Sorted by date Results 1 - 25 of 1980
"How to look chic while riding a bike...denim culottes are perfect for riding since there is plenty of legroom and the 'Breton' top gives it a Parisian vibe." When I read those words several years ago in the caption under an internet photo news blurb, I almost laughed out loud. I'm an avid bike rider, but looking chic is not a priority while peddling through my Mat-Su Valley subdivision. One time, a neighbor laughed and commented that he was glad I wasn't a bandit wanting to rob his garage...
Q: My dad's hearing loss is leading to miscommunications with my mom, causing family frustration because he refuses to get a hearing evaluation. What can we do? A: Hearing loss can lead to significant misunderstandings within families, particularly for older adults who may struggle with communicating their thoughts and feelings. In many cases, this situation is compounded by a parent's reluctance to undergo a hearing evaluation, which can cause frustration for family members. Understanding the u...
I have just retired after enjoying 32 years as a primary care provider. My clinical focus has been on creating wellness, rather than managing disease, primarily through good nutrition and positive self-care. I have observed that women, especially those born before the early days of legally bolstered equal rights, have often been made to feel that their role is to serve men. We are unfortunately seeing a persistence or revival of sexism at personal, community, state, and national levels. It is...
From Oct. 15 through Dec. 7, I encourage you to review and, if needed, change your Prescription Drug Plan (PDP) under Medicare’s Part D coverage. Changes you elect will become effective on Jan. 1. Certified Medicare counselors across Alaska can help you as part of the Medicare Information Office’s network of program Ambassadors, including through your local Aging and Disability Resource Center (ADRC). Give us a call, we would be glad to answer your questions, guide you through the process, and e...
Alaska Health Fair events offer a chance to learn about important health topics topics in an informal setting. Attendees can receive free basic screenings, obtain information and resources, and have their questions answered by health, wellness and safety professionals. Health fairs are also a great way to connect with local health resources. Most importantly, events feature comprehensive, affordable blood tests. Obtaining blood screenings at health fairs is a great way to get quick, accurate results at a fraction of the cost. Alaska Health...
Alzheimer's Resource Alaska, a statewide nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting individuals and families impacted by Alzheimer's disease and related dementias, unveiled an updated logo in late August. The new logo, which now features the iconic forget-me-not flower, the official state flower of Alaska, embodies remembrance, community, and Alaska roots and is a symbol of memory, love, and care. This reflects Alzheimer's Resource's mission of serving all Alaskans facing the challenges of A...
The Alaska Native CARE Lab at the University of Alaska Anchorage will be conducting a focus group study exploring dementia knowledge, experiences, and needs in rural communities. This research project seeks to learn from Alaska Native people who care for or have cared for someone with memory loss. The goal is to better understand the current needs of families and to strengthen support systems. Two focus group events will be held in Anchorage: October 24–25, 2025 (Friday & Saturday), 10:30 a.m.–2 p.m. December 5–6, 2025 (Friday & Satur...
Current research is showing that a healthy plant-based diet, along with regular physical activity, limiting alcohol, and maintaining a healthy body weight, can reduce breast cancer risk. Further, engineering combined with digital health may unlock a much better way to detect breast cancer. The National Cancer Institute reports that one in eight women born in the U.S. today will develop breast cancer. Studies have consistently demonstrated that consumption of vegetables, fruits, and soy...
Growing older doesn't mean slowing down creatively-and for those living with Alzheimer's and related dementias, the creative arts, and specifically the Art Links program offered by Alzheimer's Resource Alaska (ARA), can be a lifeline for memory, connection, and joy. Research consistently shows that engaging in creative activities can significantly improve health outcomes for older adults, while also supporting cognitive function in people at risk for or living with memory loss. A landmark 2006...
As the days get shorter than the mercury in the old thermometer you still have outside, you may feel an urge to stay inside more. While it's natural to want to cozy up by the fireplace, too much sitting can seriously harm you. Let's talk about why staying active matters and how you can do it safely this winter. When we sit for long periods, our bodies get weak. Our muscles get smaller, and our bones become brittle. Blood doesn't flow as well, which can lead to dangerous clots in our legs. Our...
The Anchorage Pioneer Home is located in downtown Anchorage. It's one of a number of assisted living homes operated by the State of Alaska. Brian Studstill, the communications director for the Alaska Department of Family and Community Services, said in an email that of the 164 residents in Anchorage Pioneer Home, 49 of them are eligible for Medicaid. Medicaid helps pay for services not covered by Medicare, including long-term care. According to the Alaska Department of Health, the state paid...
This October, the Alaska Federation of Natives (AFN) Convention will once again shine a light on the wisdom and contributions of Alaska Native Elders. Two free special events-the Elizabeth Peratrovich Legal Clinic on Oct.16, and the Elder Appreciation & Wills Clinic on Oct. 17-will take place at the AFN Convention at the Dena'ina Convention Center, Second Floor, Room 5 in Anchorage, offering a blend of celebration of Elders and legal help for Alaskans. All are welcome at these free events and...
The University of Alaska Southeast Juneau campus provides local Certified Nurse Aide (CNA) courses for high school and community students and has an immediate opening for an instructor. This is a critical role in strengthening the health care workforce and addressing a long-standing gap in Juneau. Applicants must meet Alaska Board of Nursing requirements, hold RN or LPN licensure, have at least two years of nursing experience (including one year in long-term care), and demonstrate the ability to teach or supervise nurse aides. This full-time,...
This month is packed with traditional fall events, such as the Alaska Federation of Natives convention. Make sure you make time to enjoy the golden light and the crisp temperatures … The regular municipal election of the Fairbanks North Star Borough is Oct. 7. Borough Assembly seats B, C and I and school board seats C and D are on the ballot...Voters in Juneau are also going to the polls Oct. 7. They have three ballot measures to consider. Soldotna an acrylic art series begins Oct. 8 and continues each Wednesday until Nov. 5. The sessions a...
One day last June I got a rather curious call from a friend. He said that he and 10 other people he knew, mostly Alaskan artists of various types, had put together an expedition to Adak in August. They had rented both halves of a duplex and three rugged trucks. They were short one person to share expenses. Would I like to go? I could tell he expected me to decline the unusual offer. I thought, "I am nearly 80 years old. If not now, then never." I said "Yes!" At the time I knew absolutely...
Established in 1968, OPAG is a nonprofit membership organization dedicated to improving services, developing programs, educating, promoting and implementing changes to help Alaska seniors live healthy, productive lives. Current programs: - publish the monthly Senior Voice newspaper - publish and distribute the Directory for Older Alaskans senior resource directory - provide information and referral services for Social Security, Medicare, Medicaid, Affordable Health Care Act and other senior issues - organize monthly Providers' Breakfast...
Every year, the Department of Labor designates the last full week of September as National Employ Older Workers Week: Sept 21-27, 2025. The NEOW Week recognizes the vital role of older workers in the workforce, and it highlights the Senior Community Service Employment Program (SCSEP), which provides on-the-job skills training for seniors, 55 and older, with limited financial resources. SCSEP was authorized under the Older Americans Act of 1965. Here in Alaska, SCSEP is known as Mature Alaskans...
Air taxis are scary. I like new experiences, but I hoped this one would not be my last. I sat quietly in the unadorned waiting area at the air taxi terminal in Juneau-gritting my teeth and contemplating mortality. Then a guy behind the counter walked briskly into the waiting area, twirled his finger in the air and bellowed, "Time to go. Let's board the bus." The bus took eight or nine of us to the seaplane gently bobbing in the water next to the tarmac. As I awkwardly climbed in through the...
Q. Where can I learn more about tech-related topics? I’m not interested in news as much as how-to guides and general knowledge. A. There are so many options available online that finding gems can seem overwhelming. So I’m going to focus on a couple of sites that are well suited for helping my readers refresh their skills. The first is TechBoomers, which has focused on tech for the last 10 years but recently changed their name to Tech Life Unity (techlifeunity.com). Senior Planet is a site from AARP that hosts hundreds of video classes on top...
September starts the season of nonprofit in-person fundraisers. Many of the advocacy organizations who work with Elders, improving their lives and helping their loved ones navigate the complexities of caregiving, are busy planning the events that raise the most money for their organization ... The American Heart Association has its own kind of party when the Heart Run and Walk returns Sept. 20. This event had traditionally been held in April, but has switched to a fall date. ... Arc of Anchorage is preparing for a fun Trunk-Or-Treat fundraiser...
When a medical emergency happens, you may not be able to speak for yourself. That's why having an emergency medical file ready is one of the smartest things you can do to protect your health and safety. An emergency medical file is a simple folder or envelope that contains all your important medical information in one place. You know all those questions the EMTs and nurses and doctors ask so often? It's because the answers are key to the care you need. This file is your medical story told...
For every 20 readers, one of you is doing the incredible work of raising a young relative. Although you may feel alone at times, you are definitely in good company. A community of caregivers Across the United States, more than 2.6 million children are being raised by a grandparent, other relative, or close family friend, according to nationwide advocacy organization Generations United. The vast majority of these kinship families are formed independently, outside the state foster care system....
A new AI-based breast cancer software has received FDA Breakthrough Device destination, accelerating the path to approval. The system analyzes mammograms to produce a risk score estimating the likelihood that a woman will develop breast cancer over the next five years. The technology is compatible with both types of mammogram imaging available: the four 2D views of the breast produced by full-field digital mammography and the synthetic 3D view of the breast produced by digital breast...
Amy Urbanus was already an assistant professor in the dietetics and nutrition program at the University of Alaska Anchorage but missed working with patients. So she started working with patients at the Anchorage Senior Activities Center, putting in about 20 hours a month to address seniors' nutrition needs. That work, and a professional career as a diabetes educator drove Urbanus to seek a Ph.D., which she is completing at the University of Alaska Fairbanks. She designed her own...
As we age our nutritional needs change. Paying attention to the foods we consume can keep our energy level, vitality, cognition, stamina and strength, and prevent chronic health problems. Strategies to increase or to maintain muscle mass and its functional capacity are essential to preserve the quality of life of aging adults. Here is a quick guide for aging well. 1) Boost protein intake-it helps to preserve immune system, prevent the loss of muscle mass and strength and helps to aid recovery. G...
