Articles tagged with Gerontology
Kyriakos S. Markides, PhD, receives the prestigious Robert W. Kleemeier Award from GSA for his contributions to the study of aging. The award recognizes his extensive research on Hispanic health outcomes and epidemiological paradoxes.
A recent study by University of Illinois economists found that marijuana users between 18-24 years old drastically reduced their marijuana use when they turned 21 and gained access to alcohol. The study suggests that alcohol may be substituting for marijuana, with women showing a greater decrease in marijuana use than men.
A new USC-led study found that heart disease is the main reason for the disparity in life expectancies between men and women, with female death rates decreasing 70% faster than male death rates after 1880. The study suggests that biological differences may be at play, with potential factors including diet, exercise, and genetics.
Experts have proposed new policies to address retirement security, healthy aging, and long-term services. These policies aim to promote healthier aging, improve retirement security, and increase access to long-term services and supports.
The report emphasizes the importance of age-friendly communities in promoting aging-in-place and improving the quality of life for older citizens. By developing cities that meet the needs of all generations, economic and social policies can be transformed to support vulnerable populations.
A new study found that desegregated schooling is tied to better performance for certain cognitive abilities in older African American adults. The research suggests early differences in schooling affect starting cognitive performance levels but not rates of decline.
Research reveals a gap between healthcare professionals' emphasis on dignity and patients' expectations for hands-on care. Healthcare professionals view dignity as an ideal to be delivered through everyday care, while patients focus on specific tasks such as washing, dressing, and feeding.
The Gerontological Society of America has produced a special issue outlining a vision for older adults' economic security, health, and social well-being. The issue explores ways to safeguard the success of programs like Medicare, Medicaid, and Social Security.
The EU Active Ageing Index shows a nearly two-point increase overall, but Greece and Latvia fall behind. Countries like Sweden, Denmark, and the UK have done well across all four active ageing areas.
A study found that Mexican Americans spend a high proportion of their later years with some form of disability, highlighting the need for community assistance and long-term care. Women born in Mexico suffer from prolonged disability, emphasizing the importance of addressing health disparities.
Researchers found that seven severe mortality-associated diseases are less prevalent in long-lived family members than the general population. These include Alzheimer's, hip fracture, diabetes, depression, prostate cancer, heart failure, and chronic kidney disease.
The study found that 31 states have implemented prior authorization policies for atypical antipsychotic prescribing to children, mostly within the past 5 years. Most states apply these policies to children younger than 5, 6, or 7 years of age.
The Association for Gerontology in Higher Education (AGHE) recognizes excellence in gerontological education and training. The recent award recipients include Suzanne R. Kunkel, Jennifer C. Mendez, Dena Shenk, Eleanor Krassen Covan, Feliciano Villar, Montserrat Celdran, Josep Fabà, Graham D. Rowles, Katherine Humber, Tina Kruger Newsha...
Researchers in The Gerontologist explore successful aging across demographics and cultures, highlighting social and cultural factors that impact physical health and psychological well-being. The study aims to develop a comprehensive understanding of successful aging and inform policy and healthcare services.
The first issue of the 'From Policy to Practice' publication series from The Gerontological Society of America explores the impact of policies on pain care for older adults. Chronic pain affects 100 million Americans, costing the nation $635 billion annually, and this publication aims to address these issues.
The latest issue of Public Policy & Aging Report lays down a policy prescription for a sustainable system of long-term services and supports. The report provides groundwork for policymakers to build upon, with recommendations on financing, delivery, and workforce issues.
Jill Suitor, PhD, of Purdue University, is the recipient of the 2014 Distinguished Career Contribution to Gerontology Award. Her research has shed new light on intergenerational relations in the second half of life, leading to major advances in knowledge about status transitions and their effects on family relationships.
Desmond O'Neill, a professor of medical gerontology, will receive the GSA's 2014 Joseph T. Freeman Award for his work on aging and transportation. He is recognized for his extensive research publications and leadership roles in promoting gerontology at regional, national, and international levels.
Corinna E. Löckenhoff, PhD, of Cornell University, has been recognized by the Gerontological Society of America (GSA) with the 2014 Baltes Foundation Award in Behavioral and Social Gerontology. Her groundbreaking research focuses on age differences in socioemotional functioning and their implications for health-related decision making.
Barbara J. Bowers, PhD, RN, FAAN, of the University of Wisconsin-Madison, has been recognized with the GSA's 2014 Minority Mentorship Award. Her research focuses on frail older adults and quality of care, influencing public policies and organizational practices.
Gitlin, a renowned gerontologist, has made significant contributions to nonpharmacologic approaches in dementia care and aging in place. Her work aims to improve the lives of chronically disabled older adults and their family caregivers.
Laura Carstensen, a renowned expert on socioemotional selectivity theory and life-span motivation, has been awarded the 2014 Robert W. Kleemeier Award by The Gerontological Society of America (GSA). Her research focuses on ways in which motivational changes influence cognitive processing.
Scharlach, a University of California at Berkeley professor, is recognized for his work on innovative programs to improve the lives of older adults. His research focuses on the physical and social contexts that contribute to positive outcomes for aging populations.
Marie A. Bernard, MD, has been recognized for her outstanding leadership in gerontology through teaching, service, and public interpretation. She serves as the NIA's deputy director, overseeing a portfolio of over $1 billion in research.
Laura Carstensen is recognized for her significant impact on the field of gerontology through her mentoring and leadership. She has advised numerous PhD students and individuals who went on to academic careers, making a lasting impression on the next generation of gerontologists.
A 28-year study found that strenuous midlife occupational physical activity increases risk of mobility limitation in old age, while leisure-time physical activity decreases risk. Long-term consequences differ between heavy manual work and exercise.
Research conducted by Erja Portegijs and colleagues found that physical function and sense of autonomy are independent determinants of life-space mobility in older people. Life-space mobility, which reflects an individual's opportunities to participate in society, is affected by both physical limitations and psychological factors.
The Gerontological Society of America's Public Policy & Aging Report highlights the need for policy changes to optimize technology use by older adults. The report emphasizes the importance of collaboration between business, government, and non-profits to develop a next-generation technology-enabled aging services workforce.
The Association for Gerontology in Higher Education (AGHE) has honored its newest elected officers, fellows, and awardees for their outstanding contributions to gerontological education. The award recipients include individuals recognized for their leadership, mentorship, and scholarship in the field of aging.
A recent study published in Experimental Gerontology found that various forms of vitamin E, including tocopherols and tocotrienols, play a role in memory processes. The study revealed that higher total serum levels of vitamin E, particularly γ-tocopherol and β-tocotrienol, were associated with a reduced risk of cognitive impairment.
The program aims to inform the public about aging concerns such as palliative care, healthcare abuses, and retirement challenges. The selected fellows will develop a major aging-focused story or series during GSA's annual scientific meeting in New Orleans.
A study by Concordia University researchers found that individuals who engage in cognitively demanding activities and enjoy doing so tend to experience less cognitive decline later in life. Additionally, those with even mild depressive symptoms are more likely to show a decline in brainpower after retirement.
The Gerontological Society of America has chosen William E. Haley, PhD, as the 2013 recipient of the Task Force on Minority Issues in Gerontology Outstanding Mentorship Award. He is recognized for his dedication to mentoring minority researchers in the field of aging.
Dr. Deborah T. Gold, a renowned gerontologist, has been awarded the GSA's 2013 Distinguished Mentorship in Gerontology Award for her significant impact on the field. She is recognized for mentoring dozens of students who have gone on to take prominent roles in gerontology.
MacDonald, a University of Victoria associate professor, received the award for his research on cognitive aging and early identification of those at risk for cognitive decline. His work aims to detect early markers that can facilitate targeted intervention strategies.
Parmelee is recognized for her innovative contributions to gerontological treatment, practice, or service, particularly in the areas of pain management and caregiving. She has shaped the fields of gerontology, psychology, and medicine through her research on chronic pain and mental health.
Dr. Krause has made significant contributions to the field of gerontology through his research on stress and coping mechanisms, particularly in relation to spirituality and health. He will receive the GSA's 2013 Distinguished Career Contribution to Gerontology Award at the upcoming Annual Scientific Meeting.
Researchers identify CTHRC1 as a key molecule linking bone resorption and formation, suggesting potential treatment targets for osteoporosis. Mice with deficient CTHRC1 secretion exhibit lower bone mass, highlighting the molecule's role in age-related bone loss.
Wilson has been recognized for her work in translating research into practical application and policy, particularly through the Healthy IDEAS project, which improves outcomes for mental health conditions among older adults. She is also a leader in promoting social worker competencies to promote older adults' well-being.
Dr. Richard M. Allman has been recognized with the 2013 Donald P. Kent Award by The Gerontological Society of America for his exceptional leadership in gerontology through teaching, service, and practice. His research focuses on understanding mobility loss and testing new ways to maintain or enhance mobility in older adults.
Researchers at Ben-Gurion University of the Negev found that a single dose of methylphenidate improves balance control during walking, reducing the risk of falls among elderly adults. The study participants were 30 healthy older adults who received a single dose of MPH and underwent assessments under four task conditions.
Researchers found a strong association between spinal posture and dependency in activities of daily living (ADL), with those in the highest quartiles having 3.47 times higher risk of dependence. Spinal measurements were taken using a computer-assisted noninvasive device, and data from 804 participants aged 65+ were analyzed.
The Association for Gerontology in Higher Education (AGHE) recognizes outstanding individuals in gerontology and geriatrics education. New officers, fellows, and awardees are honored for their leadership and contributions to the field.
A new report from an international consortium warns that climate change will disproportionately affect older people, leading to increased vulnerability and mortality. The study calls for better awareness among policymakers and the public to address this critical issue.
Researchers aim to understand how service members with spinal cord injuries reintegrate into society and rebuild their lives. The three-year grant will study 60 veterans at different stages of recovery, exploring their long-term goals and expectations for community reintegration.
The elderly are disproportionately affected by disasters like Hurricane Sandy due to inadequate disaster infrastructure and response. Experts highlight the need for targeted policies and refined programs to enhance existing systems of care.
The report provides 29 specific recommendations for effective communication with older adults, including tips for optimizing interactions between health care professionals and older patients. It aims to encourage behaviors that consider the unique abilities and challenges of older adult patients.
Naylor's work has consistently shown that transitional care significantly decreases hospital re-admissions and healthcare costs. Her research demonstrates the effectiveness of nurse-led transition teams in improving functional status, quality of life, and patient satisfaction.
Magaziner has made seminal contributions to the field of rehabilitation of older adults with chronic disability, frailty, and dependence through his work on hip fracture recovery. He will receive the GSA's 2012 Excellence in Rehabilitation of Aging Persons Award for his outstanding contributions.
Chiriboga, a professor at the University of South Florida, has exemplified dedication to mentoring minority researchers in aging. He is recognized for his work fostering interdisciplinary collaboration and promoting diversity in the field.
Christiane A. Hoppmann has received the 2012 Baltes Foundation Award from the Gerontological Society of America (GSA) for her groundbreaking research on lifespan human development and health psychology. Her work focuses on understanding the mechanisms linking social interrelations to long-term developmental outcomes.
The Gerontological Society of America (GSA) has chosen Sidney M. Stahl, PhD, as the 2012 recipient of the Donald P. Kent Award for his outstanding leadership in translating research findings into practical use. He was instrumental in establishing the NIA's national research agenda on processes linking health and behavior.
Karen A. Roberto, PhD, has been recognized by the Gerontological Society of America (GSA) with its 2012 Distinguished Mentorship in Gerontology Award. She is a renowned gerontologist who has made significant contributions to the field through her research on aging and her mentorship of students and colleagues.
Eileen Crimmins, PhD, receives the Robert W. Kleemeier Award for her research on socioeconomic factors and life expectancy. She is recognized as an internationally acclaimed expert on aging, focusing on genetic influences, trends in mortality, morbidity, and disability
Dr. Toni Antonucci is recognized for her groundbreaking work on the convoy model of social relations, a widely cited concept in social and behavioral gerontology. Her research has informed the study of personal relationships and aging, with practical implications for improving quality of life among older adults.
A recent study found that only 19% of seniors with lung disease quit smoking within two years, while regular exercise improved were rare. The research suggests intensive efforts are needed to help seniors make lifestyle changes after a chronic diagnosis.
A new University of Michigan Health System study found that middle-aged and older adults with diabetes showed strong survival rates, even those living in nursing homes or with multiple health issues. The study suggests that interventions can prevent or delay diabetes complications.
The European Union experienced some convergence in health expectancies between 2008-2010, with Lithuania showing the largest gain and Sweden having the longest life expectancy. Men generally live shorter lives than women, but experience a slightly higher proportion of healthy life years.
Researchers found laws permitting young adults to stay on their parents' health insurance until age 26 result in improved access to healthcare. The study analyzed data from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System survey, comparing periods before and after state laws were enacted.
Research shows that fruit fly pheromones produced by older flies can reduce their attractiveness, but adding young pheromones can increase it. This study provides insight into the connection between aging and physical attractiveness in fruit flies.