The Power of Music

Sep 19, 2021 | Caregivers

Original post date: 11/20/2015 Can something usually intended for leisure be combined for therapy? Music is proving to be extremely helpful in medicine by providing behavioral and emotional support for various patients, improving their disposition and quality of life....

Are New Meds Necessarily Better Meds?

Aug 26, 2021 | Medication

Doctors are people too. And like all people, doctors find themselves attracted to the newest and shiniest things. This goes for medicines, too. We doctors like to use the latest drugs. However, in my geriatric house calls practice, I’ve found that the newest meds...

Can Dementia Patients Drive a Vehicle

Aug 25, 2021 | Video

Driving requires quick decision-making, focus, and good judgment. As dementia progresses, these abilities decline, making driving unsafe. Families should monitor signs of impaired driving, such as confusion, getting lost, or slow reaction times. Having conversations...

My elder is suffering from tooth pain. May I give him a tranquilizer?

Aug 19, 2021 | Medication

That is a challenging question. When an elder has a sore tooth, he may be yelling or lashing out at his caregivers. In a situation like this, it’s only human to want to give the patient whatever’s necessary to help relieve their pain and anxiety, not to mention their...

The Meds Matter: Adverse Drug Reactions

Aug 15, 2021 | Medication

Original post date: 1/4/2017 Adverse drug reactions are an all-too-common cause of hospitalization for elders. Almost half of Americans age 65 and older take five or more medications daily* and many mix prescription and over-the-counter medications with vitamin,...