Articles tagged with Older Adults
A new study from the University of Georgia suggests that playing mahjong can reduce rates of depression among middle-aged and older adults in China. The study found that urban residents who played mahjong were less likely to feel depressed, while rural Chinese overall tended to report poor mental health.
Researchers identified differences in gut microbiome composition between physically high-functioning and low-functioning older adults. The study suggests that the gut microbiome plays a role in maintaining muscle strength in older adults, with mice colonized with fecal samples from high-functioning individuals showing increased grip st...
Research highlights existing studies and recommended areas for further investigation into cannabis use among older adults, addressing concerns about public health policy and potential harms. Insights from five articles explore topics such as cannabis use disorders, co-occurring substance use disorders, and related comorbidities.
A new study found that weight loss interventions among older adults with obesity result in persistent loss of hip bone mineral density, regardless of subsequent weight regain. Losses in both fat mass and lean mass contribute to reduced bone health.
A study by FSU researchers found that pet owners experienced lower levels of depression and loneliness than non-pet owners after the loss of a spouse. The companionship of pets may provide an alternative to human social support networks in reducing negative psychological consequences.
Research by Tiziana Nazio explores how early family formation affects emotional and practical support in older age. The study found that women still bear the brunt of caregiving, but having a partner or child is crucial for receiving practical help. Family trajectories may shape networks, but they do not change the probability of recei...
A new study found an inverse relationship between mushroom consumption and the development of prostate cancer among middle-aged and elderly Japanese men. Regular mushroom intake was associated with an 8-17% lower risk of prostate cancer.
A new study by the American Cancer Society finds that colorectal cancer incidence is increasing exclusively in young adults in nine high-income countries. The rates are rising in contrast to stable or declining trends in older adults, suggesting changes in early-life exposures are increasing CRC risk.
A new national poll found that many older adults aren't fully prepared for emergency situations, with fewer than half having signed up for emergency warning systems or put together an emergency kit. The poll highlights the importance of key steps such as having a backup power supply and communicating evacuation plans with loved ones.
The UNT Health Science Center has been awarded a $3.75 million federal grant to expand its WE HAIL geriatric training program, which aims to prepare healthcare professionals to treat older adults with unique and complex needs. The program, already recognized for its success in serving older Texans, will now be expanded to include addit...
A randomized controlled trial of Positive Minds-Strong Bodies (PMSB) intervention shows improved functioning and mood in racial and ethnic minority and immigrant older adults. The culturally tailored intervention significantly improves mood symptoms and functioning.
A Canadian study suggests that vaccinating older adults against shingles is cost-effective, with the Shingrix vaccine providing better protection than Zostavax. The study found that fewer people need to be vaccinated to prevent one case of shingles for the newer vaccine.
A new study found that people with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) who have a heart attack are less likely to receive evidence-based treatment. Despite this, researchers emphasize that MCI does not necessarily mean reduced benefit from treatment and that patients should still receive care when indicated.
A leading public health expert warns of systemic failures in the public health system that led to the deaths of 17 elderly patients. The expert draws parallels with two major incidents in the mid-1980s, highlighting the need for strengthened public health and better links between the NHS and local government.
A study found that adults carrying a gene associated with higher Alzheimer's risk had difficulty accessing recently acquired knowledge, despite normal cognitive scores. The research used a listening test to assess attention and memory, revealing greater challenges for individuals with the APOE4 gene.
Researchers at USC Center for Body Computing found that free ride programs can help older adults attend medical appointments more frequently, reducing social isolation. The study provided unlimited Lyft rides to patients with chronic diseases, resulting in improved quality-of-life experiences.
A new study by USC researchers identifies family members as the most common perpetrators of financial elder abuse, making up nearly 55% of reported cases. The study analyzed over 2,000 calls to a National Center on Elder Abuse resource line and found that family members were responsible for more than 42% of alleged abuses.
Research found that people with sensory impairments can expect fewer years of remaining life with limited physical function and ADLs. Those with both vision and hearing impairments had the greatest reduction in health expectancy, spending nearly one-third of their life with limitation in physical function.
A study published in the Journal of the American Geriatrics Society found that older adults who engage in regular physical activity and mental stimulation before surgery have a lower risk of developing postoperative delirium. Participants who were physically active six to seven days a week had a 73% lower chance of experiencing deliriu...
A new USC study found that older adults are less distracted by negative information compared to younger adults. The researchers used a quickly presented sequence of images to examine how attention is affected by emotion. Older adults showed a selective bias toward positive information, prioritizing it over negative stimuli.
A new system detects abnormalities in elderly heart rates and temperatures, triggering drone-delivered first aid. The wearable device monitors vital signs wirelessly and quickly alerts caregivers via smartphone notifications.
Rutgers researchers analyzed data from over 3,000 Chinese Americans aged 60+, finding widespread psychological and social stressors associated with caregiving distress and intergenerational conflict. The study highlights the need for improved research participation and health equity among minority groups.
Research found that older adults are more likely to condemn accidentally harmful actions, even when no intent was involved. This could impact jury decisions and the legal system's approach to moral judgment.
A global study found that frailty affects 4.3% of people over 60 annually, with women more likely to develop the condition. Interventions like muscle strength training and protein supplementation may help prevent or delay frailty progression.
A systematic review and meta-analysis estimated the rate of new cases of frailty and prefrailty among older adults, with a high risk of progressing to frailty. The study combined results from 46 observational studies involving nearly 121,000 non-frail adults from 28 countries.
Elderly intensive care patients who have been vaccinated against influenza have a reduced risk of dying and suffering a blood clot or bleeding in the brain. The study found an eight percent lower risk of dying during the first year following hospitalization for those who were vaccinated.
A study by NYU School of Medicine found that over 10% of adults aged 65+ binge drink, with males and cannabis users more likely to engage in this behavior. Binge drinking increases the risk of health problems, particularly among older adults with chronic health issues.
A new position statement suggests resistance training is crucial for improving the health and longevity of older adults. It provides evidence-based recommendations for successful resistance training programs, highlighting practical applications and functional benefits.
A study by UC Riverside researchers found that older adults who learned three to five classes simultaneously showed significant increases in cognitive abilities, similar to those of middle-aged adults. The study suggests that intense learning experiences can improve cognitive functioning in older populations.
A new class of drug lead derived from N-arylpyrrole exhibits potent anesthetic activity with minimal blood pressure suppression, suggesting a safer alternative to traditional anesthetics. The compound shows promise in tadpoles and rats, providing hope for improved patient safety.
Researchers identified subclinical myocardial damage and cardiac wall strain as strong risk factors for falls in older adults without known cardiovascular disease. These findings suggest optimizing cardiovascular health may prevent falls among seniors.
Research suggests that older adults who experience cognitive impairment, dementia, or delirium after a hip fracture are more likely to experience functional decline and disability. Despite this, some older adults can recover and regain mobility after surgery.
A study published in the Journal of the American Geriatric Society found that poorer overall diet quality was associated with a higher incidence of frailty in older adults. Improving diet quality may help lower the risk of frailty, with good-quality diets shown to have a significantly lower risk compared to poor- and medium-quality diets.
Shortness of breath and cough/wheeze in smokers reduce life expectancy, while mild respiratory symptoms warrant further investigation
A recent study found that the brain becomes desensitized to background motion, making it easier to distinguish smaller moving objects in the foreground. Older adults can improve their motion segregation abilities through visual training, narrowing the gap with younger counterparts.
Researchers have proposed a gait-based identification method for elderly users using wearable devices, improving the accuracy of authentication for older adults. The method uses a gait template synthesis algorithm and arbitration-based score-level fusion to alleviate intra-subject gait fluctuation.
A study found that 40% of older adults initiating dialysis experienced a decline in functional status, with higher risks in those with advanced age and frailty. Caregivers also reported an increased burden after dialysis initiation.
A new assessment reveals that older adults' independence is the most significant factor in their vulnerability to extreme heat. The study found that individuals with limited financial and physical assets are more susceptible to temperature extremes, highlighting the need for tailored support strategies.
A study of 50 Atlanta-area adults found that poor sleep time and quality negatively impact memory recall in older adults. The research also revealed significant racial differences in sleep patterns tied to lower memory performance.
A University of Waterloo study found that home-care patients in Alberta and British Columbia are more likely to be sent to hospital, while long-term care residents in these provinces were half as likely as those in Ontario. The researchers attributed regional differences to healthcare policies and infrastructure.
A Mount Sinai study found improved asthma control and quality of life in older patients, with a significant reduction in emergency department visits. The study tested a patient-tailored self-management support intervention, which targeted social determinants of health and achieved meaningful improvements.
Death rates from falls for US adults 75 or older rose significantly from 2000 to 2016, with a 128% increase in absolute deaths and a 131% increase in death rates per 100,000 people. This trend was observed across different age groups, particularly among men aged 75-79 and women aged 95 or older.
A 12-month home exercise program reduced fall rates by 36% in high-risk seniors with a history of falls and mobility impairments. The study found improved cognitive function as a secondary benefit, reducing risk of injury and loss of independence for older adults.
A recent study found that older adults are using cannabis for various reasons, including pain management and depression. Despite the benefits, many report barriers to accessing medical marijuana, such as a lack of provider education and stigma. The study suggests that healthcare providers need to be more open to discussing cannabis use...
A six-month pilot study assesses the effectiveness of a telephone-based care program for homebound seniors with dementia, aiming to reduce caregiver burden and prevent hospitalization. The program uses a modified Care Consultation Intervention, which involves assessments and action plans to support unmet needs.
A new study found that Medicare spending is higher for older adults with disabilities who experience negative consequences such as going without eating or bathing due to lack of help. The study emphasizes the importance of non-medical care and supports for community-living older adults with disabilities.
A recent study by the University of the Basque Country highlights the importance of standardizing thickeners for people with dysphagia. The research found significant gaps in current guidelines, leading to concerns over food safety and swallowing difficulties.
A new University of Michigan study found that fall-related injuries are a leading cause of hospital readmissions among people 65 or older. Hospitals can improve patient recovery and mobility by emphasizing personalized fall prevention before discharge, especially for at-risk patients.
A new supplement to The Gerontologist journal calls for a comprehensive approach to cancer prevention in older adults, including improved health literacy, sun protection, and positive attitudes toward aging. Experts identify opportunities to reduce cancer risk through evidence-based measures and best practices.
Researchers developed a new cognitive training game to improve road safety among elderly drivers, CTCD showed improved car driving skills and cognitive functions in older adults after six weeks of play.
This observational study found that statin use was associated with a modestly reduced risk of long-term dementia after a concussion in older adults. The analysis examined nearly 29,000 adults and found that the risk of dementia was substantial, but statin use helped mitigate this risk.
Researchers found that older adults who regularly participate in word and number puzzles have improved brain function, particularly in attention, reasoning, and memory. The study suggests that engaging with these puzzles can lead to cognitive improvements equivalent to a decade younger in age.
Researchers found that the risk of stroke at middle age declined by 39% and at older age by 53% between 1998-2005 and previous periods. Lifestyle choices like exercise and a healthy diet can reduce stroke risk across all ages.
Researchers found that rTMS improved working memory performance in both young and older adults, with the effect most pronounced when participants were actively using the information. The study suggests that brain stimulation may be a viable treatment option for individuals with Alzheimer's disease and other forms of dementia.
A new tool, SymTrak, tracks symptoms such as pain, fatigue, and anxiety in older adults, enabling clinicians to provide better care for potentially related diseases. The tool was developed by researchers at the Regenstrief Institute and Indiana University to identify early onset of complex issues.
A meta-analysis found that inappropriate prescribing in primary care is associated with emergency room visits, adverse drug events, and functional decline. The study highlights the need for effective interventions to address this issue and its impact on older adults' quality of life.
Researchers at the University of Cincinnati have created a lifelike robotic dog that can provide care in addition to companionship for older adults. The new prototype offers features such as fall detection, connectedness to caregivers and loved ones, vital sign monitoring, and helpful reminders.
A new research study published in the Canadian Medical Association Journal found that a community volunteer program can reduce healthcare usage among older adults and shift care from hospitals to primary care. The Health TAPESTRY program combines volunteers with electronic software to support optimal aging, leading to increased physica...
A study of 600 adult marijuana users found that cannabis use motivates exercise, improves enjoyment, and boosts recovery. While cannabis may not enhance performance, it could serve as a benefit to exercise engagement.
A new report calls for increased research into 'limbic-predominant age-related TDP-43 encephalopathy,' or LATE, a degenerative brain disease that affects the elderly and mimics Alzheimer's. Researchers aim to improve prevention, diagnosis, and treatment through better understanding of the condition.