The Importance of Breast Cancer Awareness

Donna Nichols • October 10, 2022

Awareness is key!

Breast cancer awareness month is celebrated in october with a pink ribbon.

Did you know that breast cancer is the second leading cause of death for women in the United States and one in eight women will die from breast cancer? (breastcancer.org)


Those are statistics you don’t want to mess around with, that’s why breast cancer awareness is so important!


Breast cancer affects men and women of any age, however it affects older women more than it does young or middle-aged women.


Your risk of developing breast cancer increases significantly with age and as we continue to grow older the number of diagnoses will rise as well.


It is recommended that women ages 45 to 54 get a mammogram every year and those 55 and older can switch to every two years if they’re comfortable with that. The main reason breast cancer is more prevalent in senior women is because those over the age of 70 tend not to get their annual screenings.


Ladies, this is so important!


Please have your mammogram, even if it’s only every two years!!


The best chance of surviving breast cancer is early detection!!


Make sure you perform self-examinations and get regular mammograms; these two simple things can literally save your life!


Signs and symptoms of breast cancer

  • Lump in the breast or underarm (most common)
  • Persistent breast pain
  • Nipple discharge
  • Any kind of change in size or the shape of your breast
  • Irritation of the breast skin
  • Redness or thickening of the nipple or skin
  • Any kind of skin irritation on the breast area


Breast cancer risk factors


Some risk factors are out of our control, like family history, race, menstrual period history and breast density.


However, some are very controllable, such as obesity, alcohol intake and not being physically active.


Know the signs and symptoms, know the risk factors, know how to prevent breast cancer and know how and where to get screened for breast cancer.


As I say in almost all of my blogs, EARLY DETECTION IS THE KEY!!


Want to help promote breast cancer awareness? Here are some ways YOU can help in the fight!!


1. Volunteer at one of the many organizations that promote breast cancer awareness. Relay for Life, American Cancer Society and Making Strides Against Breast Cancer are just a few. There are always local groups doing breast cancer events so I’m sure you can find something in your neighborhood.

2. Wear pink, pink is the color for breast cancer awareness. Anything pink, a ribbon, shirt, shoes, or maybe paint a few pieces of hair pink, it doesn’t matter how you choose to wear your pink as long as you wear it!

3. Participate in a run or a walk. This is a great way to meet others and learn more about breast cancer. You will meet those who have been affected by breast cancer and others who just support those who have been affected by breast cancer.

4. Help a breast cancer patient. This can be so rewarding and really help you see the impact breast cancer has on a person. It may be difficult to find a patient because of the privacy acts in place, but if you are able to do this, it will be amazing for you and them!

5. Create your own fundraiser to promote awareness and raise money for research!! What a fun idea!! Think of something new and go with it; it doesn’t have to be difficult, it can be simple. Have a “pink” bar-b-cue where everyone who comes has to wear pink and the food is $10.00 a plate with all the money going to breast cancer awareness. If you’re really good, you can get sponsors to donate the food.


October is breast cancer awareness month!


Let’s show our support for everyone who has been affected by this awful cancer by doing everything we can!!

Staying Active as the Weather Warms

By Donna Nichols • April 17, 2026
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Allergy Season Is Here: What Seniors Should Know

By Donna Nichols • April 2, 2026
April in Florida means sunshine, flowers, and… pollen. Lots of pollen. For many seniors, allergy season can bring sneezing, itchy eyes, congestion, and fatigue — symptoms that can be frustrating but manageable with awareness and simple habits. Here’s what older adults and caregivers should keep in mind as allergy season peaks. 1. Allergies Can Change Ov er Time Even if someone never had allergies before, they can develop later in life. The immune system shifts with age, and new sensitivities can appear. If symptoms show up suddenly each spring, allergies may be the reason. 2. Pollen Counts Are Highest in the Morning For seniors who enjoy morning walks or porch time, this can be a surprise. On high‑pollen days, shifting outdoor time to later in the afternoon can make a big difference. 3. Staying Hydrated Helps Ease Symptoms Water thins mucus, supports the immune system, and helps the body flush irritants. Seniors often drink less than they realize, so gentle reminders — a water bottle nearby, herbal tea, flavored water — can help. 4. Keep the Indoors as Allergen‑Free as Possible A few simple habits go a long way: • Keep windows closed on high‑pollen days • Change air filters regularly • Remove shoes at the door • Shower or change clothes after being outside These small steps help reduce the amount of pollen that sneaks indoors. 5. Pay Attention to New or Worsening Symptoms If allergy symptoms feel different than usual, last longer than expected, or interfere with daily life, it’s a good time to check in with a healthcare provider. Sometimes what looks like allergies can be something else entirely. A Breath of Fresh (and Cleaner) Air Allergies may be part of spring, but they don’t have to steal the joy of the season. With a little awareness and a few simple habits, seniors can stay comfortable, active, and able to enjoy everything April has to offer.

Why Are Seniors Always So Cold?

By Donna Nichols • March 9, 2026
If you’ve ever walked into a room full of older adults and noticed the sweaters, shawls, and space heaters humming in the corner, you’re not imagining it — many seniors really do feel colder than everyone else. And it’s not just a quirk. There are real, physical reasons behind it, and understanding them can make daily life a lot more comfortable. 1. Our Internal Thermostat Changes Over Time As we age, the body becomes less efficient at regulating temperature. The internal “thermostat” in the brain doesn’t respond as quickly to cold, so seniors may feel chilly even when the room is warm enough for others. 2. Less Muscle = Less Heat Muscle mass naturally decreases with age, and muscle is what helps generate body heat. With less of it, the body simply produces less warmth. Even active seniors may notice they get cold more easily than they used to. 3. Thinner Skin and Reduced Circulation Skin becomes thinner over time, offering less insulation. On top of that, circulation often slows, meaning warm blood takes longer to reach hands, feet, and other extremities. This is why fingers and toes are often the first to feel icy. 4. Medications Can Play a Role Many common medications — including those for blood pressure, thyroid issues, or depression — can affect how warm or cold someone feels. It’s not always the medication itself, but how it interacts with the body’s temperature signals. 5. Underlying Health Conditions Conditions like anemia, diabetes, thyroid disorders, or poor circulation can all contribute to feeling cold. Sometimes, persistent chilliness is the body’s way of asking for a check-in with a healthcare provider. 6. Hydration and Nutrition Matter More Than You Think Dehydration and low-calorie intake can both make the body feel colder. Seniors who don’t drink enough water or who eat lightly may notice they’re chilly more often. Simple Ways to Stay Warm and Comfortable • Layer up with breathable fabrics • Keep moving — even gentle stretching boosts circulation • Warm beverages throughout the day • Use blankets or heated throws safely • Check room drafts and adjust thermostat settings • Talk with a doctor if coldness is new or worsening A Warm Note to Close Feeling cold isn’t a sign of weakness — it’s a natural part of aging. With a few small adjustments and a little awareness, seniors can stay cozy, comfortable, and confident all year long.