October is Spina Bifida Awareness month! Spina bifida is a birth defect that occurs when the spine and spinal cord membranes do not completely form during pregnancy. Spina bifida affects approximately 1 in every 2,500 babies around the world. Spina bifida is the most common congenital birth defect that leads to disability. This condition develops… Continue reading Spina Bifida Awareness Month
As individuals living with Down syndrome live and thrive into old age, some additional health conditions may become more prevalent. Each individual with Down syndrome is different, and not every person will have additional health conditions. Many of these associated conditions can be treated with medication, surgery, or other interventions. Common Health Conditions for People… Continue reading Health Challenges for Individuals with Down Syndrome
Gerri Norington, 78, never wanted to be on her own as she grew old. But her first marriage ended in divorce, and her second husband died more than 30 years ago. When a five-year relationship came to a close in 2006, she found herself alone — a situation that has lasted since. “I miss having… Continue reading Historic Numbers of Americans Live by Themselves as They Age
Heatstroke can be dangerous and even fatal. Beat the Heat and learn a few facts about it to keep you safe this summer!
One in four Americans aged 65 and over fall each year. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 112 older adults will die every day as a result of a fall. With such alarming statistics, Fall Prevention Awareness Month, Week, and Day, are more important than ever.
Having a baby comes with many big decisions and new experiences. There is an endless amount of information to take in, opinions to form, and plans to make. One of the biggest decisions all new parents will need to make is whether to breastfeed their baby. New moms may be undecided about breastfeeding due to… Continue reading The Benefits of Breastfeeding
Colorectal cancer refers to cancer of the colon and/or rectum, in which cells in the colon or rectum grow out of control. Polyps - abnormal growths - can form in these regions and develop into cancer over time.
Tens of millions of seniors are anxious about healthcare affordability because of rising costs for housing, food, and other essentials.
Few people want to go into a nursing home, but doing so can be the right choice if a loved one is physically or cognitively disabled or recovering from surgery.
Stroke is a leading cause of disability and death worldwide, but with prompt recognition and treatment, many of its secondary complications can be minimized. One of the most effective ways to recognize a stroke is by using the FAST method, an acronym that stands for Face, Arms, Speech, and Time. Understanding and applying the FAST… Continue reading The FAST Approach: Recognizing the Signs of a Stroke