Senior Advocate

Q: My husband has dementia, and I have trouble getting him to drink enough water. How can I help keep him hydrated in the hot weather? A: People with dementia can easily become dehydrated because they may not recognize thirst in the same way. They may forget to drink fluids, not feel thirsty, or [...]

I was recently on a family trip, and I ended up ordering way too much food. I had misunderstood the portions, and we sat at the table surrounded by a feast. As my family laughed about my order, I reminded them that my father would have been proud. I remembered how much my father [...]

Q:  I am caring for my husband, and I am always so worried about what will happen next. How can I stop worrying so much about the future? A: Most caregivers understand the feeling of worry and never know what is around the next corner. They always carry their phones and never feel like [...]

I recently heard a new term: micro-interactions. I was sharing with my co-worker the topic of my column that appeared last week on how to meet new people and make friends as an older adult. I shared the story of the 95-year-old man who enjoys conversations with the barista at the local coffee shop. [...]

Q:  I am unsure how to meet new people now that I am retired. Do you have any tips on how to make new friends as an older adult? A: Meeting new people and putting yourself out there to create relationships is easier for some than for others. When we have work and other [...]

Q: This will be the first Father’s Day since my dad passed away. How should I spend the day and support my mom through it? A: This will be the second Father’s Day since my father passed away. I had not discussed it ahead of time with my other family members; we all live [...]

Q:  I struggle to stay active and fit. What are some tips for getting my energy up as I age? A:  I imagine everyone has times when they struggle with their energy. We usually know what we should be doing, like getting exercise, eating healthy, and staying engaged. But doing those things at times [...]

Q:  What is this year’s theme for Older Americans Month? A:  Established in 1963, Older Americans Month (OAM) is celebrated every May. Led by a federal agency, the Administration for Community Living (ACL), OAM is a time to recognize older Americans' contributions, highlight aging trends, and reaffirm commitments to serving the older adults in [...]

Q: My father passed away after a difficult time with dementia. People keep saying it was for the best because he is not suffering anymore, but it does not feel that way to me. How can I tell them to stop saying that? A: First of all, I am sorry for your loss, and [...]

Q: I am in the process of hiring a caregiver for my husband, who has dementia. How can I be sure they do the things that I want while they are working here? A: Setting expectations and creating task lists when hiring a caregiver is important and helpful. I often hear people frustrated that [...]