Bob Pontius

Bob's Blogs

Why is my elderly Dad so resistant to change?

Helping a senior see the benefits of change isn’t always easy, especially if the change brings uncertainty to their lives. Here are some tips to help a determined senior see the benefits of change.
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Does my body actually suffer vitamin deficiency in the winter?

Did you know that during the cold and gloomy winter months, our bodies do not get the nourishment they need from natural sources, so it can go into withdrawal which can lead to negative health conditions?
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This weather makes me SAD. What can I do?

Seasonal Affective Disorder or, SAD is a very real thing, and it actually affects seniors more than younger people! Hopkins Medicine encourages two solutions for Seasonal Affective Disorder.
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What are some New Year’s Resolutions for Seniors?

If you are a senior or have a senior friend or family, you know how hard it can be to set, and achieve, a New Years Resolution. Once we reach a certain age, we become set in our ways, both mentally and physically. However, research by the National Institute of Health shows that certain types of accomplishments are good for our brain, body, and soul.
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What can I do now that the rush of Christmas is over?

If you’re like me, you haven’t stopped moving since Thanksgiving! The hustle and bustle of the Holidays are all too real and it can be a grind. Now that it’s Christmas Day, it’s time to relax in your favorite chair and do a little brain exercise!
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How can I help my senior loved one overcome loneliness at Christmas?

As we enter the week of Christmas, it’s a perfect time to post my annual reminder about our senior friends and family who might be alone this year. Here are a few tips to help them combat loneliness,
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What should I get Grandma for Christmas?

Most aging parents or Grandparents will swear they do not want anything for Christmas. The problem is, we just cannot bear the thought of them not opening anything on Christmas Day. So, what are we supposed to do?
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I’ve noticed that I eat a lot more over the holidays, what can I do?

Have you ever noticed that many of our holiday traditions- family, religious and social traditions- are based around food, drink, and all kinds of decadent treats? Here are a few tips from for a senior to eat healthier over the holidays.
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How can I avoid holiday stress as a retiree?

The holiday season is all about spending time with family and friends, enjoying great food, and creating memories. Although it can be joyous for most of us, many of our senior friends and family find the holiday season confusing, hectic, and even depressing based on their health conditions. Here are some tips for seniors to have a great holiday.
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Grandma does way too much at Thanksgiving. How can she enjoy the kids more?

Thanksgiving can be such a great day when everyone can relax and enjoy it. Here are some tips on how you can help Grandma take a break.
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How can I get dad to wear his hearing aid?

If you’ve ever tried to have a conversation with a senior who needs to be wearing a hearing aid but isn’t, you know how difficult the exchange of simple ideas can be. Here are 3 pragmatic reasons to help our senior friends and family understand the importance of hearing well in our later years.
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How can I celebrate Senior Veterans?

November 11, Veterans Day, is our chance to thank and honor all veterans. Yes, it is important to thank them for their service, but I encourage you to thank them for their sacrifice.
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Seniors & Technology

I need to upgrade my flip-phone. What should I do?
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What is Power of Attorney and how does it work?

This is a big question with several answers, but it’s very important that we address it.
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What can we do to help Grandma celebrate her Faith?

Spirituality and religion are a significant part of many people’s lives, and it usually becomes more important as we grow older. A study at the University of Chicago found belief in God increases with age, especially for those older than 68. Luckily for these spiritual seniors, faith practices come with a host of health benefits.
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Can senior living help with arthritis?

Did you know that, according to the CDC, almost 70% of Americans over age 65 have X-Ray evidence of some form of arthritis?
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I forget where my keys are all the time, do I have Alzheimer’s?

An older friend told me he thinks he’s getting Alzheimer’s because he keeps forgetting things like where he put his keys, his grandkid's names, and to take his cell phone with him when he leaves the house.
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How can we discuss politics between generations?

As we draw closer to another election season in Ohio, it’s time for my annual column about “intergenerational politics.” Here are some tips on how have an “intergenerational political discussion.”
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Mom is adamant about staying home alone, is this a good idea?

As we’ve learned during the pandemic, loneliness and social isolation isn’t good for anyone, especially our senior friends and family. Here are a few signs of loneliness.
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What does “healthy aging” mean?

As Americans live longer and healthier, it’s great to see an emphasis placed on “healthy aging” but sometimes we don’t quite get it 100% right.
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My 75-year-old mom seems to have a new boyfriend! Should I be concerned?

I was chatting with the family of a lovely lady who moved into Danbury about a year ago and they were equal parts impressed and shocked that their mother seemed to have a new romantic interest and she’s 75! They were surprised because after Father passed away 5 years ago, the thought of Mom dating again never seemed to cross any one’s mind, especially since she was 70 at the time!
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How do we know what kind of care is needed for Dad?

A question I get at least once a week is "What is the difference in all these senior communities?"
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My dad eats alone for most meals. Is that ok?

Dinner is one of the most important times of the day. It is a special and specific time to sit with others and socialize and learn and laugh.
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My elderly father was recently diagnosed with COPD. What do I need to know?

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is an umbrella term used to describe progressive lung diseases like emphysema, chronic bronchitis, and asthma. This disease is primarily characterized by increasing breathlessness.
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My dad’s Alzheimer’s makes it hard to communicate. What can I do?

Many caregivers have learned that as a person’s Alzheimer’s (dementia) gets worse, communicating with them gets harder and more frustrating. Here are some tips for communicating with a loved one suffering from Alzheimer’s or a related dementia.
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How important is the “culture of the staff” at a senior living facility?

I was recently giving a tour of Danbury to a family who commented that our staff (and residents) were so much livelier and more engaged than those at a different community they had toured earlier, and they wondered why?
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Why do my feet hurt more than ever now that I’m over 65?

For the same reasons that everything else in our aging body seems to ache and sag and change. Our feet are possibly the biggest victims of getting old. According to WebMD, here are some common problems and solutions.
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What can a Senior do to Beat the Heat?

Here are some tips for keeping a senior hydrated and cool in the summer months.
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How can we include elderly grandparents in our family reunion?

Family reunions are filled with love, fun and old memories and can be very beneficial for seniors, even those suffering from memory loss or dementia. Here are some pro tips on planning for a family gathering with your senior family members.
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How can we best help seniors celebrate July 4th?

The 4th of July is one of everyone’s favorite holidays. With parades, picnics, fireworks, and pools, why wouldn’t it be? Well, if you’re a senior limited mobility, you might not look forward to July 4th as much as some people! Here are some ideas for staying inside with your favorite senior on Independence Day.
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Can stress have a negative impact on me, even if I’m retired?

I was recently joking with one of my senior buddies about how he’s “living the good life, stress free” as a retiree and he was quick to point out that, while he doesn’t report to work every day, the daily stresses of life never go away!
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My Mom seems to suffer from chronic back pain, is there anything I can do?

Did you know that chronic pain is one of the most common, yet under-reported health conditions for seniors? According to NIH, over 50% of those ages 75-85 suffer from chronic pain. How can we help? Here are a few tips.
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Since I’m over 70, can I exercise outside in the summer?

Last week I was talking with one of my senior buddies who was lamenting the fact that his kids didn’t want him outside too much this summer because he could get too much sun or get dehydrated. He said, “What am I supposed to do, stay inside and watch the news all day? I’ll go crazy if I have to do that!” Here are some tips I offered for seniors to exercise safely this summer.
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How can music help older adults?

Music improves our daily lives as we age in a number of ways. That's why at Danbury Senior Living, music is an integral part of our day. We have different types of appropriate music playing throughout the building and the benefits are quite obvious.
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How can we celebrate Memorial Day with our Seniors?

As wonderful as it is to have a 3-day weekend to celebrate the start of summer, it’s easy to forget the importance of Memorial Day to our country and our seniors. Let’s keep in mind some great ways to help our senior loved ones commemorate Memorial Day.
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How can I make my parents’ home safe so they don’t fall?

For most seniors who have lived in the same home for more than 30 years, calling it a “safe and healthy home environment” would be a considerable misstatement. They may try hard, but there’s just too much “stuff” to consider it a success. Here are some tips to maintain a safe and healthy home environment!
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What can we do to celebrate friends & family over a certain age?

Did you know that May is always “Older Americans Month?” Every year, the Federal Administration for Community Living finds new ways to celebrate getting older, here are a few ideas.
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My elderly dad hasn’t seen his doctor in 3 years. What should we do?

Believe it or not, this is a rather common issue. Here are some thoughts on seeing a PCP at least once per year, in addition to the specialists.
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World Laughter Day: Why don't I laugh anymore?

While some people think that we lose our funny bones with age, most experts agree that it’s only related to a loss of hearing and other senses. In other words, it’s only the ability to experience humor that is different at 75! Experts agree that laughter promotes good health in four important areas. Read on to learn more!
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How can a senior practice safe yard work?

To learn more about a maintenance free lifestyle where you don’t have to worry about the lawn, doing laundry or even doing the dishes, give me a call today!
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Staying Healthy as a Care Partner

Introducing: The Parkinson’s Foundation Care Partner Program

To register for the free courses, follow the instructions on the inserted postcard or visit Parkinson.org/CarePartnerProgram.
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How will I know when it's time to stop driving?

Sometimes, our senior friends drive somewhere for the simple need of getting out of the house. Did you know a move to Danbury with friends of the same age and gourmet meals and activities all day long can be the perfect solution? Give me a call to learn more!
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Can Grandma travel with Alzheimer’s?

Traveling with seniors can be the most fun you've ever had- but it can present its own set of "challenges!" Here are some tips:
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I try to exercise every day, but my brain still feels foggy. What can I do?

As we age, many people stop a daily regiment of brain exercises. Don’t forget the importance of daily Brain Fitness. Use it or Lose it! There are many little things we can do every day to exercise our brain. Here are a few.
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What can seniors do to feel fulfilled?

Aging with a purpose. Volunteerism can improve your health, relationships, and skillsets. Here are a few of the benefits of volunteering for older adults.
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My hearing is getting worse every year. What can I do?

As many as half of all individuals age 75 and older encounter hearing difficulties. Even though hearing loss is irreversible, here are some tips to improve things.
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I am taking care of my dad and I am exhausted. Is there a solution?

Studies have shown that unpaid family caregivers spend about 28 hours a week assisting loved ones. That’s more than a part-time job added on to the normal responsibilities of the caregiver like work, their own family, hobbies, etc.
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How can a senior best celebrate Valentine’s Day, especially this year?

What if you're a senior on Valentine's Day? How do you celebrate?
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I think Mom needs help getting dressed. What do I do?

If you’ve ever helped a senior get dressed, or you happen to be someone in that category, you know it can be a tough situation. Here are some tips to make this awkward dance a little less awkward and easier for everyone.
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Do older people need more sleep?

Many people believe that poor sleep is a normal part of aging, but it is not. Sleep patterns change as we age, but disturbed sleep and waking up tired every day are not part of normal aging.
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What can a Senior do to stay active in the winter?

Now that it’s the middle of January we can say that “winter is actually here.” Unfortunately for many of my Senior friends, this means “hibernation time is here!” While an occasional break is good for the body, soul, and mind, we can’t avoid activity for 3 months and not expect negative results!
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Am I too old to set New Year's resolutions?

I was chatting with a friend here at Danbury about the New Year and she told me she’s “too old” for a New Year’s Resolution! I asked “Why?” and she laughed and responded with another question, “At my age, what am I supposed to change?”
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What can I do for Dad now that he’s alone for the Holidays?

Did you know that, according to Pew Research, 20% of Americans over 60 live alone and that number increases with age? And yes, over 60% report feelings of loneliness, especially this week. Here are a few ways we can help.
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Why do I feel “Bah-Humbug” around Christmas?

If you’re like most Americans, you tend to get a little cranky around the holidays especially as you get older! Many times, this less than cheery attitude is a result of loss, missing the “good old days,” and/or not having anything to do around the holidays. Here are some tips on making your holidays as merry as they can be.
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How can I make this an extra special Season for my senior loved ones?

As the holiday season ramps up, it’s important to remember that your love and attention are the most valuable gifts you can give. That, and helping your elders to feel included in whatever ways they can participate. Here are some ideas.
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I’ve noticed that I eat a lot more junk food since retirement. What can I do?

As I’m sure you are aware, once we retire, we kind of let a few things go. Have you noticed that you tend to eat more for convenience rather than health? Here are a few tips for a senior to eat healthier.
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Is Veterans Day a big deal?

Veterans Day is our chance to thank and honor all veterans. Yes, it is important to thank them for their service, but I encourage you to thank them for their sacrifice.
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I worry about my mom having a stroke. What can I do?

Stroke Safety: If your loved one suffered a stroke, could you recognize it quickly? Would you know what to do?
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Women's Health: Breast Cancer Awareness Month

The power of pink is everywhere this October as we observe Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Every year in the United States, about 250,000 women and men are diagnosed with breast cancer. Read more about how you can lower your risk.
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How do I know if I need assisted living?

I recently got a nice call from a reader who thought their mom needs assisted living. When I asked for details, I learned that, aside from a few medications, their mother was pretty independent! We then had a nice conversation about reasons why mom can benefit from a move to Danbury, even as independent as she is.
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Does Mom have Alzheimer’s?

This question is being asked more frequently these days and quite frankly- with good reason! Diagnoses of Alzheimer's Disease and related dementias are skyrocketing as the Baby Boomers get older, even though it is very tricky to diagnose and still has no cure. As the disease progresses, helping and caring for an Alzheimer’s patient can become much more difficult. What are we supposed to do? Here are a few tips.
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Dad hasn’t been the same since Mom passed. How can we help?

Did you know that older people experience grief differently than others? Grief can be a devastating impact on their immune systems. For a senior who is grieving the loss of a loved one, a move to Danbury Senior Living can be a great solution. When surrounded by new friends from similar situations, we learn we are not alone and find strength and comfort in the group!
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How can assisted living help my COPD?

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is an umbrella term used to describe progressive lung diseases including emphysema, chronic bronchitis, and asthma. This disease is characterized by increasing breathlessness. These labored breathing problems over the simplest of tasks can be frustrating and disrupt your quality of life.
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Mental Health for Seniors

During this odd time of distancing and uncertainty, many older adults and caregivers are feeling lonely, agitated, and withdrawn. Relieving stress and anxiety is also critically important now. Here are a few tips that all of us can use as we navigate these uncertain times.
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Is foot care different for Seniors?

Many seniors never see a podiatrist until something happens. Aging does a number on people’s muscles, ligaments, tendons, and bones which can mean an increased need for podiatric attention.
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How do I de-clutter & downsize all my “collections”?

There comes a time in everyone’s life when they need to take a look around and ask, “Do I really need all this stuff?” And for my senior friends who have been in the same house for 30 years, it’s time to look around and ask “Why do I need such an extensive cakepan collection (or screwdriver collection for the guys)!
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What are some good things I can do every day for heart health?

According to the American Heart Association, over 50% of men and 30% of women over the age of 60 have coronary heart disease. We need to remedy this situation. But how? Fortunately, it’s not as hard as you might think!
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The internet will help me find the best senior living center, right?

As shoppers, we’re more educated than ever and if you have a problem you can just “Google it” and you’ll find thousands of answers in two seconds. When seeking information for health care services in your neighborhood, can you be confident that the internet will give you correct information?
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How do I talk with Dad about moving to assisted living?

Having “the Senior talk” can be difficult, emotional, and scary. But putting off the subject for another time might leave you with no time for pre-planning. If you are considering talking to your parents about assisted living, here are a few tips.
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What is a respite stay and how can it help me?

As a caretaker it can be difficult to find time for your own physical and emotional needs; click to learn about respite stays at Danbury.
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Is sitting the new smoking?

Someone recently told me that “sitting is the new smoking” and it really made me think of my retired friends and clients. How many do you know that spend too much time sitting? Sitting and reading, sitting and watching TV, sitting and playing on the computer?
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What can a pet do for a senior?

Pets and interacting with pets are incredibly important as we age. For seniors, the benefits of a furry companion can be life-changing or even life-saving!
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Why won’t my kids send photo albums of the grandkids?

Because they’re on Facebook. And Instagram. And Pinterest. And anything else they can share pictures with that involves their phone or a computer. Here are a few reasons for a senior to have a basic account on a social media site.
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My dad seems depressed, could this actually be true?

Lately, my dad just has not been himself, he seems distracted and distant. Could he actually be “depressed?” What can I do?
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How do I choose the right senior care facility?

Have you noticed how many new “senior communities” are sprouting up every few months in the area? So, how do you choose the right place for yourself or mom or dad?
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My feet have never bothered me until I reached my 70’s and now they hurt. Why? And what can I do?

As our bodies age, everything just seems to wear out. It's natural. But our feet? The reason is simple - overuse. Click to learn more.
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What Can a Senior Do to Beat the Heat?

Even though our spring has been a roller coaster of temperatures, get ready because the summer heat is coming! Here are some tips for seniors keeping hydrated and cool .
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As I get older, my voice seems much weaker than it used to be. What can I do?

Speech therapy for seniors can help us speak better, using vocal exercises to help us communicate effectively once again.
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I have questions about my dads Estate Planning which he did 5 years ago. What should I do?

It is extremely important to make sure assets are managed properly and that the next generation will receive inheritances, without incident.
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I think my dad just fell for a scam and lost some money. What can he do to be safer?

Each year, millions of elderly Americans fall victim to some type of fraud like romance, lottery, and sweepstakes scams, to name a few.
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The arthritis in my hands seems to be getting worse. Is there anything I can do?

While arthritis is a degenerative disease, it is certainly manageable. Here are a few tips for helping manage arthritis in the hands.
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I have been putting off a surgery that will require an intense rehabilitation. Do you have any advice?

"Most of my senior friends delay the inevitable and “just live with it” because they are worried about what happens after surgery, specifically the rehabilitation.
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My dad has fallen a few times in his home, what can we do to make it safer?

For many of my senior friends the old saying rings true, Their Home is Their Castle. The problem is how comfortable they become in that castle. From clutter to wires, to just being too comfortable, a senior's home is actually the #1 place they could fall and get hurt.
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I try to eat healthy, but nutrition labels are hard to read. What can I do?

If you are like most of my senior friends, maintaining a healthy diet can be a challenge. There are a lot more opportunities to snack on unhealthy things, consume beverages with empty calories and eat at the wrong times of the day.
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I’m over 65 and have had my vaccine, can I move around the area freely now?

Now that many people have had a vaccine and understand the rules of masks and distancing, my senior friends are getting restless and want to get back to enjoying their best lives.
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Now that I’m retired, I’ve gained more than a few pounds, what can I do?

Poor eating habits and inactivity can lead to weight gain, and if left unchecked, can be linked with a number of health complications. Seniors are at risk for clinical consequences, including type 2 diabetes, arthritis, urinary incontinence and even depression.
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I just don’t laugh like I used to, is something wrong with me?

As we age, we tend to laugh less frequently as life gets more serious. It is important to take a step back sometimes and have a good laugh every now and then to improve your overall well-being.
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Medicare makes my head spin, what can I do?

Every day in the United States, 10,000 people become eligible for Medicare by turning 65 and Medicare is not always an easy system to navigate. As with many people over 65, these new “seniors” have many questions about Medicare!
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My Mom seems to suffer from chronic pain, is there anything I can do?

Did you know that chronic pain is one of the most common, yet underreported health conditions for seniors?
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Can I Do Anything To Make My Medications More Affordable?

Every senior should be checking to see if there are ways to reduce the cost of their prescription drugs. It could mean thousands of dollars in savings.
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I exercise every day, but my brain still feels foggy. What can I do?

When you go for a check-up, does your doctor ask you if you've been exercising regularly? We all know that if you don't exercise your body's muscles with weights and cardio you run the risk of ill health. As the saying goes, "If you don't use it, you will probably lose it."
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