Do we talk too much about our about aches and pains?
07/25/2026 Q. Whenever I get together with my older women friends, the conversation is about their ailments, injuries, doctors and medications. I often feel I am in a clinic or pharmacy. Do you have any views on this? L.G. What you are referring to has been frequently called the “organ recital.” Clearly, there are benefits and disadvantages to such conversations. Benefits. Dealing with an illness, injury or an acute episode can be frightening, particularly if we don’t know th
What to do when you’ve heard the same story over and over
7/11/2026 Q. My father is in his 70s and tells lots of stories. Often they are repeated. I am not sure how to respond when I have heard them so many times and don’t want to be rude. What are your thoughts? M.N. Storytelling is an essential human process and a universal experience that is associated with aging. According to neuroscientists, it’s a practical survival value for individuals and communities. Before written communication, knowledge and skills were passed on by word