Articles tagged with Older Adults
A secondary analysis of a randomized clinical trial found that daily low-dose aspirin increases the risk of intracranial bleeding in healthy older adults, but does not reduce ischemic stroke risk. The study's findings have particular relevance to individuals prone to developing intracranial bleeding after head trauma.
Researchers discovered that adult and aged mice demonstrated improved performance in behavioral tasks after environmental enrichment, with MSK1 playing a vital role. The study highlights the importance of MSK1 in converting positive experiences into cognitive benefits across the lifespan.
A new study by Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center reveals that older adults who belong to sexual and gender minorities experience higher rates of frailty, starting at younger ages, compared to non-OSGM participants. The research highlights the need for early geriatric assessment among OSGM and potential targets to mitigate frailty.
A new study published in Circulation found that heat waves and high levels of fine particulate pollution can double the risk of fatal heart attacks. The combination of extreme temperatures and fine particulate pollution was associated with an increased risk of heart attack deaths, especially among women and older adults.
A large Danish study indicates a persistent link between depression in early and middle life and increased risk of dementia. Depression diagnosed during these periods more than doubles the likelihood of developing dementia.
A nationwide study of 11,000 older adults found that social isolation significantly increased the risk of skilled nursing facility stays and nursing home placement over two years. The study suggests that enhancing social contact at home or in community settings may help delay or deter nursing home entry.
A program integrated community health workers into patient outreach to improve health, doubling annual visits to older adults with type 2 diabetes and dementia. The program resulted in a 17% reduction in hospital admissions and an 11% decline in emergency room visits among homebound patients.
A Michigan Medicine study in Texas found that 61.4% of older adults with cognitive impairment are still driving, but one-third of caregivers have concerns about their care recipient's ability to drive safely. Researchers emphasize the need for open discussions between caregivers and healthcare professionals to ensure safety.
A new study from UC Davis Health found that volunteering in late life is associated with better executive function and episodic memory. Those who volunteered several times per week had the highest levels of executive function, potentially serving as a simple intervention against Alzheimer's disease and associated dementias.
A new poll of people aged 65-80 found that 80% believe cognitive tests can give early warning signs of memory decline and 60% think healthcare providers should offer them annually. Despite this, only 1 in 5 have had a cognitive screening test in the past year.
A new study found that a dedicated older people's emergency department at Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital reduced wait times by 20% compared to the main emergency department. Patients treated under this initiative received earlier frailty assessments within 34 minutes of arrival, leading to fewer hospital admissions.
A study of 1.6 million patients reveals that residing in disadvantaged neighborhoods increases the risk of dementia among older veterans integrated into a national healthcare system. The results suggest that socioeconomic factors contribute to cognitive decline and increase the risk of developing dementia.
A McMaster-led research study found that a virtual rehabilitation program for seniors with frailty was highly adhered to and showed improvements in mobility and quality of life. The study's results suggest that virtually delivered care is an alternative to in-person programs, potentially helping prevent decline in bodily functions.
A study finds that carbon pricing policies will harm the elderly, particularly those on fixed incomes, by increasing the cost of heating and cooling. The authors propose targeted social protection schemes to buffer the impacts on the elderly as the world works to mitigate climate change.
The updated guidelines urge the clinical use of validated geriatric assessments (GA) to guide treatments in patients aged 65 and older. This approach often results in de-escalation or reduction of therapies, reducing side effects and improving quality of life without compromising survival odds.
A new study found that COVID-19 vaccines significantly reduced dementia-related deaths in long-term care and nursing homes, with a 77% decrease in the second year. However, deaths among those living at home did not decline as much, with only a 16% reduction.
Researchers investigated the effects of meditation training and non-native language training on cognition in older adults. Despite initial expectations, these interventions failed to demonstrate salutary cognitive effects, casting doubt on their potential as a preventative measure for aging-related decline.
This survey study found that all types of visually impairing eye conditions are associated with increased dementia risk. Prioritizing vision health may be crucial for maintaining cognitive function in older adults.
A new study published in The Lancet Healthy Longevity journal found that superagers, individuals with razor-sharp memory function, have faster movement speed and better mental health compared to typical older adults. They also tend to have lower rates of anxiety and depression.
A new study sheds light on the intersection of Alzheimer's caregiving and the LGBT experience, highlighting common themes such as social isolation, financial security, and grief support. The research reveals that LGBT caregivers face unique challenges due to lack of family support and discrimination in care settings.
The latest issues of American Psychiatric Association journals feature articles on social determinants of health, youth mental health screening, and AI in psychotherapy. Journalists can access publications by emailing press@psych.org.
A recent study found that older adults experiencing social isolation are 17.1% more likely to smoke compared to those with social interactions. Reducing social isolation can help improve their health and life expectancy.
A large US study of over half a million adults found that BMI was not significantly linked to increased all-cause mortality in most cases. The study suggests that further research is needed to fully understand the relationship between BMI and mortality risk, particularly among younger adults.
A new study finds nearly two-thirds of Medicare Advantage psychiatrist networks contain less than 25% of all psychiatrists, leaving many seniors without access to mental health care. The research suggests that this limited coverage may lead to higher out-of-pocket costs, delays in care, and foregone treatment.
A South African study found that interacting with children can promote a sense of belonging and purpose, reducing anxiety and depression in retirement home residents. The program, which includes activities like playing games and reading, also boosts mood and emotions.
A recent study published in Health and Quality of Life Outcomes found that older adults who maintain moderate-intensity physical activity experience a higher quality of life. The researchers tracked the health-related quality of life of over 1,500 participants aged 60 and above, finding that those who spent more time physically active ...
A study published in JAMA Network Open found a significant association between food insecurity and accelerated memory decline in middle to older-age individuals. The researchers suggest that exposure to food insecurity in older age may have long-term negative effects on cognitive function.
A systematic review of geriatric ED patients with delirium reveals that 16% of older adults presenting with altered mental status have acutely abnormal head imaging findings. Focal neurological deficits greatly increase the risk of abnormal head CTs, while anticoagulation is not associated with these abnormalities.
A recent study found that older Americans living in warmer regions are more likely to experience serious vision impairment. The odds of severe vision impairment were 14% higher for temperatures between 50-54.99°F, 24% higher for 55-59.99°F, and 44% higher for those above 60°F.
A study published in Management Science found that the UK's Covid vaccine mandate caused a 3-4% reduction in staffing in elderly care homes, equivalent to 14,000 to 19,000 employees. The policy led to an increase in reliance on agency workers and persisted even after the mandate was lifted.
Significant reductions in nicotine dependence were found among U.S. adults with cigarette use from 2006 to 2019, particularly among those 50 years and older. Tobacco cessation strategies tailored to age and comorbidities are needed for this population.
A recent study found that elderly patients treated in local intermediate care units have lower mortality rates and fewer hospital readmissions. The research suggests that Norway's healthcare system has improved with the introduction of these units, providing better integrated services adapted to individual users.
A novel study found that honokiol promotes healing of rotator cuff injury and may be an effective treatment for humans. The study suggests that SIRT3 activation plays a protective role in alleviating aging-induced fibrocartilage degeneration and promoting rotator cuff healing.
The USPSTF concludes that the current evidence is insufficient to assess the balance of benefits and harms of screening for anxiety disorders in older adults. Anxiety disorders are commonly occurring mental health conditions often unrecognized in primary care settings, leading to substantial delays in treatment initiation.
New research found that social infrastructure in rural communities can provide essential support to older, non-white adults. This study highlights the importance of community spaces in promoting healthy aging among Black and Hispanic older adults, who are disproportionately affected by loneliness and mental health issues.
The USPSTF recommends regular screening for depression in the adult population to address its significant impact on daily functioning. Major depressive disorder can lead to increased mortality if left untreated.
A new study analyzing data from the ASPREE trial found that prolonged daily aspirin use increases the risk of anaemia by 20 per cent in people mostly aged 70 and over. Regular monitoring for anaemia should be considered for older adults taking low-dose aspirin.
A post-hoc analysis of the ASPREE trial found that low-dose aspirin was associated with a 20% increased incidence of anemia and decline in ferritin levels in healthy older adults. The study recommends periodic monitoring of hemoglobin for patients taking aspirin.
A six-month study found daily multivitamin/multimineral supplementation had a positive effect on key nutrition biomarkers in healthy older men. The researchers also found that the changes in nutrition status could have direct connections to cellular function.
The University of Central Florida has launched a five-year program to increase diversity among student researchers focused on health disparities in aging. The INTREPID program aims to provide hands-on learning, promote an affinity toward older adults, and create a sense of community through socialization.
A new UK survey study led by Lancaster University found that 6.6% of the population aged 16 and over changed their reported sexual identity over a six-year period. The research challenges the assumption that sexual identity mobility declines with age, revealing that it is as prevalent among over-65s as young people.
A large-scale registry study found that older autistic adults have a significantly higher risk of injury, especially self-inflicted, and physical conditions such as type 2 diabetes and anaemia. Autistic individuals had a seven-fold risk of self-harm compared to non-autistic people.
A new study followed over 7,000 middle-aged and older Canadians for three years, finding that social participation was associated with successful aging. Those who engaged in volunteer work and recreational activities were more likely to maintain excellent health and less likely to develop physical or mental problems.
A supervised hospital walking program has been shown to reduce nursing facility admissions for older adults by lowering the proportion of patients discharged to skilled nursing facilities from 13% to 8%. However, low participation rates and limited impact on length of stay or inpatient falls were noted.
A retrospective cohort study of over 66,000 older adults found that intensive antihypertensive treatment during hospitalization was linked to greater risk of adverse events. Treating asymptomatic elevated blood pressure in hospitalized patients may not be necessary and could lead to overtreatment.
A low-cost clip attachment uses a smartphone's camera and flash to monitor blood pressure, making it easy and affordable for resource-poor communities. The technology was tested on 24 volunteers and showed comparable results to traditional blood pressure cuffs.
Researchers found that a combination of amyloid burden and blood markers of abnormal astrocyte activation can predict Alzheimer's disease progression. Testing for these biomarkers may help identify patients at risk, enabling earlier diagnosis and treatment.
A recent study published in Annals of Internal Medicine found that elderly hospitalized patients treated by physicians with MD or DO degrees had virtually identical mortality rates, readmissions, length of stay, and healthcare spending. The results suggest high-quality care regardless of the physician's educational background.
A large-scale study found that a low-flavanol diet drives age-related memory loss. Replenishing flavanols in mildly deficient adults over 60 improves cognitive function and supports the idea that aging brains require specific nutrients for optimal health.
Researcher Micah Tan has been recognized for his work on older adults' health and wellbeing. His research focuses on developing holistic measures of wellbeing that can span economic, psychological, social, and mental dimensions. He aims to help more people age successfully by enabling them to contribute meaningfully to their communities.
A University of Maryland study found that walking strengthened brain connectivity and improved memory in older adults with normal brain function and those diagnosed with mild cognitive impairment. The research adds to the growing evidence that exercise slows cognitive decline and may delay Alzheimer's disease.
A study by Florida Atlantic University and CINVESTAV found that long-term running maintains the connectivity of adult-born hippocampal neurons, which contribute to memory function during aging. Exercise may prevent or delay age-related memory decline by increasing the survival and modifying the network of these neurons.
A nationwide VR research project is working to create diverse groups of participants to reflect real-world social dynamics. The Virtual Experience Research Accelerator (VERA) aims to provide researchers with access to large, reliable, and diverse groups for various VR research projects.
A new poll shows that three-quarters of people aged 50-80 have used at least one patient portal, with lower rates among those with lower incomes or physical/mental health concerns. Portal users prefer online access over phone calls for some tasks, but some still face barriers to using the platforms.
Increasing physical activity, particularly daily 20-minute walks, can improve cardiovascular health and reduce disparities in heart health. Despite this, only one in four American adults meet the recommended physical activity levels, with certain groups facing additional barriers to accessibility.
A Danish nationwide cohort study found that COVID-19 patients, especially those over 70, had a significantly higher risk of developing new-onset mental disorders compared to the general population. Hospitalized COVID-19 patients showed increased mental disorder risk similar to non-COVID-19 hospitalizations.
A large-scale randomized trial found that daily multivitamin supplementation improved memory function in over 3,500 older adults, with effects more pronounced in those with cardiovascular disease. The study suggests that nutrition may play a crucial role in optimizing brain health as we age.
A recent study conducted by NUS researchers shows that weekly exposure to proprietary pulsed electromagnetic field (PEMF) therapy using the BIXEPS device can significantly improve mobility and body composition in older adults, with notable benefits found in functional tests and reduced perception of pain.
A study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition found that higher intake of dietary flavonols, specifically quercetin, was associated with lower odds of frailty onset. Flavonol-rich foods like apples and blackberries may be a useful strategy for preventing frailty in older adults.
Rodlescia Sneed aims to scale up the Chronic Disease Self-Management Program for older adults in state prisons, analyzing factors that influence effectiveness. She seeks to maximize program use in prisons and determine maximum effectiveness through user manual creation and future R01 grant testing.