Mental Sharpness & Memory Lapses
If you have wondered whether to believe ads claiming certain computer games or programs can maintain, or even improve, memory and cognition, this article will be of interest.
What else can you do to keep your brain working well? Lots!
If you are concerned about your or a loved one's memory, this article can help you distinguish between normal and worrisome forgetfulness. If reviewing the article heightens your concern, an expert diagnostic evaluation is of vital importance since many causes of memory loss are reversible. If you want to encourage a loved one to seek an evaluation, these tips may help you have a productive conversation.
Texting While Driving
Do you know someone who checks - or even writes - texts from behind the wheel? Ask them to watch this powerful 35-minute video with you.
Be Prepared
Imagine the following scenario: Your family is on vacation far from home when suddenly one of you becomes critically injured or ill. An advance health care directive exists - but 
it is unobtainable back at home.
You and your loved ones can prevent this problem with one of these approaches:
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--- Keep signed and scanned copies of directives in the cloud.
--- Use this inexpensive smart phone app to store and transmit directives. (A free version will handle one directive.)
--- Create and store directives for free in MyDirectives, a secure, HIPAA-compliant website.
--- If you choose to use California's directive registry, enclose a paper copy of your directive. It will be stored and provided to appropriate personnel upon request.
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Sharing access information with several family members or close friends will improve the odds of your directive being located quickly during a crisis. Your primary care physician should also have a copy.
Peanut Allergy Prevention
The number of kids with severe peanut allergies more than tripled between 1997 and 2010. Researchers have debated whether exposure to peanuts in utero and during the first years of life makes allergic responses more or less likely. Here is the latest thinking.
Alzheimer's Drugs
If you or a loved one has early-to-middle stage Alzheimer's disease, you and your doctor may have considered attempting to slow its progress with medication. Consumer Reports recently reviewed the drugs' effectiveness, side effects, and cost.
Does it really matter?
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Our co-sponsor is the S. Ku Foundation, which focuses on health promotion and disease prevention.
