Powerlifter pushes herself to new heights

By Catherine Brown
Posted on March 23, 2018

The year was 1986, and 40-year-old Linda Odum had a goal: to earn a spot on the U.S. Taekwondo team — a demonstration sport debuting at the 1988 Summer Olympics in Seoul. Because she was older than her competitors, she felt she needed to step up her game and become stronger. She knew increased strength could give her the edge to make the team. Having come of age when women were not... READ MORE

Address daughter-in-law issues directly

By Helen Oxenberg
Posted on March 22, 2018

Dear Solutions: My daughter-in-law came to stay at my house for a few days while she had a job close to where I live but far from where she lives. Without going into details, she just ignored certain ways I do things in my home, and acted as if I could be ignored. I asked her to go to dinner with me, and it was arranged —until her friend called, and then she just broke our... READ MORE

Try these beauty tips from a pharmacist

By Suzy Cohen
Posted on March 21, 2018

No matter what your age, you always want to look your absolute best. Throughout my life, I’ve learned all kinds of beauty tips and tricks from reading, talking to friends, and getting to know a few make-up artists when I appeared as a guest on TV shows. I always ‘pumped’ these girls to get their secret beauty tips while sitting in their chair and getting made up. I recall one... READ MORE

Coconut milk and curry elevate chicken dish

By Melissa D’Arabian
Posted on March 20, 2018

Boneless skinless chicken breasts save the day for so many busy folks who want to get a lean, protein-filled, affordable dinner on the table in a hurry. I always have a package or two in my freezer. I buy them when they are on super-sale (which they are every four to six weeks in my experience) and freeze them. Even if I forget to pop the frozen chicken in the fridge to thaw the night ... READ MORE

‘Memory books’ can spark recollections

By Melissa Rayworth
Posted on March 19, 2018

Family photo albums can help jog an elderly friend or relative’s memories, but consider taking the photo book idea one step further: Create a “memory book” that combines personal photos with brief family stories and historical information. These can be used to help people struggling with memory loss, and give younger family members a window into older relatives’ lives. Memory... READ MORE

Best ways to find companionship online

By Jim Miller
Posted on March 19, 2018

Dear Savvy Senior: What can you tell me about online dating for baby boomers? I’m 57 and recently divorced, and would like to find a new friend to spend time with. — Lonely Linda  Dear Linda: Whether you’re interested in dating again or just looking for a friend to spend time with, online dating sites have become a very popular and effective way for baby boomers to meet new... READ MORE

How to reduce spring allergy symptoms

By Howard LeWine, M.D.
Posted on March 16, 2018

Q: I have spring allergies. Every year I think they won’t be too bad. In reality, it’s awful and I have a hard time getting ahead of the symptoms. Suggestions? A: People with spring allergies are usually affected by pollen from birch, elm, maple, oak or poplar trees, depending on where you live. Don’t wait until you get the runny, stuffy nose and itchy eyes. Get started on... READ MORE

Never eschew a nutrient-packed cashew

By Lori Zanteson
Posted on March 15, 2018

The cashew is a favorite nut flavor-wise, and is commonly regarded as a nutrition star for its punch of protein, heart-healthy fats, vitamins and minerals. Native to Brazil, the cashew was introduced to India and Africa by Portuguese explorers in the 16th century. The cashew tree, from its wood and bark to its fruit, was highly prized for its healing properties. In Brazil, cashew nut... READ MORE

Elders and youth can broaden each other

By Alexis Bentz
Posted on March 14, 2018

In a world where the only constant is change, we are continuously being introduced to new ideas, beliefs, situations and states of mind. As a result, our perspectives are often challenged. And this is true, whether one is a teenager or an older adult. Growing up is similar to opening your eyes. When you are very little, you are often sheltered from many of the themes and events that are... READ MORE

Is speech therapy helpful after a stroke?

By Robert D. Brown Jr., M.D.
Posted on March 13, 2018

Dear Mayo Clinic: My mother had a stroke six months ago. Her mobility has returned to near normal. She can read, and understands others when they speak. But she has a lot of difficulty talking, often struggling to find the words she wants to say. She’s frustrated, but refuses to go to speech therapy. She doesn’t think it will do any good. What does speech therapy after a... READ MORE