Although an isolated episode of forgetfulness is hardly reason to call the doctor, millions of Americans are understandably concerned when they see signs of dementia, either in themselves or in a loved one. The truth is that dementia is widespread among seniors, and its effects can be devastating. According to the latest government estimates, about…
According to Neuropsychologist Dr. Ashley Gorman, the keys to an accurate diagnosis are the extent of the symptoms and their duration. Are these behaviors interfering with your child’s ability to function at home and at school and how long have they been present? Is your child unable to sit still at the dinner table? Daydreaming…
Public attitudes toward homosexuality have changed decidedly in the last twenty years. The rapidity of the shift toward greater tolerance of homosexual behavior across all religious and political groups – with younger people leading the way – is evidenced most dramatically in the growing acceptance of same-sex marriage. While there are likely many reasons for…
Welcome to the first installment of my new blog, Softer Eyes. I very much appreciate your taking the time to check it out, and I hope that the concept of Softer Eyes will be both meaningful and useful to you in your personal and professional relationships. For those of you who may not be aware,…
It is estimated that as many as 5.1 million Americans have Alzheimer’s disease. The number is escalating in line with the aging population; the first baby boomers began turning 65 in 2011. Advanced age is the greatest risk factor, with the incidence of the disease doubling every five years between 65 and 95. Every year…
There are few family events more difficult or disruptive for children than divorce. Children are invariably confused and frightened by the threat to their security, parents try to do everything they can to provide stability and reassure the children that they both will continue to love them and provide for their well-being. But then, some…
The transition to college is an important and dramatic step in the passage to adulthood. The college years are a time when young people will become more independent and self-sufficient and when the intensely close bond with their families will loosen, a profound change for both parents and child. But before teenagers can embark on…
Many people have very limited knowledge and faulty understanding of hypnosis. Everyone has seen nightclub or television acts in which a hypnotist induces a trance-like state in a group of audience members and then uses the power of suggestion to have them do his bidding, often to entertaining effect. Most people have also heard about…
As medical intervention and treatment have improved and as people have become more conscientious about lifestyle factors that improve heart health, deaths from heart disease have declined. According to the American Heart Association, death rates attributable to cardiovascular disease dropped 31% from 2000 to 2010.* Nevertheless, the prevalence of heart disease and its risk factors…
Anxiety about the first day of school is not limited to kindergarteners and children starting a new school. Younger children, even those with a year or two of school behind them, may experience a new or repeat bout of separation anxiety, and children of any age are often apprehensive about the unknown – a new…