Have you heard of the new “magic carpet” that can immediately detect when someone has fallen and can help predict mobility problems? With 50 percent of hospital admissions in the over 65 age group tied to falls, technology is starting to pop up to help elders avoid debilitating tumbles. Recently demonstrated by University of Manchester scientists, the new carpet hosts plastic optical fibers and tiny sensors that can map, in real-time, walking patterns of anyone who steps on it. The signals can then be analyzed to identify gradual changes in walking behavior or a sudden incident such as a fall. The carpets are primarily for senior care homes or hospital wards, but could also be custom made for people’s homes.

A study recently released announced that vitamin D may help lower the risk of bone fracture. The study showed participants over 64 who took 800 international units of vitamin daily saw a 30 percent decrease in the risk of hip fracture and a 14 percent decrease in the risk of other fractured bones.

Have you had a chance to watch Katie Couric’s new talk show “Katie’s Take?” In a recent episode, Katie chats with Bruce Feiler, a New York Times columnist and best-selling author, about the 42 million Americans that are caring for an elderly relative.

We all know the role of caregiver can be challenging. Not only is it exhausting physically, but it can be a very emotional time as well. Many people don’t realize exactly what goes into caregiving until they’re at the point in their lives where they’re taking care of an aging parent or family member. It’s not until then do they realize how draining the job can be. But, according to a recent blog post on the New York Times website, there are some benefits, too. And when times are getting tough and you’re at the end of your rope, it’s important to think about the benefits.

According to a recently-released study, nearly half of all Americans reach the end of their lives “with virtually no financial assets.” In fact, it was found that 46 percent of U.S. senior citizens die with less that $10,000 in total financial assets. The study also determined that the seniors who had more assets tend to outlive those who had less.

Sometimes as we age, it feels like everything we do causes illness or pushes us towards a shorter lifespan. Can’t we just enjoy our retirement years? This latest article said that too much protein can cause prostate cancer. Other articles support a high-protein diet, saying it helps slow down muscle loss, can lower the risk of hip fractures and keeps us strong. So, whose rules do we follow?

According to the American Academy of Family Physicians, seniors experience a harder time getting the seven or eight hours of sleep each night needed to feel rested and refreshed in the morning. The common causes of sleep problems among the elderly include:

We’re six months into—or six months from—our New Year resolutions. Do you still remember what they were? Are you planning your next resolutions already?

It’s hot. This week, temperatures in the U.S. peaked over 100 degrees in some areas, leaving many people confined to air conditioned, indoor spaces. While this hot weather can encourage couch potatoes, it’s important to stay active through every season.

Since President Nixon made Father’s Day an official holiday in 1972, fathers across the country have been doted upon with neckties, fishing gear and golf clubs on the third Sunday of each June. This Father’s Day, remember all the dads in your life: your husband, son, neighbor, father and grandpa. While this holiday usually denotes tangible gifts, giving an experience can be just as nice.