Articles tagged with Older Adults
A study found that supercentenarians, people who live to 110 and beyond, have a higher proportion of cancer-killing immune cells called CD4 CTLs. This expansion may help the immune system adapt to age-related challenges, contributing to exceptional longevity.
Researchers from Tohoku University and the University of Tokyo developed super exosomes that target senescent cells, improving frailty and physical performance in aged mice. The technology has potential applications in healthy aging, cognitive function, and reproductive medicine.
Patients with severe traumatic brain injury in resource-limited settings are at higher risk of mortality. The study highlights the need for improved acute and postdischarge care to reduce mortality rates.
A new ACC Scientific Statement highlights the importance of considering cognitive impairment and frailty in cardiovascular care for older adults. The statement outlines practical strategies for prevention, screening, assessment, and management, aiming to improve outcomes such as independence, mobility, and caregiver burden.
Objective physical fitness assessments reveal a graded association between balance, agility, strength, and cardiorespiratory fitness with reduced all-cause mortality. This study suggests integrating fitness assessments into routine practice may improve risk stratification and guide function-oriented interventions.
The USC Leonard Davis School of Gerontology has received a $7.5 million grant to establish GeroSCORE, a national hub for discovery and collaboration on sex differences in aging. The center will conduct innovative research, develop new tools and analytical methods, and serve as a resource for early-career investigators.
As more Americans with HIV age into Medicare eligibility, costs are expected to increase substantially. The study projects nearly 200,000 beneficiaries by 2035 and $27.3 billion in annual spending. Policy changes like the Inflation Reduction Act could save billions, while generic HIV medications may further reduce costs.
A new study found that older adults living in homes with electrical or plumbing problems, insufficient space, or poor lighting are more likely to experience a fall. The study analyzed data from over 5,500 adults aged 65 and over, revealing a significant association between housing conditions and fall risk.
This study examines associations between early life BMI and childbirth timing, as well as fertility outcomes among Danish women. Childhood body size is found to be associated with the timing of childbirth, highlighting the importance of addressing reproductive health early in life.
The LifeAfter90 study found that women 90 and older are at two-fold greater risk for dementia, while Black participants have a 75% greater risk than Asian participants. APOE2's protective effects continue past age 90, reducing risk by 60%, but APOE4 increases the risk among men and Black participants.
A UC Irvine psychologist is using a massive longitudinal dataset to investigate how daily social connections shape our bodies and minds over time. The researcher aims to understand the 'ripple effect' of small, everyday moments on long-term health outcomes.
Researchers develop first quality-of-life measure specifically designed for Australian aged 65 and over, to improve care and outcomes. The tool will enable consistent monitoring of quality-of-life outcomes across health and aged care settings.
A new study found that older adults who took a daily multivitamin had significantly better measures of functional health after 3 years compared to those who took a placebo. The findings suggest that a daily multivitamin can help preserve cognitive abilities and benefit blood circulation and physical stamina.
A small clinical trial found that time-restricted eating improved spatial planning and problem-solving skills, reducing errors related to memory and learning. After six months, participants who limited their daily eating window showed significant cognitive improvements compared to those maintaining a standard eating window.
A blood test measuring phosphorylated tau 217 (P-tau217) can estimate an individual's risk of developing cognitive impairment over 2, 5, and 10 years. Higher P-tau217 levels are associated with increased risk of progression to cognitive impairment in cognitively unimpaired older adults.
A new University of Michigan poll reveals that 31% of people aged 50 and over have never heard of any mental health crisis line, while 69% are unfamiliar with 988. Despite this, most participants expressed willingness to use these services in a mental health emergency, highlighting the need for increased awareness-raising efforts.
A recent study published in Nature Communications has identified a clear link between the composition of gut bacteria and frailty in older women. The research found that lower gut bacterial diversity and impaired function are associated with increased vulnerability to disease, falls, functional impairment, and death.
A cross-sectional study of Medicare beneficiaries age 65 and older found friend caregivers to be an integral part of the caregiving network. They provide essential care without expecting compensation or reimbursement.
A cohort study found that a dietary pattern with lower inflammatory potential was associated with lower dementia risk among individuals with Alzheimer disease pathology. Targeted dietary strategies may help prevent dementia in those already at elevated risk.
A Canadian study of over 13,500 older adults found that social networking sites were associated with poorer perceived mental health. Email use was positively correlated with mental health, while no significant associations were found for other digital communication tools.
Researchers have found that cats show comparable patterns of brain deterioration as they age, similar to humans. This study, part of the Translating Time project, aims to unlock new insights into human ageing and disease by comparing cat and human brain development.
A Hiroshima University study finds that practical digital skills, positive financial attitudes, and self-protection are more consistently associated with lower old-age anxiety than traditional financial knowledge alone. The study suggests that financial education may need to move beyond knowledge alone in the digital age.
A new poll shows nearly all Michiganders age 50 and over value keeping their brains healthy, but less than half know daily habits can reduce dementia risk. Only half practice key brain-protecting habits.
A pilot study suggests that a simple exercise and protein supplementation program can help older adults with frailty recover more successfully after hospitalization. The program showed promising results, with 80% of participants discharged from skilled nursing facilities back to the community rather than long-term care or the hospital.
A cross-sectional study found that colorectal cancer screening participation increased after an organized population screening program, but socioeconomic disparities remained. Younger age groups, single households, and lower-income individuals still lag behind in screening uptake.
Remote monitoring approaches did not increase home time but reduced it for those 65 years and older, supporting tailored care after acute infections. The findings suggest reevaluating remote monitoring to align with patients' needs and desires.
Delirium is a common and preventable complication in older surgical patients, with verified geriatric surgery programs screening nearly every patient. Non-accredited hospitals screen only half of their patients for delirium, leading to a stark gap in care.
A digital platform developed by Concordia University researchers offers an accessible solution for older adults struggling with insomnia and anxiety. The seven-week eCBT+ program demonstrates high effectiveness in improving sleep efficiency and reducing symptoms of both conditions, with users finding the platform easy to use and useful.
A recent study found that melanoma disproportionately affects Florida's senior population, with older men experiencing twice as many skin cancer-related deaths as women. The study highlights gaps in prevention and early detection, particularly among men and non-Hispanic populations.
Postoperative delirium is a strong predictor of long-term cognitive decline in older adults, according to a new study. Researchers found that delirium was associated with faster cognitive decline than mild cognitive impairment, and rehospitalizations did not explain the effect.
As we age, the body adopts a safety-first walking style that sacrifices efficiency for stability, leading to slower speeds and increased fatigue. Researchers identified subtle changes in ankle and surrounding muscles controlling each step.
A large Japanese study found that maintaining a healthier profile with lower lifestyle and health risks can significantly lower dementia risk in people with one or no APOE ε4 alleles. However, individuals carrying two APOE ε4 alleles may require different preventive or therapeutic approaches.
A Rutgers Health study found that fewer than one in five older adults discuss their cannabis use with clinicians. The study analyzed reports from over 14,000 older adults and found that only one in three were screened for cannabis or drug use by a clinician in the past year.
A UK study found that middle-aged and older adults with higher autistic traits are more likely to report worsening anxiety as they age. Researchers identified three distinct groups based on their anxiety responses over eight years, highlighting the importance of early identification and tailored support for this vulnerable minority.
LGBTQ+ adults over 50 face disparities in health care, mental health, and social connections compared to non-LGBTQ+ peers. They are more likely to experience discrimination and feel isolated from others.
A study found that 14 million workdays are lost annually due to menopause, while women rely on online misinformation for medical advice. The authors advocate for open conversation and inclusive approaches to combat stigma and support women's health during this transition.
A new study found that handwriting speed and stroke organization can be indicative of cognitive decline in older adults. The research used digital tools to record writing speed and number of strokes in complex tasks, and found that participants with cognitive impairment showed distinct patterns in their handwriting movements.
A low-calorie diet and behavioral support program significantly reduced weight in older patients with overweight and persistent atrial fibrillation at 8 months. The study found no safety concerns or impact on atrial fibrillation symptoms, cardiac remodeling, or need for further rhythm control interventions.
A systematic review of 69 trials involving over 153,000 adults found that calcium, vitamin D, or combined supplements have little to no effect on fracture prevention. The findings suggest that routine supplementation may not be necessary, and instead focus should be on interventions like balance and resistance exercise.
A cohort study found that participants with unfavorable long-term memory trajectories were less active and more sedentary, suggesting a link between cognitive change and later-life movement patterns. The study's results have implications for understanding the relationship between aging, cognition, and physical activity.
Researchers identify RAGE receptor as key driver of age-related increase in breast cancer metastasis. Analyzing mouse models and human data, they found that aged mice develop more lung metastases than younger mice, despite similar primary tumor growth.
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.
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.
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.
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.
A study by University of Utah Health found that older adults use cannabis edibles for non-psychoactive effects, seeking better quality of life. Many participants were influenced by positive anecdotes from friends or family members, highlighting the importance of word of mouth in their decision-making process.
This qualitative study explores the use of edible cannabis among older adults as a management strategy for pain, sleep, and mental health concerns. The study highlights the importance of physician awareness and informed counseling for these patients.
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.
A study by the University of Helsinki found that nature-based group activities can boost wellbeing, health, and connection to nature in older adults living in care homes. The activities improved sleep, cognition, and social connections, even among those with multiple diseases and mobility issues.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.