Research on health and aging in later life. Covers attention and cognition, longevity, organ aging, and age-related disease.
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.
This study emphasizes the importance of social determinants in ICU rehabilitation delivery for older adults. Inequities in rehabilitation delivery were found to be associated with various social factors, underscoring the need for targeted interventions to address these disparities.
A UCLA-led study reveals that chemotherapy for early-stage breast cancer in women over 65 can lead to a significant decline in physical function. The study found that 30% of older women who received chemotherapy experienced a substantial decline, with climbing stairs and walking being the most affected activities.
A study published in Blood Neoplasia reveals that older adults with acute myeloid leukemia can benefit from standard treatment, with roughly a quarter experiencing durable prolonged survival. The conventional treatment of venetoclax combined with a hypomethylating agent (HMA) is safe and effective for those over 80 years old.
A recent study published in Blood Neoplasia found that older adults with acute myeloid leukemia (AML) can derive benefit from the VEN-HMA regimen, which is the standard of care for older AML patients. The treatment was shown to durably prolong survival in approximately 20-25% of treated patients.
A Rutgers Health study examines the importance of social support networks for older adults living with HIV, finding that strong connections can reduce stress and anxiety. The research also emphasizes the need for increased funding and programs to foster positive social interactions and improve overall quality of life.
A study by NTU Singapore and Duke-NUS found that volunteering among older adults in Singapore increases their quality of life through perceived social support. Regular volunteers reported having more control over their lives, leading to a better quality of life.
Almost 90% of U.S. adults met criteria for cardiovascular, kidney, and metabolic syndrome (CKM) stage 1 or higher, with 15% meeting advanced stage criteria that did not improve between 2011 and 2020. Advanced stages were associated with increased risk among older age, men, and Black adults.
A new poll suggests health-related costs are a major concern for older Americans of all backgrounds, with five out of six very concerning issues involving health costs. Nearly half say they're very concerned about the cost of prescription medications, while nearly half also express concerns about dental care.
The USPSTF updates its breast cancer screening recommendation to biennial mammography for women ages 40-74. However, the balance of benefits and harms is unclear for women over 75 or those with dense breasts. Breast cancer is a common cause of death among US women.
A new study found that loneliness grows as people age, with a U-shaped pattern of higher levels in younger and older adulthood. Factors associated with persistent loneliness include social isolation, lower education, income, and functional limitations, as well as being divorced or widowed, a smoker, or having poorer health.
A study by Eötvös Loránd University found that a combination of cognitive and physical therapy improved the behavior and engagement of older dogs. However, it was discovered that cognitive exercise alone had no positive effects, while physical activity alone showed modest improvements in flexibility and friendliness.
A study using American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program data shows both frailty and type of surgical procedure impact postoperative outcomes among elderly patients. Procedure type and its risk level have a greater effect on complications and death.
Researchers developed an AI technique to estimate brain age based on EEG scans, making early screening for degenerative brain diseases more accessible. The technology uses machine learning to analyze brain waves and can be used as a low-cost screening tool for large numbers of people.
A recent study published in JAMA Network Open found that understaffed nursing homes in disadvantaged neighborhoods are more likely to overmedicate residents with antipsychotics. The researchers suggest that increasing staffing levels could help reduce the use of these medications and address the root causes of behavioral issues.
Middle-aged and older adults believe that old age begins later in life, with increased life expectancy contributing to this shift. The study found that participants born in different years reported a later perceived onset of old age, but the trend has slowed in recent years.
A randomized clinical trial found self-administered acupressure to be efficacious and cost-effective in reducing knee pain and improving mobility in middle-aged and older adults with probable osteoarthritis. The treatment also showed significant benefits in terms of quality of life.
A study published in the Canadian Journal of Diabetes found that approximately 1 in 5 older Canadian adults with diabetes developed functional limitations for the first time during the COVID-19 pandemic. Those with lower incomes faced a significantly higher risk of developing functional limitations compared to their peers.
The study found that staffing considerations such as stable and consistent staff, sufficient staff for family-like relationships, supporting staff, and key staff leading by example improve quality of care. Care homes with experienced care staff and higher staff-to-bed ratios are more likely to receive positive CQC ratings.
Over five RSV seasons, researchers found that nearly one-quarter of hospitalized adults aged 50+ experienced an acute cardiac event, mostly heart failure. The risk of severe outcomes was nearly twice as high in patients with cardiac events compared to those without.