Articles tagged with Geriatrics
Dr. Cudjoe's research examines the influence of social connection on health and developing interventions to address social isolation in older adults. He is a recipient of several awards, including the National Institute on Aging GEMSSTAR award and the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation Amos award.
Research reveals longer weekly home-visit rehabilitations (HR) significantly improve activities of daily living (ADL) among older adults, especially those requiring moderate to severe care. The study found that HR duration correlates with ADL improvement in this population.
Dr. Cameron J. Gettel receives the Jeffrey H. Silverstein Memorial Award for his work advancing emergency care for older adults, improving care transitions, and reducing financial burden of acute care. He is recognized as an emerging national leader in geriatric emergency care.
The PRO-TAVI study found that older, high-risk patients can safely defer percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) until after transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR), with comparable outcomes between the two groups. Omitting PCI before TAVR did not increase the risk of death, heart attack, stroke, or moderate to severe bleeding.
Researchers explore pragmatic pharmacist-led deprescribing interventions, including ALIGN, to improve medication management in older adults with cognitive impairment. Validation of hospitalization, death, and hospice care data from skilled nursing facility EHRs and Medicare claims shows promise for improved care coordination.
A new book by Swansea University researchers argues that attention impairments, rather than memory dysfunction, are a key aspect of dementia. The authors suggest that recognizing these changes could lead to earlier identification, improved diagnosis, and better care for those affected.
The study compares remaining life expectancy at age 75 for women and men in Sweden and Japan, finding that older Japanese individuals generally have lower mortality than Swedes. However, this difference is primarily observed among those receiving some form of elder care, with Japanese women expected to spend more years in elder care.
A new platform, Build Better Bones, offers evidence-based guidance and practical resources for osteoporosis management. The platform, developed by the International Osteoporosis Foundation, provides a trusted place for people with osteoporosis to start their journey, with a focus on exercise, nutrition, and home safety.
The NRG-LU005 trial found that immunotherapy atezolizumab did not improve survival for patients with limited-stage small cell lung cancer when added to chemoradiation. Twice-daily radiation therapy, however, was associated with improved survival in this population.
Experts will address critical issues in voluntary assisted dying and dementia, including community attitudes, Indigenous perspectives, and organ donation. The conference, open to the media and public, features over 130 presentations on VAD and its intersection with dementia.
A large cohort study found that people using anticholinergic medications, commonly prescribed for urinary incontinence and anxiety, have a higher risk of developing cardiovascular disease. The cumulative use of these drugs was associated with an increased risk of heart failure and arrhythmias.
A Yale University study suggests that nearly half of adults aged 65 and older show measurable improvement in cognitive function or physical function over time. The improvements are linked to a person's thoughts about aging, challenging the notion of inevitable decline.
The THRIVE team is developing a PROSPR Intrinsic Capacity score to predict 20-year health outcomes, using wearable data, blood-based biomarkers, and health surveys. The score aims to enable accessible, scalable monitoring of aging and improve interventions.
A new study from Duke University Medical Center suggests that a simple blood test can accurately predict short-term survival in older adults by detecting specific piRNA molecules. Lower levels of these molecules are linked to longer survival, echoing patterns seen in simple organisms where reducing them can extend lifespan.
Researchers developed a new model to predict long-term survival after heart failure in elderly Japanese patients. The Top-20 XGBoost model incorporates physical function metrics, rivaling the importance of traditional cardiovascular risk factors, and provides a more accurate estimation of mortality risk.
Researchers identified ApoE as a systemic inhibitor of bone repair during aging, and showed that blocking its activity can restore bone regeneration and improve fracture healing. The study provides hope for therapies that actively restore regenerative capacity in older patients, reducing nonunion risk and improving recovery.
A new online tool provides information and tools for clinicians to respond to emerging patient care needs, enhancing trauma-informed healthcare for individuals with C-PTSD. The resource was co-developed by researchers and survivors, aligning with best practices and patient-centered research.
Two Weill Cornell physician-scientists, Dr. Semra Etyemez and Dr. Jesse Platt, have been awarded prestigious early-career awards from the American Society for Clinical Investigation (ASCI) for their outstanding research in obstetrics and gynecology, psychiatry, and gastroenterology. The ASCI recognizes and supports the scientific effor...
A new study found that while the number of pancreatitis-associated deaths among the elderly decreased between 1992 and 2021, the total cases rose significantly due to population growth. The age-standardized incidence rate per 100,000 fell from 100.21 in 1992 to 85.20 in 2021.
The conference brought together researchers, policymakers, and community leaders to discuss evidence-based strategies for ageing in place. Duke-NUS studies found that programmes aligned with older persons' routines and interests are more effective at reducing loneliness and fostering meaningful relationships.
The Japanese version of the rPATD questionnaire has been validated to assess attitudes towards medication reductions among older adults and their caregivers in Japan. The tool is reliable, valid, and easily understood, facilitating shared decision-making between healthcare providers and patients.
The CDC recommends RSV vaccination for pregnant women to protect their newborns, while a monoclonal antibody injection is also available for high-risk infants. Most experts agree that RSV immunizations should be recommended for these groups due to the severity of the illness they can cause.
Researchers analyzed medical records of 1,269 elderly patients with advanced cancer to find that over 70% were prescribed potentially inappropriate medications (PIMs), which declined closer to death. PIM discontinuation was more common among female patients, those with polypharmacy, and palliative care unit admissions.
Researchers found that super agers have a reduced risk of harboring the APOE ε4 gene variant associated with Alzheimer's disease. They also showed a higher frequency of the protective APOE ε2 variant, suggesting a genetic advantage against AD.
A new study found that year-long home visits with older adults helped first-year medical students develop stronger communication skills and challenge their age-related stereotypes. The program, which included gentle physical activity and open conversation, also promoted empathy and a patient-centered mindset among the students.
Researchers have developed a refined mouse model that mimics chronic Pseudomonas aeruginosa lung infection in old age, overcoming limitations in experimental respiratory infection research. The agar bead-based delivery strategy allows sustained observation of infection dynamics, tissue damage, and immune responses in aging lungs.
A new study from Karolinska Institutet identified seven blood biomarkers that predict the risk and progression of multimorbidity in older adults. These biomarkers reflect biological processes such as metabolism, inflammation, and neurodegeneration.
Researchers at the University of Illinois discovered that propofol, a common anesthetic agent, can improve cognitive function after surgery in older individuals. Additionally, intranasal insulin was found to mitigate age-related memory impairment by modulating neuroinflammatory mechanisms.
A new clinical trial, RECIPROCAL, seeks to optimize targeted radiation therapy for men with advanced prostate cancer by adjusting treatment based on individual PSA levels. The trial aims to minimize side effects while preserving survival benefits.
A study analyzing Medicare claims data found that older adults who lived through Hurricane Harvey had a 3% elevated risk of dying within 1 year. Mortality risk was highest among those with chronic health conditions like Alzheimer's disease, and Black and Hispanic/Latino populations experienced higher mortality risks than other groups.
The Asia Pacific Regional Audit highlights key trends, gaps, and opportunities in 22 countries and regions. The audit reveals a steep rise in fracture rates due to poor bone health and an ageing population, with China, Malaysia, and Australia experiencing significant increases.
A new machine learning model developed at the University of Michigan uses data from wearable sensors to predict how physical therapists would assess balance training performance. The model was trained with sensor data combined with analysis from physical therapists and predicted patients' balance ratings with nearly 90% accuracy.
NEJM Clinician curates highly relevant clinical insights from over 150 peer-reviewed journals to give physicians clear guidance without the noise. The weekly publication delivers summaries and commentary in a concise, 30-minute read, helping healthcare providers stay informed and confident in their decisions.
The new guideline recommends full-time infection prevention staff, comprehensive training, and support for all staff, as well as partnerships with hospitals and public health agencies. This guidance aims to reduce the risk of infections in nursing homes, saving lives and money.
The 9th IOF Asia-Pacific Bone Health Conference will bring together healthcare professionals, researchers, and policymakers to exchange knowledge and shape the future of bone health across the region. The conference will feature keynote lectures, sponsored sessions, and a launch of the IOF Asia-Pacific Regional Audit 2025.
A national study found that older adults who develop geriatric syndromes after major surgery face higher risks of poor outcomes, including complications, fewer days spent at home, and increased likelihood of dying within a year. The study emphasizes the need for specialized surgical care approaches to optimize outcomes for older adults.
Regularly eating meals alone is associated with poorer diet quality and increased risk of weight loss and frailty among community-living adults aged 65 years and over. Social connections at mealtimes can influence appetite, dietary variety, and overall wellbeing.
A University of Delaware study uses robotic testing to gauge perception-based movement in stroke survivors, revealing hidden sensory losses. The researchers hope their findings will encourage clinicians to integrate precision testing into assessments, leading to a personalized medicine approach to treatment.
Researchers at Stanford University found that very old mice are less prone to cancer, with significantly fewer lung tumors than younger animals. This contradicts the long-held assumption that cancer risk increases with age, suggesting a deeper biological cause.
A fully digital AI zero-cost method for detecting dementia has been developed and tested in a randomized clinical trial, increasing new diagnoses by 31% compared to usual care. The method combines a patient-reported tool with an artificial intelligence algorithm analyzing existing clinical data.
A study of 31 healthy older adults found that consuming 60 grams of peanuts daily for 16 weeks increased global cerebral blood flow by 3.6% and verbal memory by 5.8%. Peanut consumption also improved systolic blood pressure and pulse pressure.
A new poll found large gaps in knowledge about palliative care and hospice among older adults, with many unaware of the options despite interest expressed once explained. The poll highlights racial and demographic differences in understanding and interest, with some groups more likely to know about these types of care.
A new study found that ultra-processed food consumption is associated with smaller but significant declines in physical function, including slower gait speed and weaker grip strength in men. Limiting UPF intake may be crucial for preserving physical function and supporting healthy aging.
Poor sleep quality affects over 1 in 5 residents in long-term care facilities, leading to increased medication use, falls, and delirium. Modifiable risk factors like pain management, medication review, and improved sleep routines can help mitigate these issues.
A recent study from the University of Georgia suggests that older adults who use smartphones, computers, and tablets are more socially engaged than their less tech-savvy peers. This increased social engagement is associated with better well-being and a longer, more fulfilling life.
A study found that first-generation antihistamines may increase delirium risk in older hospital patients. The analysis of 328,140 patients aged 65+ revealed a 41% increased odds of delirium among those prescribed higher amounts of these medications.
Dr. Ana Daugherty, a cognitive neuroscientist with expertise in aging and Alzheimer's disease, joins Wayne State University's Institute of Gerontology as its new director. She will lead interdisciplinary collaboration, training for emerging scholars, and research on risk and resiliency in aging and dementia.
A new study from McGill University found that increased physical activity in older adults with cardiovascular conditions is linked to greater social support and access to greenspace. Brain imaging revealed a connection between brain connectivity and exercise behavior change.
A comprehensive guide describes the effects of spaceflight on the immune system, including microgravity, cosmic radiation, and sleep disruptions. The study provides integrated mechanistic insights into how these stressors alter immune physiology, with potential relevance in aging research.
A new study finds that benzodiazepines and antipsychotics prescribed to patients with dementia receiving hospice care may carry major unintended risks, including increased mortality. The study highlights two policy issues: lack of oversight of medication use in hospice and a mismatch between hospice policy and dementia care.
New traumatic brain injuries in older adults are associated with a higher risk of developing dementia. Research published in the Canadian Medical Association Journal found that TBI is linked to an increased rate of incident dementia, even when sustained in late life, and how this risk changes over time.
Researchers found that older mice showed less stable spatial memory and difficulty navigating between familiar and unfamiliar environments. In contrast, younger mice developed distinct firing patterns for each track, allowing them to remember hidden reward locations on alternating tracks with ease.
A large-scale international study found that creative experiences slow brain aging and promote healthier brain function. Creative activities such as music, dance, and video games were linked to 'younger' brain profiles, particularly in regions vulnerable to neurodegeneration.
A large-scale population study found that oxaliplatin benefits only younger stage III patients, with no added survival benefit for those over 70. The study suggests using an age threshold to make evidence-based choices about chemotherapy.
Researchers evaluated a tool based on NCCN Guidelines to identify high-risk medications and their association with frailty and outcomes in over 380,000 older adults diagnosed with cancer. The study found that each additional high-risk medication increased the odds of being mildly or moderately-to-severely frail by 66%.
The International Osteoporosis Foundation identifies critical global barriers to osteoporosis care, including limited DXA scanning and outdated treatment criteria. The IOF advocates for a paradigm shift in bone health management worldwide, recognizing high fracture risk as a valid criterion for treatment and reimbursement.
A new review emphasizes the importance of both physical activity and reduced sedentary time for optimal skeletal health. Emerging evidence reveals that prolonged sitting and inactivity can harm bone health, even among regular exercisers.
A new study suggests that being overweight (BMI 25–29.9) may actually be protective in the short term after surgery for older adults, with a 0.8% 30-day all-cause mortality rate compared to 18.8% for those with normal BMI.
A new benchmark for hospital quality aims to identify areas for improvement by tracking older adult patient discharges to post-acute care facilities. The study found that 11.2% of patients were discharged to these facilities, with high and low outliers identified among hospitals.
A new study published in Sleep Medicine found that daily sleep patterns have a significant impact on cognitive function. Researchers discovered that individuals with moderate-to-regular sleep patterns performed better in cognitive assessments than those with highly irregular or rigid sleep patterns.