A stroke can be a life-altering event. Beyond the physical challenges that follow, many survivors experience emotional and psychological changes that are just as important to recognize. The loss of independence, changes in daily routines, the fear of another stroke, and the brain’s biological response to injury can all contribute to depression. How common is a stroke after a depression? Depression is very common after a stroke, affecting an estimated 30 percent of survivo

Assisting someone with mobility challenges during a transfer requires thoughtful preparation, attention to safety, and clear communication. When transfers are done incorrectly, they can cause discomfort or injury for the person being helped, and they can place significant physical strain on the caregiver as well. The following tips are designed to help you create a safer, smoother, and more comfortable transfer experience for both the caregiver and the individual receiving as

We often talk about the financial struggles of America’s “forgotten middle,” the group of older adults who earn too much to qualify for public benefits but not enough to comfortably afford long-term care. This time, we look at another side of the story: their health . Research shows that the forgotten middle are not only financially vulnerable but also experiencing significant decline in well-being as they approach retirement age. Well-Being Study Researchers from Stanfor

Becoming a caregiver often begins with a moment you never expected. One day you are going about your routine, and the next you are suddenly responsible for someone else’s health, comfort, and safety. It can feel overwhelming, confusing, and even frightening. At the 2025 Oklahoma Family Caregiver Conference hosted by the Oklahoma Caregiver Coalition, Barry Jacobs and Julia Mayer discussed some of the questions caregivers struggle with most. Their insights shine a light on t

Going through a heart attack doesn’t just affect the body. It can leave a deep emotional mark too. A heart attack can make someone suddenly aware of how fragile life feels. Even people who already had a heart condition can feel overwhelmed by the fear of another episode and by the pressure to change their routines. When these worries keep showing up, feel hard to control, and seem to play on repeat, this is often called cardiac anxiety. How Cardiac Anxiety Can Affect

November is full of exciting events designed especially for older adults across California. We’ve rounded up some upcoming older adult friendly events to help you stay active and connected. Seniors Fight Back FREE Self-Defense Class Location:   Greater Ebenezer Missionary Baptist Church 5300 Denker Avenue Los Angeles, CA 90062 Time & Date:   Nov. 15 from 9am to 10am PST Hosted by:  Seniors Fight Back, a volunteer-run nonprofit founded in May 2021 in response to the rise

From its early roots in the early 20th century to today’s porch-light-and-pumpkin celebrations, sharing treats with neighborhood kids has become a cherished Halloween ritual. There is something uniquely special about seeing children dressed as superheroes, princesses, tiny pumpkins, and friendly ghosts. The giggles, the shy “trick-or-treat!” and the beaming smiles when candy drops into their bags often become the highlight of the evening. And who gets a front-row seat to th

Southern California has just experienced its first Santa Ana wind event of the season. Temperatures are expected to rise into the upper 80s and low 90s which are about 10 to 15 degrees warmer than usual for this time of year. Older adults are more at risk during emergencies, which makes the role of caregivers even more important. Taking time to prepare before and during these Santa Ana winds can make all the difference in keeping loved ones safe. What Are the Santa Ana Wind

Halloween is a fun and festive time for many people. Costumes, decorations, and sweets make it a favorite holiday for families and children. However, for older adults living with dementia, Halloween can feel confusing, frightening, or overwhelming instead of joyful. This is why caregivers should be especially mindful of a few things when the holiday approaches. Dementia and Perception As dementia progresses, the way a person sees and interprets their surroundings changes. Wh

If you have ever stood up from a chair or gotten out of bed and suddenly felt dizzy, lightheaded, or “off balance,” you are not alone. This experience is very common in older adults. Up to 20% of people over age 65 experience some level of orthostatic hypotension. It might feel like just a moment of dizziness, but it matters because it can lead to falls, which are one of the biggest safety risks for older adults. What Orthostatic Happens According to Harvard Health, the bod