Eating “green and clean” has become a large part of our pop culture. Articles pop up every day on social media about the new “superfood.” Most superfoods do provide heaps of nutrients, yet there is a dark side to these eats for some people with chronic diseases. Here are four foods that can cause issues:

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Whether on TV or in the newsstands, substance use issues are often depicted as affecting young adults. However, older adults are also vulnerable to problematic substance use. Research shows: 

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Being a caregiver can be challenging emotionally and physically. In addition to the responsibilities of caregiving, you may deal with issues at work, social isolation/loneliness, financial issues and/or your own medical conditions.

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According to Maslow’s hierarchy of needs, safety is the second tier of the pyramid just above the need for food and water. It is defined as “protection from elements, security, order, law, stability, freedom from fear.” When we think of creating a safe environment for our loved ones with Alzheimer’s disease or another form of dementia, the focus tends to be on elements of the physical environment that may be dangerous, but we often overlook the psychological aspects of feeling safe.

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In a previous post, we discussed the clinical definition and dangers of hoarding disorder (HD). If you are unsure if your loved one has HD, the International OCD Foundation says the key feature of HD is disorganization to the point where the living spaces can no longer be used for their intended function.

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For some, there is nothing more refreshing than digging their fingers into warm earth or biting into a sun-ripened tomato fresh off the vine. There is a basic human feeling when planting seeds or bulbs — a sense of achievement and nirvana. However, gardening not only feels good, but it is also good for you. In addition to growing nutrient-rich fruits and vegetables, here are some of the other benefits of gardening.

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While my grandpa and grandma lived in their independent living community for seniors, my mom and I would visit a couple of times each week to help with the light cleaning, such as dusting and vacuuming. The clutter we mostly left untouched until after my grandpa died. What we found was amazing: newspapers going back months, some aged candies and so on. I know, the situation could have been more challenging – they could have been hoarding.

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