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Chronic Conditions

Blogging about Better Healthcare that works for Everyone

» Chronic Conditions
diagram of what is a diabetic eye

What Is a Diabetic Eye Exam

A diabetic eye exam is an important screening that checks for diabetes-related eye problems, especially diabetic retinopathy. Diabetic retinopathy happens when diabetes damages the small blood vessels in the retina, the light-sensitive tissue in the back of the eye. It can lead to vision loss if it is not found and treated early. This exam […]
a diagram of a bone with rheumatoid arthritis and the four stages of it

What Are the 4 Stages of Rheumatoid Arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis can progress in stages, starting with early joint inflammation and, in severe cases, leading to joint damage or loss of movement. Not everyone moves through all four stages, and early treatment can help slow or prevent long-term damage. If you have joint pain, swelling, stiffness, or symptoms that are getting worse, visiting one […]
primary care doctor taking care of an older adult

What Is Geriatric Care and Who Needs It?

Geriatric care is healthcare designed for older adults. It focuses on the full picture of aging, including chronic conditions, medications, mobility, memory, independence, safety, and quality of life. Unlike general care that may focus on one issue at a time, geriatric care looks at how different health needs connect. It can be especially helpful for […]
a primary care doctor consulting two older adults about alzheimer and dementia

What Are the Differences Between Alzheimer and Dementia?

Many people use the terms Alzheimer and dementia interchangeably, which often leads to confusion. A common question patients and families ask is: what is the difference between Alzheimer and dementia? While they are closely related, they are not the same thing. Understanding the difference between dementia and Alzheimer can help you recognize symptoms earlier, seek […]
doctor showing to patient his foot conditions

What Are Common Foot Problems in Older Adults

As we age, our feet bear the weight of a lifetime quite literally. Decades of walking, standing, and wearing different types of footwear can lead to various foot conditions. Foot pain and other problems become more common in older adults, often impacting balance, mobility, and quality of life. Understanding the causes, symptoms, and treatments for […]
female primary care doctor advising an older adult about alzheumer's

How Long Do the 7 Stages of Alzheimer’s Last?

Alzheimer’s disease is a progressive brain disorder that affects memory, thinking, and behavior. It doesn’t happen overnight, instead, symptoms develop gradually over several years. Understanding how long the 7 stages of Alzheimer’s last can help families prepare for the journey ahead. In this guide, we’ll walk you through what are the 7 stages of Alzheimer’s […]
a female primary care doctor showing mris of joints to an older adult

Do Joints Supplement Help with Arthritis

Millions of people turn to joint health supplements to ease arthritis pain, improve mobility, and protect joint function. With so many options available from glucosamine to omega-3s, it’s natural to wonder: do joint supplements work? While research shows mixed results, certain supplements may help reduce joint pain and inflammation, especially when paired with medical treatment […]

How Primary Care Providers Manage Chronic Diseases

Chronic diseases, such as diabetes, hypertension, asthma, COPD, and heart disease, are long-term conditions that require ongoing management. With the right care, however, individuals living with chronic conditions can maintain a good quality of life and prevent complications. Primary care providers (PCPs) play a pivotal role in this process, offering continuous, comprehensive care that not […]

From the Heart: A Doctor’s Mission to Provide Heart Health at Sage

Sage Health's Chief Medical Officer shares the story of his mother facing a heart-related hospital stay months before he joined Sage Health. The experience put in stark relief the mission of Sage Health to ensure all seniors have access to exceptional medical care that proactively manages heart health and prevents hospital stays. Sage Health's Primary Care is unique in that it embeds its own Cardiologists into care teams for patients with elevated heart risks.