Articles tagged with Older Adults
A randomized controlled trial found that tai chi is as effective as conventional exercise in reducing waist circumference and improving HDL cholesterol levels among middle-aged and older adults with central obesity. The study's findings are good news for those who may prefer tai chi due to limited mobility or preference.
A recent study found that adults with cerebral palsy receive significantly less physical therapy for musculoskeletal disorders, despite greater risk of secondary comorbid conditions. The researchers underscore the need for increased clinical awareness and improved screening strategies to address this inequity in healthcare.
An analysis of nine studies found that active music-making can provide significant cognitive benefits to older adults with mild cognitive impairment or dementia. Music-based interventions have the potential to support millions of older adults in their emotional, social, and well-being needs.
A study published in British Journal of Clinical Pharmacology found that potentially inappropriate prescribing is associated with functional decline, falls and hospital admissions. Decision support tools can help reduce medication-related harm, but comprehensive assessment of medication use during care transitions is crucial.
A novel rehabilitation program, REHAB-HF, improved physical function, balance, mobility, strength, and endurance in hospitalized older patients with acute heart failure. The program, tailored to individual needs and starting early in the hospital stay, showed significant gains regardless of ejection fraction.
A study published in the American Journal of Preventive Medicine found that social isolation has a profound impact on physical functioning in older adults. Socially integrated older adults are more likely to engage in physical activity and experience improvements in their physical functioning. The study highlights the importance of inc...
Researchers at Michigan State University found a possible link between poor sense of smell and a higher risk of pneumonia hospitalization. Older adults with a poor sense of smell were about 50% more likely to be hospitalized with pneumonia compared to those with a good sense of smell.
A new study found a decrease in major abdominal surgeries among older adults, except for certain procedures like pancreatic cancer. The study suggests improvements in medical treatments and cancer screening may reduce the need for invasive surgeries.
A recent study published in Aging & Mental Health suggests that Chinese parents experience approximately 1.3 times more psychological distress after losing an only child compared to losing a spouse. The loss of an only child is devastating due to the emotional, financial, and instrumental support it provides to older adults.
A study by the American Psychological Association found that people who feel younger have better cognitive functioning, lower inflammation, and a lower risk of hospitalization compared to those who feel older. The researchers suggest that feeling younger could help buffer middle-aged and older adults against stress's negative effects.
A new poll reveals nearly one in five older adults say their mental health has gotten worse since the pandemic began, with an equal percentage saying their sleep has suffered. Despite this, two-thirds of respondents report excellent or very good mental health, and over 80% say it's as good or better than 20 years ago.
A new commentary proposes that pulse oximeters be used instead of temperature checks for COVID-19 screening in older adults due to lower baseline temperatures and overlooked fever. This could help detect asymptomatic hypoxia and prevent infection progression, improving treatment outcomes.
A new paradigm for usability aims to address accessibility issues worldwide, with a focus on marginalized groups. The approach emphasizes the importance of user-centered design and its potential to drive improvements in various fields.
A new study suggests that cooling breaks can improve autophagic function in older adults, potentially reducing cellular damage from extreme heat. Researchers found that visiting a cooling center reduced core body temperature and improved markers of autophagy in participants.
Dr. Megan Huisingh-Scheetz, a geriatrician and epidemiologist, received the fourth Arti Hurria Memorial Award for Emerging Investigators in Internal Medicine Who are Focused on the Care of Older Adults. Her research investigates ways to advance frailty assessment and care through technology. Dr. Huisingh-Scheetz developed a program usi...
A team of scientists at Baycrest's Rotman Research Institute is investigating the effects of prior knowledge on learning and memory in bird experts. Using functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) and electrical currents, they aim to determine whether a similar process takes place in the human brain.
The study found that the vaccine is highly effective across all age ranges, with 92% effectiveness in preventing symptomatic disease in individuals 70 years and older. Vaccine effectiveness varied among subpopulations, with slightly lower rates in multi-morbid populations and immunosuppressed individuals.
Researchers developed an ankle exoskeleton that significantly increased self-selected walking speed in young adults, with a 42% average increase. The device has potential for improving daily life and may also reduce pain caused by weight on joints or improve balance in older adults.
Listening to music before bed significantly improves sleep quality among older adults. Longer listening periods yield the most effective results. Music therapy is an easy-to-administer strategy that may become a first-line treatment option.
A recent study suggests that preserving physical and mental health helps older adults experiencing cognitive impairment stave off declines in cognitive engagement. The researchers found that declines in physical and mental health were associated with more pronounced cognitive disengagement, particularly among participants with advanced...
A new study suggests that home health care growth is 'small and inadequate' compared to the increasing demand in an aging America. Targeted policies are needed to support home-based medical care.
New research from the University of Birmingham found that older adults are more likely to work harder for others, even without financial reward. This 'prosocial behaviour' is crucial for social cohesion and contradicts the stereotype that older adults become less altruistic as they age.
A recent Baycrest study found that engaging in household chores is associated with greater brain volume and improved cognitive health in older adults. Household activities such as tidying, meal preparation, and yard work may contribute to these benefits by promoting neural connections and reducing sedentary behavior.
Family clustering is a confirmed phenomenon associated with COVID-19, causing extreme emotional and physical distress among family members. The article provides strategies for patients, doctors, nurses, and families to navigate this challenging situation, including addressing guilt and shame stemming from transmission of the disease.
A nationally representative survey found that over 40% of US adults aged 50-80 trust online reviews almost as much as family or friend recommendations when selecting a physician. Factors such as insurance acceptance and race/ethnicity were more influential, with online reviews ranking ninth in importance.
A new study finds that convenience and access outweigh reputation when older adults choose a doctor, with online ratings playing an important role. The study also reveals disparities in the perceived importance of online ratings among different demographic groups.
A new study found that positive airway pressure therapy for obstructive sleep apnea reduces Alzheimer's disease and other types of dementia risk. Researchers analyzed Medicare claims of over 50,000 Medicare beneficiaries ages 65+, finding a significant association between PAP use and lower dementia risk.
Researchers from Nagoya Institute of Technology in Japan propose a new protocol to evaluate postural balance control for elderly patients with low back pain. They found that local vibratory stimulation can improve proprioceptive function and alleviate symptoms.
A recent poll suggests that the COVID-19 pandemic has created a chance for older adults to discuss their healthcare wishes with loved ones, but many are still not taking action. Only 59% of respondents said they had discussed their preferences, and 46% had completed advance directives or powers of attorney. Despite these efforts, 1 in ...
Researchers explored how molecular changes in Alzheimer's patients relate to brain function, developed a new model for predicting life expectancy of older adults with multiple chronic diseases, and examined older firearm owners' perspectives on retiring their guns.
A pilot human clinical trial found that GlyNAC improved various age-related defects, including glutathione deficiency, oxidative stress, and mitochondrial dysfunction. The benefits were maintained for 24 weeks but declined after stopping supplementation.
A recent OSU study found that resolving arguments significantly reduces emotional response associated with disagreements, leading to improved overall health. Researchers discovered that people who felt their conflicts were resolved reported lower stress levels on both the day of the encounter and the day after.
A recent study found that older adults in Finland primarily left their homes for physical exercise and walking outdoors during the first wave of the coronavirus pandemic. Despite government restrictions, these individuals prioritized physical activity over other activities.
The USPSTF recommends no routine screening for hearing loss in asymptomatic adults 50 and older due to insufficient evidence. Nearly 16% of U.S. adults report difficulty hearing, which is associated with increased risks of falls, hospitalizations, social isolation, and cognitive decline.
A new study by UC San Francisco found that approximately 5 million Americans, or 42% of those with mobility constraints, lacked essential devices such as grab bars and shower seats. The research emphasizes the importance of affordable and accessible assistive devices to improve quality of life for elderly individuals.
A new poll shows that 10% of older adults between 50-80 years old obtained a pet during the pandemic, with 59% of those in this age range being pet owners. Pet ownership was higher among women, whites, and employed individuals, providing companionship and social support.
The article suggests paying for elderly care homes in lower-income countries as a practical solution to the eldercare crisis. The proposed policy would enable older citizens to access affordable and decent care, while also benefiting local economies.
A significant number of older adults in the US lack necessary equipment to assist with bathing and toileting. The study estimates that many adults struggle without this support, highlighting a pressing public health concern.
A large-scale study in Denmark reveals that most people who have had COVID-19 are protected from catching it again for at least six months. However, elderly patients are more prone to reinfection, with only 47% protection against repeat infection compared to 80% for younger people.
A new study by University at Buffalo researchers found that 94% of older adults were prescribed fall-risk-increasing drugs in 2017, leading to a significant increase in deaths from falls. The study also revealed that women, particularly Black women, were more likely to be prescribed these medications.
A new analysis of cases in six US states experiencing surges found that adolescents and young adults are indeed more susceptible to COVID-19. The study, published in PLOS ONE, analyzed data from a total of over 200,000 cases.
A new poll by Michigan Medicine shows a significant increase in COVID-19 vaccination enthusiasm among older adults with high risk of severe illness. By late January, 71% of people aged 50-70 were ready to get vaccinated, up from 58%, while those in fair or poor health saw an 11-point jump in likelihood.
The university will focus on breakthroughs in automated driving, robotics, and machine-assisted cognition with a total of $2.2M in funding over three years. Researchers will develop a standardized testbed and protocol for testing autonomous vehicles and create robots to assist older adults age in place.
A national poll reveals that 80% of Americans over 50 haven't had their hearing checked by a professional in two years. Despite growing evidence about the importance of hearing, many older adults face barriers to timely care due to cost and stigma.
A pooled analysis of five studies reveals significant differences in cognitive decline between men and women, with women experiencing a more rapid decline. The study suggests that women's brains may be more susceptible to age-related cognitive changes, with potential implications for gender-specific interventions.
A recent study estimates that delirium in older adults one year after major elective surgery results in significant healthcare costs. The study analyzed Medicare claims and clinical data to determine the financial impact of delirium on patients, providing valuable insights for clinicians and policymakers.
Researchers at UTA will match students with dementia patients for a two-year project using reminiscence therapy and digital memoirs to improve social and emotional well-being. The team hopes this intergenerational approach will promote better outcomes for older adults with Alzheimer's disease.
Researchers found that light-intensity physical activity, such as gardening or walking, may protect mobility in older women. Women who spent the most time performing light-intensity activities had a 46% lower risk of mobility loss compared to those with lower levels of physical activity.
A new program has shown that participatory programs encouraging elderly patients to be active need greater emphasis in elderly care centers. The Adachi Rehabilitation Program increased participants' step count even on days with no sessions, leading to improved physical activity for older adults.
A study found that older adults understand the risks of overusing antibiotics, but many still use them incorrectly. Over 91% of respondents are cautious about using antibiotics, yet nearly 56% believe doctors overprescribe them, while 34% think antibiotics can help with viral illnesses like colds and flu.
A recent study published in Aging found that very short sleep duration, poor-quality sleep, and snoring were associated with a higher risk of incident dementia. The study also revealed an increased risk of all-cause mortality among participants who reported less than five hours of sleep per night.
Researchers found that elderly choir singers had better verbal flexibility and emotional wellbeing compared to control groups. Choir singing for longer periods also increased feelings of social togetherness among the elderly.
A study published in Psychology and Aging suggests that older adults exhibit lower mind-wandering frequency and perform better on cognitive tasks due to increased motivation. This is attributed to their ability to reduce anxiety and improve focus, which enables them to mitigate potential costs associated with mind-wandering.
Researchers explore the potential of rapalogs to improve vaccine response and outcomes in biologically aged individuals. The study suggests that geroprotectors, such as rapamycin, may enhance resilience against SARS-CoV-2 infection and reduce disease severity.
A new study from the University of Kansas explores how older environmentally-minded individuals consider death care and their chances of choosing eco-friendly burials. Despite growing awareness of green burials, many participants expressed uncertainty about the practice due to societal and cultural pressures.
A new program at the University of Pittsburgh, funded by the NIH, aims to educate investigators and innovators on designing for older adults. The Human Factors of Aging program will help translate research into action, considering physical, cognitive, and sensory issues that often get overlooked.
A large study found that older adults with moderately elevated blood sugar levels do not frequently develop full-blown diabetes. Instead, many improve their blood glucose levels or die from other causes, suggesting that the 'prediabetes' diagnosis is less useful in this age group.
A recent poll shows significant inequality in older adults' ability to isolate a COVID-positive person at home, with those who are Hispanic or Black, or have lower incomes or poor health, being more likely to lack access. The poll also highlights disparities in outdoor spaces and social connections among older adults.
People with severe mental disorders have a significantly increased risk of dying from COVID-19, with mortality rates almost four times higher than in the general population. The study, which analyzed data from over eight million individuals, highlights the importance of addressing both mental and physical health problems in this group.
A new study examining sleep deprivation and frailty reveals that short sleep intensifies the impacts of frailty on depressive symptoms. Frail older adults who experienced worsening frailty and short sleep were more likely to develop higher levels of depression.