May 1, 2024 —
Sleep is a vital process during which the body undergoes several significant changes that are crucial for physical health and cognitive function. In older adults, these processes are particularly important due to the increased vulnerability to health issues. As we sleep, the brain cycles through various stages, including deep sleep and REM (rapid eye movement)... Read More
April 15, 2024 —
Spring can be an invigorating season, with its refreshing bloom of new life after a long winter. But this blooming often comes with an annoying side effect: seasonal allergies. Seasonal allergies, sometimes referred to as hay fever, are triggered by pollen from trees, grasses, and weeds. In Illinois, April is a prime time for these... Read More
April 2, 2024 —
In the quest for optimal health, fiber stands out as a necessary but often overlooked component of our diet. This humble nutrient, found in the cell walls of plants, offers myriad health benefits, ranging from improved digestive health to reduced risk of chronic diseases. Yet, many of us struggle to meet the recommended daily intake.... Read More
March 15, 2024 —
It is difficult to overstate the importance of medication safety for older adults. According to the National Institutes of Health, adverse reactions and medication errors cost our healthcare system $40 billion each year, with more than 7 million patients affected. Worse, these problems are fatal for between 7,000 and 9,000 people annually. As we get... Read More
March 1, 2024 —
We’ve all heard the stereotypes about different generations, defined by their year of birth: “Millennials are lazy and spend too much on avocado toast. The Greatest Generation are patriotic hard workers. Baby boomers are selfish and technologically inept. And don’t forget Gen X, those disaffected loners.” Stereotypes like these have created a cottage industry of... Read More
February 15, 2024 —
As our loved ones age, it’s natural for us to worry about their well-being and independence. While they may strive to maintain their autonomy, certain signs may indicate they need assistance to ensure their safety and quality of life. Recognizing these signs early can help you provide the support and care they need. Here are... Read More
February 1, 2024 —
As we age, our dietary needs evolve, and managing our sodium intake becomes more important. While our bodies do need the nutrient sodium, too much can cause damage to our internal organs. High sodium consumption is linked to various health issues like high blood pressure, heart disease, and kidney problems, all of which are particularly... Read More
January 17, 2024 —
Transitioning to assisted or independent living is a significant life event for both the individual moving and their family members. It marks the beginning of a new chapter that, while offering more support and care, also brings a wave of changes and adjustments. We’d like to offer some guidance for all parties to make this... Read More
January 2, 2024 —
We’re all aware of the importance of brushing and flossing. We’ve heard it from our parents, dentist, and dental hygienist since we were kids. When you’re young, it’s easy to overlook dental hygiene (especially the flossing). You take healthy teeth for granted, except for the occasional cavity; it’s not something you worry about. But what happens... Read More
December 15, 2023 —
Imagine your blood vessels as tiny hoses running all through your body. When your heart beats, it pumps blood through these hoses. If the blood pushes too hard against the walls of these hoses, that’s high blood pressure. Doctors will say you have high blood pressure if your numbers are usually 130 over 80 or... Read More
