February 2012 Posts

Caring for Senior Cancer Patients

Caring for Senior Cancer Patients  February 4 is World Cancer Day. The U.S. National Cancer Institute offers information for older adults and family caregivers. As our population ages, the United States can expect a sizable increase in the number of older citizens who survive cancer. National...

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Delirium Complicates Recovery for Senior Patients

Laura Ayers suffered a torn rotator cuff. Her doctor recommended that the 80-year-old undergo shoulder surgery right away. Arriving at the hospital, Laura was her usual self, joking with her daughter and the healthcare team. But after the surgery, she didn't recognize the family, her speech was inco...

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Supporting Spouse Caregivers

Every Valentine's Day, we see news stories about couples who are celebrating their 50th, 60th, 70th and even the occasional 80th anniversary. Our longer lifespan can translate to increased longevity for marriages as well. But living longer means that we are more likely to develop chronic healt...

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Beating More Than Winter Blues

Beating More Than Winter Blues For many people, “winter blues” is not just a case of doldrums but a type of depression called seasonal affective disorder (SAD). This mood condition typically occurs annually in late fall or early winter with the change in daylight saving time and the adv...

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