American Academy of Family Physicians.
American Academy of Family Physicians.
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Helping Older Adults Deal With Life-Changing Events
Older adults must learn to cope with grief as they age… emotional and mental health. It can even lead to depression. If you’re a caregiver or if you spend time with an older adult, learn how to help your loved one cope with loss. …
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Sexuality in Older Adults
As you age, it doesn’t mean that you suddenly lose interest in sex. It’s common for people to remain sexually… but you can find new ways to be intimate. Spend time touching, kissing, and enjoying each other’s company. Practice safe sex. Older adults are still…
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Depression in Older Adults
Depression is a common problem in older adults, but it is not part of the aging process. Learn how to… depression symptoms, older adults may: Have delusions or hallucinations Have memory problems or confusion Path to improved health Depression is common in adults who are…
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Sleep Changes in Older Adults
As you age, you may have changes in your sleep patterns. Hormones, lifestyle habits, and certain conditions and medicines can… Most healthy older adults aged 65 or older need 7-8 hours of sleep each night to feel rested and alert. But as you age,…
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Preventing Malnutrition in Older Adults
Malnutrition in older adults is a serious concern and is often due to low income, medical conditions, disability, social issues,… As the U.S. population ages, malnourishment is a growing concern. Good nutrition is very important for all older adults. It is especially important for older…
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Don’t Miss Your (Flu) Shot
Older adults are at higher risk of flu complications, so it’s important for them to get the flu vaccine every… of as a mild illness. Still, it can be very severe for some people. In particular, adults who are 65 years and older have a…
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Exercise and Seniors
Some form of regular exercise is important for older adults… Exercise is an important part of nearly everyone’s everyday health, including older adults. Experts say seniors should be as active as possible. If you are an older adult, exercise can help you live a…
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Preventive Care for Seniors
Preventive services are important for everyone, especially for older adults. This is because your risk for health problems increases as… for heart disease should also be tested. Cholesterol levels are checked with a blood test. Diabetes screening Diabetes is very common in older adults. It…
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Prescription Drug Abuse in the Elderly
Prescription drug abuse is when people misuse prescribed medicines. Most older adults who suffer from prescription drug abuse do so… Most prescription drugs are safe and effective when you follow your doctor’s directions for how to take the medicine. Why are older adults at risk…
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Housing Options for Seniors
Your housing needs may change as you age. Consider these senior living communities to see if one is right for… or proper medical care. Below are some options for senior living. Active adult communities Active adult communities are neighborhoods made for older adults. They can…
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You Don’t Have to Handle Dementia Care Alone
When a loved one has dementia, your family doctor can be a trusted resource and partner in their care… I’m a family doctor who practices in an area with a large population of older adults. People often ask me about memory loss and dementia (particularly…
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Osteoporosis
Osteoporosis is a disease of the bones and often occurs in older women… What is osteoporosis? Osteoporosis is a disease of the bones. It causes you to lose bone mass. Osteoporosis occurs most often in older adults. Women are more likely to have it…
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Edema
Edema is swelling or puffiness of parts of the body. Edema usually happens in the feet, ankles, and legs. It… What is edema? Edema is swelling or puffiness of parts of the body. Edema usually happens in the feet, ankles, and legs. It also can affect…
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Exercise: How To Get Started
Most people should attempt to exercise at least 5 times a week for 30 to 60 minutes at a time… Before beginning an exercise routine, you should talk to your family doctor. This is especially important if you haven’t been active, if you have any…
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Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV)
Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is a common virus that makes it hard to breathe. RSV is common in children under… However, people of all ages can get it. It is more serious for young and premature babies. Also, it is serious for older adults with…
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Which Vaccinations Do I Really Need?
Getting the COVID-19 vaccine is a priority, but it’s still important to get all of the vaccinations your family doctor… this isn’t just true for the COVID-19 vaccine. I also help my patients understand the importance of other vaccines for adults and children. For example,…
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Restless Leg Syndrome
Restless legs syndrome is a condition in which your legs feel very uncomfortable when you’re sitting or lying down. It… both men and women and occur at any age (including during childhood). It often worsens with age and becomes a problem for older adults. RLS…
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Insomnia
Insomnia is a sleep disorder that happens when you have trouble falling asleep, staying asleep, or both. It’s more common… several nights a week and lasts for more than a few months. Many people have insomnia. However, it’s more common in older adults, and more…
