Cancer is the second leading cause of death in the US, and it disproportionately affects the older population. More than half of people with cancer are over 65, and this age group has the highest mortality rate from cancer. While seniors with cancer have different treatment issues than younger people, their unique needs are often [Read More]
You need calcium for good bone health, but its benefits extend beyond strong bones: your heart, muscles, and nerves also rely on calcium to function. There is even evidence to suggest that calcium, in conjunction with vitamin D, protects the body against such ills as high blood pressure, diabetes, and cancer. Government-approved PACE programs which [Read More]
Diabetics get their feet checked every time they see their doctor, but the fact is that everyone should do that, too. Your doctor should look for discoloration anywhere on your foot, unusual nail growth, and should also take your pulse in your foot. What they are looking for are signs of peripheral artery disease (PAD), [Read More]
High blood pressure, known medically as hypertension, is known as “the silent killer” for good reason. Silent, because it shows no signs as it ravages the arteries, the heart, the brain, the kidneys, and even the eyes. A killer, because approximately half of adults with untreated hypertension will die of heart disease; approximately one-third will [Read More]
We were so proud and excited to watch an exclusive video conducted by the SCAN Adult Learning Program with our very own Medical Director, Dr. Sara Ali, MD and our Social Worker, Paul B. Longo, MSW! They spoke all about our amazing program at Beacon of LIFE and provided great insight into what a PACE [Read More]
What is a PACE program? A PACE program is a healthcare option that allows the elderly to stay in their homes, even if they are frail. The program is built on the belief that seniors — even those with chronic care needs — are better served when they can live in the community. PACE programs [Read More]
Recent research published in the Journal of Nutrition, Health and Aging revealed that elderly people in the United States commonly fail to consume a sufficient amount of protein to remain healthy. In fact, the researchers found that approximately 46% of elderly adults failed to consume an adequate amount of protein on a regular basis, and [Read More]
The bathroom is one of the two most dangerous places in the house (the kitchen is the other), and for seniors, they present even more risk than for the general population. Water on the floor, nighttime visits to use the facilities, dim lighting — all can lead to falls. And falling is one of the [Read More]
A major challenge for elderly people is a sense of isolation and loneliness. The loss of a spouse or the busy schedules of children and grandchildren can exacerbate these feelings. However, it is important to remember that many types of relationships — not just family relationships — have positive benefits. Interaction with friends or neighbors [Read More]