The Lifeline Blog

Our nutritional health can dramatically affect our ability to ward off diseases, recover from surgeries and live long healthy lives. Yet many of us face obstacles that make it hard to eat well. As a result, millions of older Americans are at risk of malnutrition. Some research estimates that almost 14% of adults over 60 Read more >>

We’ve been hearing since we were kids that we should eat our vegetables. That old advice is still true, modernized to the catchy slogan, “eat the rainbow.” Adding colorful foods to our plates delivers important vitamins, fiber, antioxidants and minerals that help us stay well. And most vegetables are naturally low in calories, fat and Read more >>

Most of us caregivers don’t even realize we’ve become isolated until we’ve been disconnected for a while. Caregiver isolation comes on gradually, starting with a single decision to skip a social activity. That becomes a habit and soon enough it’s difficult to get out of our routine even to run a small personal errand. As Read more >>

Our activity levels often increase with the temperature. In the summer months, we’re all eager to be more active and to make the most of those extra minutes of day light. As we age, though, our ability to deal effectively with the heat changes, and often in ways we don’t notice day to day. That’s Read more >>

No matter what your age, it’s important to maintain a healthy heart and body. But practicing a balanced fitness program can be vital for seniors. Regular exercise helps control cholesterol levels, body weight, and blood pressure. It reduces the risks of stroke, heart attack, hardening of the arteries, and strengthens bones to help fight osteoporosis. Read more >>

When we dream about our golden years, we see our older selves gracefully living out our lives engaged in meaningful activities and surrounded by family and friends. But the reality can be different for many older adults. Almost half of seniors (43%) say they feel lonely and isolated, according to a landmark study by the University of Read more >>

Caring for Seniors: Recognizing Signs of Elder Abuse It’s something we don’t want to think about: elder abuse and neglect. If we have aging parents, we can’t ignore it. About one in 10 people aged 60 and older experience physical or emotional abuse or neglect, according to the National Center on Elder Abuse. The incidence Read more >>

Even the most conservative estimates place losses from elder financial exploitation at $36 billion each year. And that’s just what’s reported to financial companies and the police. “Elder financial abuse is happening in America at an alarming rate – if it was reported as often as it happens,” asserts Syracuse-based CPA and financial planner Ted Read more >>

Every April 22 since 1970, Americans have observed Earth Day. The largest secular observance in the world, the day serves to engage the public in environmental activities and advocacy. Ideas for Older Adults to Observe Earth Day, Have Fun and Do Good 1. Create a plastic reduction plan Commit to doing your part to reduce Read more >>

Looking for the perfect gift for older parents, grandparents, or other special seniors in your life? Many of the latest gizmos and gadgets dominating holiday advertisements do not make most seniors’ wish lists. “Be mindful about what works for the seniors within their abilities – not whether or not it’s a cool idea from a Read more >>