Blog Posts

Nordic walking is popular among older adults. The evidence for the benefits and harms for this exercise are reviewed.

Neck pain is a common and disabling health problem that can affect your daily function including sleep. Specialized pillows have been used to help but the recent evidence is limited.

Frailty represents a form of vulnerability or weakness in the older person and is different from simply growing old. It is important even though there is no agreement on the signs for frailty.

In this final blog from a 4-part series, we examine the benefits and harms of interventions to help those experiencing elder abuse.

Existing drugs for Alzheimer’s disease treat symptoms, but are not a cure. Health care funders restrict drug plan coverage because of their limited effects.

Many suffer from multiple chronic conditions and clinical practice guidelines may not consider the unique needs of older adults. An individualized approach that incorporates values and goals may be the best plan.

Walking can contribute to improved health, and walking in groups offers additional benefits.

Studies have concluded that yoga is effective in reducing back pain and related disability, particularly in the short term.

Slowing of your walking speed is associated with aging and most are concerned with knowing what speeds are safe for normal community activities. A simple test can determine your walking speed.

Urinary incontinence is a very common problem in aging women. When conservative measures (pelvic floor training, lifestyle changes) don't work some drugs can help for some types of incontinence.

In part 3 of this 4 part series we examine public opinion about elder abuse. This is compared to known rates of abuse in Canada and internationally.

Many are concerned about how much sleep is 'normal' and how much we need for successful aging. Although there is no simple answer, the scientific evidence shows that sleep duration has important links to health.

In Part 2 of this 4-part series, we expand upon the different types of elder abuse. Important risk factors associated with vulnerable seniors, as well as the perpetrators of the abuse are discussed.

We often fail to recognize the signs of elder abuse. In Part 1 of this 4 part series we focus on defining elder abuse. Our understanding of elder abuse has changed over time. Culture and geography are also important.

The majority of people with Alzheimer’s will develop behaviour problems over time and this causes much suffering and stress for patients and caregivers. There are solutions to manage this.

Periodically ask a healthcare provider to check your medications. This can ensure the least harm and most benefit overall, and reduce drugs taken and interactions in polypharmacy.

Online drug interaction checkers are useful, but have some problems with identifying adverse effects. Always talk to a healthcare provider to confirm your risk for side effects.

Aging may change the effects and risk profile of different drugs. Polypharmacy may increase, decrease, or cancel effects of different drugs, foods, and supplements.

Many older Canadians are taking multiple medications (polypharmacy) to manage their health conditions. Taking 5 or more medications can increase your risk of drug interactions.

Many older adults are lonely and this could affect their overall health. Changing negative or wrong perceptions about oneself and others is a solution to loneliness.