Relationships

Gratitude put to paper causes a ripple of kindness. Blair has thanked people from his past and from today. Some were celebrities, others have been ordinary people doing extraordinary things, people from news stories, his fourth-grade teacher and dozens of others whose actions — big and small — have deserved a note. ...

Keeping those with dementia engaged often becomes difficult as their condition and symptoms progress. We all need purpose and meaning in our lives, regardless of age, ability or diagnosis. As we move through different chapters in our life, our purpose may change, but we still need purpose to give our lives meaning. Individuals with dementia are no different. ...

We can't think of a more appropriate way to celebrate Black History Month than by reading terrific books that illustrate the many facets of Black lives, both fictional and through autobiographies. Consider these selections. ...

When I had my son decades ago, I was a 36-year-old with a career. I went back to work so I could nap at noon in the women’s lounge. I dressed my infant in play clothes and put him to sleep each weeknight so I wouldn’t have to dress him in the morning before driving him to the babysitter (who fed him breakfast and lunch).  ...

Our winter holidays are not yet over — the month of February brings us Valentine’s Day, and there’s nothing better than a homemade valentine. Cards can be made for friends, family, teachers or neighbors. Valentine’s Day is a chance to share your love and appreciation with those special to you. They will bring a smile to someone on what could otherwise be a cold and dreary Northeast Ohio February day. ...

Many of our parents come from a generation during which they relied solely on the doctor to understand, identify and quickly know the answers to our medical concerns. The patient-doctor exchange was primarily focused on the doctor’s input, while the patient rarely questioned or added additional information. ...

It’s easy to idealize our 20s, now that they’re firmly in our rearview mirror. It was a fun part of my life, but it also came with an undercurrent of uncertainty. I knew that a lot was going to happen, but my path was bracketed by fuzzy outlines that intimidated rather than inspired. ...

Look for the January/February issue of Northeast Ohio Boomer and Beyond coming to newsstands (Marc's, Discount Drug Mart, Giant Eagle and others) starting Jan. 21. Of course, Boomer Insider Club members get our print issue mailed directly to their homes. But if you're out and about, look for our next issue featuring winter hikes throughout Northeast Ohio, just for starters. You can also read the issue online at northeastohioboomer.com. You'll find a wide range of topics that will enrich your journey to “Better Living After 50.” ...