Research on health and aging in later life. Covers attention and cognition, longevity, organ aging, and age-related disease.
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.
Researchers found that pentosidine and carboxymethyl-lysine, two types of advanced glycation end products, are significantly associated with prevalent vertebral fracture in postmenopausal women. The study suggests that these AGEs may impact bone status via different mechanisms, contributing to impaired bone quality.
A study found that specific Facebook activities, such as posting pictures, commenting, and customizing profiles, are more important to older adults' user experience and well-being than their overall use of the site. These activities enhance feelings of competence, relatedness, and autonomy, leading to higher levels of well-being.
A recent Oregon State University study found that people who believe they can become healthy, engaged individuals in old age are more likely to experience that outcome. Optimism, self-efficacy, and reduced internalization of ageist stereotypes can also positively impact aging perceptions.
Pharmacists helped identify and solve drug-related problems, improving measures such as blood pressure and cholesterol levels. The study found pharmacist-led medication therapy management services reduced medication costs for patients.
A new study suggests that prioritizing older adults for COVID-19 vaccination can save the most lives, with an estimated reduction of 23% in mortality rates over three months. The research also highlights the importance of a fast vaccine rollout and other public health measures to control the spread of the virus.
A recent study published by researchers at the UConn School of Nursing found that older adults tend to report less depression and anxiety despite experiencing greater general concern about COVID-19. The study suggests that older age may offer a buffer against negative feelings brought on by the pandemic.
Research from the University of East Anglia and the University of Groningen found that elderly parents' help in raising their young improves offspring survival rates. The study on Seychelles warblers highlights the benefits of cooperative breeding in social species.
A new poll finds that 45% of adults aged 65-80 and 42% of all adults aged 50-80 lack online medical accounts, which could hinder COVID-19 vaccine scheduling. Patient portals can help bridge this gap, especially for those with lower incomes, education levels, or who require assistance setting up accounts.
A new approach involving specially trained nurses increased ACP discussions with patients, documenting it in 42% of visits compared to 3.7% in normal care groups. The nurse-led group used an electronic health record tool to guide the conversation and document patient goals.
Researchers at Rush University Medical Center found that including unhealthy foods in an otherwise healthy Mediterranean diet may reduce cognitive benefits. The study analyzed data from 5,001 older adults and found that those who followed a Western diet had no beneficial effect on slowing cognitive decline.
A study published in the Journal of the American Geriatric Society found that food insecurity increased significantly among older US adults from 5.5% to 12.4% between 2007 and 2016. Older adults with food insecurity tend to have lower quality diets.
A recent study by UCSF-led researchers highlights the devastating impact of the pandemic on 4.3 million older adults with cognitive impairment living alone. These individuals experience extreme isolation, misinformation, and barriers to accessing medical care, leading to increased distress and negative health outcomes.
A new special issue of Innovation in Aging explores the psychosocial factors influencing mental health status in racial and ethnic minority populations. The research sheds light on protective factors such as religion and social support, while highlighting risk factors like obesity and stress.
A study of 13,061 participants aged 60+ found that loneliness and social isolation increase the risk of falls in elderly people. Those living alone or with little social contact were 18-42% more likely to report a fall or hospital admission.
A study of 31 older adults found that acceptable noise levels in restaurants vary, with even those considered 'age-friendly' being too loud. The researchers suggest that restaurants can create more comfortable environments for customers, leading to increased patronage and revenue.
A Community Connectors service can boost confidence in engaging with community activities and enhance social networks among older adults. The program has been shown to provide vital support for well-being during the COVID-19 pandemic, particularly for those who cannot access remote services.
A study of older adults hospitalized with influenza during the 2011-2012 flu season found that functional decline was common and often persistent. Higher frailty at admission was associated with increased risk of catastrophic disability and death.
A recent University of Copenhagen study finds that male seniors do cook and enjoy it, often making elaborate meals, while widowed women view cooking as a chore. This research adds nuance to the picture of older generations living alone, suggesting changing gender roles are not just applicable to younger generations.
The University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center is developing a comprehensive approach to managing chronic pain in older adults by reducing opioid use and promoting non-opioid alternatives. The grant aims to establish standards for pain management that prioritize non-opioid medications, treatments, and physical therapy options.