consumer Reports nutritionists find healthier . . . → Read More: Healthy Sounding Labels Are Not Always Low In Sodium!

New Guidelines for Diagnosis of Alzheimer's

By Editor, on April 19th, 2011

For the first time in 27 years, the clinical criteria and guidelines for diagnosis of Alzheimer’s Disease have been revised. The new Guidelines recognize that the development of Alzheimer’s begins 10 or more years before clear symptoms of the . . . → Read More: New Guidelines for Diagnosis of Alzheimer’s

Study Finds Eating Apples Every Day Promotes Heart Health & Weight Loss in Postmenopausal Women

By Editor, on April 15th, 2011

A new study has found that daily apple consumption promotes cardiovascular health, and was even associated with weight loss, in postmenopausal women. The study, entitled, “Daily apple consumption promotes cardiovascular health in postmenopausal women,” was conducted by researchers in . . . → Read More: Study Finds Eating Apples Every Day Promotes Heart Health & Weight Loss in Postmenopausal Women

Study Finds Common Alzheimer's Drug Not Effective To Treat Early to Moderate Alzheimer's

By Editor, on April 12th, 2011

Attention caregivers for patients with mild to moderate Alzheimer’s Disease: A new study published in the Archives of Neurology found that memantine, a drug commonly prescribed (under the brand name Namenda) for Alzheimer’s patients, was not effective to treat . . . → Read More: Study Finds Common Alzheimer’s Drug Not Effective To Treat Early to Moderate Alzheimer’s

New FDA Advisory: Beware Fraudulent Weight-Loss 'Dietary Supplements' -- They Can Kill You!

By Editor, on April 9th, 2011

The FDA has recently posted a new consumer advisory, warning that federal regulators have found dozens of products being touted as dietary supplements that actually contain hidden prescription drugs or compounds which have not been adequately studied in humans . . . → Read More: New FDA Advisory: Beware Fraudulent Weight-Loss ‘Dietary Supplements’ — They Can Kill You!

April is Parkinson's Awareness Month

By Editor, on April 5th, 2011

The National Parkinson Foundation has declared April as Parkinson’s Awareness Month. As part of this campaign to raise awareness for Parkinson’s disease, the Foundation lists on its website a full 30 actions you can take to make a difference. . . . → Read More: April is Parkinson’s Awareness Month

5 Tips On Dealing With Violent Alzheimer's Behavior

By Senior Editor, on April 4th, 2011

“Alzheimer’s patients are often vulnerable and fragile, but in rare cases, they can become the aggressor. About 5% to 10% of Alzheimer’s patients exhibit violent behavior. It’s unclear why the outbursts occur in certain patients,” according to a recent . . . → Read More: 5 Tips On Dealing With Violent Alzheimer’s Behavior

Are You At Risk for Type 2 (Adult-Onset) Diabetes?

By Editor, on March 27th, 2011

If you have a family history of diabetes, are obese, are over age 45 and get little or no exercise, or belong to certain racial or ethnic groups you may be at risk. Take a simple quiz provided by . . . → Read More: Are You At Risk for Type 2 (Adult-Onset) Diabetes?

Cardiovascular Disease Prevention and Vitamins

By Senior Editor, on March 22nd, 2011

Do vitamins and supplements lower your risk of cardiovascular disease? Some frequently asked questions answered by Leslie Cho, M.D. Director of the Women’s Cardiovascular Center of the Cleveland Clinic. Watch»

How To Read Blood Pressure Numbers

By Senior Editor, on March 21st, 2011

A simple explanation of Systolic and Diastolic pressure and what the numbers mean. See Dr. David Frid, Cardiologist, from the Cleveland Clinic»

How To Protect Your Brainpower Through Lifestyle Changes

By Senior Editor, on March 20th, 2011

European researchers have found cardiovascular health is related to mental wellness–that cardiovascular disease or the narrowing of blood vessels to the brain causes vascular dementia. Fortunately, it may not be too late to make some lifestyle changes! Read “6 . . . → Read More: How To Protect Your Brainpower Through Lifestyle Changes

Nearly 15 Million Americans Are Now Caring for Someone With Alzheimer's Disease - A Number Rapidly Growing

By Editor, on March 17th, 2011

Nearly 15 million Americans are now caring for a loved one with Alzheimer’s Disease or another form of dementia, an increase of 37 percent over the number at this time last year, according to a significant new report released . . . → Read More: Nearly 15 Million Americans Are Now Caring for Someone With Alzheimer’s Disease – A Number Rapidly Growing

Check Out Your Estimated 10-year Risk of Having a Heart Attack - New Quiz/ Assessment Tool Posted by NIH

By Editor, on March 16th, 2011

Take this Quiz — a new assessment tool to estimate your 10-year risk of having a heart attack, posted by the National Institutes of Health (NIH) on its Health Information website. Called the ” Risk Assessment Tool for Estimating . . . → Read More: Check Out Your Estimated 10-year Risk of Having a Heart Attack – New Quiz/ Assessment Tool Posted by NIH

New Study: Eating Fish & Omega-3 May Reduce Risk of Age-Related Macular Degeneration in Women

By Editor, on March 14th, 2011

A new study conducted by scientists at Brigham and Women’s Hospital and Divisions of Harvard Medical School and Harvard School of Public Health, Boston, found that regular consumption of fish and omega-3 fatty acids contained in fish is associated . . . → Read More: New Study: Eating Fish & Omega-3 May Reduce Risk of Age-Related Macular Degeneration in Women

Swedish Study Suggests Drinking Coffee Associated with Lower Stroke Risk

By Editor, on March 13th, 2011

A new study analyzing data collected from 34,670 Swedish women, aged 49 to 83, found that those who reported drinking from 1 to 5 cups of coffee daily had a 22 to 25 percent lower risk of stroke than . . . → Read More: Swedish Study Suggests Drinking Coffee Associated with Lower Stroke Risk

Ways To Lower Type 2 Diabetes Risk

By Senior Editor, on March 12th, 2011

Did you know walking 30 minutes a day, 5 days a week, combined with a moderate weight loss, can lower one’s risk of Type 2 Diabetes by 58%? Watch Dr.Raul Seballos from the Cleveland . . . → Read More: Ways To Lower Type 2 Diabetes Risk

Test Your Knowledge About Stroke with this Quiz and Then Learn More from the NIH

By Editor, on March 9th, 2011

Take this new Quiz which has been posted as part of the “Know Stroke Campaign” on the website of the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS). NINDS is part of the National Institutes of Health (NIH), under . . . → Read More: Test Your Knowledge About Stroke with this Quiz and Then Learn More from the NIH

Healthy Eyes - Information for Healthy Vision

By Editor, on March 7th, 2011

Millions of people, particularly the elderly, have problems with their eyes or vision every year. This website by the National Eye Institute of the National Institutes of Health (NIH) offers science-based tools and tips for keeping your eyes healthy. . . . → Read More: Healthy Eyes – Information for Healthy Vision

New Study Finds Heavy Smoking in Midlife Increases Risks of Alzheimer's Disease and Vascular Dementia Later in Life by More than 100 Percent

By Editor, on February 28th, 2011

A new study published in the February 28, 2011 issue of the Archives of Internal Medicine has found that heavy smoking in midlife may increase the risks of getting Alzheimer Disease or Vascular Dementia later in life by more . . . → Read More: New Study Finds Heavy Smoking in Midlife Increases Risks of Alzheimer’s Disease and Vascular Dementia Later in Life by More than 100 Percent

Cleveland Clinic – A-Z Guide to Consumer Health Information

By Editor, on February 28th, 2011

Cleveland Clinic’s website features an A to Z guide to consumer health information. This is a very good place to start to obtain basic information about any of a great number of diseases or conditions that may affect your . . . → Read More: Cleveland Clinic – A-Z Guide to Consumer Health Information

Diseases and Conditions – MayoClinic.com

By Editor, on February 28th, 2011

Link to Mayo Clinic’s Information on Medical Conditions and Diseases - A to Z. This is a good place to start in your research of the various medical conditions with which your senior loved one may be challenged. Get . . . → Read More: Diseases and Conditions – MayoClinic.com

How to Give Continuous Chest Compression CPR

By Senior Editor, on February 27th, 2011

A Mayo Clinic presentation of how to give CPR to to those who have suffered a heart attack. This is a new method of CPR called Continuous Chest Compression CPR, which does not involve breathing into the mouth of . . . → Read More: How to Give Continuous Chest Compression CPR

True Secrets to Heart-Healthy Eating

By Senior Editor, on February 26th, 2011

Julia Zumpano, R.D. from the Cleveland Clinic discusses fad diets and the best way to protect one’s heart without counting calories. Watch»

New Study Finds Alzheimer’s Disease Misdiagnosed in 50% of Cases

By Editor, on February 24th, 2011

A new study to be presented at the American Academy of Neurology’s 63rd Annual Meeting April 9 to April 16, 2011, found that Alzheimer’s Disease was misdiagnosed in 50% of cases, according to a press release issued by the . . . → Read More: New Study Finds Alzheimer’s Disease Misdiagnosed in 50% of Cases

Errors in Medical Research – Which “Findings” Should You Trust?

By Senior Editor, on February 23rd, 2011

Does garlic lower bad cholestrol? Does hormone replacement reduce the risk of heart disease in postmenopausal women? Does eating a big breakfast cut your total daily calories? Do statins help people with no history of heart disease? Is it . . . → Read More: Errors in Medical Research – Which “Findings” Should You Trust?

Worst Ever Prescription Drug Shortages Alarming Hospitals & Medical Professionals - Why is This Happening?

By Editor, on February 20th, 2011

Several reports have recently highlighted the fact that hospitals throughout the U.S. are running out of key drugs, including anesthetics needed in surgeries, chemotherapy drugs needed to treat cancer, and common antibiotics required to treat a multitude of diseases. . . . → Read More: Worst Ever Prescription Drug Shortages Alarming Hospitals & Medical Professionals – Why is This Happening?

ABC News Learning Centers on 1,000 Common Diseases & Conditions

By Editor, on February 17th, 2011

ABC News’ Learning Centers provide comprehensive information on more than 1,000 common diseases and conditions. View an Index of Learning Centers » Directory of Learning Centers – ABC News.

Updated Heart Disease Prevention Guidelines for Women Issued by American Heart Association

By Health Editor, on February 17th, 2011

On February 15, 2011, the American Heart Association (AHA) issued updated Heart Disease Prevention Guidelines specifically for women. The updated guidelines for women focus more on practical medical advice that works in the “real-world” rather than recommendations based only . . . → Read More: Updated Heart Disease Prevention Guidelines for Women Issued by American Heart Association

Study Suggests Link Between Hearing Loss & Dementia

By Editor, on February 16th, 2011

A new study conducted by scientists as Johns Hopkins School of Medicine and the National Institute on Aging has found a correlation between hearing loss and development of Alzheimer’s Disease. “This work suggests that there is a strong . . . → Read More: Study Suggests Link Between Hearing Loss & Dementia

Good news about broccoli in your diet and reducing the risk of cancer!

By Senior Editor, on February 11th, 2011

First the bad news. Researches found one would have to eat 2 lbs of broccoli a week to reduce the risk of cancer by 50%! In 1992, scientists from John Hopkins found a phyto-chemical in broccoli which reduces the . . . → Read More: Good news about broccoli in your diet and reducing the risk of cancer!

Calculate Your Body Mass Index (BMI)

By Editor, on February 8th, 2011

Use this Calculate Your BMI – Standard BMI . . . → Read More: Calculate Your Body Mass Index (BMI)

Four Things You Can Do to Prevent a Heart Attack

By Senior Editor, on February 8th, 2011

Watch Dr. Stephen Kopecky, a Mayo Clinic cardiologist, to learn four simple lifestyle changes you can make to reduce your chances of getting a heart attack by 40%. No treatment or other thing you could do will lower your . . . → Read More: Four Things You Can Do to Prevent a Heart Attack

Bipartisan efforts to better treat and cure paralysis

By Senior Editor, on February 6th, 2011

Watch The Christopher and Dana Reeve Paralysis Act (legislation) to advance research into cures and treatments for paralysis, as well as aid those living with disability»

Preventing millions of cancers with simple life changes

By Senior Editor, on February 5th, 2011

The American Institute for Cancer Research (AICR) and the World Cancer Research Fund (WCRF) estimates that about a third of all common cancers in the United States, China and Britain could be prevented each year if people ate healthier . . . → Read More: Preventing millions of cancers with simple life changes

CDC Reports Number of Americans with Diabetes Or Prediabetes Has Risen Dramatically; Losing Weight & Exercise Can Prevent or Delay the Disease

By Editor, on February 2nd, 2011

According to the National Diabetes Fact Sheet for 2011 newly released by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), nearly 26 million Americans (8.3% of all Americans or 11.3% of adults age 20 and older) now have . . . → Read More: CDC Reports Number of Americans with Diabetes Or Prediabetes Has Risen Dramatically; Losing Weight & Exercise Can Prevent or Delay the Disease

Proper Hand Washing May Prevent 80% of All Infections

By Editor, on January 29th, 2011

Watch this Video by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control & Prevention (CDC), and learn how to wash your hands properly. Scientists estimate that up to 80% of all infections are spread by hand contact, and could be avoided . . . → Read More: Proper Hand Washing May Prevent 80% of All Infections

Traffic Noise May Lead To Higher Stroke Risk Among Seniors

By Editor, on January 28th, 2011

A new Danish study, published in the European Heart Journal has found a clear correlation between noise levels and stroke risk for seniors. The louder the noise, the higher the risk of stroke. In fact, the researchers reported that . . . → Read More: Traffic Noise May Lead To Higher Stroke Risk Among Seniors

FDA Advisory Committee Recommends Approval of a New Brain Scan Test to Detect Alzheimers

By Editor, on January 21st, 2011

On Thursday, January 20, 2011, an Advisory Committee to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) unanimously recommended FDA approval of a new brain dye product that would for the first time enable a brain scan to show whether . . . → Read More: FDA Advisory Committee Recommends Approval of a New Brain Scan Test to Detect Alzheimers

Mayo Clinic Slide show: Melanoma pictures to help identify skin cancer

By Editor, on January 20th, 2011

To help identify when a mole or skin discoloration may be of concern, see this slide show by the Mayo Clinic. If you have any questions or doubt, see your doctor. Most skin melanomas can be cured, and the . . . → Read More: Mayo Clinic Slide show: Melanoma pictures to help identify skin cancer

NIHSeniorHealth: Videos on Senior Health, Medical and Wellness Topics

By Editor, on January 19th, 2011

A collection of multiple videos on over 36 different medical conditions and related topics, presented by the National Institutes of Health, SeniorHealth Website. This is an excellent resource for basic information on most common medical conditions faced by seniors, . . . → Read More: NIHSeniorHealth: Videos on Senior Health, Medical and Wellness Topics

Toll-Free Telephone Information Lines

By Senior Editor, on January 19th, 2011

From Area Agency on Aging, helpful Toll-Free information lines from A-Z. Aging, Allergy, Alternative Medicine, Alzheimer’s, Arthritis, etc. »Toll-Free Information Lines.

Pet Therapy Helps Seniors

By Senior Editor, on January 18th, 2011

Being in the presence of pets has been shown to promote physical and emotional health. Video from 5min.com (5 min Life Videopedia)» Therapy Dog for Seniors . . . → Read More: Pet Therapy Helps Seniors

Large New Study Strengthens Evidence that Mediterranean Diet May Slow Cognitive Decline

By Editor, on January 14th, 2011

A new study has strengthened existing evidence that the Mediterranean diet — heavy on vegetables, fish and olive oil — may be associated with slower rates of mental decline in the elderly. The study, conducted by researchers at Rush . . . → Read More: Large New Study Strengthens Evidence that Mediterranean Diet May Slow Cognitive Decline

Sitting 4 Hours a Day In Front of a TV or Computer May Double Your Risk of Heart Attack

By Editor, on January 13th, 2011

A new British study, published in the Jan. 18 issue of the Journal of the American College of Cardiology, has found that sitting too long watching TV or in front of a computer screen may increase risk for heart . . . → Read More: Sitting 4 Hours a Day In Front of a TV or Computer May Double Your Risk of Heart Attack

A Helpful Guide Book to Home Caregiving by the American Medical Association

By Senior Editor, on January 12th, 2011

The American Medical Association Guide to Home Caregiving provides information on how to: Arrange a room to adapt to a loved one’s needs Give medications, monitor symptoms, deal with incontinence, provide emotional support, and relieve boredom Choose a home . . . → Read More: A Helpful Guide Book to Home Caregiving by the American Medical Association

Private Hospital ICU Rooms Found to Reduce Infection Rate Significantly

By Editor, on January 11th, 2011

Patients in Hospital Intensive Care Units (ICU) often acquire infections, imposing a heavy human and financial burden. A new study published January 10, 2011 in the Archives of Internal Medicine found and documented that private rooms in hospital intensive . . . → Read More: Private Hospital ICU Rooms Found to Reduce Infection Rate Significantly

Study finds ability to ride a Bike better diagnostic test than others to distinguish standard Parkinson’s from atypical Parkinson’s

By Editor, on January 7th, 2011

A team of doctors from the Neatherlands has found that asking a Parkinson’s patient whether he or she is still able to ride a bike is a more valuable tool than many diagnostic tests to determine whether the patient . . . → Read More: Study finds ability to ride a Bike better diagnostic test than others to distinguish standard Parkinson’s from atypical Parkinson’s

Tooth Loss May Lead to Memory Loss

By Editor, on January 6th, 2011

According to a new study published in Behavioral and Brain Functions, seniors who lose their teeth may be at increased risk for dementia/ Alzheimer’s. The study, conducted in Japan, included more than 4,000 participants who were 65 and older. . . . → Read More: Tooth Loss May Lead to Memory Loss

Radiation Risks from CT Scans

By Senior Editor, on January 6th, 2011

Enlightening Video: Radiation exposure from CT Scans can vary up to six fold between different CT Scan providers. Up to now CT Scan radiation has not been regulated. Watch video . . . → Read More: Radiation Risks from CT Scans

Study Finds Protein Marker in Blood of Alzheimer’s Patients; May Lead to Future Ability to Diagnose Alzheimer’s by a Blood Test

By Editor, on January 6th, 2011

A study, funded by the U.S. National Institutes of Health and published in the Jan. 7 issue of Cell, found the presence of a protein antibody in the blood of Alzheimer’s patients that was not present to the same . . . → Read More: Study Finds Protein Marker in Blood of Alzheimer’s Patients; May Lead to Future Ability to Diagnose Alzheimer’s by a Blood Test

Making the Bathroom Safer for Your Elderly Parent

By Senior Editor, on January 5th, 2011

Watch this video for good tips on how to make the bathroom safer for your elderly parent or other elderly loved . . . → Read More: Making the Bathroom Safer for Your Elderly Parent

Study Finds Walking Speed Predicts Longevity in Seniors

By Editor, on January 5th, 2011

A study in the Journal of the American Medical Association JAMA has found that walking speed in people 65 and older correlates with expected longevity. The study, conducted by researchers at the University of Pittsburgh, was based on combined . . . → Read More: Study Finds Walking Speed Predicts Longevity in Seniors

Understanding Cholesterol Numbers

By Editor, on January 3rd, 2011

From AroundWellington.com, Health & Fitness, By Cheryl Alker This article provides a good basic introduction to cholesterol measurement numbers, and what they mean. The author, an accredited fitness trainer, recommends that cholesterol levels should be measured at least once every five . . . → Read More: Understanding Cholesterol Numbers

FDA Statements Indicate More Scrutiny & Recalls of Dietary Supplements - Some Have Ingredients with Potentially Lethal Risks

By Editor, on January 2nd, 2011

The FDA this year has issued several statements and recalls regarding dietary supplements discovered to contain undeclared drug ingredients. Studies have shown that some supplements may increase potentially lethal risks to patients and contain varying amounts of active compounds . . . → Read More: FDA Statements Indicate More Scrutiny & Recalls of Dietary Supplements – Some Have Ingredients with Potentially Lethal Risks

Caregiving and Dementia: New Ideas

By Senior Editor, on January 1st, 2011

There is no effective medical cure for Alzheimer’s. Most dementia caregiving is performed by families and nursing homes. 11 Million people care for Alzheimer’s-afflicted relatives at home. Dealing with the difficult behaviors that characterize Alzheimer’s and other dementias . . . → Read More: Caregiving and Dementia: New Ideas

Advice to caregivers: Reassure and don't argue

By Senior Editor, on December 30th, 2010

What if the Alzheimer’s patient says untrue and harmful things? What about correcting inconsequential things? Can a caregiver win an argument with an Alzheimer’s patient? Are there helpful ways to calm an Alzheimer’s patient? Read More in this Article . . . → Read More: Advice to caregivers: Reassure and don’t argue

Support for Caregivers: When Someone You Love Is Being Treated for Cancer

By Page Editor, on December 29th, 2010

National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, U.S. Department of Health & Human Services. 52 page booklet with advice for caregivers of cancer patients.

Helpful Resources on Incontinence and Bladder & Bowel Problems - NAFC

By Editor, on December 29th, 2010

Visit www.NAFC.org, the website of the National Association For Continence (NAFC), for helpful information and resources on all aspects of understanding and dealing with Incontinence, Nocturia, Enlarged Prostate, and Prolapse. The site includes comprehensive medical information on bladder & bowel health . . . → Read More: Helpful Resources on Incontinence and Bladder & Bowel Problems – NAFC

A Happier New Year for The Alzheimer’s Community

By Editor, on December 29th, 2010

On December 8 and December 15, 2010, both Houses of Congress passed the National Alzheimer’s Project Act (NAPA); S. 3036, which is now pending the President’s signature, making this a more hopeful News Year for the 11 million Americans . . . → Read More: A Happier New Year for The Alzheimer’s Community

Small Steps. Big Rewards. Your GAME PLAN to Prevent Type 2 Diabetes: Information for Patients | NDEP

By Editor, on December 26th, 2010

Small Steps. Big Rewards. Your GAME PLAN to Prevent Type 2 Diabetes: Information for Patients. Three publications from the National Diabetes Education Program of the National Institutes of Health and Centers for Disease Control & Prevention. View Info » . . . → Read More: Small Steps. Big Rewards. Your GAME PLAN to Prevent Type 2 Diabetes: Information for Patients | NDEP

Diabetes diet: Create your healthy-eating plan

By Editor, on December 26th, 2010

Diabetes diet: Create your healthy-eating plan – by the Mayo Clinic. Helpful basic information about how to create a healthy eating plan for diabetes, a chief way in which diabetes is treated and managed. “A diabetes diet — medically . . . → Read More: Diabetes diet: Create your healthy-eating plan

Eye Health Tips from the National Eye Institute

By Editor, on December 25th, 2010

Eye Health Tips from the National Eye Institute, National Institutes of Health. Simple Tips for Healthy Eyes. Lists some steps you can take to keep your eyes healthy and prevent eye problems in senior years. View Info » Healthy Eyes, . . . → Read More: Eye Health Tips from the National Eye Institute

Podcast: Caregiving tips for Alzheimer’s disease

By Senior Editor, on December 11th, 2010

Podcast from the Mayo Clinic Dr. Glenn Smith, a Mayo Clinic neuropsychologist, who specializes in the treatment of Alzheimer’s disease, gives caregiving tips on how to deal with the challenges of difficult issues faced by seniors. Listen»

Alzheimer’s Association – Classes & Workshops

By Editor, on December 11th, 2010

The Alzheimer’s Association offers classes and courses on many aspects of Alzheimer’s Disease and caregiving for Alzheimer’s patients. The classes are offered at a nominal fee, and are held locally in many different cities where the Alzheimer’s Association is . . . → Read More: Alzheimer’s Association – Classes & Workshops

Clostridium Difficile Infections: MedlinePlus

By Editor, on December 8th, 2010

Good overview and links to additional information on Clostridium Difficile Infections from MedlinePlus, the website of the U.S. National Library of Medicine, National Institutes of Health. Contains information on: * Overviews * Diagnosis/ Symptoms * Alternative Therapy * Specific . . . → Read More: Clostridium Difficile Infections: MedlinePlus

Clostridum Difficile General Information – From the CDC

By Editor, on December 8th, 2010

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)’s website contains good general and introductory information on C-Dif, in the form of Frequently Asked Questions. This is a good place to start in learning more about this increasingly deadly superbug. . . . → Read More: Clostridum Difficile General Information – From the CDC

Cleveland Clinic revises statement, now says it is considering joining C. diff project

By Editor, on December 8th, 2010

The Cleveland Clinic in Cleveland announced that it will participate in a federally supported project to battle infections from the intestinal superbug called C. diff, having earlier declined to do so. This reflects a growing concern nationwide over an . . . → Read More: Cleveland Clinic revises statement, now says it is considering joining C. diff project

C. difficile – MayoClinic.com

By Editor, on December 8th, 2010

Comprehensive introduction to C-Diff from the Mayo Clinic. Includes links to discussion on * Definition * Symptoms * Causes * Risk Factors * Complications * Tests and Diagnosis * Treatment and druge * Lifestyle and home remedies * Prevention . . . → Read More: C. difficile – MayoClinic.com