Articles tagged with Aging Populations
A study found that older adults who experience osteoporotic fracture have an increased risk of death for 5-10 years, and subsequent fractures further increase the risk. Non-hip, nonvertebral fractures were also associated with a significant proportion of premature mortality.
A new study of 21 countries reveals that public attitudes toward government involvement in health care vary widely, but ultimately support a role for the state in ensuring access. The findings suggest that any major overhaul of health care systems is unlikely due to cultural and historical factors.
A national study published in JAMA found that 23.7% of women experience pelvic-floor disorders such as urinary incontinence and fecal incontinence. The risk increases with age, childbirths, and obesity.
According to a Rutgers College of Nursing professor, New Jersey registered nurses are overworked and under-supported, leading to burnout and poor patient care. The survey found that 50% of nurses report insufficient staff, and one-third miss important patient changes due to heavy workloads.
Sweden's baby boom highlights the need for efficient care services for older adults in the US, with a focus on moderate needs. The country's system of local, service-based care helps keep seniors independent longer.
A University of Virginia study suggests that older adults are more likely to commit suggestibility errors, where they believe an event occurred when it was suggested, and have high confidence in their recollections even if wrong. This has significant implications for the reliability of older persons' eyewitness testimonies in courtrooms.
A Kent State University study develops a web-based intervention to alleviate depression in caregivers and stroke survivors through peer and professional support. The innovative program aims to improve the psychological well-being of both individuals concurrently.
A study of patients over 65 showed that AMITIZA significantly increased spontaneous bowel movements, improving symptoms of chronic idiopathic constipation. The medication was well-tolerated, with fewer adverse events compared to placebo, and is approved for use in adults regardless of age or gender.
Hospitalization rates for infectious diseases have increased significantly among older adults in the US, with notable rises in septicemia, postoperative infections, and other conditions. This trend is likely linked to the aging of the population, which will lead to a projected increase in hospitalizations among older adults.
According to a study by Yale University, older female runners aged 50-59 improved their average race time by 2.08 minutes per year, significantly exceeding male runners of the same age. The older male runners also showed an accelerated rate of improvement, outperforming younger men in the 60-69 and 70-79 age categories.
A new index by Yale researcher Sharon Inouye assesses the risk of mortality in elderly populations by identifying high-risk medical diagnoses. The index identifies 10 conditions associated with higher mortality risk within one year of hospitalization.
The study predicts a significant shortage of critical care specialists, with demand for their services rising rapidly while supply remains near constant. By 2020, the shortfall is expected to reach 22%, increasing to 35% by 2030, posing a substantial challenge to healthcare systems.
Despite an increasingly difficult patient population, Emory's success rate in angioplasty has progressively increased, while complications have decreased. The institution's 20-year experience shows reduced hospital stay lengths and lower costs.
A new federal report highlights the growing older population's improved well-being, with many experiencing better health and socioeconomic status. However, significant disparities persist in disability, chronic health conditions, and economic stress among certain groups, including minorities and low-income elderly.
The number of centenarians in the US is growing rapidly, with projections suggesting a doubling trend. The population is expected to become more diverse, with significant increases in Hispanic and Asian populations.
A new study reveals that most people in the Cincinnati area can't identify even one symptom of stroke, despite being at high risk. The study found that those over 75 years old knew the least about stroke symptoms and risk factors, highlighting the need for more public education.
This study investigated the association of dietary components with iron stores in an elderly population. The results found five significant dietary factors positively associated with serum ferritin, including heme iron, supplemental iron, and vitamin C.
A new study suggests that Social Security financing would be relatively unaffected by the largest expected mortality improvements, with less than 1% difference in tax rates projected. However, experts acknowledge a high degree of uncertainty about mortality improvement rates, which could add to the challenges faced by retirement planners.
A study published in Stroke: A Journal of the American Heart Association estimates that at least 731,000 first-ever and recurrent strokes occur each year in the US, which is 40% higher than previously stated figures. The study's findings suggest that stroke affects a more diverse population than previously thought.
A new national health database allows researchers to measure the long-term benefits of biomedical research on the entire US population. The database, created using data from National Long Term Care Surveys, shows significant declines in chronic disability and institutionalization among older Americans.
deCODE Genetics has identified the location of a gene, FET1, responsible for familial essential tremor on human chromosome 3. This discovery brings new hope for understanding and treatment of the disease, which affects an estimated 5-10 percent of the elderly population.