Older Adults
Articles tagged with Older Adults
Restructuring hospitals to help the elderly
Researchers at Kyoto University found that hospital restructuring improved local capacity for elderly hospital admissions and enabled more efficient bed management. The study suggests that reorganization can alleviate regional healthcare disparities in the elderly population.
Simple home test predicts mobility decline in older adults
A study published in JMIR Aging predicts early mobility decline in healthy adults aged 45 using a set of home-based measurements and AI. The researchers identified six essential factors, including age, muscle power, and diet, that accurately predict future mobility struggles.
Dietary changes in older people can improve ‘biological age’
A study published in Aging Cell found that reducing dietary fat or animal-based protein can reduce 'biological age' in older adults. After just four weeks, participants showed significant reductions in biomarker profiles indicative of improved health and aging outcomes.
Noninvasive “deep brain” stimulation technique shows early promise for Parkinson’s
A novel noninvasive brain stimulation approach, TIs, significantly improved movement in patients with Parkinson's disease compared to a sham treatment. The technique targets the subthalamic nucleus and produced clinically meaningful improvements in bradykinesia and tremor.
Study reveals why older adults are using cannabis edibles
Edible cannabis and pain, sleep, and mental health management in older adults
Bariatric surgery more effective than GLP-1 drugs at preventing heart attacks, stroke and death in older adults
A new study found that bariatric surgery offers significantly greater protection against major adverse cardiovascular events compared to GLP-1 drugs. After five years, surgical patients were nearly 16% less likely to develop heart attacks, strokes, and deaths compared to those treated with GLP-1 drugs.
Nature-based group activities improve wellbeing among older adults experiencing loneliness
Nir Barzilai, MD, Richard J. Hodes, MD, and Marianna Sadagurski, Ph.D., to receive 2026 Scientific Awards of Distinction from the American Federation for Aging Research
Nir Barzilai, MD, and Richard J. Hodes, MD, will receive the George M. Martin Lifetime Achievement in Mentoring Award and Irving S. Wright Award of Distinction, respectively, for their contributions to aging research. Marianna Sadagurski, PhD, is the recipient of the Vincent Cristofalo Rising Star Award in Aging Research.
Cognitive decline and household firearm storage among older adults
Unsecure firearm storage is common among older adults with subjective cognitive decline, despite clinical guidance recommending secure storage for those with cognitive symptoms. The study highlights the need for improved household practices and access to fire safety education.
New guidelines help long-term care communities support residents’ intimacy and dignity
A new paper outlines a practical framework for supporting residents' sexual health in long-term care, emphasizing autonomy, safety, and person-centered care. The framework establishes a Sexual Health Committee to develop policies and guide staff on sensitive aspects of care.
Housing insecurity, incident geriatric conditions, and mortality in community-living older persons
A cohort study found that poor housing affordability was associated with higher risks of frailty, disability, dementia, and mortality, while poor housing quality was linked to increased risks of frailty, disability, and mortality. Housing insecurity is identified as a clinically relevant social determinant of health among older persons.
Initiation setting and persistence of medications affecting cognition in older adults
A cross-sectional study found that older adults are disproportionately prescribed medications affecting cognition from acute or postacute care settings. This highlights the need to target prescriptions from these settings to reduce such prescribing.
Care coordination and hospitalization in older adults with or at risk for cardiovascular disease
A randomized clinical trial found that proactive outreach for care coordination did not lead to better outcomes compared to usual care post-hospitalization coordination. Many participants declined the offer. The study suggests that current strategies may need to be reassessed.
Age, sex, and cancer type influence risk of subsequent cancers among survivors
A study published in PLOS Medicine found that age at initial diagnosis, sex, and type of first cancer significantly affect the risk of developing a subsequent primary cancer. Older age and male sex were associated with a higher risk, while survivors of lung, bladder, and skin melanoma were also at increased risk.
American Geriatrics Society welcomes Alison A. Moore, MD, MPH, FACP, AGSF as new president at 2026 virtual annual scientific meeting
Alison A. Moore, MD, MPH, FACP, AGSF will begin her term as President of the American Geriatrics Society (AGS) in April 2026. She has dedicated her career to advancing health and well-being for older adults, with a focus on technology, health equity, and HIV.
Apixaban linked to fewer blood clot complications in older adults than other blood thinners
A new study found that apixaban is associated with fewer major complications and more days at home for older adults with venous thromboembolism than other blood thinners. Apixaban was also linked to a lower combined risk of recurrent blood clots or death within one year compared to warfarin.
New research from the COSMOS trial reveals more than 75% of older adults have used complementary therapies
A new study reveals that over 75% of older adults have used complementary health approaches, including mindfulness, yoga, tai chi, acupuncture, and more. The study highlights the need for healthcare providers to discuss the risks and benefits of these therapies with their patients.
Why heat deaths occur during low-level alerts - new UK study
A new UK study found that many heat-related deaths occur during lower-level alerts, highlighting widespread gaps in awareness and response. Older people are particularly vulnerable to these risks, with lower engagement with warnings leaving them exposed.
Voting is linked to living longer
A new study by Femida Handy and Sara Konrath found that voting is associated with reduced mortality risk in older adults for up to 15 years. Voting predicts a lower risk of mortality, even when the candidate loses, suggesting that voting itself is more important than who was voted for.
Care by name, but not by nature
A study reveals that older adults receiving government-funded home care struggle to access the support they need, often feeling overwhelmed by complex systems and limited budgets. The research highlights a significant gap in the program's capacity to provide person-centered care, particularly in areas like nutrition.
Casting a long shadow: Childhood sexual abuse linked to cancer in older adults
A new study from the University of Toronto links childhood sexual abuse to a significantly higher likelihood of cancer later in life. Researchers found that those who experienced childhood sexual abuse had about twice the odds of reporting a cancer diagnosis compared to the general population.
AGS honors expert and emerging geriatrics leaders at 2026 Annual Scientific Meeting (#AGS26)
The American Geriatrics Society has honored 18 leaders in the field of geriatric medicine for their outstanding contributions to high-quality, person-centered care for older adults. These awards recognize individuals who have made significant impacts through education, research, and clinical practice.
Scientists set a formal definition for "Blue Zones"
An international team of scientists has established a formal scientific definition for 'Blue Zones', a term previously used to describe places where people live the longest. The new criteria capture two key benchmarks: unusually strong longevity after age 70 and high odds of reaching 100, conditional on surviving to 70.
Loneliness affects memory in older adults but does not accelerate brain decline, major international longitudinal study suggests
A major European study found that loneliness affects the memory of older adults, but does not speed up mental decline over time. Participants who reported high levels of loneliness performed worse on initial memory tests, but their ability to recall information declined at a similar rate as those with lower loneliness levels.
Colorectal cancer screening and health-related social needs in a national sample of US adults
A national study found that unmet health-related social needs are associated with lower colorectal cancer screening rates, particularly among adults aged 50-64. Addressing these needs may support age-specific strategies to improve screening rates.
Colorectal cancer and mortality risk among older adults with vs without adenoma on prior colonoscopy
Adults aged 75 or older without adenoma on prior colonoscopy have lower risk of subsequent colorectal cancer and CRC death. Despite this, those with prior adenoma may consider deprioritizing surveillance colonoscopy relative to other health concerns.
US trends in long-term opioid therapy
Long-term opioid therapy prescription rates declined in the US from 2015 to 2023, despite a growing population of older adults receiving these treatments. Approximately 4-5 million patients were prescribed long-term opioids in 2023, with Medicare covering a larger proportion, raising concerns about safety.
AGS honors Dr. G. Michael Harper with Dennis W. Jahnigen Memorial Award at #AGS26 for lasting impact on geriatrics education
Dr. G. Michael Harper, a renowned mentor and educator, receives the Dennis W. Jahnigen Memorial Award from AGS for his transformative work in geriatrics education. He has developed innovative programs and standards that train healthcare professionals to care for older adults.
Social support, sleep, and pain management linked to mental health in later life
A national Canadian study found that older adults who are socially connected, physically healthy, and spiritually engaged are significantly more likely to experience complete mental health. Social support emerged as one of the strongest predictors, doubling the odds of achieving complete mental health.
Who should pay for older adults' care? Caregivers answer differently
People aged 50 and over who serve as unpaid family caregivers are more likely to support government-funded care, while non-caregivers prefer family or older adult payment. Concerns about long-term care costs and access persist among caregivers versus non-caregivers.
Veronica Rivera, MD, AGSF honored as AGS Clinician of the Year
Dr. Rivera's exceptional clinical career is recognized for strengthening community-based health programs, leveraging technology to improve older adult care, and integrating age-friendly principles beyond specialty settings. She advocates for geriatricians as key partners in primary care, providing support to manage complex care needs.
How an Alzheimer’s risk gene disrupts brain circuits long before memory loss
Scientists have found that the APOE4 gene variant causes hyperactivity in two regions of the hippocampus, an important memory center of the brain, even before middle age. In mice with the APOE4 gene, reducing Nell2 levels reverses neuronal changes and improves cognitive function.
Older men most likely to reach for saltshakers, while women’s salt-adding behavior more nuanced, study suggests
A new study found that older men are more likely to reach for saltshakers than women, who's behavior is influenced by factors such as diet quality and lifestyle. The research highlights the importance of reducing salt consumption, particularly in industrialized foods.
Unionization, ownership status, and direct care worker turnover
This cross-sectional study found that direct care worker unionization and employer ownership are independently associated with workforce turnover rates. State policies facilitating DCW unionization or public employment of DCWs may improve retention rates, according to the study.
Mount Sinai study finds lung cancer surgery safe for many patients over 80
A study published in The Lancet Regional Health – Americas found that carefully selected older adults can safely undergo surgery and achieve outcomes comparable to younger patients. The research challenges longstanding assumptions about age and cancer treatment, suggesting that older adults should not be excluded from potentially curat...
AGS honors Dr. Thomas Cudjoe with Arti Hurria Memorial Award for research on the health effects of social isolation among older adults
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.
NIH awards $15.8 million to UC Davis Health for major Hispanic-Latino brain health study
The NIH grant will support the creation of a comprehensive long-term dataset on Hispanic and Latino brain aging, examining the factors that matter most for healthy cognitive aging. The study aims to understand how Alzheimer's disease, vascular injury, and other brain changes develop over time in Latino adults.
Aging societies and more people living alone could slow decarbonization and worsen energy poverty
Demographic changes are linked to increased household energy requirements, CO2 emissions, and financial burdens in Japan and the UK. Older single-person households have higher energy use and costs due to greater heating and cooling needs.
Testosterone level not a given sign of well-being
A higher testosterone level does not always indicate well-being in men, according to a study at the University of Gothenburg. Muscle health and inflammation are linked to testosterone levels, but symptoms like fatigue and depression have weaker connections.
Dr. Cameron J. Gettel to be honored at #AGS26 for cross-cutting work at the intersection of geriatrics, emergency care, and care transitions
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.
Humor helps older adults navigate ageing – research
Older adults use humor as a coping mechanism to deal with the challenges of aging, including bereavement and declining well-being. The study found that women are more likely to use humor in emotionally sensitive situations, while men emphasize its role in social bonding.
This could be why COVID and flu are so dangerous to the elderly
A new study by UC San Francisco reveals that aging lung tissue can lead to catastrophic immune dysregulation, causing elderly individuals to become severely ill. The research suggests that targeting the damaged spiral of inflammaging could provide a promising therapeutic target for treating age-related respiratory diseases.
Douglas P. Kiel, MD, MPH, elected to the Association of American Physicians
Douglas P. Kiel, a senior scientist at the Hinda and Arthur Marcus Institute for Aging Research, has been elected to membership in the Association of American Physicians due to his significant contributions to advancing medical knowledge and improving health through scientific research and academic leadership. His research focuses on o...
From angiotensin receptor-neprilysin inhibitor exposure to a pragmatic pharmacist-led deprescribing intervention, & validating measures between the electronic health record and Medicare Claims, geriatrics research is shaping the future of care
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.
UT Health San Antonio launches clinical trial to study rapamycin and healthy aging
A multi-phase clinical study will examine dosing, safety and long-term effects of rapamycin in older adults to guide future research on extending health span. Researchers aim to establish evidence-based guidance for the drug's use and move beyond speculation.
Swedish study adds nuances to the picture of healthy Japanese ageing
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.
Effects of exercise and intensive vascular risk reduction on cognitive function in older adults
A multicenter randomized clinical trial found no significant differences in cognitive improvement between exercise, intensive pharmacological reduction of cardiovascular risk factors, or both in older adults. The study results challenge current recommendations on lifestyle modifications for dementia prevention.
To understand how the human brain ages, science reveals new insights from mice
Researchers used functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) to scan the brains of 82 mice at various stages of aging and found similar changes in both humans and mice. The study suggests that understanding age-related brain decline in mice could lead to new insights into human brain aging.
Extreme urban heat and emergency department visits in older adults
Research suggests significant heat-health risks observed among socioeconomically vulnerable populations. This study underscores the importance of developing targeted heat warning strategies to mitigate these risks and prevent emergency department visits among older adults.
Caregiving without a net: Poll shows who needs help most
A new poll finds that nearly a third of Americans over 50 provide regular care to an adult relative or friend with a health issue or disability, highlighting the need for increased awareness of existing programs such as adult day programs and respite care. Many caregivers face financial stress and don't know about or use these resource...
Older adults take longer to recover from surgeries than expected, citing need for better post-operative planning and guidance
A new study published in the JAMA Network found that older adults take more than 6 months to recover from surgery, with nearly 20% still experiencing impairments in activities of daily living. The study highlights the need for better post-operative planning and guidance to support the recovery process.
Recovery experiences of older adults and their caregivers after major elective noncardiac surgery
A mixed-methods cohort study found daily living impairment is linked to slower recovery in older adults post-surgery. Targeted interventions, such as preoperative education and caregiver support, can optimize recovery experiences for both patients and caregivers.
VAD law experts talk dementia and critical issues at QUT conference
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.
Many older adults develop cardiovascular conditions that affect anti-amyloid treatment
A new study estimates that older adults with mild cognitive impairment or dementia develop new cardiovascular diagnoses requiring anticoagulant or thrombolytic therapy each year. This finding highlights the need for clinicians and families to weigh the potential benefits and risks of anti-amyloid treatments.
Specific gut bacteria species (R inulinivorans) linked to muscle strength
Research found that Roseburia inulinivorans is positively associated with muscle mass and strength in both young and older adults. The study suggests that R inulinivorans may play a causal role in muscle strength, with notable increases in forelimb grip strength and larger muscle fibre size in mice treated with the bacteria.
Outcomes of older adults with advanced cancer who prefer quality of life vs prolonging survival
A study found that only 9% of older adults with advanced cancer prioritize extending survival over maintaining quality of life. The lack of responsiveness of the current oncology care delivery system to patient preference may be a significant issue. This highlights the need for care system changes to prioritize patient needs.
Study shows nursing home staffing patterns can reduce harmful falls among residents
A new study found that nursing homes with recommended staffing levels report fewer injurious falls, while facilities with insufficient staff experience increased falls. Higher staffing hours for certified nursing assistants and registered nurses significantly reduce fall rates.
New research finds that romance and sexual intimacy don’t diminish with age
A study of single older adults aged 60-83 reveals they still value sexual activity in romantic relationships, with 97% emphasizing its importance. Participants sought romance and physical connection, viewing sex as essential to their partnerships.