Ask Joan: Picking a health care proxy important but difficult decision
Q. Before my husband passed last year, he and I spoke frequently about our health care wishes and decisions. Now that he is gone, I’m worried about who will help me with those decisions if I should become too sick to do it on my own. During a recent hospital stay, my doctor strongly encouraged…
Ask Joan: The Benefits of Meditation
Q. I’ve found that I’m becoming more anxious lately, and some of my friends have recommended meditation. I don’t know a lot about it but have heard it’s becoming more popular. Is this something worth exploring? A. We’ve heard from many people who are dealing with anxiety and looking for good tools to help manage…
Ask Joan: Much to contemplate before downsizing
Q. My husband and I recently made the difficult decision to sell our home. We love our house, but our children left many years ago and we find that we have more space than we need. Maintaining this large house has also become difficult, both financially and in terms of day-to-day upkeep. Before we sell,…
Ask Joan: Technology can aid communication for older adults with hearing loss
Q. My father was recently diagnosed with hearing loss. I live a distance from him, so our primary means of communication is the phone. He also loves to keep up with friends and family and particularly enjoys talking with his grandchildren. He is becoming very frustrated with how difficult it is for him to hear…
Ask Joan: Find out more about the ‘Power of Pets’
Question: I’ve owned cats my whole life, starting when I was a little girl in Methuen. My last cat, Milo, was with me for 15 years before I lost him to cancer last winter. I’ve missed having a pet in my home, and I think I’m ready to welcome a new one. I know they…
Ask Joan: Get Connected for Good Neighbor Day
For this week’s column, I wanted to share my thanks to all of you for taking the time to read, share your insights, and spread the word about services to support all of us as we age. So many of you comment on how the information has helped you, your family, or your friends. In…
Ask Joan: Navigating mental health challenges in aging
Question: For many years, I have been visiting my 82-year-old mother every week. We have always enjoyed good conversations about our lives, books we read, hobbies we shared and current events. I have enjoyed her energy, stories, and wisdom. Lately, it feels like she is more withdrawn, and our visits no longer feel the same….
Ask Joan: Five ways to lower the risk of falling
Q. About six months ago, I was walking to my car and fell in my driveway. The fall broke my hip, and I had surgery a few days later. My doctor suggested physical therapy and prescribed pain medication. It’s been an awful experience. I’m getting better, but I’m still in a lot of pain and…
Ask Joan: Learning to cook for one can be a challenge
Q. Last winter, my beautiful wife of 54 years passed away suddenly. I miss so many things about her and am trying hard to adjust to my new life. My wife was an amazing cook, so I never wanted for a meal. Now, I’m struggling because I only know how to cook a few things…
Ask Joan: You too can go ‘for the gold’
Q. This summer, I enjoyed watching the Olympics and seeing so many athletes do remarkable things. Whether it was gymnastics, swimming, archery, or anything in between, I was inspired seeing people “go for the gold.” I know my competitive sports days are behind me, but I can’t help but think of how I might get…
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