Breathing changes should become a concern when shortness of breath, coughing, wheezing, or changes in mucus become new, persistent, or noticeably worse than usual. During World COPD Day in November, older adults and their families can learn to recognize symptoms […]

GERD Awareness Week can help older adults recognize when frequent heartburn, acid reflux, swallowing difficulties, or other digestive symptoms deserve attention. Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) occurs when stomach contents repeatedly flow back into the esophagus, potentially causing uncomfortable symptoms and

Nurse Practitioner Week can remind older adults that managing chronic health conditions usually requires ongoing attention rather than waiting until symptoms become serious. Nurse practitioners can play an important role in evaluating health concerns, monitoring chronic conditions, reviewing medications, providing

Thanksgiving gatherings can help families notice changes in an older loved one’s care needs because relatives often spend more time together than they do during ordinary phone calls or brief visits. Adult children may notice changes in mobility, personal care,

National Home Health Care Month in November can help families understand that, when medically appropriate, recovering at home may allow an older adult to receive needed services while remaining in familiar surroundings. Skilled home health professionals may provide nursing, therapy,

National Dental Hygiene Month, observed in October, can support better overall health for older adults by encouraging regular oral hygiene, appropriate dental care, and early attention to changes involving the teeth, gums, mouth, and dentures. Oral health remains important throughout

World Food Day, observed on October 16, can encourage better nutrition and healthy aging by reminding older adults, families, and caregivers that nutritious food is an important part of maintaining health and everyday function. As people age, changes in appetite,

Food and Drug Interactions Awareness Week can promote safer medication use for older adults by reminding families and caregivers that foods, beverages, supplements, and medications can sometimes affect one another. Older adults are more likely to take multiple medications, which

Organize Your Medical Information Month can help families manage an older adult’s healthcare needs by encouraging them to gather important health information in one secure, easy-to-update place. A current list of medications, healthcare providers, medical conditions, allergies, insurance information, and

Global Handwashing Day, observed on October 15, can encourage better infection prevention for older adults by reminding families, caregivers, and senior care providers that proper handwashing is one of the simplest ways to reduce the spread of many germs. Older