Janet Zappala’s leading loves have always been kids, critters and family. These days the former NBC Palm Springs anchor is bringing them all together as a celebrated children’s author and “Nonni” to two beautiful grandchildren. Her award-winning books share valuable lessons through friendships of rescued farm animals. Inspired by real events from the Coachella Valley… Read more »
Every year holiday joy permeates the air. Festive spirits inspire spreading more light to loved ones, friends, communities and to the world at large. I believe it’s possible to be joy-full all year long with help from several introspective insights. The word simcha in Hebrew is defined as “happiness” or “joy.” The term is used… Read more »
Our bodies are a series of interdependent ecological networks that constantly self-regulate, much like nature itself. By connecting with our own feedback loops, we learn methods for better health. We can reclaim the “wild self” and return to a healthy vagal tone in this modern world. ‘Rewilding’ (returning to the wild self) is simply the… Read more »
Ikigai (“ee-kee-guy”) is not a newly coined word, but rather a philosophy firmly established in Japanese culture. The term comes from the ancient Japanese language (dating back to the Heian period), where “iki” means life, and “gai” means “value,” translating to “reason for being” or “value in life.” It was in the late 20th century… Read more »
Imagine living a life with the potential to harness hardships, neutralize suffering and transform adversity into the silver lining of life. The pearl-producing oyster does just that and provides a lesson for us all. We are more similar than we know to the soft, tender, vulnerable mollusk. We are also made up of a multitude… Read more »
Climate change is more than an environmental concern; it’s a public health challenge that affects us all. Older adults face special risks with age-related changes in the heart, lungs and kidneys, along with the body’s natural ability to keep cool. The addition of chronic conditions and certain medications can make heat, smoke, poor air quality… Read more »
The holiday season often prompts reflection on the relationships that matter most—our partners, family and close friends. But are you expressing love and gratitude in ways that truly resonate with them? This year, consider exploring the “Five Love Languages” developed by Gary Chapman, PhD. For over three decades, the Five Love Languages have been part… Read more »
Maintaining balance as we age is crucial for overall health, independence and quality of life. Some of the many benefits of working to maintain balance include fall prevention, aging at home and maintaining cognitive and neurological health. Falls are the leading cause of injury in older adults, often resulting in fractures, head trauma and even… Read more »
Health care can feel like a maze. Between appointments, specialists and medications, many patients find themselves asking: “Who’s keeping track of it all?” The truth is that most of us rely on multiple professionals, each with their own area of expertise. While every provider brings value, the lack of coordination can leave patients confused or… Read more »
In recent years, telehealth, or video and phone doctor visits, has become a significant means for older adults to access health care. This shift, accelerated by the COVID-19 pandemic, has made it easier for seniors to consult with health care providers from the comfort of their homes. While some seniors may be apprehensive about this… Read more »
Hospice is a type of medical care focused on comfort and quality of life for individuals with a serious illness who are no longer seeking curative treatment. It aims to relieve pain, manage symptoms, and provide emotional, social and spiritual support to patients and their families as they approach the end of life. Deciding to… Read more »
As health care continues to evolve, one model gaining significant traction is “hospital-at-home.” Designed to deliver hospital-level care in the comfort of a patient’s home, this innovative approach is transforming how older adults experience health care. For many, it’s a welcome change. Hospital-at-home (H@H) programs provide hospital-level treatment—such as IV medications, oxygen therapy and close… Read more »
On February 18, Gene Hackman passed in Santa Fe, New Mexico at 95 years of age. A legend of the movie screen for over four decades, this accomplished actor played roles embodying tough, strong, steady and warm characters. Thus, the circumstances of his death with wife Betsy Arakawa shook the country’s conscience. What lessons can… Read more »
Google defines intention as something Intended (note capital I), an Aim or Plan, a GOAL. Living life with Intention means making conscious, purposeful choices that align with your values; it’s about being mindful of your actions and ensuring they contribute to a life that feels meaningful to you. Those living with Intention (capitalized) may not… Read more »
Sudden hospitalization can be overwhelming for both patients and their families. At a moment’s notice, you may find yourself navigating complex medical decisions, coordinating care and managing financial concerns — all while trying to focus on recovery. But with a little preparation, you can take charge and ensure a smoother, less stressful experience. Many people… Read more »
When devastation and despair looms, it can be challenging to find the good in our daily lives and keep the things that scare us at bay. In Night by Elie Wiesel, a Romanian-born American professor, political activist, Nobel laureate and holocaust survivor, the author’s 12-year-old self asks persistent questions about suffering answered by his poor… Read more »
Caring for others can be filled with emotions. When you care, you are making a sustained emotional investment in another’s well-being. However, many of the emotions caregivers experience are stressful. According to the Family Caregiver Alliance, some of the primary emotions caregivers experience are anger, resentment, grief, sadness, frustration, guilt, loneliness and depression. The care… Read more »
From the 90s until 2015, I helped families as a therapist, particularly with the problem of overwhelmed and exhausted children. Their kids were involved in every activity: ballet, piano, soccer, swim, and more. At the time, I told them to drop at least one activity, and instead, spend more time together as a family at… Read more »
As a nurse advocate and community care coordinator, I have heard many of my clients express a heartfelt desire to age in their own homes, where they also want to receive end-of-life care. Staying in a familiar environment, surrounded by cherished memories and a sense of independence, is deeply comforting. Here’s how you can thrive… Read more »
Most of us don’t want to think about the end of our lives or those of our loved ones. However, preparing ahead can help make options, including a transition to assisted living, feel less overwhelming, thus facilitating confidence and peace of mind. Discussing options, before the decision has to be made, can also ease tension… Read more »