When do seniors need a COVID-19 booster?
Question: I am 62 years old and have received two doses of the COVID-19 vaccine. I wonder when and where I should obtain a booster. Do you have more information about this? Answer: Healthcare experts say COVID-19 vaccines are a highly effective way to lower the risk of severe sickness, hospitalization, and death from this widespread virus…
What resources are available for caregivers?
Question: I’m feeling stressed and overwhelmed about my role as a caregiver for my dad, who’s 82 and recently diagnosed with dementia. What resources can you recommend for someone in my situation? Answer: AgeSpan and our Healthy Living Center of Excellence offer a wide variety of resources—all free of charge—online and in person, to aid people like…
How taste and smell change as we age
As we age, the years can affect our senses, including those of taste and smell. Sometimes, if persistent, these changes may indicate a larger problem, according to the National Institute on Aging. Your sense of smell may fade as you get older, and if you can’t smell food, it may taste bland and unappetizing. For…
Get creative with winter exercise ideas
Question: This time of year, I often become restless. I want to exercise more to work off that energy, but the winter weather makes it harder to do that outdoors and the COVID situation keeps me from attending fitness classes at my health club. Do you have any suggestions? Answer: All of us need exercise,…
What we do, and why you may love working here.
There are lots of options when it comes to choosing a place to work. We understand people want to make a difference—working with an organization that gives them flexibility, a great environment, and meaningful benefits. The agency I lead, Age Span, might be a great place for you. If you’d like to join us or…
The benefits of meditation
Question: 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? Answer: This season is a time when many people celebrate by writing up a list of resolutions, often relating to healthy…
How to keep it healthy for the holidays
Question: I’m really looking forward to my aunt’s holiday party, seeing family and friends in the large, well-ventilated recreation hall in her condo. She’s a wonderful cook and will serve turkey with all the fixings, potato, pudding, cheese, ice cream, and her specialty, homemade shortbread. I’ve been trying to eat healthier all year long, and I’m…
How to navigate gathering for Christmas
Question: Last year, my extended family agreed to celebrate the holidays on Zoom due to the pandemic. Things went very well, but we would have preferred being together in person. Now, I am feeling pressure to return to our tradition of meeting at my home for dinner. I’m not sure whether I’m comfortable with this. How…
New name, same old mission
I am excited to announce that Elder Services of the Merrimack Valley and North Shore has rebranded as AgeSpan. Since 1974, our agency has focused on the needs of older adults. Over the years, we have increased the number of programs and services we offer and the people we help. We serve a wide variety…
How to prevent flu
Question: My husband says he does not want the flu vaccine this year. He experienced some side effects from his COVID-19 booster, so now he is convinced the same thing will happen if he receives a flu shot. He has several chronic medical conditions, which makes me concerned about his welfare. If I can’t change…
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