Currently, Alzheimer's disease affects more than 5 million Americans, a number that is expected to rise to 7.1 million by 2025. There are a number of risk factors for this disease that the general public is aware of, including head injuries, genetics and a family history. However, one risk factor that does not seem to get as much media attention is the possible link between Alzheimer's disease and vascular disease. Research shows that the same risk factors for vascular disease-diabetes, hypertension, and high cholesterol-are also risk factors for Alzheimer's. This article explores the impact of a brain-healthy diet on reducing the risk of Alzheimer's and suggests strategies for ensuring patients who already have Alzheimer's receive the nutrition they need. Read the full article...

The National Institutes of Health (NIH), Senior Health reports that approximately 76 million Americans get food poisoning, or foodborne illnesses, each year, and of those about 5000 die. Foodborne illnesses are caused by eating foods that are contaminated with bacteria, protozoa, or other microbials and viruses. The real tragedy here is that in every case these foodborne illnesses are preventable simply by using proper food handling and storage methods. Food poisoning is especially detrimental to seniors, causing them to be sicker longer with more acute symptoms. It is therefore critical that seniors and their caretakers are able to immediately identify the symptoms of food poisoning and seek proper medical care and treatment and that they follow safe food preparation and handling methods. Read the full article...

There is a lot of information on eating healthy and a lot of confusion to go along with it. What is certain is that we all know that we are supposed to eat healthy. Two common obstacles to following healthy eating practices seem to resonate throughout our society today: "I do not have time," and "I can't afford to." In the case of seniors, they may have the time but not the finances. Even if they have the time, they often face physical challenges that can get in the way of food preparation. However, the same strategies that can be applied by a working mother or a busy single father to get healthy food on the table can be applied by a senior with limitations on a budget. Read the full article...