SAN DIEGO, Dec. 24 (UPI) -- Holidays provoke memories, which can be especially powerful in the later years of life, a U.S. expert on aging points out.
"Leading authorities have observed that memory and 'life review' are important parts of the aging process," Barry Lebowitz of the University of California's San Diego Stein Institute for Research on Aging said in a statement. "Older people whose memories are impaired may have difficulty remembering recent events, but they are often able to share stories and observations from the past. These shared memories are important for the young as well -- children enjoy hearing about how it was 'when your parents were your age.' "
Lebowitz suggests using picture albums, family videos and music, even theme songs from old radio or TV programs, to help stimulate this sharing process.
Experts on aging from the Stein Institute for Research on Aging also suggest:
-- Paying attention to alcohol consumption because it can affects behavior or interfere with medications.
--Trying to adhere to the regular schedule of a senior's medications.
-- Removing slippery throw rugs and other items that could present hazards or barriers to an individual who has difficulty walking.
