The concept of employing robots for elderly care triggers a mix of emotions and thoughts. The impending ‘silver tsunami,’ a phrase coined to signify the surge in the aging population, predicts a marked increase in the demand for care services. As robotics and artificial intelligence (AI) continue to evolve at a breakneck pace, we must deliberate on the practical and ethical aspects of leveraging this technology to augment, rather than replace, the existing caregiving infrastructure. We may be also be able to prolong independence for our elderly by empowering them with the assistance of AI and robotics.
A good night’s sleep is as vital to our health as air, water, and food. But for seniors and the general population alike, a silent intruder is robbing us of this essential wellness pillar: sleep apnea. Shockingly, this condition impacts a staggering 1 billion people worldwide (one out of every eight people on this planet). The implications are grave, with links to debilitating diseases like dementia and heart conditions. In this blog, we’ll delve into a subject that’s literally a wake-up call: unearthing diet, lifestyle changes, technology aids, and treatments that can help you or a loved one sleep like a baby again.
In recent decades, a remarkable demographic shift has been silently sculpting our societal landscape: the exponential growth of the population aged over 80. As medical advancements, health awareness, and improved quality of life intersect, we find ourselves on the cusp of what many have termed the “Silver Tsunami” – a tidal wave of senior citizens seeking various levels of care services.
Tucked away in the highlands of central Mexico, San Miguel de Allende has become a favorite retreat for senior Americans, particularly retirees, who are looking to savor the richness of their golden years. This trend isn’t a fleeting fascination but a multi decade-long love affair, as proven by San Miguel’s consistent ranking as the number one travel destination in the world by Condé Nast Traveler’s Readers’ Choice Awards. But what makes this city the Eldorado for seniors? Let’s take a stroll through the reasons why San Miguel de Allende has become synonymous with fulfillment, joy, and timeless charm for the older generation.
(Note: About Us, a reference bibliography, related books and videos are all found at the end of this article.)
The allure of moving abroad in retirement to enjoy the beauty and culture of another country, like Mexico, is appealing to many. But what about the tax implications? If you are a retired U.S. ex-pat receiving social security while living in Mexico, the question arises: what are your tax obligations? This guide endeavors to clarify the U.S. and Mexican tax obligations you need to be aware of as you make your plans.
Making the transition to some sort of assisted living—whether for general support, memory care, or hospice—can be a complex and challenging process. For those open to relocating abroad, Mexico has become an increasingly attractive choice due to its vibrant culture, welcoming communities, favorable climate, and significantly lower costs compared to the U.S. or Canada. This guide provides a comprehensive checklist to help you assess and compare facilities in Mexico, ensuring that your chosen option meets not only practical needs but also the specific personal, medical, and lifestyle requirements of you or your loved one. From first impressions and staff expertise to legal protections and financial transparency, this guide is designed to equip you with the insights needed for a confident, informed choice.
(Note: About Us, a reference bibliography, related books, videos and apps can be found at the end of this article.)
With empathy, compassion, and a sense of urgency, we must delicately navigate the complex question of whether individuals aged 65 and above might experience a gradual decline in their ability to drive safely. Aging can subtly usher in challenges like deteriorated night vision, slower reaction times, and potential cognitive impairments. As their years advance, is there a risk that they could unwittingly represent a danger to their own well-being, as well as that of others?
The rapid progress of science and technology in the 21st century has catalyzed significant changes across all sectors, including healthcare. From gene editing to AI-powered diagnostics, medical science is on the brink of a revolution. However, these promising advances sometimes face unexpected resistance, not from regulatory barriers or technological limitations but from entrenched perspectives within the medical profession itself. This article concludes with an illustration by discussing the Amyloid Hypothesis and how advances in Alzheimer’s research were stymied for decades as a result of a widespread and staunch parochial perspective in the field of medical research.
(Note: About Us, a reference bibliography, related books, videos and apps can be found at the end of this article.)
Humans have evolved over hundreds of thousands of years with a deeply ingrained survival instinct. This primal drive is evident in our everyday lives and becomes particularly pronounced when we are faced with life-threatening situations. My experiences in hospitals and hospice facilities have often left me with mixed feelings. I have witnessed individuals clinging to life with a tenacity stemming from sheer will and stubbornness. It raises the question: to what extent do we project our innate, unwavering drive to stay alive onto others? This leads me to the concept of Death with Dignity, as a choice, but only for some individuals and in some states.
Death with Dignity, also known as Physician Assisted Suicide (PAS), is a topic that has sparked intense debate in the United States. It refers to the practice of allowing terminally ill patients to voluntarily end their lives through the use of lethal medications prescribed by a physician. Several states have enacted laws to permit this practice under specific circumstances. In this article, we will explore the states that support Death with Dignity and delve into the compelling arguments for and against this controversial issue.
Dementia eventually erodes one’s concept of time. Linear time is neither perceived nor understood, and the individual can’t imagine the future as memory deteriorates; only the present moment becomes relevant. The passing of a minute is no different from an hour, the rest of today or tomorrow. Most cognitive tests include drawing the face of a clock. When dementia is present, the numbers get placed in the wrong order. Showing the person the time on a numbered clock might work initially but not during later progression.
This article is reproduced with the permission of the author, Katya De Luisa. Katya resides in Costa Rica and is a dementia educator, caregiver coach, freelance writer and author of “Journey through the Infinite Mind, the science and spirituality of dementia. You can access more of her writing on Patreon.