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

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

AI promises convenience and innovation at a scale we have never seen before. At the same time, its rapid growth brings serious concerns such as privacy, misinformation, bias, and even safety risks. California’s new Transparency in Frontier Artificial Intelligence Act (TFAIA) aims to strike a balance between these benefits and harms. By setting rules for how powerful AI systems are developed and monitored, the law seeks to ensure that innovation continues while protecting t

Caring for a loved one with arthritis involves many challenges, especially when it comes to transportation. Arthritis can cause joint stiffness, pain, and limited mobility, making car rides uncomfortable or even unsafe for seniors. As a caregiver, understanding how to prepare for and assist during travel can make a significant difference in your loved one’s comfort and safety. Before You Get in the Car Caregivers can help older adults prepare their bodies and essentials be

There’s nothing quite like the feeling of walking out of a salon with a fresh cut or color. In our search, we found salons of all kinds offering discounts you can actually count on, from big national chains to small neighborhood shops to student-run salons where future stylists are practicing their skills. Who doesn’t love the little joy of knowing you got a great deal! Great Clips Who qualifies:  Age 65+ Discount details:   Exact discount is not specified. Available year

October is a vibrant month for older adults in California, with communities across the state hosting events that celebrate wellness, connection, and fun. From health expos and educational fairs to social gatherings and themed dances, these activities offer seniors a chance to stay engaged, meet new people, and explore valuable resources. Here are some highlights of what’s happening this month. Golden Future Senior Expo – San Fernando Valley Edition Location:  Airtel Plaza

When people think about meaningful relationships, close friends and family often come to mind. While these deep bonds are essential, research shows that even casual connections, like chatting with a neighbor, greeting a cashier, or talking with someone at the gym, can provide real benefits. Why Casual Connections Matter Gillian Sandstrom, PhD, a psychologist who has studied these “weak ties,” found that people are happier on days when they have more casual interactions t