Articles tagged with Older Adults
A Stanford Medicine study reveals significant biomolecular changes in the mid-40s and early 60s, affecting cardiovascular disease, immune function, and other age-related health risks. The researchers analyzed thousands of molecules and microbiomes across 108 participants, tracking rapid fluctuations in molecular abundance.
A nationally representative survey reveals older adults' leading health-related concerns include rising healthcare costs and financial scams. The survey also highlights significant differences in concern levels by gender, political ideology, and demographic groups.
A study of 12,000 Canadian respondents aged 65+ found that socially independent older adults born in Canada are most satisfied when living solo, while socially dependent immigrants who live alone experience lower life satisfaction. Personality-based social dispositions play a key role in how older adults feel about their living arrange...
The researchers argue that accurate assessment of driving skills in older adults is crucial to mitigate harm and improve safety on the road. Comprehensive driving evaluations are estimated to cost $500-$800, a significant expense that may deter those who need it most.
A new study published in Andrology has found that patients with lower testosterone levels tend to have short little fingers, which is associated with an increased risk of severe Covid-19. The research suggests that testosterone may reduce inflammation in the lungs and other organs, providing a protective effect against severe illness.
A new study published in PLOS Computational Biology found that prioritizing older individuals for booster vaccination consistently leads to the best public health outcomes, regardless of economic level or age category. This strategy is more effective than vaccinating younger individuals with the most contacts.
A recent study published by Florida Atlantic University found that occasional alcohol use increases the odds of intracranial hemorrhage by double when compared to those who do not drink. Daily alcohol consumption is associated with a 150% increased risk of brain bleeds from falls.
A study funded by the National Eye Institute found that 6.5 million Medicaid enrollees lacked routine adult eye exam coverage, while 14.6 million had no eyeglasses coverage. State-level variation in coverage policies and copays hindered access to essential eye care services.
A new poll finds that over 30% of people in their 50s and early 60s provide care to at least one person with a health issue or disability, while 1 in 10 juggle taking care of three or more people. The majority of caregivers are caring for someone with a physical disability or mobility problem, followed by memory or thinking issues.
Maintaining stable hemoglobin A1c levels in individualized target ranges may lower Alzheimer disease and related dementias risk. Lower HbA1c time in range could identify patients at increased risk of these conditions.
A clinical trial found that fish oil supplements slowed neuronal integrity breakdown in older adults with the APOE4 gene variant, a risk factor for Alzheimer's disease. The study showed no benefit for all older adults, but suggested omega-3 fatty acids may be useful for prevention.
Researchers developed a formula and assessment tool to calculate fall risks for older adults, considering factors like poor oral and cognitive function. The tool is simple to use and may assist in prevention and follow-up care.
A recent study found that almost 50% of older adults with diabetes experienced depression during the pandemic, with loneliness and chronic pain being major risk factors. The study also identified unexpected findings, including a higher risk of depression among those with higher income prior to the pandemic.
A cohort study found elevated risks of mortality, disability, and dementia among older adults with increased social isolation. The study highlights the importance of preventing increased isolation to mitigate its adverse effects on physical and cognitive function decline.
A new University of Michigan study found that over 82% of Americans aged 50-80 take one or more prescription medications, with 80% open to stopping certain drugs. However, researchers stress the importance of personalized guidance for deprescribing older adults, particularly those taking medication for cardiovascular disease or diabetes.
The ActiveHip+ mobile app has been shown to improve the recovery of elderly people with hip fractures by providing a tailored health education programme and rehabilitation programme. This approach allows patients to recover at home while receiving constant support from healthcare professionals.
Researchers found that administering PEPITEM to older mice reduced exaggerated immune responses, indicating a potential geroprotective agent. The study also revealed an age-related decline in the PEPITEM pathway, which could be rescued by the peptide.
Mayo Clinic scientists have established criteria for a memory-loss syndrome in older adults that specifically impacts the brain's limbic system. The syndrome, called Limbic-predominant Amnestic Neurodegenerative Syndrome (LANS), progresses more slowly and has a better prognosis than Alzheimer's disease.
Researchers discovered that deactivating IL-11 increases healthy lifespan by 20-25% in mice, with reduced cancer deaths, fibrosis, chronic inflammation, and improved muscle strength. The findings raise the possibility of using anti-IL-11 treatments to study aging in humans.
A new study found that an electronic health record (EHR)-based nudge intervention significantly decreased low-value axillary surgery in older women with clinically node-negative, HR+/HER2− breast cancer. The user-friendly intervention could be beneficial for other practice settings or patient populations.
A new study found that children who move multiple times between ages 10 and 15 are 41% more likely to be diagnosed with depression than those who don't move. This effect is stronger than growing up in an income-deprived neighborhood, suggesting a settled home environment may protect against future mental health issues.
A retrospective cohort study found hormone-modulating therapy protected against Alzheimer's disease and related dementias in postmenopausal women with breast cancer. The protective effect varied by age and race, with greater benefit for Black women under 75.
A review article by Uppsala University researchers highlights the global issue of malnutrition in the sick and elderly, affecting up to 50% of hospital patients in Sweden. Simple measures such as counselling, dietitian collaboration, and nutritional drinks can reverse malnutrition and improve quality of life.
A recent poll of older adults reveals that those in their 50s and early 60s who face financial stress are more likely to experience negative health effects. The study found that 47% of people aged 50-64 reported being impacted by inflation, with many cutting back on everyday expenses.
A new coordinated care model, Trauma Medical Home, has been found to improve psychological recovery and quality of life for older adults with trauma-related injuries. The care model provides comprehensive support, including medication adherence and cognitive assessments, to help patients recover from physical or psychological injury.
A new system developed by researchers at Binghamton University uses local computing power to analyze sensor data from everyday devices like smartphones and laptops, detecting abnormal movements with high accuracy. The Rapid Response Elderly Safety Monitoring (RESAM) system aims to cut reaction times and improve safety for older adults,...
A cohort study found increased patient coinsurance in Medicare Part D's coverage gap and catastrophic coverage phases at age 65, associated with higher spending on T2D medications. This may lead to reduced diabetes medication utilization, increasing the risk of nonadherence and complications.
A new study published in Nature Communications found that smoking is a key lifestyle factor contributing to cognitive decline among older adults. Non-smokers who engaged in healthy behaviors such as regular exercise, moderate alcohol consumption, and social activity experienced significantly slower cognitive decline compared to smokers.
Researchers discovered that young adults with higher levels of inflammation were more likely to experience reduced cognitive function in midlife. Higher inflammation was associated with lower performance on skills testing and differences in executive functioning.
A cohort study of 311 hospitalized older adults with COVID-19 found that in-hospital delirium is associated with increased functional disability and cognitive impairment after discharge. Postdischarge follow-up should assess for these conditions in survivors experiencing in-hospital delirium.
Long-term exposure to air pollution is associated with a higher need for help with lost independence in later life. Traffic-related sources generate the largest and most consistent increases in risk, suggesting controlling air pollution may delay or divert care needs.
Researchers found that men with a higher proportion of blood cells missing the Y chromosome have a higher risk of dying from heart failure. Elevated Y chromosome loss is associated with decreased treatment response in patients with transthyretin cardiac amyloidosis, a progressive disease causing heart failure and death.
A study of over 4,500 healthy adults aged 60 and older found that nearly 28% had some form of heart valve disease, with age being the main risk factor. The majority of cases were mild, but the study highlights the need for more research into screening methods to identify and manage the disease in the elderly population.
A clinical trial evaluated the economic impact of adding a dedicated team to existing emergency department care for older patients. The study found that this approach can significantly improve patient quality of life and save up to €2.4 billion nationally.
A new study by Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health found that chronic loneliness may significantly raise the risk of stroke among older adults. The research suggests that loneliness, experienced chronically, plays an important role in stroke incidence and is associated with a higher risk of long-term disability and mortality.
A survey of 150 million adults in the US suggests that nearly a third of those aged 60 or older are using aspirin for primary prevention of cardiovascular disease without medical advice. The findings highlight the urgent need for physicians to discuss the benefits and risks of aspirin use with their patients.
Research from George Mason University found that internalized gay ageism negatively impacts older gay men's sexual satisfaction when mediated by body image. However, internalized gay ageism does not influence erectile dysfunction. Older gay men in open relationships are more likely to be sexually satisfied.
A case-control study found that adhering to a healthy lifestyle was crucial even at late ages for promoting healthy aging and longevity. Strategic plans to improve lifestyle behaviors among all older adults may play a key role in this process.
A new study from POSTECH forecasts over 110,000 premature deaths in Korea by 2050 due to PM2.5 exposure and rapid population aging. To mitigate this burden, PM2.5 concentrations must be reduced to approximately 6 µg/m³.
Rates of cannabis-related disorders increased from 2017 to 2022 among Medicare-insured older adults, particularly in states that legalized adult and medical cannabis. Higher average annual increases were observed in these states compared to others.
Telo-seq reveals dynamic mechanisms of telomeres in aging and cancer, providing new insights into their role in health and disease. The breakthrough method determines telomere length and sequence on individual chromosomes.
A new study found that frailty significantly predicts postoperative outcomes in older adults, including higher mortality rates and increased readmission rates. Frail patients experience substantial home time loss due to more days spent in skilled nursing facilities and longer recovery times.
A cohort study found that severe dust exposure increased the risk of dementia in World Trade Center responders under 65. Using personalized protective equipment may prevent this age of onset, according to the research.
A study by Åsa Winzell Juhlin from the University of Gothenburg found that all participants over 90 had hearing loss, with 80% requiring hearing aids. The research emphasizes the importance of addressing hearing health in this age group for physical and mental well-being.
A new study published in JAMA Network Open found that depressive symptoms are linked to subsequent memory decline in older people, and conversely, poorer memory is associated with an increase in depressive symptoms. The researchers suggest that addressing depressive symptoms may help slow down memory decline.
Research by Osaka Metropolitan University suggests that converting vacant homes in old new towns into healthcare facilities can slow population decline. This urban transformation can enable older adults to remain in their communities, promoting healthy and connected living.
A new poll reveals that most older adults are unaware of available resources to help them navigate aging and caregiving. Only a small minority have used programs like Area Agencies on Aging, State Health Insurance Assistance Programs, and long-term services and supports. The findings highlight the need for more awareness about these se...
The US Preventive Services Task Force recommends exercise interventions for older adults at increased risk of falls, considering prior falls, medical conditions, and patient values. The overall net benefit is small, making a personalized approach necessary to balance benefits and harms.
A recent study published by The Ginger Network reveals that incorporating more beans into the US typical dietary pattern can lead to a higher intake of essential nutrients and improved diet quality. Younger and older adults alike benefit from this nutritional boost.
A 12-week health education program using videoconferencing software showed improved physical activity and adherence to health advice compared to a control group. The study suggests that videoconferencing can be an effective tool for promoting sustainable behavioral changes among older adults, regardless of location or distance.
A new study has found that older adults with sleep apnea are more likely to use health services in the future, including hospitalization. The study analyzed data from nearly 20,000 participants and found a 21% higher odds of hospitalization among those with sleep apnea.
A new study by UCL researchers found that socially connected older people experienced a sharper drop in quality of life and life satisfaction during the pandemic. In contrast, more isolated adults experienced a greater decline in loneliness but similar levels of life satisfaction.
Researchers found that 6% of patients with heart failure progressed to dialysis within a year, highlighting the need for integrating heart and kidney care. The study emphasizes prioritizing kidney function assessment in all patients with heart failure and promoting systemic changes to manage both conditions simultaneously.
A recent study published in the Journal of Applied Gerontology found that a 9-week online stress management intervention program for family caregivers reduced caregiver burden scores by 15%. The program provided education and strategies to manage stress, including self-care techniques like breathing and meditation.
A new study found that subtle cognitive changes can foreshadow the decision for many seniors to stop driving. Routine cognitive testing may help older adults and their physicians make decisions about driving to maximize safety while preserving independence. Women are more likely to stop driving than men, according to the findings.
Older people experiencing homelessness are at risk of premature death, cognitive impairment, and mobility concerns. Addressing this issue requires collaboration between health, long-term care, public health, and housing to provide adequate shelter policies, age-friendly shelters, and supportive housing models.
A cohort study of Japanese older adults found that upward and downward socioeconomic status transitions were associated with an increased risk of dementia. The study also revealed a link between social mobility and the length of dementia-free periods throughout life.
A study of 23 elderly patients with hypertension found that evening aerobic exercise improved baroreflex sensitivity, a mechanism that regulates blood pressure. This improvement led to better blood pressure regulation and reduced muscle sympathetic nerve activity, making evening exercise more effective than morning exercise.
The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated technology adoption among older adults, who used it to maintain social relationships. Researchers found that these adults not only received but also provided emotional, financial, and physical support through technology.
A new study suggests a lower BMI threshold of 27 kg/m² may be more appropriate than the existing WHO BMI threshold (30 kg/m²) for middle-aged and older adults. This could lead to improved health outcomes for millions of older adults, as body fat percentage is a more accurate indicator of obesity.