Caregiving Archive

A 2023 study found that when the blood supply of an old mouse was connected to a young mouse, the organs of the young mouse aged dramatically. When they were disconnected, the aging reversed. Similar changes have been observed in humans with certain conditions.

The vast majority of online pharmacies are rife with risks. They might sell medications that are expired, fake, or contain harmful ingredients. Before ordering from an online pharmacy, one should look it up on the Buy Safely tool from the National Association of Boards of Pharmacy (NABP) to make sure the pharmacy is verified. One can also look for a symbol on a pharmacy website indicating that it's earned NABP accreditation. The symbol resembles a vertical infinity sign (like the number 8) inside a red circle, and the words "NABP Accredited Digital Pharmacy."

People hunting for a new primary care provider may have a hard time finding a doctor who's taking new patients. But a number of primary care providers can do the job, including four types of physicians and two types of advanced practitioners. Doctors who provide primary care include internal medicine specialists, med-peds physicians, family practice doctors, and geriatricians. Advanced practitioners who provide primary care include nurse practitioners and physician assistants. Experts say the type of provider isn't as important as simply having a primary care provider in place.

Intergenerational friendships typically involve an older adult and someone who's 15, 20, or more years younger. Studies suggest people can benefit physically and psychologically from such friendships. Friends of diverse ages can expose people to different experiences, attitudes, and approaches. To create intergenerational friendships, people can use a shared workplace or activity as a springboard for deeper connection. They should show genuine interest in the other person's life and experiences.

Preventable adverse medical events occur in up to 7% of hospital admissions and sometimes can lead to serious and even life-threatening complications. Examples include inaccurate medications, unexpected infections, and problems during surgery. To help protect yourself from these events in the hospital, have a trusted partner be with you as much as possible, inquire about each of your medications when offered, and work with your nurse to move around safely.

For people with depression, successful treatment with talk therapy may lower the risk for heart disease, perhaps by helping them adopt healthier habits, according to a 2023 study.

Research supports the health benefits of taking afternoon naps, but they should last less than 30 minutes, according to a 2023 study.

A 2023 study suggests that women and older adults are more likely to sustain serious injuries, such as fractures and head trauma, than others while walking a leashed dog.

Biting bugs are a nuisance and sometimes can spread  illnesses like Lyme disease, Zika, or West Nile virus. To prevent bug bites, take simple precautions and learn how to choose and safely use insect repellents.

Denial is a natural response at times when you're unable or unwilling to face the facts. As a defense mechanism, it can be helpful or harmful. Here's how to spot it in yourself and others, and how to move from denial toward meaningful change.