Articles

Virginia offers several federal and local programs that can help seniors on low or fixed incomes weatherize their homes at low costs, which can save hundreds of dollars in utility bills per year.

For an especially healthful activity this summer, try growing an herb garden! Gardening is a great low-impact activity that gets seniors outside and active, provides an creative outlet, and -- if you're planting herbs -- can bring edible results: tasty garnishes for the table! What's not to love?

The ideal activities for seniors are both low-intensity and low-impact. Low-intensity activities have light physical requirements and are easy to do (like walking or swimming), or are simply shorter in duration. Low-impact activities are ones that exercise muscles without causing too much shock or stress on the joints. 

Independent communities are one option for long-term care for seniors. They provide staff help and social opportunities, and enable seniors to live in individual private apartments and living spaces. For a healthy, mobile senior who doesn't want or need to stay in a home, independent communities can be an attractive alternative. 

Are you a senior thinking about aging independently at home, and want a better way to manage the stairs? Consider a stair lift! And here's a guide to the best 4 stair lift manufacturers on the market, based on value, warranty, installation, and customization.

When you or a loved one goes to a clinic, hospital, or emergency room, or even somewhere as simple as a pharmacy for a prescription refill, it can be easy to feel nervous. What if the nurse's instructions at the hospital are unclear? How can you know an elderly friend or family member will keep up an at-home medical regimen? All of these concerns and questions are valid, but there's a good way to get relief: talk to a patient advocate.

In this article, we learn how to maximize deductions on your tax return by donating unwanted items to your local donation center. It's a great way to combine spring cleaning and tax season: a win-win situation all around!

As the saying goes, "There are only two things certain in life: death and taxes." But there is something else that can go in the list, and that is tax scams. Tax scammers are a routine part of tax season, and unfortunately, they tend to go after seniors. Here are some of the most common IRS scams and ways to recognize them.

While Valentine's Day is most commonly celebrated by couples focusing on romantic love, it doesn't have to be only that. It can also be time to show appreciation and affection for others in your life, including seniors. 

Are you thinking about selling your house? Maybe you're looking to downsize and move to a single-floor home. Maybe the grandkids moved to another state and you want to follow them. Or maybe Virginia's getting a little cold and you want to head to Florida. Whatever your reason, selling your home is a big to-do. Here are just a couple things to keep in mind as you're preparing.

Dementia can be hard to spot because it's a collection of symptoms. If you're trying to determine whether someone you know has dementia, it's important to get a professional diagnosis. Just having some of the listed symptoms doesn't necessarily mean that a person has dementia. In order for a person to be diagnosed, they have to show more than two. Forecastle Home Health lists 10 common signs and symptoms. Is your loved one displaying any of these behaviors?

A little loneliness is normal, but too much can lead to depression and health problems. And if you are a caregiver, it's important to watch out for negative effects of social isolation in older adults, and know how to alleviate it.