Blog

Most people experience pain after surgery and need to take pain killers for at least a few days. Being in charge of their own medications gives patients some control and may result in improved pain relief.

Activity trackers, monitors, computer applications, wearables.... there are plenty of options and some can be pricey. Before you spend the money, find out which health gadgets are a good investment in your health and well-being.

You’ve been given a diagnosis and told of a few treatment options. Now you have a tough choice to make and there’s too much at stake for “eenie, meanie, miny mo.” Patient decision aids are free, easy-to-use tools that can guide you through the process of making important decisions.

The latest research shows healthcare providers and their elderly patients find it difficult to talk about end-of-life prognosis and preferences for care. Dr. John You – a doctor and expert in end-of-life communication – shares his perspective.

Patients who have an advance care plan are less likely to receive unwanted intensive care in hospital. Dr. Michelle Howard – an expert in end-of-life communication – provides a professional view on the topic and citizen contributor Diane shares her personal experience.

People who survive a critical illness are at increased risk for post-traumatic stress disorder. Keeping an ICU ‘diary’ is a promising way to help prevent or reduce PTSD symptoms

If you’re undergoing surgery or other hospital treatments you’re probably not thinking of boogying to the beat. But research shows music therapy can reduce anxiety and pain and help ease depression and fatigue.

Eating well is not always easy. A panel of older adults share their thoughts and suggestions about ways to improve nutrition, especially for those most at risk.

For years hormone therapy was the “go to” for relieving symptoms of menopause; it was also believed to protect against age-related diseases. Recent evidence sheds a clearer light on how hormone therapy impacts heart health.

Providing unpaid care offers both rewards and challenges. A panel of caregivers share their thoughts and suggestions about how to better support caregivers.

Specialized, designated stroke centres help reduce death and disability due to stroke. However, in an emergency, is it worth bypassing closer local hospitals to take stroke victims to a designated centre?

Too much time spent sitting or lying down can increase our risk of heart disease, diabetes and other serious health problems. Fortunately, you can take steps (literally) to protect yourself.

Regular exercise keeps us fit and healthy and helps reduce the risk of many diseases as we age, but what can it do for people with dementia or those looking to prevent it?

A new type of drug may significantly improve rheumatoid arthritis progression and symptoms, but is associated with potentially serious side effects.

Although there is no cure for Alzheimer’s and other types of dementia, finding out the best ways to diagnose the condition early may help people to access the best available treatments and support and maintain control and independence for as long as possible.

Lower urinary tract symptoms (problems urinating) could be caused by an obstruction. The usual procedure for detecting an obstruction is invasive and uncomfortable. Evidence shows a simpler method is just as accurate.

Building and maintaining your balance helps reduce the risk of falling. The latest evidence measures the balance benefits of Pilates and balance-recovery training.

It’s quick, easily available, virtually painless and the first line of attack against a nasty bout of flu. The flu vaccine is recommended for everyone and is particularly critical for those with weakened or compromised immune systems such as older adults living in long-term care facilities.

Depression is a common – but potentially serious – mood disorder that affects how you feel, think and behave. There are choices for treatment, including antidepressants and psychological therapy. Read the latest research about these options.

After a medical emergency, many people prefer to recuperate at home. New research compares the benefits of home care vs hospital care. Citizen contributor Lillian shares her personal perspective.