Category: Navigating Aging

For Seniors, COVID-19 Sets Off A Pandemic Of Despair

The guidance to stay sheltered as society slowly reopens wears on older Americans, who have a growing sense of isolation and depression.

‘No Intubation’: Seniors Fearful Of COVID-19 Are Changing Their Living Wills

Still, medical experts say, it’s not a black-and-white decision of either go on a ventilator or die.

As COVID-19 Lurks, Families Are Locked Out Of Nursing Homes. Is It Safe Inside?

“The awful truth is families have no control over what’s happening,” one advocate says.

Seniors With COVID-19 Show Unusual Symptoms, Doctors Say

Older bodies respond to infection in different ways. Seniors may sleep more or stop eating. They may be confused or dizzy. They might simply collapse.

What Does Recovery From COVID-19 Look Like? It Depends. A Pulmonologist Explains.

Reports offer a glimmer of hope, especially for older adults.

Should You Bring Mom Home From Assisted Living During The Pandemic?

Families are weighing the challenges of providing home care with the isolation or potential danger of leaving folks in senior housing or long-term care.

Does Everyone Over 60 Need To Take The Same Coronavirus Precautions?

Just how careful should older people be? Here’s what geriatricians think is reasonable.

The Startling Inequality Gap That Emerges After Age 65

The good news: Life expectancy for people who make it to 65 has increased. Yet, coastal and urban people fare better than those in rural and middle America.

U.S. Medical Panel Thinks Twice About Pushing Cognitive Screening For Dementia

Because seniors are at higher risk of cognitive impairment, proponents say screening asymptomatic older adults is an important strategy to identify people who may be developing dementia and to improve their care. But the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force cited insufficient evidence the tests are helpful.

Stalked by The Fear That Dementia Is Stalking You

For those worried they have an elevated risk of Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia, testing is an option. But words to the wise: It’s hardly foolproof and could even backfire by heightening your fear of memory loss.