Dear Angel, I talk to my mother a couple times a week. She would never tell me, but I think she could be lonely and depressed. This particularly came to mind when I read your article on positivity. I’d love to introduce some … [Read more...]
Second-Term U.S. Surgeon General Vows to Combat Senior Loneliness and Isolation
December 22, 2021 by Leave a Comment
Dr. Vivek Murthy, second-term U.S. Surgeon General, is the grandson of a poor farmer in India. He remembers something his grandfather told him when he was younger, that “(w)e are responsible for each other.” In his travels … [Read more...]
Critter Corner: “Grandkids on Demand” Help with Loneliness
May 29, 2020 by Leave a Comment
Dear Magic, Maury, a man I used to work with, is in his 90’s and lives alone. I touched base with him recently over the phone, and I can tell he has been lonely during the pandemic. He always told me how he wished he had gotten … [Read more...]
Should Nursing Homes Reopen to Visitors?
May 15, 2020 by Leave a Comment
Q. My mother, Betty, is in a nursing home in Richmond. Although she has advanced dementia, I could tell that she always enjoyed our family’s visits. Her face always brightened when she saw me, my wife, and her grandchildren. She … [Read more...]
When a Pandemic Makes You Feel Like an Inmate
March 17, 2020 by Leave a Comment
Mark, 82, moved into assisted living a month ago, just before the coronavirus pandemic. He needed more help than could be provided in his home by his daughter. He also wanted his daughter to have the opportunity to go back to work … [Read more...]
Is Planned Suicide Different Than Dying with Dignity?
September 13, 2019 by Leave a Comment
Q. My neighbor, Sam, is a ninety-year-old widower who has lived alone in his home for several years. His health has deteriorated over the past few months and he frequently comments about how much he misses his wife. His daughter … [Read more...]
Critter Corner: A Friendship Line for Lonely Seniors
September 13, 2019 by Leave a Comment
Dear Ernie and Janette, My father died earlier this year and my mom lives alone. She has friends she sees sometimes, but I can tell she is lonely. I talk to her as much as my schedule allows, but unfortunately, that’s not … [Read more...]
They Never Visit, and It’s Killing Me!
February 23, 2018 by Leave a Comment
Q. I live an hour away from both my daughters and their families, but they never visit me. I am aware that they are busy with soccer games and other activities, but I wish they could make the time to come see me once in a … [Read more...]
When A Senior Neighbor Needs Your Help
June 16, 2017 by Leave a Comment
Q. My neighbor, Sam, has lived alone in his home ever since his wife died three years ago. He used to come outside and greet us and attend neighborhood events. Now, he goes days on end without speaking to anyone. His son, who … [Read more...]
U.S. Life Expectancy Has Declined for the First Time Since 1993
December 13, 2016 by Leave a Comment
Last Wednesday, The Economist's “Business of Longevity” conference took place, attracting world-renowned experts in aging. One of the main themes of the conference was the need to change the way we think about longevity, as we are … [Read more...]
