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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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?
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.
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.
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.
With the explosion of COVID-19 in the United States, we've also seen an explosion of telehealth programs. If you can't go see your doctor in person, how about an online visit?
A list of some Maine orchards that let you pick your own apples. It's a great way to spend a late summer/early fall afternoon. Check ahead to make sure your favorite farm is open this year or to see what COVID-19 restrictions may be in place.
Are you constantly thinking about food? Often reaching for something to eat without thinking? Feeling guilty or resentful? What if you could learn to appreciate what you eat? Every morsel. There's a term for it — mindful eating.
All Nancy Marshall's mother wants is a hug, but because of COVID, it hasn't been possible for months. Nancy writes about the frustration, sadness, and guilt she's been feeling.
Most of the time I think I'm doing ok, even better than ok. I don't really mind staying home and have plenty of projects to keep me busy and opportunities to connect with other people. But out of the blue, I can suddenly feel almost overwhelming sadness and despair. One minute the sun is shining and the next, it's a downpour.
Dr. Dora Anne Mills takes a look at what has been happening with the pandemic in other countries and reviews lessons learned both abroad and closer to home. She warns that this fall and winter could be very challenging, but she also shares some motherly advice.
Whether they were caught off guard or they've been expecting their parents to divorce for years, many adult children are rocked to the core when it actually happens. Family therapists Carol Hughes and Bruce Fredenburg have written a book called Home Will Never Be the Same Again. They did it because, in their experience, few people recognize the impact divorce can have on adult children. In this episode of the Catching Health podcast, the authors offer a useful guide for so-called adult children of gray divorce.
What lessons could this mouth-watering pastry teach other than sometimes it's ok to indulge in sweetness? One might be that you shouldn't be afraid to tackle a project you think you'd never be able to do. Don't hold back. Learn some Kitchen Lessons from a pro.
What do you do when you're no longer able to run your own errands and it's becoming more difficult to do even simple household chores? Alicia Shambo calls My Grandson.
We all know that a sunburn not only hurts like you know what, it can also set the stage for problems down the road, including skin cancer. If you slipped up and stayed out in the sun a bit too long, your kitchen may provide some remedies.
How can you grow older with joy, fulfillment, resilience, and no regrets? You could begin by reading the book Our Wisdom Years by psychologist Dr. Charles Garfield. Instead of fighting against aging or later life as he calls it, he suggests that we embrace the opportunity to live a more meaningful life. His book provides a roadmap that is guaranteed to lead you down a road of adventure and deep reflection. Listen to our conversation and learn more.
At 98, Jim Mardin has led an incredible life, and he intends to keep on living it for several more years. We had our conversation shortly before COVID-19 forced him to stop his three days a week volunteer job. He still drives, takes no medications, enjoys spending time with his girlfriend, and loves sharing stories about his life. He is kind, optimistic, curious, unafraid, and very entertaining.
What do you think? Would now, in the middle of a pandemic, be a good time to quit smoking? Maybe, since your usual routine may already be disrupted. Here are some pros and cons from a man who quit in May and some helpful resources if you want to try.
When the temperature rises here in Maine, so can the ozone level. High levels can make it harder to breathe. The best advice is to take it easy and stay cool. Learn more from Catching Health.
It sure is hot and humid here in Maine. Stay cool and take a minute to learn about heat-related illnesses, their symptoms, and what to do if someone has any. (Pets, too.)
As deaths from COVID-19 climb upward, it is on track to become the third leading cause of death in the U.S. for 2020. Our actions can move us in either direction, says Dr. Dora Mills. Our actions matter.