As the cost of living continues to rise, older adults in the United States are facing a growing financial challenge. For many, the burden of expensive housing combined with the high cost of care is creating an increasingly difficult situation. This is especially true for a older adults that are in a GAPS household. What Are GAPS Households? The term GAPS households refers to a group of older adults whose incomes are too high to qualify for government housing assistance, b

Fruits are rich in nutrients that play an important role in maintaining good health. They contain polyphenols, powerful plant compounds that help reduce inflammation and protect the body from cellular damage. Fruits are also full of fiber, which aids digestion and helps you feel full longer. This can support healthy weight management and reduce overeating. However, for older adults living with diabetes, it’s important to remember that fruits also contain natural sugars tha

Volunteering can be one of the most meaningful and rewarding activities for older adults. It provides a way to stay active, engaged, and connected to the community while also making a real difference in the lives of others. Research shows that many older adults are already giving back. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, adults aged 65 and older are two to three times more likely to volunteer than those between the ages of 25 and 34. Volunteering doesn’t jus

When we think about what pumps blood through the body, we usually picture the heart. But our body is an interconnected system, with organs, tissues, and muscles all working together to keep us healthy. One lesser-known player in that system is the calf muscle which is often referred to as the body’s “second heart.” The Function of Calves Every time you lift your heel, flex your foot, or take a step, your calf muscles contract. As they contract, they gently squeeze the dee

Self-service checkout lanes offer convenience for shoppers, allowing them to quickly scan, bag, and pay for their items. However, a new and deceptive scam targeting older adults is making its way through these self-checkout areas. While this scam was first reported in San Mateo, California, it's important to be aware of it. Scammers often move from one area to another, and similar tactics can appear in other communities. This scam is designed to exploit the kindness and t

Outbursts from and older adult you are caring for can feel personal and emotionally draining, even when you know deep down they are not about you. Staying calm is the usually the first and obvious advice given to caregivers during episodes of shouting, insults, or physical aggression, but that is often easier said than done. So how exactly can caregivers start to stay calm in a high stress moment? One way to do this is learning the skill of self-awareness. The Role of S

When Dr. Jane Goodall passed away at 91 in California, she was still actively speaking and working on her lifelong mission. Even in her later years, she was deeply committed to her work, traveling and advocating for the protection of chimpanzees and environmental conservation. This dedication wasn’t just part of her career. It was a manifestation of a profound sense of purpose that extended throughout her life. For older adults, this sense of purpose can be the key to not

Strong ankles play a crucial role in maintaining mobility and independence as we age. Ankles absorb impact with every step, which leads to wear and tear over time, especially in older adults who may be less active or have underlying conditions like arthritis. Weak ankles can cause: Poor balance , which increases the risk of falling Foot pain , due to instability or overcompensation by other muscles Sprains , especially from sudden twists or missteps on uneven surfaces But t

Caregiving can be challenging, especially when supporting an older adult with a cognitive condition such as dementia. Everyday tasks like brushing hair, getting dressed, or eating a meal may lead to frustration for both the caregiver and the person receiving care. One approach that can make these moments smoother is called systematic cueing . When used with patience and compassion, this strategy can help maintain independence for the older adult while reducing stress for the