Author: Amelie Goujon

Sidestep the Sugar Crash: Your Holiday Plate Revolution Do you know that post-party feeling? The one where the festive cheer has worn off, replaced by a sluggish fog, a bloated middle, and a desperate desire for a three-day nap. You’re not alone. For many of us, holiday gatherings can turn into a rollercoaster of sugar highs and crashing lows. But what if you could navigate the sea of casseroles and cookies with grace, emerging on the other side feeling energized and clear-headed? The secret isn’t about restriction; it’s a simple, empowering mindset shift: Go for the protein first. Why Prioritizing…

The holiday season is a time for connection, celebration, and, of course, delicious food. But for many over 60, the rich, festive meals can bring an unwelcome guest: acid reflux. The fear of that familiar burning sensation in the chest can cast a shadow over the joyous gatherings. The good news is that you don’t have to choose between enjoying the feast and feeling comfortable. With a few mindful choices, you can savor every bite and make this holiday season your most vibrant yet. That persistent discomfort you feel might be more than simple heartburn. For millions, it’s a sign…

OBBBA includes Medicaid community engagement (work) requirements for many adults ages 19–64 enrolled through Medicaid expansion. Family caregivers who are the primary caregiver for children age 13 and under, or for any person with a disability of any age, are exempt — but they must be able to prove their caregiving role to their state Medicaid program. States have until January 1, 2027 to adopt the new rules and may request a one-time extension (up to 2029) if they show progress; the law also provides $200 million to support state implementation efforts. AARP research estimates about 7.3 million family caregivers…

Waking up after a celebratory dinner or a rich holiday meal can sometimes leave you feeling sluggish and weighed down. But the right breakfast can be your secret weapon to reset your system, boost your energy, and set a positive tone for the entire day. For seniors, choosing a morning meal that is both gentle on the digestive system and packed with essential nutrients is the key to bouncing back with vitality and grace. Kickstart Your Day the Right Way: The Power of a Balanced Breakfast Starting your morning with a thoughtful meal is more than just a routine; it’s…

President Trump’s recent drug pricing deals with 14 pharmaceutical companies aim to lower prices for Americans, but immediate benefits for most people are unlikely. The deals focus on Medicaid savings, cash discounts for uninsured/underinsured patients, and boosting domestic manufacturing. Experts argue that these deals lack crucial details and may not significantly impact the two-thirds of Americans with private health insurance. Long-term benefits could include lower prices for all Americans as other countries increase their drug spending, but this remains uncertain. How Trump’s drug pricing deals work (simplified) Most-Favored-Nation (MFN) Pricing: Drugmakers agree to set U.S. prices at or below the…

Trump highlighted prescription drug prices as a political opportunity for Republicans and promoted a “most favored nation” approach to link U.S. drug prices to lower prices paid by other wealthy countries. He urged redirecting some federal health dollars to consumers instead of insurers — a concept that could include premium support or direct subsidies — and called for GOP ownership of in vitro fertilization (IVF) policy. He suggested flexibility on the Hyde Amendment (limits on federal funding for abortion) to reach bipartisan deals on health legislation — a move that drew immediate pushback from some conservatives. For seniors, the proposals…

Family gatherings are the heart of a vibrant life, filled with laughter, stories, and, of course, delicious food. But navigating those bountiful meals while staying true to your health goals can feel like a challenge. What if you could embrace every meal with joy and confidence, without ever having to count a single calorie? It’s not a dream—it’s about learning a few simple, visual tricks to master portion control and nourish your body intuitively. Reclaim Your Plate: The Simple Art of Visual Portion Control Forget the stress of measuring cups and food scales. The most powerful tool for balanced eating…

As the skies across the nation increasingly take on a hazy, orange hue, wildfire smoke is no longer a distant concern but a seasonal reality for millions. This isn’t just an atmospheric curiosity; it’s a profound health challenge, especially for seniors. The fine particulate matter, known as PM2.5, can travel deep into our lungs and poses significant risks. But there is no need for alarm, only for preparation. This guide is designed to empower you with simple, effective strategies to protect your respiratory health, turning your home into a sanctuary and giving you the confidence to navigate high-AQI days with…

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has announced new guidance that limits regulation on low-risk wearable devices and apps focused on promoting healthy lifestyles, such as fitness trackers and activity apps. This move, highlighted by FDA Commissioner Dr. Marty Makary, aims to encourage innovation while protecting consumers from misleading medical claims. What This Means for Seniors For older adults, wearables like smartwatches and fitness bands offer a simple way to track daily steps, monitor heart rate trends, and stay motivated to walk or exercise. Devices that simply provide general wellness information—without claiming to diagnose diseases or measure clinical-grade metrics—are…

Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has announced sweeping changes to the nation’s dietary guidelines, including a major shift away from decades of advice to limit saturated fat intake. The new guidelines, released in early 2026, recommend Americans consume more saturated fats and protein while reducing ultra-processed foods. However, the nation’s leading cardiologists and nutrition experts are raising serious concerns — particularly for seniors and those with heart disease risk. This article explains what’s changing, why experts are worried, and what you should know to protect your health. What’s changing in the 2026 dietary guidelines The federal…