What Helps Calm Agitated Dementia Patients?

TUESDAY, Oct. 15, 2019 -- Dealing with the agitation, anxiety and aggression that often come with dementia is one of the most challenging aspects of caring for someone with this brain disorder. But new research suggests that massage and other non-drug treatments may be more effective than medications.

Even just taking people with dementia outdoors can help, said study author Dr. Jennifer Watt, a geriatrician and clinical scientist at the Li Ka Shing Knowledge Institute at St. Michael's Hospital-Unity Health in Toronto.

Many U.S. Seniors Are Going Hungry, Study Finds

MONDAY, Sept. 30, 2019 -- Almost 1 in 10 U.S. seniors doesn't have enough food to eat, a new study shows.

And for those under 65 who qualify for Medicare because they're disabled, 4 of 10 may be going hungry, the researchers added.

Who's Most Likely to Scam a Senior? The Answer May Surprise You

FRIDAY, Aug. 30, 2019 -- As people age and their mental capacities decline, they can often be targeted by scammers seeking easy cash.

But more often than not, this "financial abuse" comes not from a stranger, but from a trusted family member, research from the University of Southern California (USC) shows.

Dementia Caregivers Often Face Sleepless Nights

WEDNESDAY, Sept. 11, 2019 -- Sleep loss is a problem for people who care for loved ones with dementia, which can put both caregivers and patients at risk, researchers say.

Investigators at Baylor University in Waco, Texas, found caregivers lost between 2.5 to 3.5 hours of sleep a week due to difficulty falling asleep and staying asleep.

When Is It Time for Seniors to Hand Over the Car Keys?

TUESDAY, Aug. 20, 2019 -- Driving is a source of independence for many seniors, so determining when they should hang up the keys requires careful consideration, an expert says.

"Driving retirement is a normal part of aging, and should be carefully considered and discussed openly," said Dr. Ericka Tung, an internist and geriatrician at the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minn.