Articles tagged with Older Adults
A recent study found that digital reminders for flu vaccination increased vaccination rates among older adults in Denmark by one percentage point. However, it did not improve clinical outcomes, including hospitalization and death rates.
A study published in American Psychologist reveals that middle-aged Americans experience high levels of loneliness, with baby boomers reporting the highest overall levels. The research suggests that loneliness is a persistent issue across generations in both the US and Europe.
Researchers at Ohio State University found that eating fatty food before surgery triggers an inflammatory response in the brain, leading to impaired memory function. The study also showed that taking a DHA omega-3 fatty acid supplement can prevent these effects.
Researchers used single-cell RNA sequencing to analyze the effects of APC treatment on AD transgenic mice, revealing alterations in glial cells and upregulated genes associated with AD progression. APC treatment downregulates inflammatory processes and recovers nervous system functions.
A first-of-its-kind study uses gait analysis to detect subtle impairments in older adults with mild cognitive impairment, suggesting curved path walking as a more sensitive detection method. The novel system employs a non-invasive depth camera to record gait and provides detailed information on functional performance.
Experts from the University of Birmingham have devised a blueprint for efficient evacuation of elderly people in flood-threatened cities. The study highlights significant differences in evacuation patterns between Shanghai and New York City, emphasizing the need for risk-informed planning to protect vulnerable populations.
A new study has revealed a molecular fingerprint of biological aging, shedding light on why people age differently. The researchers identified 25 metabolites that can reflect biological age, known as the Healthy Aging Metabolic (HAM) Index, which was found to be more accurate than other aging metrics.
Research shows elderly patients in rural areas have higher mortality rates when discharged under pressure, particularly in municipalities with fewer than 10,000 inhabitants. The study highlights the need for better municipal services and care facilities to address the aging crisis in Norway.
A new poll suggests that more than half of people aged 50-80 taking aspirin don't have cardiovascular disease, raising concerns about the effectiveness of routine aspirin use. Guidelines now focus on those with a history of cardiovascular issues or high risk due to personal health and family history.
A University of Ottawa study found that older adults understand emoji meanings but are hesitant to use them due to low confidence and technical expertise. The research suggests promoting emoji use can combat ageism and reduce loneliness.
A study published in PLOS ONE found that higher Body Mass Index (BMI) is significantly associated with worse mental health in women, particularly among middle-aged and older adults. The research adjusted for lifestyle and demographic factors, suggesting a stronger link between excess weight and mental health issues in this population.
A new study from the University of Surrey warns that Applied Theatre practices can encourage ageism by neglecting participants' present experiences and agency. The research proposes a new Anti-Ageism Praxis (AAP) framework to address these concerns, emphasizing co-creation, focus on present responses, and challenging stereotypes.
A new approach to menopause is needed, focusing on empowering women with high-quality information and empathic clinical care. The experience of menopause varies for each person, and an individualised approach can help women navigate this life stage.
A study by Texas A&M University found that only 9% of older Americans had been vaccinated against RSV prior to this fall and winter. The study also revealed that men were more likely to be vaccinated than women, and those who were vaccinated had higher levels of concern about the disease.
A new study from the University of East Anglia found that older adults with worse spatial orientation ability experience greater difficulty when making turns across oncoming traffic, which is a significant risk factor for fatal road traffic accidents. Spatial orientation skills are essential for mentally determining position and vehicl...
The study highlights a substantial increase in recurring and chronic food insecurity among US families with older adults over the past 20 years. This trend has significant implications for health policy and programmatic strategies to address food insecurity in this population.
A new study by University of Gothenburg researchers shows that non-profit organizations provide the highest-quality elderly care in Swedish residential care homes. These homes have the highest staff density, most competent care staff, and highest resident satisfaction compared to homes run by profit-making companies.
A study reveals that feeling young appears to reduce ageism among older adults, but those who invest in appearance are more likely to experience negative outcomes. Those who feel younger score higher on positive age-related experiences and lower on negative ageism, while those who look older face increased negative ageism and poor health.
A recent study found that intergenerational mentorship programs can help overcome ageism in healthcare by providing meaningful connections between older adults and medical students. The programs, which involve younger students working with older mentors, help to break down stereotypes and promote a better understanding of older people'...
A recent study published in Psychology and Aging found that people who identify themselves as looking younger have more positive experiences related to aging, such as being asked for advice and wisdom. On the other hand, those who feel older experience more negative interactions and age-based discrimination.
A recent study from Amsterdam UMC and the University of Glasgow found that loneliness increases physical frailty, leading to a higher risk of depression, falls, and cognitive decline in older adults. The research analysis more than 130 studies and revealed that reduced social functioning is associated with physical decline in older adu...
A new study suggests that walking through historically Black neighborhoods while reminiscing can improve cognitive function and mood in older Black adults. The program, known as SHARP, combines exercise, social connection, and active reminiscence to make a cumulative impact on health.
Researchers discovered that the vitamin D/vitamin D receptor pathway protects enterocytes during aging, reducing ISC proliferation and centrosome amplification. This study provides insights into the molecular mechanisms underlying healthy aging in Drosophila.
A new study by Baycrest and the University of Toronto suggests that talking speed is a more important indicator of brain health than difficulty finding words. Changes in general talking speed may reflect changes in the brain, indicating its importance in detecting cognitive decline faster.
A new study found that only about half of older adults with a terminal prognosis received palliative home care, highlighting the need for improved detection and support. The researchers developed a tool called RESPECT to help identify frail individuals in need of palliative care.
A new study by Johns Hopkins University reveals that vision impairment is linked to increased symptoms of depression and anxiety, as well as social isolation among older adults. The research emphasizes the need for enhanced support and care for individuals with vision impairment.
The study of 5,951 women aged 63 to 99 found that higher levels of physical activity and lower amounts of sedentary time were associated with reduced heart failure risk. Promoting regular physical activity and limiting sedentary time may be a prudent strategy for primary prevention of heart failure in older women.
A new study found that chronic exposure to PM2.5 is associated with increased risk of hospital admission for various cardiovascular conditions, particularly ischemic heart disease and cerebrovascular disease. The study suggests that lowering annual average PM2.5 levels could decrease overall cardiovascular hospitalizations by 15%.
A new study from the University of Toronto found that older Canadians with a history of stroke experienced depression during the COVID-19 pandemic. Among those with no lifetime history of depression, immigrant status and family stressors were associated with an increased risk of incident depression.
Prescription opioids linked to increased risk of serious falls among adults, with older individuals most vulnerable. Targeted prevention efforts may be most effective within the first month after opioid initiation.
A new study by University of Eastern Finland identifies four main drivers for home care worker turnover: mismatch between client needs and available resources, digital systems taking up time, inflexible work demands, and ethical burden. Home care workers seek personal management and consideration of employee and client needs.
A study published in European Geriatric Medicine found that self-monitoring with an accelerometer and feedback significantly improved physical activity among elderly individuals requiring long-term care. The intervention group took more steps, spent less time sitting, and engaged in light physical activity compared to the control group.
Research shows that lowering doses and adjusting chemotherapy schedules for older adults with advanced cancer can reduce toxic side effects and preserve daily functions. Over 30% of patients benefited from treatment regimen modifications, with a 15% reduced risk of serious clinician-rated toxic effects.
A new study suggests that caregivers can establish a safe and workable mealtime routine for people with dementia living at home by reducing distractions, clearing away clutter, and leveraging community-based nutrition programs. The strategies aim to address the complex factors surrounding mealtime in the home, including cognitive impai...
A new review of 12 studies involving 2,901 participants found that tai chi was more effective than conventional exercise in improving functional mobility and balance. The study also identified specific factors, such as shorter duration and Yang-style focus, that contributed to the benefits.
A new study from Uppsala University found that people who have had herpes virus are twice as likely to develop dementia as those who have never been infected. The researchers studied 1,000 70-year-olds over 15 years and confirmed previous research on the potential link between herpes and dementia.
A study of 61,000 adults aged 45 or older found that those who adhered to physical activity guidelines before the pandemic had lower odds of developing or being hospitalized for COVID-19. This suggests that higher prepandemic physical activity levels may be linked to reduced risk of SARS-CoV-2 infection and hospitalization.
A comprehensive study will examine how young caregivers balance educational responsibilities with care for older relatives, influencing academic performance and decision-making. The InterCare project aims to raise awareness about the challenges faced by this often-overlooked group, including feelings of shame and guilt.
A cohort study of older adults found that those who followed recommended exercise guidelines before the pandemic had significantly lower odds of being infected or hospitalized from COVID-19. Physical activity was associated with a 10% lower risk of infection and 27% lower risk of hospitalization.
A new study finds that older adults rely heavily on initial impressions of trustworthiness when making decisions, which can lead to overlooking bad behavior and falling victim to scams. Researchers recommend focusing on a person's actions rather than first impressions to avoid deception.
A recent study published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology found that salt substitutes can help maintain healthy blood pressure in older adults. The study, which included 611 participants, showed that those using salt substitutes had a 40% lower incidence of hypertension compared to those using regular salt.
The aryl hydrocarbon receptor is highly correlated with various aging hallmarks, including mitochondrial abnormalities and cellular senescence. AhR signaling regulates airway inflammation in asthma, suggesting its crucial role in regulating asthma phenotypes.
Researchers at Aston University have discovered that aging skin exhibits distinct optical properties under polarised laser light. This finding could lead to the development of non-invasive light-based techniques for early detection and monitoring of skin conditions, including cancer.
A recent study found that home environment features, particularly lighting, influence home activity metrics in older adults with visual impairment. The results suggest that home modifications may improve at-home physical activity, highlighting the importance of considering environmental factors in promoting health and mobility.
Researchers at Northwestern University found a significant decrease in screenings for prostate cancer and urinary tract infections after implementing point-of-care alerts. The study showed a 9% reduction in PSA screenings and a 5.5% reduction in urine testing, with minimal changes in overtreatment of blood sugar.
A new poll of people aged 50 to 80 found that nearly all older adults say music helps relieve stress and improve their mental health. The study also revealed that music plays a significant role in social connections and brain health, with 98% of respondents benefiting from engaging with music.
Researchers found that older adults' brains recruit the cuneus region and frontal cortex to improve performance on fluid intelligence tasks, compensating for age-related cognitive decline. This new finding suggests alternative compensation mechanisms beyond previously assumed networks.
Researchers found that alternative brain regions can take on impaired areas' roles to compensate for age-related cognitive decline. The cuneus and bilateral frontal cortex showed increased activation with age, supporting functional compensation and maintaining proper cognitive performance.
A lack of older women in sport and exercise science studies hinders understanding of perimenopause and postmenopause effects on physical activity, athletic performance, and overall health. Researchers call for improved data collection and methodology to support female athletes and patients across the lifespan.
New research from Flinders University found that regular exercise and a personalized falls prevention plan based on individual needs can reduce the likelihood of falls. The studies also highlighted the importance of having an individual falls risk assessment and modifying strategies according to specific circumstances, such as dementia.
A study of 18,000 women found those diagnosed with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) were 8 times more likely to attempt suicide compared to control group. This increased risk is attributed to higher likelihood of psychiatric conditions such as depressive disorders and anxiety disorders associated with PCOS. Researchers emphasize the ne...
A recent study found that mental health care access remained inaccessible to many distressed US adults during the COVID-19 pandemic. The rate of serious psychological distress among adults increased from 3.5% to 4.2%, while outpatient mental health care use decreased among older and unemployed adults.
A healthy lifestyle can help maintain cognitive abilities in older adults with common neuropathologies of dementia. The study found that a balanced lifestyle provides cognitive reserve, protecting against cognitive decline.
A systematic review and meta-analysis of 104 studies with 341,000 participants found that physical activity was associated with better late-life cognition, although the association was weak. The findings suggest that even a weak link between physical activity and cognitive decline is still important from a population health perspective.
Participation in moderate to vigorous leisure-time physical activity was associated with lower odds of non-injurious and injurious falls among older women. Brisk walking also reduced the risk of non-injurious falls.
Researchers found that the brain's pain modulatory system changes with age and gender, making females more sensitive to moderate pain as they get older. The study used fMRI scans to examine brain responses in men and women aged 30-86 and identified a key role for the descending pain modulatory system.
A team led by UCF College of Nursing Professor Victoria Loerzel developed an innovative educational game for older adults with cancer, simulating symptoms and self-management. The game was successful in increasing the use of preventative strategies among participants, reducing symptom severity and hospital admissions.
Research found that oral conditions influence subjective psychological well-being in older adults by affecting nutritional status and environmental factors. Maintaining good oral health can improve nutritional intake, leading to better overall health and well-being.
A new study found that nearly half of older adults who considered elective surgery were deterred by financial concerns and the need for paid time off. In contrast, those worried about post-operative pain were more likely to proceed with surgery.
A study of over 1.6 million ED visits found that nearly two-thirds of low-risk pulmonary embolism patients were hospitalized, despite evidence suggesting safety in outpatient management. Researchers suggest further investigation into ED triage decisions to improve appropriate use of outpatient care.