Falling is a common condition that increases morbidity and mortality in the elderly.  It is a frequent reason for people to lose their independence and move into nursing homes.  25% of elderly people will die after a broken hip resulting from a fall. Here are some...

What is guided imagery? It is a form of meditation where questions are asked and pondered. The healing can come from the answers given to the questions. The questions can be asked by either the person who is meditating or by a therapist. Questions should center around...

There are several diets that are gaining notoriety. Diets such as the low carb, low fat diet or the Atkins diet, the Mediterranean diet, the Paleo diet, the anti-inflammatory diet and the list goes on and on. So what is the best diet to go on? Many of these diets have...

Our human gut is lined with billions and billions of good bacteria that help us absorb nutrients and keep toxins and other molecules that may hurt us out of our body. These bacteria, it is believed, come from our mothers in the process of being born as well as our...

As we age, our intake of micronutrients as well as our ability to absorb certain nutrients decrease.  This results in deficiencies.  The most common are vitamin B 12, vitamin D and calcium.   It is recommended that people over the age of 51 take a...

During the Holidays, sometimes one can feel blue.  There are several reasons for this-loss of health or loved ones, reminiscing on the past.  It can also be as simple as the increased hours of darkness during this season.   If the mood is lower than...

Gratitude  During this time of the Holidays, it is good to think of all the things that are valuable and meaningful in one’s life.  It is good and healing to be grateful.  Gratitude can change the outlook in life from one of isolation to one of relationship.  It can...

Pets and animal assisted therapy in the elderly Nearly half of elderly individuals in the United States own pets, usually cats and dogs but other pets as well such as birds and fish.  Studies have shown that individuals with pets feel more companionship, less...

Care for caregivers Are you helping a loved one through a long term illness?  Then you are a caregiver.   This can be a difficult thing.  It can rob you of your autonomy.  You may feel a tremendous responsibility for your loved one.  This can bring stress, anxiety and...

What to do when your loved one needs a hip fracture repaired.  So you have an elderly loved one who does not want anything extraordinary done at the end of their life.  They have chosen not to be resuscitated.   However, they accidentally fall and unfortunately break...