Senior Health

Recently Answered
Q Why do old people tend to get chilly so easily?
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Dr. Mehmet Oz, Cardiology
Factors that contribute to the tendency to feel chilly in old age include thinning of the skin and loss of the fat layer that lies just under the skin.  Watch the animation to see all the effects of aging on the skin. Full Answer
Q How can I tell an older family member that he cannot drive safely now?
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As difficult as it may seem, it's important that you approach your loved one sooner rather than later about his driving. Whatever you do, try to stay calm when speaking ― he may be more receptive than you expect! It may take a few attempts to ease into... Full Answer
Q How early can I apply for Social Security benefits?
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You can apply as early as 62 years-old for Social Security benefits, but the amount you receive each month will be less than if you wait until full retirement (also called “normal retirement age”). If you want to keep working while collecting... Full Answer
Q When are senior moments a cause for worry?
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Dr. Jill Grimes, Family Medicine
Many people have what they jokingly refer to as senior moments. Something basic simply slips out of the grasp of their minds for the moment. Is it dementia? Is it early onset Alzheimer's disease? In most cases, the answer is no. Sadly, in some... Full Answer
Q What should I look for when moving an older parent to a new home?
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Make sure that the new home will meet your loved one’s physical needs and limitations. Look for a place that has accessible transportation; if not needed now it may be in the future. Consider if the location is convenient for you and all other... Full Answer
Q How can I keep a senior citizen safe during the summer?
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Anthony Cirillo, Gerontology
The summer can be a dangerous time for elderly people, but there are ways to keep them safe. The elderly should not be left in un-air-conditioned spaces for too long, and should be checked twice daily for signs of heat exhaustion or heat stroke. They... Full Answer
Q Should elderly with low sodium drink less water and eat more salt?
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If a blood or urine test administered by your physician has confirmed that you have low levels of sodium you have options. Depending on the severity they may recommend salting your food more, water restriction, medication or in severe cases, an IV drip.... Full Answer
Q When may a geriatric palliative medicine consultation be helpful?
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Many health professionals do not receive training to recognize the significance of frailty. Frailty is the result of multiple, interacting and complex health illnesses, which often accumulate as we get older.  For older adults, serious chronic... Full Answer
Q What are the major risk factors for falls among older adults?
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These risk factors include: Biological risk factors - Mobility problems due to muscle weakness or balance problems, chronic health conditions such as arthritis and stroke, vision changes and vision loss, loss of sensation in feet... Full Answer
Q Where can I find information on caring for the elderly?
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Sharine Forbes, Gerontology
Here is a website that has a lot of very good information: http://www.aging-parents-and-elder-care.com/ Full Answer