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.

Recognizing When Your Parents Need Help

MONDAY, Aug. 19, 2019 -- Sometimes it's obvious when older parents need outside help -- like when they're having difficulty managing numerous chronic illnesses or losing mobility and unable to maneuver well even at home. But mental problems may not be as easy to spot.

For instance, is Dad's forgetfulness -- his misplacing house keys or missing appointments -- normal aging or a sign of something more serious, such as dementia?

Frailty Not a Normal Part of Aging

FRIDAY, Aug. 2, 2019 -- It's something everyone fears will happen to them as they age: sapped strength, slowed walking, weight loss and an inability to perform daily tasks with ease.

But it's not just a byproduct of aging: Frailty is a standalone medical condition, researchers report.