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Better Health While Aging

Practical information for aging health & family caregivers

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VeryWell Casino No Deposit Bonuses for Active Players

by Leslie Kernisan, MD MPH

Understanding No Deposit Bonuses at VeryWell Casino

No deposit bonuses are an enticing offer for players eager to explore online casinos without an initial monetary commitment. At https://casino-verywell.co.uk/, active players can take advantage of these bonuses, which provide a risk-free opportunity to experience a wide range of games. These bonuses are especially attractive for newcomers and seasoned gamblers who want to test strategies or enjoy new titles without dipping into their own funds.

VeryWell Casino frequently updates its no deposit bonus offers, ensuring that dedicated players remain engaged and rewarded. This article explores how these bonuses work, their benefits, and what active players should know to make the most of such promotions.

Key Features of No Deposit Bonuses

No deposit bonuses generally come with specific terms and conditions that players must understand. These bonuses often include a fixed amount of free credits or spins credited to the user’s account upon registration or participation in certain events.

Benefits for Active Players

  • Try out new games without financial risk
  • Gain potential real money winnings without depositing
  • Explore casino features and bonuses before committing funds
  • Build confidence and develop gameplay strategies

Types of No Deposit Bonuses at VeryWell Casino

VeryWell Casino offers various no deposit bonuses tailored to different player preferences. The main types include:

  1. Free Spins – Allow players to spin selected slot games a number of times for free.
  2. Free Cash Credits – Provide players with free funds to play multiple games.
  3. Bonus Rounds Access – Enable entry to specific bonus game features without deposit.

How to Claim No Deposit Bonuses

To benefit from no deposit bonuses, active players should follow these steps:

  1. Register an account at VeryWell Casino via the official site.
  2. Verify their identity as per casino requirements.
  3. Check the promotions page for current no deposit offers.
  4. Opt-in or enter the bonus code if necessary.
  5. Start playing games eligible for the bonus.

No Deposit Bonus Comparison Table

Bonus Type Typical Amount Wagering Requirements Eligible Games
Free Spins 10 – 50 spins 20x – 40x Selected slot titles
Free Cash Credits £10 – £30 30x – 50x Slots, sometimes table games
Bonus Rounds N/A (game feature) Varies based on feature Specific bonus games

FAQ: No Deposit Bonuses at VeryWell Casino

Q1: Can I withdraw winnings from no deposit bonuses?
A1: Yes, but only after fulfilling the wagering requirements specified in the bonus terms.

Q2: How often are no deposit bonuses offered?
A2: VeryWell Casino regularly updates its promotions; active players should check frequently for new bonuses.

Q3: Do I need a bonus code to claim a no deposit bonus?
A3: Sometimes yes, sometimes no. It depends on the specific promotion; always review the terms carefully.

Q4: Are no deposit bonuses available for all players?
A4: Typically, these bonuses are available to new players or as rewards for active customers. Eligibility may vary by region.

Q5: What games can I play with a no deposit bonus?
A5: Generally, free spins are applied to designated slot games, whereas free cash credits may be used on a broader selection of games.


No deposit bonuses at VeryWell Casino offer considerable value for active players seeking to maximise their gaming experience with minimal risk. By understanding the terms and staying updated on available promotions, players can significantly enhance their chances of success and enjoyment.

Filed Under: Uncategorized

Latest No Deposit Bonus Offers from VeryWell Casino

by Leslie Kernisan, MD MPH

Introduction to No Deposit Bonuses at VeryWell Casino

No deposit bonuses have become a popular way for online casino players to explore new platforms without financial risk. VeryWell Casino stands out in this competitive market by offering some of the most attractive no deposit bonus offers available today. If you’re interested in trying your luck without spending a penny, very well casino provides a variety of bonuses that make it easy and rewarding to start playing immediately.

These bonuses typically allow players to receive free spins or bonus cash just for signing up, enabling a risk-free introduction to the casino’s extensive game library. Understanding the latest offers and terms can help you maximise your potential wins while navigating the bonuses in a smart way.

What Are the Latest No Deposit Bonuses?

VeryWell Casino continually updates its promotions to provide new and existing players with generous incentives. Currently, the most popular no deposit bonuses include:

  • Free spins on selected slot games.
  • Small amounts of bonus cash credited immediately upon registration.
  • Access to exclusive tournaments with no initial deposits required.

These offers are designed to attract a broad audience, from novice gamblers to seasoned players looking to try new games without commitment.

Key Features of VeryWell Casino No Deposit Bonuses

When considering no deposit bonuses at VeryWell Casino, it is essential to look at the terms attached. These bonuses usually come with wagering requirements and game restrictions. Below is a quick summary of the typical characteristics:

  • Wagering requirements often range from 20x to 40x the bonus amount.
  • Free spins are usually limited to certain popular slots.
  • Maximum withdrawal limits apply to winnings derived from no deposit bonuses.
  • Bonuses may have expiry periods ranging from 3 to 7 days.

Benefits of No Deposit Bonuses at VeryWell Casino

Players enjoy several advantages by using no deposit bonuses at VeryWell Casino:

  1. Try Without Risk: Experience games before committing real money.
  2. Explore New Titles: Access new or featured slot games without financial pressure.
  3. Potential Real Winnings: Win real cash without an initial deposit.
  4. Flexible Play Options: Use bonuses across a variety of game types.
  5. Discover the Platform: Learn the casino’s interface, promotions, and customer services.

Useful Data on VeryWell Casino No Deposit Bonuses

Bonus Type Typical Offer
Free Spins 20-50 spins on selected slots
Bonus Cash £10-£20 credited after signup
Wagering Requirement 30x bonus amount
Expiry 5 days

Understanding these parameters allows players to select offers that best suit their gaming preferences and goals.

FAQ

What is a no deposit bonus?

A no deposit bonus is a casino promotional offer that gives players free credits or spins without requiring any initial deposit.

Can I withdraw winnings from no deposit bonuses immediately?

Typically, winnings from no deposit bonuses are subject to wagering requirements before they can be withdrawn.

Are there any restrictions on games I can play with no deposit bonuses?

Yes, free spins and bonus cash often apply to specific slots or game categories as determined by the casino.

How do I claim a no deposit bonus at VeryWell Casino?

Simply create an account at VeryWell Casino and meet any verification steps. The bonus is usually credited automatically or via a simple opt-in process.

Do no deposit bonuses expire?

Yes, these bonuses generally have an expiry period, commonly between 3 to 7 days, after which unused bonuses are forfeited.


By keeping informed about the latest no deposit bonus offers at VeryWell Casino, players can maximise their entertainment and potential returns with zero initial investment. Always review the terms and conditions to ensure the best experience.

Filed Under: Uncategorized

Is It Worth Playing at Betti Casino for Real Money in 2024?

by Leslie Kernisan, MD MPH

Introduction to Betti Casino

In recent years, online casinos have surged in popularity, offering players numerous opportunities to try their luck and skill. Among these, Betti Casino has become a noteworthy option for those considering playing for real money in 2024. But what exactly makes Betti Casino stand out, and is it genuinely worth your time and investment? This article evaluates Betti Casino’s offerings, safety, and overall experience to help you make an informed decision.

Game Variety and Software Providers

Betti Casino hosts a wide range of games from reputable software developers, ensuring quality and fairness. Players can choose from slots, table games, live dealer options, and more, all designed to provide entertainment and potential winnings. Here are key highlights:

  • Slots with diverse themes and volatility levels
  • Classic and modern table games such as blackjack, roulette, and baccarat
  • Live casino section powered by leading providers for an immersive experience

This variety caters to both casual players and high rollers, making Betti Casino appealing to a broad audience.

Bonuses and Payment Methods

One of the most critical factors when deciding to play at any online casino is the availability of bonuses and the ease of transactions. Betti Casino offers competitive promotions, including welcome bonuses, reload offers, and cashback deals to maximise player value.

Feature Details
Welcome Bonus Up to £200 + 50 Free Spins
Payment Options Visa, MasterCard, PayPal, Skrill, Neteller
Withdrawal Speed 24 to 72 hours depending on method
Customer Support 24/7 Live Chat, Email, Phone

Secure payment options and prompt withdrawals contribute to a trustworthy gambling environment.

Security and Licensing

Playing for real money requires assurance that your data and funds are safe. Betti Casino operates under a valid licence from a recognised regulatory body, meeting strict standards for fairness and security. Encryption technologies protect player information, and independent audits ensure game integrity. These factors significantly reduce the risks usually associated with online gambling.

Reasons to Consider Betti Casino in 2024

Betti Casino’s strengths are reflected in multiple areas that enhance the player experience. Consider these benefits:

  1. User-friendly interface with seamless navigation on desktops and mobiles
  2. Extensive game library updated regularly with new titles
  3. Diverse and secure banking methods with transparent policies
  4. Reliable customer support available around the clock
  5. Attractive bonus schemes tailored for new and existing players

These features combine to create a platform suitable for both beginners and experienced gamblers.

FAQ

Q: Is Betti Casino licensed and regulated?
A: Yes, Betti Casino holds a valid licence from a reputable authority, ensuring compliance with industry standards.

Q: Can I play Betti Casino games on my mobile device?
A: Absolutely, the casino offers a fully optimised mobile platform compatible with most smartphones and tablets.

Q: What are the withdrawal limits at Betti Casino?
A: Withdrawal limits vary depending on the payment method but are generally competitive within the industry.

Q: Are there any wagering requirements on bonuses?
A: Yes, bonuses come with specific wagering requirements which are clearly stated in the terms and conditions.

Q: How can I contact customer support?
A: Support is available via live chat, email, and phone, operating 24/7 to assist players promptly.

Conclusion

Betti Casino presents a compelling option for real money play in 2024 due to its solid licensing, extensive game range, and player-focused services. Whether you prioritise game variety, security, or customer support, Betti Casino ticks many essential boxes. However, as with all gambling platforms, it is crucial to play responsibly and understand the terms associated with bonuses and withdrawals. For those ready to explore online gaming, Betti Casino is definitely worth considering.

Filed Under: Uncategorized

Betti Casino Payment Options and Fast Withdrawal Methods Explained

by Leslie Kernisan, MD MPH

When exploring online gambling platforms, understanding the available payment options and withdrawal methods is crucial. Betti Casino offers a wide range of convenient and secure ways for players to fund their accounts and cash out winnings swiftly. Whether you are logging in for the first time or a regular user, the betti casino login process is seamless, making your transactions hassle-free from the outset.

This article breaks down the main payment methods at Betti Casino, focusing on ease of use, security, and withdrawal speed. Knowing these details will help you choose the best options that suit your preferences and ensure a smoother gaming experience.

Overview of Payment Methods at Betti Casino

Betti Casino supports various popular payment channels, including debit and credit cards, e-wallets, and bank transfers. These methods are chosen to accommodate players globally and provide flexibility in deposits and withdrawals. All transactions are protected by high-standard encryption protocols, ensuring your financial data remains secure.

Most deposit options at Betti Casino are instant, allowing you to start playing without delay. Furthermore, the casino’s withdrawal process aims to be as fast as possible, although processing times can vary depending on the method selected.

Fast Withdrawal Methods Explained

Fast withdrawals are a priority at Betti Casino, especially for players who want quick access to their winnings. Some payment methods are known for their swift processing times, often completing withdrawals within 24 hours after approval. Understanding the specifics helps you avoid unnecessary waiting.

Common Fast Withdrawal Options

  • E-wallets: Typically the fastest, with payouts often processed within a few hours.
  • Cryptocurrencies: Rapid and secure, crypto withdrawals may be completed within minutes to a few hours.
  • Bank Cards: Withdrawals to Visa or MasterCard usually take 1-3 business days.
  • Bank Transfers: Though secure, these might require a longer processing time (up to 5 business days).

Summary of Betti Casino Payment Methods

Payment Method Typical Withdrawal Time
E-wallets Within 24 hours
Cryptocurrencies Within a few hours
Credit/Debit Cards 1-3 business days
Bank Transfers Up to 5 business days

Advantages of Choosing Betti Casino Payment Solutions

  1. Security: All transactions are SSL encrypted.
  2. Variety: Multiple deposit and withdrawal options.
  3. Speed: Fast processing times, especially through e-wallets and crypto.
  4. User-friendly Interface: Easy navigation through payment portals.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is the minimum deposit amount at Betti Casino?
A1: The minimum deposit usually starts at €10, but it can vary depending on the payment method.

Q2: Are there any fees for withdrawals?
A2: Betti Casino does not charge withdrawal fees, but your payment provider might apply some charges.

Q3: How long does it take to verify my withdrawal request?
A3: Withdrawal verification typically takes between a few hours to 24 hours, depending on document submission and compliance checks.

Q4: Can I use the same method for withdrawal as I used for deposit?
A4: In most cases, yes. Betti Casino recommends using the same method for both deposits and withdrawals to streamline the process.

Q5: Is cryptocurrency accepted at Betti Casino?
A5: Yes, Betti Casino supports cryptocurrency deposits and withdrawals, known for their speed and security.

By understanding Betti Casino’s payment options and fast withdrawal methods, you can manage your funds more effectively, ensuring a more enjoyable and secure gaming experience. Whether you prefer traditional banking or cutting-edge crypto methods, Betti Casino provides efficient solutions tailored to your needs.

Filed Under: Uncategorized

Special Bonuses and Loyalty Offers at Lucky Mister Casino Uncovered

by Leslie Kernisan, MD MPH

Discover Exclusive Rewards at Lucky Mister Casino

Lucky Mister Casino is well-known for offering an extensive range of special bonuses and loyalty offers designed to enhance your gaming experience. Whether you are a new player or a regular visitor, the promotions available at https://lucky-mister-casino.co.uk provide excellent opportunities to maximise your bankroll and enjoy a variety of casino games. This article uncovers the core bonuses and loyalty rewards you can expect when joining this top-tier online casino.

Welcome Bonuses Tailored for Newcomers

One of the standout features at Lucky Mister Casino is its generous welcome package. New players receive a combination of deposit bonuses and free spins, giving a strong head start in exploring the platform’s extensive game collection. The bonuses are structured to offer increasing value across the first few deposits, enabling newcomers to experience more gameplay and potentially higher winnings from the outset.

Loyalty Programme: Rewarding Regular Players

Lucky Mister Casino’s loyalty scheme is designed to reward consistent engagement. Players accumulate points for every wager placed, which can be converted into bonus credits or exclusive perks. The programme is tier-based, offering progressively better rewards as players move up the loyalty ladder. This structured approach ensures that long-term players feel valued and motivated to continue their gaming journey.

Special Promotions Beyond the Basics

Apart from welcome and loyalty bonuses, Lucky Mister Casino regularly features time-limited promotions and seasonal offers. These include cashback deals, reload bonuses, and exclusive tournaments. Such promotions keep the gaming experience fresh and provide additional ways for players to boost their winnings.

Key Bonuses and Offers at a Glance:

  • Generous welcome package with deposit bonuses and free spins
  • Tiered loyalty programme rewarding regular play
  • Cashback offers to reduce losses
  • Reload bonuses for ongoing deposits
  • Exclusive tournaments with attractive prizes

Comparison of Popular Bonus Types at Lucky Mister Casino

Bonus Type Main Features
Welcome Bonus Matched deposit bonuses up to a certain amount + free spins
Loyalty Points Earn points for wagers, redeemable for bonuses or prizes
Cashback Offers Percentage of losses returned over a specific period
Reload Bonuses Bonus on subsequent deposits after the welcome package

FAQ: Special Bonuses and Loyalty Offers

Q1: How do I qualify for the welcome bonus at Lucky Mister Casino?
A: Simply register an account and make your first qualifying deposit. The bonus will be credited automatically or after entering a bonus code if required.

Q2: What is the loyalty programme and how does it work?
A: The loyalty programme rewards players with points for each bet placed. These points accumulate and can be exchanged for bonus credits or other exclusive rewards.

Q3: Are there any wagering requirements on bonuses?
A: Yes, most bonuses come with wagering conditions that must be met before withdrawing any winnings derived from the bonus funds.

Q4: Can I participate in multiple promotions simultaneously?
A: Typically, only one promotion can be active at a time, but players should check the specific terms of each offer for details.

Q5: How often are special promotions updated?
A: Lucky Mister Casino frequently updates its offers, often with weekly or monthly promotions to keep the casino experience engaging.

By understanding these bonuses and loyalty offers, players can make better decisions and enjoy greater value at Lucky Mister Casino. The combination of welcoming incentives and ongoing rewards makes it an appealing choice for both new and seasoned gamblers alike.

Filed Under: Uncategorized

COVID & Aging Adults: 2025-2026 Updates

by Leslie Kernisan, MD MPH

COVID was really bad when it first came on the scene, especially for older adults, who made up the vast majority of people who were hospitalized or died from the virus.

Things are now much better. This is partly because most of us have now had exposure to COVID, either through having it, being vaccinated, or both. This provides most people with significant protection from the worst effects of COVID.

However, as people get older, their immune system ages and works less well.

This means that even if an older person has had COVID before, it can hit them harder than a few years ago (especially if their health has declined).

So COVID will continue to be an important health issue in geriatrics. Fortunately, the vaccine does significantly reduce the risk of hospitalization or death from COVID.

On this page, I’ll be posting updates related to COVID and older adults. I’ll be focusing on important developments and what I think is most important for older adults and their families to know.

I also have a section below on general COVID safety principles for older adults.

Covid & Aging Adults:

Update October 2025: COVID & Fall Vaccines for 2025-2026

In this update, I cover:

  • COVID so far in 2025
  • Why fall vaccines matter
  • COVID vaccines for 2025-26
  • Moderna mNEXSPIKE and other options
  • Flu vaccines for 2025-26
  • What to know about RSV vaccines
  • How to reduce your chances of getting sick

Related CDC resources:

  • COVID-19 Surveillance Data in the United States
  • Severe Viral Respiratory Illness – Updates
  • Respiratory Virus Activity Levels – Updates
  • Moderna mNEXSPIKE Safety & Effectiveness

Also recommended:

  • Your Local Epidemiologist: Covid-19 vaccine changes: What it means for you

General COVID principles for older adults (that won’t be changing)

Since the pandemic started, a few core principles regarding COVID and aging have held true. Here they are:

1.The risk of being hospitalized and/or dying from COVID goes up with age.

Most people don’t get sick enough to be hospitalized from COVID, and that has been true even of nursing home patients (even before they were vaccinated).

But even though younger people have been hospitalized and even died of COVID, it’s overwhelmingly people over age 65 who have done so. Vaccines have reduced this risk for older adults, but most of the serious breakthrough infections still happen in older adults.

In fact, in the fall of 2021, the risk of death due to COVID was higher in vaccinated people aged 80+ than in unvaccinated people aged 30-49. (I discuss the data on this in-depth in my December 2021 COVID update.)

Unfortunately, this means that older adults will need to be more careful about COVID than others are, even if they are vaccinated.

The coronavirus does not care if you feel like 70 is the new 50. The average 70-year-old will have a markedly higher risk of illness from COVID than the average 50-year-old. (And that average 50-year-old has a higher risk than the average 30-year-old.)

Now, this doesn’t mean permanently restricting all activity and living in fear for the next few years. But it does mean that older adults will benefit from paying attention to what is going on with COVID, and should consider taking additional precautions when surges occur in their communities.

2. COVID is airborne and reducing your chance of catching it is about minimizing inhaling what others are exhaling.

Sure, some COVID variants are more contagious than others. But they are all airborne and mostly transmitted when people breathe in air (usually indoor air) that is carrying COVID particles.

So it’s important to be mindful of the air you are breathing in, especially if COVID rates are currently high in your local area. (Because when COVID rates are high, it’s more likely that someone breathing in the room may be exhaling COVID…and probably doesn’t know it.)

These simple approaches reduce the chance of breathing in COVID:

  • Wearing a mask. The better the mask, the better your protection. The best masks are N95s, followed by KN95s and KF94s. After that, probably safest is to double mask (a surgical mask covered by a cloth mask). A well-fitting cloth mask does provide some protection, but it’s good to up one’s mask game when there’s a big surge or very contagious variant going around. (Or if you are immunocompromised or at particularly high risk of severe COVID.)
  • Ventilating indoor spaces. Airborne COVID can definitely float further than 6 feet and can linger suspended in a non-ventilated room for some time. (Think of it like cigarette smoke in a room; it hangs around even after the smoker has left the room.) Opening doors/windows or using a good quality HEPA air filter helps clear the air.
  • Others wearing masks when they are indoors with you. You will be protected by your own mask, but you get additional protection when others in the room are wearing a mask as well. (Because their mask helps catch any COVID particles or other germs they might be unintentionally emitting.) For public indoors spaces, this often comes down to local rules. For your own home, you get to set the rules and you may want to ask others to remain masked indoors when a surge is going on.
  • Socializing, eating, and meeting outside when possible. Outside is always safer in that there is way more ventilation and air circulation outdoors, compared to indoors. In many cases, it will be reasonably safe to be unmasked outside. (But of course, it’s safer if you are masked, especially if you are close to someone who is speaking unmasked, or eating.)
  • Minimizing your time indoors with other unmasked people who are not part of your immediate household. This means minimizing things like indoor dining and other indoor activities in which people are unmasked. Again, this is most important when COVID rates in your community are high. If you must be inside unmasked with others, the fewer the people, the better.

It has slightly surprised me that US public health authorities have not made ventilation and indoor air quality more of a priority. In some countries, such as Japan, carbon dioxide concentrations are posted in public spaces such as movie theaters. (Humans exhale carbon dioxide, so concentrations go up when ventilation isn’t adequate.)

3. If you catch COVID, significant protection against hospitalization and death comes from vaccination. If you are older, you will lose protection unless you stay up-to-date on COVID vaccines.

We now have lots of data. This has held true for all variants so far.

It’s also true for all age groups, but it makes the biggest difference in people who are over age 50, and makes a bigger difference as people get older.

The thing is, the protection from vaccination and boosters does wane, especially when people are older. Protection against catching COVID wanes first (usually within 2-3 months) and protection against severe hospitalization wanes within 6 months.

Hence, it’s essential for older adults to stay up-to-date on their COVID vaccines. (You can learn about the latest COVID vaccine by watching my most recent video update above.)

Also: even shortly after boosting, the vaccine effectiveness against catching COVID may be only 30-40% for older adults. (So far it has been much higher — 70% or more — against hospitalization and severe COVID.)

So you should never assume that if you and everyone else in the room is “fully vaccinated”, or even up-to-date on boosters, that means you are COVID-proof. (Because you are not.)

But the general principle will remain: older adults who are vaccinated and up-to-date on boosters will have a significantly lower risk of hospitalization and death due to COVID than those who are not. (I support COVID vaccines for the rest of us because that helps protect older adults, the immunocompromised, and other vulnerable people among us. Plus reduces our own small risk of severe COVID to virtually nil.)

4. Take more precautions when COVID rates are high or going up. 

We don’t want to live constantly in fear, and it’s very costly to live a very restricted life long-term.

So instead, I recommend being ready to take more precautions when the conditions warrant it, such as when COVID rates are going up or are very high.

5. Safety from COVID is not the only thing that is important in life.

Yes, COVID is risky, especially for vulnerable older adults. But the costs of trying to be as safe as possible from COVID can be very high.

We have seen this play out especially in nursing homes, where residents experienced devastating consequences from social and physical isolation during the first part of the pandemic. (It’s also an issue for schools, young adults, and others.)

So as we navigate COVID, let’s keep in mind that safety from COVID is just one of many things to consider. We still need to connect and come together, and we should not let COVID prevent that altogether.

And that’s it for now! Please take care and stay reasonably safe, especially during COVID waves.

Note: For my previous updates regarding COVID vaccines and other developments from the first years of the pandemic, see my original COVID updates page here.

Filed Under: Aging health, Geriatrics For Caregivers Blog, Helping Older Parents Articles

4 Types of Exercise in Later Life: How to maintain strength, balance, & independence in aging

by Leslie Kernisan, MD MPH

strength & balance exercises for seniorsIt’s one of those cliches that is true: exercise really is very good for your health.

In fact, one expert in applied longevity wrote that:

“Exercise is by far the most potent longevity ‘drug’. No other intervention does nearly as much to prolong our life span and preserve our cognitive and physical function.” — Peter Attia, MD, in his book “Outlive.” (Note: the emphasis there is mine.)

If you’re an older adult: are you exercising regularly? And if so, are you doing enough of the “right” kinds of exercises?

People are often quite interested in “balance exercises for seniors,” especially if they’ve become concerned about preventing falls. Those are great, but there’s really much more to know and do, when it comes to exercise and aging.

Since exercise is such an essential activity that most older adults are under-using, in this article, I’ll explain what’s most important to know about exercising in later life, including what types of exercise to do.

Specifically, I’ll cover:

  • The benefits of exercising in aging
  • What to know about walking for exercise
  • Four types of exercise to make sure you do
  • Why balance exercises and strength are key to mobility and preventing falls
  • Protein intake and strength-building
  • The risks of exercise in aging and what to ask your doctors
  • How to avoid getting injured

You can also learn more about aging with strength, independence, and vitality in this video:


[Read more…]

Filed Under: Aging health, Featured, Geriatrics For Caregivers Blog, Helping Older Parents Articles

Flu Shots for Older Adults: What to Know & Do for 2025

by Leslie Kernisan, MD MPH

It’s that time of the year: fall, which I think of as flu vaccination time.

I always think getting a flu vaccine is a good idea for most older adults. So I agree with the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), which is urging that people get vaccinated against influenza early in the fall (before the end of October 2025).

Now, vaccination against seasonal influenza can seem like a bit of a tricky topic. Many older adults are skeptical of the need to get a yearly vaccination against influenza. They aren’t sure it will help. Or they think that the vaccination will actually give them a mild case of the flu. Or they just don’t like needles.

Or maybe they aren’t sure which type of seasonal flu shot to get: the regular one or one of the newer “stronger” versions, designed for older adults?

And now that we have COVID-19 to contend with, vaccination for seasonal influenza might feel even more confusing for people. 

Don’t let yourself be confused. In this article, I will share with you what I know about influenza vaccination and what I’ve learned about influenza in COVID times. I also have updates on the stronger flu vaccines that are now recommended for older adults.

This year, I agree with the CDC that it’s important for people to get their seasonal flu shot, and if you are an older adult, I recommend getting one of the three flu vaccines specifically recommended for older adults. (See below for more on these!)

Note: If you are age 65 or older and it’s been more than 2 months since your last COVID booster, you may be able to get your COVID fall booster shot at the same time.

In “normal” pre-COVID times, the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) estimates that every year, influenza affects 9-45 million Americans, causes 140,000-810,100 hospitalizations, and results in 12,000-61,000 deaths. In most years, influenza vaccination does help reduce hospitalizations and deaths (I go into details below).

So this year, it’s important to do what you can to reduce respiratory illness, to protect yourself, and to protect others. And getting vaccinated against influenza is one of the things we can do.

In fact, I’m about to go get mine. As a healthy woman in her 40s, I’m not that concerned about getting dangerously ill from influenza. Instead, I get my annual flu shot because I want to minimize my chance of getting sick and perhaps exposing my older patients to influenza.

Here’s what I’ll cover in this article:

  • The basics of influenza and vaccination against the flu
  • What we know about influenza and COVID-19
  • What to know about flu shots for older adults & the CDC’s new recommendations specifically for older adults
  • What’s new and resources for the 2025-2026 flu season
  • Which influenza vaccination is probably best for most older adults
  • What to do if your older parent or relative is unwilling or unable to get vaccinated
  • Whether it’s more important to get a flu shot or a COVID vaccination (or a booster)

[Read more…]

Filed Under: Aging health, Geriatrics For Caregivers Blog, Helping Older Parents Articles

Why Older People Fall & How to Reduce Fall Risk

by Leslie Kernisan, MD MPH

senior man falling downWhy do aging adults fall? To be honest, people don’t usually ask me this.

Instead, they want to know things like “How do I keep my mother from falling?” or “What should I do? I fell recently and am worried it could happen again.”

After all, falls are a scary thing. Most people know that falls are dangerous for older adults.

The Center for Disease Control (CDC) reports that one in five falls causes a serious injury, such as a broken bone or head injury. Fear of falling can also seriously affect an aging adult’s quality of life and, sadly, can keep a person from being active and thriving.

So, many older adults and family caregivers are interested in fall prevention because the risks are so great. (According to Google, “balance exercises for seniors” is a popular search query; I do like balance exercises in aging, especially when combined with strength training and other exercises.)

And the good news is that although it’s not possible to prevent all falls, it almost always IS possible to take actions that will reduce the chance of a bad fall.

And it’s easier to take action once we understand more about why an older person has fallen.

If you want to learn more, you’re in the right place. In this article, I’ll cover:

  • How understanding why aging adults fall can help you keep an older parent — or yourself — safer,
  • Why personalized fall prevention plans work better than relying on general fall prevention tips,
  • The four-step process I use to help older adults prevent falls,
  • A practical example showing you how to use these steps to avoid falls yourself.

First, understand why older people fall

There are many reasons that aging adults fall. Most older people will be falling due to their own unique combination of reasons.

So how, exactly, should YOU go about reducing fall risk?

Now, you can — and should — try to implement the general tips that are often listed in most fall prevention resources: exercise, medication review with the doctor, vision checks, and home safety reviews. 

But if you really want to help an older person avoid falls, I recommend you learn to better understand why he or she, in particular, might fall.

Why? Because when you understand the specific reasons an older person may be falling, you’ll then be able to:

  • Identify which fall prevention strategies are most likely to help the person you worry about,
  • Recognize risky situations, and take steps to avoid them,
  • Know which medical conditions — and which medications — to ask your doctors to look into,
  • Understand what may have caused a specific fall, which can help you avoid future falls.

In other words, learning why older people fall means that you’ll be able to figure out why an older person is likely to fall — and take steps to help them.

[Read more…]

Filed Under: Aging health, Geriatrics For Caregivers Blog, Helping Older Parents Articles Tagged With: fall prevention, falls

6 Steps to Better High Blood Pressure Treatment for Older Adults

by Leslie Kernisan, MD MPH

omron blood pressure monitor in use

Have you been concerned about high blood pressure (hypertension)? Or are you worried about an older relative having a stroke or heart attacks?

You’re not alone. After all, hypertension is the most common chronic condition among older adults, and medications for blood pressure (BP) are among the most commonly taken drugs in the US.

Even more important: poorly controlled hypertension is a major contributor to the most common causes of death and disability in older adults: strokes, heart attacks, and heart failure.

So it’s certainly sensible for older adults – and for those helping aging parents – to think about lowering blood pressure.

And once you start thinking about high blood pressure, you’ll probably start to wonder.

Are the blood pressure medications you’re taking enough? Is your blood pressure at the “right” level or should you and your doctors work on changing things?

And what about that major research – the SPRINT trial — that made the news in 2015? (In this study, older adults randomized to aim for a lower BP did better than those who got “standard” BP treatment.)

These are excellent questions to ask, so I’d like to help you answer them.

Now, I can’t provide exact answers on the Internet. But what I can do is provide a sensible process that will help you successfully address these questions about lowering blood pressure.

In this article, I’ll share with you the process that I use to:

  1. Assess an older person’s blood pressure management plan, and
  2. Determine whether we should attempt changes.

If you’re an older adult, you can use this approach to get started assessing your own BP management plan. This will help you to better work with your doctors on assessing and managing your blood pressure.

If you are helping an older relative manage health, you can follow these steps on behalf of your relative.

[Read more…]

Filed Under: Aging health, Featured, Geriatrics For Caregivers Blog, Helping Older Parents Articles Tagged With: blood pressure

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