For many people, a new year means a fresh start. A new year is also an opportunity to reflect on the past year and think about improvements for the upcoming year. To hold ourselves accountable, we often set goals — or…
Respiratory illnesses – flu, COVID-19 and RSV – are all on the rise this winter, and it’s important for the very young, old and immune-compromised to be careful about exposure to those who are ill. Fortunately, flu and COVID-19 vaccinations…
It’s the season of giving! But did you know volunteering can boost your mental health during the busy holiday season? Maybe you buy presents for friends and family. Or bake cookies for neighbors or leave out gift cards for the…
Are you marveling at photos of holiday bliss flitting across your social media feeds this time of year? Remember Instagram doesn’t feature the frazzled vibe. The holidays are supposed to be about relaxing and celebrating with friends and family. Instead,…
A broken ankle was bad enough, but as she sat in the waiting room at a doctor’s appointment last summer, Norby Tester had a stroke. “I was having pain in my leg,” Norby said. “I thought I might have a…
Raymond Jones, 76, struggles with balance issues and frequent falls because of Lewy Body dementia. After breaking his shoulder in several places, Raymond underwent shoulder surgery with Springfield Clinic orthopedic surgeon David Tapscott, MD, who installed a plate and pins…
Even if your diabetes is well-managed, when people with diabetes (type 1, type 2 or gestational) contract the flu, they are at high risk. Flu complications include pneumonia, bronchitis, sinus infection, ear infection, diabetic ketoacidosis and worsening of current health…
A three-digit dialing code number – 988 – strengthens and expands the reach of the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline. But it also includes a lifeline for veterans, answered by mental health professionals who are themselves veterans. “Dialing 988 and pressing…
It’s that time of year again – and while many of us welcome an extra hour of sleep on Sunday, the consequences of losing an hour of daylight at the end of the day can wreak havoc with some people’s…
For many, the scarier the better when it comes to celebrating Halloween. But for preschoolers or elementary age children, the decorations, costumes and often violent themes can be frightening and potentially disrupt sleep or cause social anxiety. That’s when parents…