The Lifeline Blog

An endless supply of wet kisses, a wagging tail to greet you at the door, a soft fur friend to snuggle with on the couch—these are just a few of the many benefits of owning a pet. But being a fur parent is more than just companionship and love. It also comes with some health Read more >>

It’s important to support successful home care after a hospital discharge. Go over this handy after-discharge checklist with a doctor or case manager before it’s time to go home from a procedure or hospital admission. Top 10 Steps to Follow After Hospital Discharge 1. Ask questions. There are a few key pieces of information you Read more >>

Do you love watching movies and TV but loathe high cable bills? Or do you feel that, though you can tolerate most modern movies and shows, your heart is truly with the classics? Well, there’s a great alternative out there that’s both cost-effective and allows you to choose what you want to watch and when Read more >>

Portrayals of aging in popular culture depict people who are cranky, tired, and disinterested. This isn’t just a gross generalization, it might be keeping some people from getting the emotional support they deserve. Why? Because these descriptions also apply to people living with depression. According to the National Institute on Aging (NIA), depression isn’t a Read more >>

Creativity isn’t just fun – it’s good for our physical and mental health! Participating in creative pursuits — exploring new possibilities and making new things – helps us maintain mental flexibility, improve our physical health, handle life’s challenges, and strengthen social relationships. Pro Tip: Don’t think you’re creative? Wrong! Everyone is creative in our own Read more >>

Depending on your level of health and vitality, the aging process can be much easier for some than it is for others. While the notion of growing old creeps up on some people in more gradual ways, many seniors are faced with a sudden or newly discovered debilitating health issue. Caretakers are often blindsided as Read more >>

As our parents age, they may need us more. In some cases, their needs are simple – some meal delivery or rides to appointments. In others, our parents may not be able to live alone or may require daily interaction. To prepare yourself for the future, it’s important to carefully consider a few key factors Read more >>

According to the U.S. Census Bureau, about 22 million adults 55 years and older live alone. We asked experts to share their tips for aging well on your own. 1. Stay socially engaged. “Social isolation and loneliness decrease our satisfaction with life and increase symptoms of mental illness…and symptoms of illnesses and pain,” notes JanaLee Read more >>

As we age, many aspects of our lives change, too. Physically and mentally, we can expect to notice differences over time. One of the things we may not anticipate changing is our friends. People move away, they pass away, or we each move on as our needs change. What once worked no longer suits us. Read more >>

When is the right time for an older adult to stop driving? The answer to that question is different for everyone. As a person ages, declining health conditions can deteriorate in ways that make safely operating a vehicle a challenge. Hearing and vision can worsen, reaction times slow down, and certain medications can cause side Read more >>