Letter of Competency: What is It and Why Is It Needed?

If you are a caregiver for an elderly family member, you may wonder if you should obtain a letter of competency from the doctor. A physician’s statement of mental competency involves important decisions that are life-altering. It should not be entered into without completely understanding what a physician’s statement of mental incompetence means, and how … Continued

Sign of Dementia: Clinging and Following

Dementia is scary. It is not a single disease, but it is a general term that covers a wide range of cognitive disorders caused by abnormal brain changes. Symptoms, progression, and functioning levels differ from person to person. We’re going to talk about a specific behavior that occurs in many people who suffer from dementia. … Continued

How Does Parkinson’s Disease Affect Daily Life?

Parkinson’s sounds like a very scary disease. Many people may hear about it and wonder what it is like living with Parkinson’s disease. Luckily, since it is a gradual disease, it is possible to live a fairly normal life with Parkinson’s for many years after a diagnosis. How Does Parkinson’s Disease Affect Daily Life? The … Continued

Old People Smell: Does Body Odor Increase With Age?

Does body odor change as you get older? You may notice unique smells with older people but that doesn’t necessarily mean that old people smell “bad.” In this post, we will review the science behind this smell and answer questions such as: Does your body odor change as you age? Why do old people’s homes … Continued

Behavioral Changes in Old Age: Why Do Some Old People Get Mean?

Sometimes it feels like elderly people are always angry, and not just because they can’t figure out the TV remote. If we’re being honest, TV remotes these days are far too complicated, even for the young and “tech-savvy.” But there’s a reason you smiled at that image as well as the many “old man yells … Continued

What is a Do Not Resuscitate Order (DNR)?

Resuscitating a loved one from death may seem like an easy decision on paper but when they are chronically ill, it could pose more harm than good. That’s when getting a DNR is a more viable option. But why sign a DNR? When can you sign a DNR? What is do not resuscitate comfort care? … Continued

The Epstein Barr Virus and Multiple Sclerosis Connection

Science has long believed there to be a connection between the Epstein-Barr Virus and Multiple Sclerosis, but it has been difficult to determine that exact connection. While you are probably at least familiar with MS, you may not know much about Epstein-Barr, or EBV, so let’s dive a little deeper into EBV first. What is … Continued

Leaving Against Medical Advice: Can You Walk Out?

When you are sick enough to be in the emergency room or if you have been admitted to the hospital you are not looking for additional problems. But what happens if things aren’t going well? What if unforeseen circumstances arise that make you decide to leave the hospital against medical advice? Your decision to leave … Continued

Standard Bathroom Grab Bar Heights

The bathroom can be a dangerous place where seniors are prone to slips and falls. Adding grab bars inside the shower, along the bathtub, and beside the toilet area can keep the area safe for your loved one. But where should toilet grab bars be placed? What is the standard shower grab bar height? We’ll … Continued