How to make resolutions and not break them
Have you already broken those resolutions you made? You're not alone, but we've got some advice that may help you get on a more successful track.
Two turbulent threats and transitions
Dr. Dora Anne Mills reflects on "two seismic events - the pandemic and the threats to our democracy" and answers questions about the COVID-19 vaccine rollout.
How to move toward mindful eating
Looking to start a new relationship ... with food? One place to begin is to learn about mindful eating. We've got some great tips and a free workbook to get you on your way.
Reflecting on the lessons of 2020
In this thoughtful essay, in which she reflects on the past and looks to the future, Dr. Dora Anne Mills writes that she chose to spend New Year's weekend living in the present. It was a good place to be, she said.
An inspiring conversation about aging with Liz Johnson
Elizabeth Johnson is not only curious about things — lots of things — she actually pursues most of them. She's an interesting, energetic, inspiring woman. Find out for yourself in this episode of the Catching Health podcast.
Have a happy new year and other resolutions
When the new year rolls around, so do thoughts of making resolutions. Need some inspiration? I came up with a whopping 175 suggestions!
COVID-19 and the lights of faith and hope
During these dark days of COVID-19, Dr. Dora Anne Mills reflects on other dark times in the history of our world and offers us some hope.
How to add a few laughs to your daily routine
I try to find things to laugh about, but it's not always easy these days. Laughing is supposed to be good for us but how can you laugh if so little seems funny? What if you just decided to laugh for no apparent reason. That's what Laughter Yoga is all about. I tried it recently and enjoyed myself. No joke.
30 years after lifesaving heart surgery, Mindy Beyer celebrates with a day of gratitude
She may not live past the age of three, said her doctors. Not only did she prove them wrong, but Mindy Beyer also says she has been given more than she ever expected. Definitely worth celebrating!
Living with a blood disorder called polycythemia vera
Rebecca Reilly was recently diagnosed with the rare blood disorder polycythemia vera. She is sharing her story to inspire others to pay attention to their body and the clues it gives.
Some advice and perspectives on growing older
What is old? Wendy Adlerstein, my guest on this episode of the Catching Health podcast, suggests that it has more to do with attitude than how many birthdays you've celebrated. She's a licensed social worker with a certificate in gerontology and the Executive Director of FirstLight Home Care in the Boston area. We tackled several issues related to getting older that are definitely worth listening to, especially if you or your parents are getting older.
COVID-19: which habits to keep, which ones to ditch
As we prepare for our pared-down Thanksgiving celebrations, COVID rages on across the country. With vaccines on the horizon, it's possible to imagine life returning to "normal" again. Dr. Dora Anne Mills considers the habits we've had to develop and what will happen to them.
Fred Craigie on living a meaningful, joyful, and peaceful life
What does it mean to be you? If that seems like a question that would require deep reflection, you are right. It's exactly what psychologist Dr. Fred Craigie is inviting us to do. In this Catching Health podcast, he has a wealth of questions to help lead us along a path of self-reflection and he has a new book that we should certainly take along on our journey.
COVID-19: A tale of two worlds
Playing it safe versus throwing all caution to the wind. A not-so brief update from Dr. Dora Anne Mills.
Managing motherhood when you have MCAS, POTS, and hEDS
Crystal Goodwin had always wanted to be a mother. Because she has some significant health issues, she knew it would be a challenge. She was right, but she has a lot of support and is looking forward to a little bit more.
Postpartum depression happens to dads, too
It's not unusual for new mothers to experience postpartum depression after giving birth. But what about new fathers? Can they, too, have postpartum depression? Definitely.
Looking forward to the future one scarf at a time
When COVID forced a lockdown in London in early March, Hazell Jacobs knew she had to find something to help her cope. She found inspiration in her vast scarf collection and decided to write a blog about them. Its title Scarf Aid is an apt one. The stories about her scarves that she has been weaving since March have brought comfort not only to Hazell but to her growing list of followers. This is Hazell's story.
Anxiety in the time of COVID (and politics)
So ... feeling anxious lately? I know I am and it's wearing on me (and likely, my husband). Fortunately, I'm open to asking for advice, and that in itself can help me calm down. Writing this blog post was also helpful. It makes me feel connected when I can share what I learn.
Achieving a personal best during COVID and staying positive
At the beginning of the pandemic, Connie Venskus worked on puzzles, but then she put them away to pursue some more meaningful goals — making masks and training for a Jimmy Fund marathon walk.
Understanding the impact of COVID on senior living communities
People who live in senior and assisted living communities are at increased risk when it comes to COVID because of their age and the likelihood they have underlying health issues. How these communities tackle keeping residents and staff safe during the pandemic can be either life-saving or life-threatening. I look at one company that has been trying hard to get it right.
Catherine Gentile, author
Listen to my conversation (there's also a transcript available) with Maine author Catherine Gentile. Her latest book, Small Lies was just released. We talk about the stories in it, including the lie we tell ourselves about aging, and we talk about Alzheimer's' — which both of our mothers had — and how to possibly prevent this horrible disease.
You mean there’s therapy for that? Pelvic health physical therapy and why it matters
Most people have been to a physical therapist or are familiar with what they do. What you might not know is there are physical therapists specially trained in strengthening an often overlooked group of muscles — the ones in your pelvis. More important than you may realize.
What happens to your veins as you age
Our veins change with age, but no matter what risks you might have or how old you are, living with venous disease is not a foregone conclusion. Learn about common conditions and modern treatments and techniques that get you on your feet again.
Losing your balance lately? This is a must-read
I'm getting old, my balance isn't what it used to be. Do you ever say that to yourself? Well, guess what, age may be a factor, but there are things we all can do to improve our balance.
The truth about women and retirement
One of the truths about women and retirement is that everyone's story is different. Some women don't know what they'll do with their lives when they stop working and for others, it's their chance to start fulfilling their dreams.
October surprises about the COVID-19 pandemic
We've learned some important, potentially life-saving, facts about COVID-19 since the pandemic descended upon the world. We get some of the details from Dr. Dora Anne Mills. She calls them October surprises.
Finding new ways to honor passed loved ones during COVID
We've all read the stories or had a personal experience with not being allowed to see loved ones who are in the hospital, a nursing home, or assisted living facility. Especially heart wrenching is not being able to gather around when a loved one is dying or to honor them afterward.
Add some yoga poses to your life
As the days get shorter and cooler forcing people to hunker down inside, getting regular exercise can be a challenge. But not impossible. For instance, how about signing up for an online yoga class?
Navigating Glioblastoma: A Caregiver’s Perspective
When Sally Connolly's late husband was diagnosed with glioblastoma, she started writing down everything. Those notes eventually evolved into a memoir. In this podcast, Sally talks about her husband's struggle with brain cancer from her perspective — as his caregiver.
Early warning signs of a torn or detached retina
It's easy to take your eyes for granted when you're seeing just fine. And some people are apt to not pay attention to annoying little things like floaters or occasional flashes of light. Don't ignore them.
A conversation about aging with a soaring senior
Rita Losee describes herself as a Woman of adventure, Doctor of Success, Proponent of Prosperity, InspirACTional Speaker, Author. She is that and more. Decades ago, she made a promise to herself that she would live a life of adventure. What a ride it has been and she is not even close to slowing down. At 78, Rita is also doing her best to encourage people to follow her lead. Instead of thinking it's all downhill from here, you could be a soaring senior — just like Rita.