Health & Wellness

"Friends Postpone Death." That was Phil Agnew’s startling summary of several studies reporting the positive impact of relationships on our health. One study involved people over the age of 70. It found that “people with the strongest network of friends were 22% less likely to die during the study period of 10 years than those with the weakest network of friends.” Supporting friendships is an important elder care goal! Phil Agnew is a behavioral scientist who has a weekly podcast, Nudge. In a recent episode, Agnew talked with Marc Schulz, co-author of The Good Life. Schulz said, “Relationships keep us happier [...]

Want to know how you can improve your health without doctors or meds? Read on! It had been almost a year since Scott had seen his mom, Shirley. Last Thanksgiving had been sobering, as his mom’s well-being had noticeably declined. She seemed “down” and preoccupied with her aches and pains. To Scott’s surprise, this time he found his mom to be happier, more energetic, and dare he think, vibrant. What had changed? When they were alone, Scott brought it up. “Mom, you look so good! Did your doctors adjust your prescriptions?” Rather than answering him directly, Shirley got up, went to [...]

For both individuals needing some assistance and their caregivers, it's essential to recognize caregiving’s impact on mental health. Here are signs that you may be experiencing mental health challenges, the difference a caregiver can make, and how having a respite caregiver benefits family caregivers. For Those Needing Care Dealing with illness, disability, or the effects of aging can make it easy to become consumed by the challenges of daily life. The need for assistance, physical limitations, and potential loss of independence can also take a toll on mental health. Common Mental Health Challenges Among the Elderly and Disabled and the Difference [...]