In recent days, states across the U.S. have shattered their previous COVID-19 infection and hospitalization numbers. Startling data reveals that more than half of the country is experiencing a significant increase in COVID-19 patients, with numerous cities approaching full capacity in their hospitals’ ICUs. In some areas, the positivity rate for tests is in the [...]
There are a number of so-called “brain game” products on the market these days. These typically are computer or smartphone/tablet-based games that claim they can help improve seniors’ cognitive function and memory. But do they really work? Could playing video games be the secret to decreasing the prevalence of neuro-degenerative conditions like dementia? And what [...]
Are there certain words that make you feel a certain way, triggering either positive or negative feelings? Family, work, home, taxes, and vacation might be a few examples. Working in the senior living space, I think a lot about the specific terminology that is used within our industry vertical, as well as the aging-related language [...]
In last week’s blog post, I wrote about 90-year-old oil tycoon T. Boone Pickens and his inspiring attitude about growing older, despite several recent health setbacks. In the article, Pickens suggests being “the eternal optimist who is excited to see what the next decade will bring.” He continues: “I remain excited every day, engaged and thrilled [...]
What is your attitude about the aging process? Do you view it as a positive rite of passage or a negative phenomenon that must simply be endured? I recently read an inspiring article written in 2017 by oil tycoon T. Boone Pickens in which he reflects on his life’s “fourth quarter.” Having suffered several strokes [...]
I spend a lot of time travelling around the country, speaking to groups of people about senior living options, including continuing care retirement communities (CCRCs, sometimes called life plan communities). During my travels, I’m fortunate to meet people who live in these communities, as well as people who may be considering a move to a [...]
We’ve been hearing about various types of discrimination in the new headlines a lot lately. From issues of pay equity to debates around race, disability, and sexuality, Americans typically have vocal opinions about hot button topics. However, there is one demographic that frequently confronts discrimination, but it rarely makes the front page of the paper: [...]
I read an article recently from PBS Newshour entitled “How to Stay Out of a Nursing Home and Age Independently.” It discusses a recent study out of Sweden that identified several factors that predicted a senior’s likelihood of living independently into their 80s. Some may call this "aging independently." The study’s lead author, geriatrician Kristin Franzon, [...]
According to data collected by the National Alliance for Caregiving, there are over 66 million family caregivers in the United States. That translates to nearly 40 percent of the U.S. adult population…a stunning statistic. This number includes people who are caring for the sick or disabled, but the majority of these caregivers are assisting an elderly [...]
According to the latest jobs report from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, in June, the healthcare sector added 37,000 jobs. As the country’s population grows older, the need for more employees in the healthcare services and senior care field, including what’s referred to as “direct care” workers–like home health aides, personal care aides, and [...]
