Health & Wellness

Let's say you have fallen and broken a bone. The hospital team has done their job and now it's time to go to a skilled nursing facility for rehabilitation. Sometimes that can be a rocky transition. ...

September is Falls Prevention Awareness Month, a designation that holds a special meaning for older adults like me who end up on the ground when they didn't intend to land there. ...

What's the difference between PT and OT? Physical therapy focuses on improving a patient’s physical function, mobility and strength. Occupational therapy focuses on improving a patient’s ability to perform meaningful activities as independently as possible. It would be nice if you could get both from one therapist, but that's not how it works. ...

As someone who nibbled on Skittles candy while watching the Olympics on TV last night, I know that sugar cravings are tough to resist. But there's hope for those of us with a sweet tooth. ...

As the popularity of CBD (cannabidiol) continues to grow, especially among seniors seeking natural wellness solutions, it’s crucial to address common misconceptions.

Let’s explore what seniors should know about CBD, backed by expert insights and scientific research.

Understanding CBD: The Basics

CBD is a compound found in cannabis plants, primarily derived from hemp for commercial use. Unlike its cousin THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), CBD doesn’t produce psychoactive effects.

Tony Spencer of Spruce states, “While CBD is often promoted for numerous health problems, the most robust scientific evidence supports its effectiveness in treating some of the most severe childhood epilepsy syndromes.”

Debunking Common CBD Myths

Does CBD cause a “high”?

Dr. Daniele Piomelli, Director of the Center for the Study of Cannabis at UC Irvine, clarifies: “CBD is not intoxicating. It doesn’t produce the ‘high’ associated with THC”.

Is CBD illegal?

The 2018 Farm Bill legalized hemp-derived CBD containing less than 0.3% THC at the federal level in the United States. However, state laws may vary, so it’s essential to check local regulations.

Are all CBD products the same?

The quality and potency of CBD products can vary significantly. A 2017 study published in JAMA found that nearly 70% of CBD products were mislabeled. Seniors should look for products with third-party lab test results.

Does CBD works instantly?

While some may experience immediate effects, research suggests that consistent use over time may be necessary for optimal results. A 2019 study in the Journal of Clinical Medicine found that it took about a month for CBD to show significant effects on anxiety.

Is it better to take more CBD?

Dr. Dustin Sulak, an integrative medicine physician, advises: “Start low and go slow. More is not always better with CBD, and in some cases, lower doses can be more effective”.

Is CBD a cure-all?

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Delirium is a temporary state of mental confusion that starts suddenly. It is caused by a physical condition of some sort, such as infections, dehydration or low salt levels, and liver and kidney problems. Someone suffering from delirium might not know where they are, what time it is, or what’s happening to them. It can be very frightening to see a loved one so disoriented, but typically, delirium will go away with treatment and support.  ...

While many signs of depression and anxiety in men and women overlap, men will often experience headaches or other physical symptoms, as well. Men also tend to turn to unhealthy coping mechanisms like drugs or alcohol to deal with their emotions. ...

There's a new alternative to the dreaded colonoscopy to screen for colon cancer. A simple blood test may prove to be a more effective form of screening since it would most likely increase the number of people willing to get tested. The new test can detect cancer in 83% of cases, similar to results from existing colon cancer screenings. ...