AGE

Which age is the most common age (not the average life expectancy) at which people die?

Israel Ramirez · Former Administrator at the National Institute on Aging

That way of looking at lifespan gives an interesting view into the biology of aging. This chart shows the number of people dying at various ages in the USA.[1] 

In 2019, the peak age is 87, much higher than the mean (average), median (middlemost value), or life expectancy.

That value has increased in recent years. This chart compares 1950 (red) and 2015 (blue). [2] 

DEMENTIA

https://www.aarp.org/health/conditions-treatments/dementia-warning-signs/?cmp=EMC-DSM-NLC-OTH-WBLTR-2239402-2311901-10189528-NA-05012026-Webletter-MS1-NA-BTN-C-Health&encparam=liRAese+xxA5aV5XOtyAoo3QCJm8e6BlFlqJ6WEjD1U=

Moments of forgetfulness can happen at any age and, according to the National Institute on Aging (NIA), may happen even more as you age. Still, memory lapses can provoke anxiety for older adults who are often left wondering whether it’s all normal or a sign of something more serious.

HEARING

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My hearing is damaged by a combination of age and aphasia-related stroke. My audiologist reported that my capability is moderate with a 50% loss. I have his best Phonak hearing aids. It helps a lot, but I struggle to understand speech. He suggests LACE. Can that help? ChatGPT offers suggestions.

I have new Phonak hearing aids. I have aphasia, and my audiologist suggested LACE for hearing training. I have never heard about it. I searched it online and saw a $499/mo. I am not going to spend that much money. What can you tell me about LACE?

Here’s a clear and practical explanation of what LACE is, how it actually works, and what your options are — without spending $499/month.

PARKINSON DISEASE

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Spending time with friends who have Parkinson’s disease can be deeply meaningful—and understanding what to expect will help you connect with empathy and patience. Parkinson’s affects people differently, but here’s a general overview of what you might notice

Parkinson's Disease Basics: What You Need to Know | Parkinson's Foundation

BEING ALONE

Can AI companions help heal loneliness?

AI companions could either be the cure to our loneliness epidemic … or humanity's final downfall, says Eugenia Kuyda, creator of Replika — an app that allows you to create AI friends. She explores the potential of this technology to either exacerbate isolation or encourage connection, advocating for an AI whose success is driven not by clicks and screen time but by human happiness and flourishing.

CANCER

Detecting Cancer From a Drop of Blood (The Anti-Theranos)

Detecting cancer from a drop of blood sounds like science fiction, but it may just be around the corner. In this episode, we explore how multiple teams of scientists have used AI to detect cancer. 

MEDICARE

What is the difference between Original Medicare and Medicare Advantage? 

I am always told that if you can afford it, select Original Medicare. Why?  

STROKE

Mayo Clinic Q&A podcast: Know the warning signs of stroke

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LAST THOUGHTS IN A SONG

Time Passes By

Goodbye

Age by Jim Coche

Who Let the Old Man in

Lean on Me

Nothing I Can Do About It Now

Karen Taylor-Good - Real Men Cry

Why Willie Wants to End It

Songs

DIET

Losing Weight

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I am 82 and minimally obese, with a BMI of 30.9. I live with atrial fibrillation and minor congestive heart failure, which limit my ability to climb stairs or push my bicycle past a heart rate of 150 bpm. My cardiologist’s office notes mention “weight reduction needed,” though he has never raised it with me directly. Why?

Perhaps because my last serious attempt at dieting — a fasting regimen I carried out all wrong — ended with me in the hospital with sepsis. Or probably because many doctors, even cardiologists, are reluctant to engage deeply with weight-loss strategies beyond general advice.

MEDICINE

AI as My New Medical Advocate

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In the October 23, 2023, 60 Minutes interview with Geoffrey Hinton—the so-called “Godfather of AI”—Hinton predicted that systems like ChatGPT would one day serve as our “home doctor.”

His comment stayed with me because, as of August 18, 2025, that is precisely the role AI has begun to play in my life.

 

HEART DISEASE

Congestive Heart Failure

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I have been diagnosed with mild congestive heart failure. What is that? What should my doctor and I do for treatment?

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SLEEP

Obstructive Sleep Apnea

https://myair.resmed.com/

CHATGPT

Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) is a common yet serious sleep disorder characterized by the repeated cessation and resumption of breathing during sleep due to the upper airway becoming wholly or partially obstructed. This obstruction reduces or completely stops airflow, even though the body continues to try to breathe.

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CPAP Water Substitute

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Can I use water from my humidifier as a substitute for distilled water in my CPAP machine?

COPILOT

Using water from your humidifier as a substitute for distilled water in your CPAP machine is not recommended. Here's why:

PALLIATIVE

What is Palliative Care

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Palliative care focuses on improving the quality of life for individuals and their families facing serious, life-limiting illnesses. It involves managing symptoms, relieving suffering, and addressing emotional, social, and spiritual needs, alongside curative or life-prolonging treatments. It's not just for end-of-life care; it can be initiated at any stage of a serious illness and is often used in conjunction with other therapies.

Here's a more detailed explanation:

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Palliative vs Hospice

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What is the Difference between Palliative Care and Hospice Care

Palliative care and hospice care are similar, but there are some key differences. Both palliative and hospice care are focused on the patient's needs andquality of life. Palliative care focuses on maintaining the highest quality of life while managing treatment and other needs. Hospice care focuses explicitly on the period closest to death.