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Aging gracefully

What will your health look like in 40 years? Medical science has made inroads against major diseases that snuff short our lives. But by the time we reach 45, disease beats out accidents as the leading cause of death. The National Vital Statistics System shows cancer is the leading cause of death for 45 to…
Q&A on the most lethal form of dementia

Dr. Gordon J. Rafool shares the symptoms and treatment options of Alzheimer’s disease Alzheimer’s disease is the sixth leading cause of death in America. In Polk, 11.8 percent of Medicare beneficiaries were treated for Alzheimer’s or another form of dementia in 2013, according to Healthy Tampa Bay. We interviewed Dr. Gordon J. Rafool, a geriatrician…
Pop Quiz: Establishing a solid oral care foundation

Will your child have a future Filled with healthy smiles? Teeth add to your smile, allow you to enjoy delicious foods, and rip apart that plastic wrap off your new DVD. However, as a parent, you might be wondering whether you’re setting up proper oral hygiene habits for your child, or if the little tike…

Senior Living: Understanding the difference, Part II: Memory care

LAST EDITION, I covered the distinct differences between independent senior living and assisted living. To better help your senior loved one have the best possible lifestyle, let’s talk about another type of community to consider.
Word of Mouth: Myths about implants debunked, Part I: Are they practical?

DENTAL IMPLANTS are a viable option for most patients experiencing tooth loss. Fused with the patient’s jaw, implants can replace bridges and dentures, and they look and feel very natural. However, there are many myths out there; don’t let these dissuade you of the practicality of dental implants.
Healthy Cook: Serving up fresh fish that the whole family will enjoy

GETTING MY FAMILY to like fish was a hard sell. The youngsters were not too bad, but the adults … My wife used to say (and I quoted her in a review) … “ ‘Fish’ and ‘good’ don’t belong in the same sentence.” Her dad pronounced it “Fishhhhh” with a lilt of disdain.