Other Side of 50

Periodically I come across a new product or service that may be of interest to readers. Here are four to consider: Latest shingles vaccine. On the nightly news recently I heard about a new, more effective shingles vaccine. I plan to talk to my doctor about it at my physical this month. Shingrix, approved by [...]

I recently assisted in moderating a local research study of individuals who took six or more prescription medications a day. Some participants spoke of needing to take pills with food, while others needed to take their medication on an empty stomach. Some were required to split their pills, and some needed to modify their dosage [...]

In almost every case, those who volunteer express a desire to give what they’re capable of to a cause that is meaningful to them—and to make a difference along the way. The process of connecting a volunteer to the opportunity that fits them best has always been fascinating to me. With scores of possibilities available [...]

My mother has become a cleaning and organizing machine. Ever since my father died she has been cleaning closets, purging files, organizing shelves and rearranging furniture. The fact is, her home has always been immaculate. My sisters and I joke that we could eat off the floor. For years my mother has systematically pared down [...]

My current driver’s license will expire in July of this year. I’m eligible to renew online, but if I do, I will receive a federally restricted license that will not be considered a valid form of identification to board a domestic flight in the future. As of October 2020, a new type of license, called [...]

My husband and I did some “just in case” planning recently before an upcoming trip. We asked our trusted pet sitter and friend if she would be willing to care for our dog should anything happen to us. We made sure she realized it might be for just a short while but could also be [...]

My father passed away Jan. 23 after a long, brave battle with Parkinson’s disease. He was 86. When he took his last breath, my mother and sister and his hospice aide were by his side. Those of you who read my column may remember that I frequently wrote about my father and his journey. He [...]

My husband and I recently made an investment in a Google Home Mini (on sale for $39.95). I had heard about how this smart speaker that responds to your voice could be fun and useful. You’ve probably heard about the Google Home and Amazon Echo devices, the latter commonly referred to as “Alexa.” Essentially, they’re [...]

I’m embarrassed to admit it, but I really didn’t want to learn CPR. I always thought there would be someone more knowledgeable around if the need ever arose, and if I learned it I might be obliged to resuscitate someone. I was disabused of that belief several years ago when I was attending a CPR [...]

It’s 2018 and I know I’ll have many great things to celebrate in the new year. However, I am fairly certain my father will not be around to celebrate 2019. You see, my father’s been on hospice for six months. I’m aware that the amount of time he has been on hospice is not directly [...]