As society progresses towards greater inclusivity and acceptance, it’s crucial to shine a light on the specific challenges that LGBTQ elders face as they navigate the aging process. Despite strides in LGBTQ rights, these individuals encounter unique obstacles that can hinder their ability to age with dignity and comfort. In the Bronx, as in many other communities, efforts are underway to confront these challenges head-on. It’s an important step forward in ensuring that LGBTQ elders receive the support and care they need to live out their later years in comfort and dignity. Key Statistics  ..read more

 Family Caregiver Role Growing in Queens  According to the National Alliance for Caregiving (NAC) and AARP, family caregiving jumped significantly from 2015 to 2020 and it does not seem like the trend is turning around anytime soon. Now, over 41 million Americans are caring for loved ones. That’s a 16.8% jump in just 5 years. With so many more family members having to care for their elderly loved ones, it is time to take caregiver stress even more seriously. Prevalence of Caregiving for an Adult Age 50+, 2020 and 2015   2020 Prevalence   # US Adults who are Caregivers ..read more

We are all shocked when we see heart wrenching images of elder abuse that are reported in the media. Unfortunately, those are just the tip of the iceberg. Tragically, this occurs many thousands more times to adults over 60 than hits the newsstands. Mickey Rooney testified before Congress about being a victim of elder abuse and made warning about it his life’s mission in his later years. Here is a trailer from the film Last Will and Embezzlement where he is featured. In fact, elder abuse can lead to premature death, deep physical and psychological harm and trauma, broken family and social ties ..read more

Aging at home, also known as Aging in Place, is obviously more desirable than moving to assisted living. In fact, the AARP reports that 90% of seniors plan to age at home. However, there are many factors to consider. There is the physical environment as well as the living independently aspect. Modifying the physical environment is largely easy. On the other hand, determining whether a senior loved one is able to live alone is more involved and can meet with some resistance if the elderly loved one does not want to bring in a home health aide or companion to help them with day-to-day living in ..read more

Unfortunately, aging comes with a great deal of loss and that includes hearing loss.  In fact, one-third of all older Americans suffer from this condition. On World Hearing Day it is a good idea to look at the issue of hearing loss in Brooklyn seniors including testing, treatments, and prevention. Fast Facts Did you know that almost 35% of adults between the ages of 65 and 75 suffer from hearing loss? Also, did you know that almost half of those older than 75 suffer from hearing loss as well? The Symphony of Hearing All too often we take hearing for granted. Furthermore, most are comple ..read more

If it is not stressful and harrowing enough when your loved one has to undergo a hospital stay, bringing them home presents a whole other set of challenges. Once they are stable enough to be released, the healing is usually far from over. You will need to make sure that there are supports and plans in place so they can continue on the road to recovery. They will need to be properly cared for at home in Manhattan. What is Discharge Planning? Discharge planning is simply making a plan for the patient after they are discharged from the hospital. However, this is often far from simple. After a hos ..read more

There are many misconceptions when it comes to heart disease. Many people mistakenly believe that heart disease means a quick death. This is somewhat surprising since it is a fairly common ailment. Moreover, they think that most people suffer a major cardiac event precipitating a rapid death, usually with no preliminary symptoms. Even with recent medical advances, heart disease remains the number one killer around the world. Honestly, many survive heart attacks and live with heart disease. Recovery is possible, but it can take time. The question for seniors in Bay Ridge is when is it time to s ..read more

While each February we celebrate hearts and valentines, it is also a time to reflect on something much more serious. Though other illnesses have come center stage lately, heart disease remains a common concern as we age. According to the National Council on Aging, it is one of the top 5 most common chronic illnesses in adults 65 and over. As such, Heart Disease Awareness month is a good time to do some research on the subject. Heart disease is actually a very broad topic with many components and I encourage you to click on the blog posts below to learn more. 5 LIFE-SAVING FACTS ABOUT SUDDE ..read more

We have all heard of the United States Bill of Rights, but did you know there is a formal Patient’s Bill of Rights? It is put out by American Hospital Association (AHA) and though it does not have legal weight behind it, it is an established ethical standard. On this Patient Recognition Day, it is worthwhile for all of us who are caregivers and patients to know what we should expect and demand with respect to our healthcare. Let’s look at the Patient’s Bill of Rights. Here is a snapshot of what was first adopted in 1973 and updated in 1992 by the AHA in the hopes that all hospitals would tailo ..read more

Some people find the process of choosing a Home Healthcare Agency to be overwhelming and fraught with emotion. Dealing with the reality that you or a loved one is in declining health is naturally a stressful, sometimes heartbreaking, time. The right agency and healthcare professional understands that and can help ease the process. Of course, it is essential to make an informed decision when selecting a healthcare provider for a loved one in Manhattan. You must consider many factors to guarantee the highest quality of care.   This handy chart should also help in choosing a ..read more