Better Health While Aging

Dr. K talks with audiologist Dr. Cliff Olson, AuD, about what older adults should know about earwax, hearing loss, and safe earwax removal.

Dr. K talks with audiologist Dr. Cliff Olson about today’s best and most affordable options for treating age-related hearing loss, including OTC vs prescription hearing aids. Plus what to do if hearing aids haven't worked well so far.

Dr. K explains explains why it's so important to detect and treat age-related hearing loss, how this helps preserve brain health, and simple ways to get started. Plus what to do if you've previously tried hearing aids.

Dr. K explains what older adults should know about medications for bone density, including when they are usually recommended, how they work, and what side effects or precautions to discuss with your health provider.

Dr. K explains what older adults should know about protecting bone strength and reducing fracture risk, plus proven ways to boost bone density as one ages.

Dr. K explains common causes of falls in older adults and the most effective ways to prevent them.

Dr. K explains the Beers Criteria, an evidence-based list of medications older adults should avoid or use with caution, and how to use it to avoid harm from medications.

Dr. K explains how kidney function changes in later life and what to know about kidney disease, including causes, symptoms, treatment, and options for very severe kidney disease.

Dr. K explains shingles, including why aging increases risk, symptoms and treatment, how it can cause chronic pain, and the many benefits of the shingles vaccine.

Dr. K explains how bladder and prostate changes affect urination in older men, and what to do if you’re having bothersome urinary symptoms or leaks.

Dr. K explains 5 types of incontinence that affect women and the best ways to treat bladder leaks. Learn when to consider medication, kegels, estrogen, pessaries and more.

Dr. K and geriatric social worker Michelle Allen discuss saving money on Medicare and Michelle’s experience trying out Chapter, a national free service that helps older adults find the best Medicare plan for them. For FREE help with Medicare Open Enrollment, Dr. K is recommending calling Chapter at 771-224-0630.

Dr. K discusses COVID for fall 2025, including the updated vaccine options (including Moderna’s mNexspike), and the latest CDC guidelines. Plus, key reminders on this year’s flu and RSV shots and practical tips for staying healthier this winter.

Dr. K talks with geriatric diabetes expert Dr. Sei Lee about the different medications available to treat diabetes, including Ozempic and Jardiance, and how to use them safely and effectively in later life.

Dr. K explains what every older adult and their family should know about diabetes and prediabetes. Learn how diabetes is diagnosed and about the most important treatment approaches, including diet, exercise, and first-line medications such as metformin.

Dr. K explains how to prevent and treat constipation in older adults, including what to know about laxatives, prunes, and fiber supplements. She also explains what to do in case of pain or serious blockage.

Dr. K explains 4 commonly ordered blood tests. Learn how the CBC, basic metabolic panel & comprehensive metabolic panel help assess blood counts, anemia, liver & kidney function, & more.

Dr. K talks about dehydration in aging, including signs and symptoms of dehydration, how dehydration is actually diagnosed, and how to prevent and treat it.  She also explains what to know about heat stroke and how to take precautions during heat waves.

Dr. K explains how the most common causes of chronic pain in later life, and how pain should be evaluated. She also covers the most effective ways to treat pain, and explains what to know about commonly used painkillers.

Dr. K explains what counts as low blood pressure, why it becomes common with aging, when it can be dangerous, and what to do about it. She also explains orthostatic hypotension, a common problem that affects many older adults and can lead to symptoms, such as dizziness or even falls.

Dr. K explains the best ways to lower blood pressure and treat hypertension, using both lifestyle changes and medications that are safe and effective. Plus special considerations for older and frailer adults.

Cardiologist Cara Pellegrini, MD, explains the causes and treatment of bradycardia (slow heart rate), including when to consider a pacemaker and what to know about different pacemakers.

Dr. K explains what blood pressure numbers really mean, what’s normal BP in older adults and what’s considered too high, why managing hypertension is important, and what BP to aim for.

Dr. K explains methylcobalamin vs cyanocobalamin, when it comes to treating vitamin B12 deficiency. Learn which type of Vitamin B12 supplement to take and why.

Dr. K explains how older adults can detect, treat, and prevent vitamin B12 deficiency, a common problem that can affect nerve function, red blood cells and brain function.