Articles tagged with Older Adults
A new system using computer avatars detects dementia with high accuracy by analyzing speech and language patterns of elderly individuals. The technology has the potential to encourage early diagnosis through daily conversations with avatars.
A new study reveals that older adults fitted with cochlear implants exhibit poorer cognitive function than normal-hearing counterparts. Rehabilitation should be adjusted to the cognitive profile of cochlear implant patients, and further studies are needed to determine the impact of implants on cognition and decline.
A new study published in JAMA Internal Medicine found that one in four older adults prescribed benzodiazepines continue to use them long-term. The research highlights the need for better education and critical thinking among healthcare providers to reduce the risk of long-term use, particularly among low-income older adults.
A randomized clinical trial found that a Tai Ji Qan balance training program was more effective than other exercise programs in reducing falls among older adults at high risk. The study included 670 participants and lasted six months, with results suggesting improved fall prevention through the specific focus on balance training.
A study by NYU School of Medicine and the Center for Drug Use and HIV/HCV Research found that marijuana use is becoming more prevalent among middle-aged and older adults, with 9% of adults aged 50-64 and nearly 3% of adults 65+ reporting use in the past year. This trend suggests a significant increase in marijuana use over the past dec...
A new study published in Frontiers finds that short chromosome tips (telomeres) are an independent risk factor for age-related functional decline. Participants with the shortest telomeres were more likely to have reduced physical function, regardless of geographical location, age, sex, or weight.
A new poll suggests that primary care providers could play a crucial role in promoting vision care for adults age 50 and older. The poll found that nearly a quarter of respondents said they hadn't had their eyes checked by an eye doctor in three years or more, citing cost and lack of insurance coverage as major barriers.
A new study found that walking more can significantly lower the risk of heart failure in older women, particularly those with reduced ejection fraction. Increased physical activity was associated with a 9-10% risk reduction for heart failure and its subtypes.
Malnutrition affects more elderly people who are unmarried, separated or divorced. Marriage or being widowed tends to prevent malnutrition. Factors such as difficulties walking, coping with stairs, and hospital stays also contribute to the risk.
Research found that even moderate weight loss (20+ pounds) over 20 years increases risk of death by 74%, while greater weight variability is associated with poor physical function. Long-term weight loss may be a marker for increased health decline in older women.
A study of older adults with multiple chronic health conditions and their caregivers revealed key findings about supportive and conflicted caregiver-care recipient relationships. Supportive behaviors included agreement on caregiving levels, mutual understanding, and collaborative decision-making. Conflicts arose from disagreements over...
A study published in the British Journal of Nutrition found that a traditional Mediterranean diet can reduce all-cause mortality by 25% in people over 65 years old. The diet, rich in fruits, vegetables, fish, pulses, olive oil, and cereals, also lowers cardiovascular and cerebrovascular mortality risk.
A large study found that care coordination strategies significantly reduce symptoms of depression and improve health in seniors with multiple chronic diseases. The review included 25 studies and 12,579 older adults, highlighting the potential benefits of managing co-existing chronic illnesses in a coordinated manner.
Research presented at ESC Congress 2018 found that impaired mental status is associated with a doubled risk of death one year after a heart attack in elderly patients. Cognitive impairment was detected in 29% of patients and was linked to higher risks of bleeding complications, rehospitalisation, and death.
A new study found that physical therapy services in the emergency department after a fall can significantly lower repeat visits to the ED for falls. The researchers linked PT services to a reduced risk of future falls, suggesting that EDs could play a crucial role in reducing fall-related ED revisits.
A recent study found that antipsychotic medications are not proven to be effective for treating delirium in older adults after heart surgery, and may even cause heart rhythm problems and other dangerous side effects. The study suggests that the use of these medications is excessive and warrants more appropriate prescribing practices.
A nine-month resistance training intervention improved exercise motivation and planning in older adults, with nearly half continuing independently. Participants who increased intrinsic motivation and confidence maintained twice-a-week training
A large population-based study identified variations in the tongue microbiota among community-dwelling elderly adults in Japan, showing an association with tooth conditions. The study found that a specific group of commensal bacteria were more predominant in those with fewer teeth and dental caries.
Increasing control and physical activity may be the secret to staying young for older adults. Research suggests that a younger subjective age is associated with better memory performance, health, and longevity. A study found that participants who reported feeling more in control on days with higher step counts felt younger.
A study found that resistance training may help minimize bone loss associated with active weight loss in older adults. However, the results suggest that additional intervention strategies are needed to maximize skeletal benefit and preserve overall bone health.
A study by Penn State researchers identified 13 types of problems with screening questions for Alzheimer's disease, including vagueness and emotional triggers. The findings suggest that clinicians can improve their understanding of patients' unique experiences by asking better questions.
Researchers have developed an innovative app, SageServe, to connect older adults with online-based volunteer opportunities, reducing social isolation. The app aims to enhance health and well-being by strengthening existing social roles and developing new ones, catering to those with physical disabilities or cognitive impairments.
A UC Riverside-led study found that adults' willingness to get HIV tested is influenced by factors such as stigma, education, provider recommendations, risk perceptions, and cost. The study also highlighted the need for targeted interventions to reach older adults and Hispanics, who are disproportionately affected by HIV in the US.
A new study by University of Iowa researchers reveals that older adults are less likely to recognize when they've made a mistake. Despite performing tasks similarly to younger adults, older participants acknowledged errors less often and were more adamant about not having made a mistake. This impaired ability has significant consequenc...
A new study of over 5,000 older Irish adults found a strong association between belly fat and reduced cognitive function. The study suggests that reducing obesity could offer a cost-effective public health strategy for preventing cognitive decline.
A recent study found that just two weeks of inactivity can hasten the onset of Type 2 diabetes and elevate blood sugar levels among pre-diabetic patients. The study's findings suggest that seniors who experience periods of physical inactivity are more likely to suffer harmful consequences to their overall health.
Researchers propose 'Event Memory Retrieval and Comparison Theory' that explains how people update memory representations to facilitate processing of changes in everyday actions. The study found older adults had difficulty tracking changes, which accounted for their lower memory performance.
Researchers found that increasing blood sugar levels improves memory and mood in older adults, making them more motivated to perform difficult tasks. This study suggests that short-term energy availability may be an important factor in older adults' motivation, leading to better cognitive engagement and confidence.
A Rutgers study explores the wellbeing of aging Asian-Americans, finding that social activity, family connections, and cultural values are essential to improving health and lowering depression. The research challenges the 'model minority myth' and highlights the need for culturally sensitive healthcare approaches.
The new GSA resource provides practical advice for gerontological professionals to support safe use of OTC analgesics in older adults. Key findings highlight the importance of evaluating pain thoroughly and developing a care plan, with consideration of nonprescription treatment options.
A study by the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign found that a wearable device can accurately predict the risk of falls in older adults. The device uses motion sensors to measure walking patterns and combines this data with an individual's fall history to determine future risk. This prediction could enable preventative measures...
A 10-year follow-up of 6,500 people found that those living in greener neighborhoods experienced a slower rate of cognitive decline compared to those living in less green areas. The study suggests that exposure to urban environmental hazards can have negative effects on mental capacity after aging.
A combination treatment has safely enhanced the ability of the immune system to fight infections in the elderly, reducing their incidence by a year. The treatment, which inhibits TORC1 protein complex, showed improved immune response towards seasonal influenza vaccine, paving the way for therapies targeting infectious diseases.
Researchers at Wake Forest Baptist will investigate lifestyle interventions on cognitive resilience in older adults with type 2 diabetes and obesity. The four-year study aims to confirm earlier findings that intensive lifestyle intervention may decrease cognitive impairment, but paradoxically increase it in those with severe obesity.
A new study found that doctors' predictions of medication-related harm (MRH) in older adults are not reliable. Despite clinical experience and confidence influencing accuracy, predictions were no more accurate than chance. New approaches to identify high-risk individuals are needed to mitigate serious consequences.
A new approach called prehabilitation, combining exercise training, education, and social support, may reduce postoperative complications and hospital length of stay in vulnerable older adults. Two Canadian randomized controlled trials are underway to evaluate the effectiveness of this intervention.
A new study by researchers from Trinity College Dublin has found that a substantial number of adults over 50 are deficient in vitamin B12 and folate. The prevalence of low or deficient folate status increases with age, and is more common among smokers, the obese, and those from lower socio-economic backgrounds.
A national study reveals significant gaps in hearing aid use among Americans over 55, with non-Hispanic whites, college-educated individuals, and those with higher incomes more likely to have a hearing aid. The cost of hearing aids is a major barrier, but having VA insurance coverage levels the playing field.
Lobachevsky University researchers analyzed constructing ideology of social assistance to the elderly in state institutions, public and religious organizations. They found that social care remains traditional, with a focus on passive recipients rather than active involvement.
A pioneering exercise program adapted to individual capabilities improved physical and cognitive state among elderly care home residents. After three months, those doing physical exercise showed significant improvements in strength, walking speed, and balance.
A recent study published in Medical Care found that older adults with higher financial literacy are at lower risk of being hospitalized. The association remained significant after adjusting for other factors, including income and physical health.
A 12-week randomized controlled trial found that Montmorency tart cherry juice reduced systolic blood pressure and LDL cholesterol in older adults, potentially helping to maintain heart health. The study suggests that the unique nutrient content of Montmorency tart cherries may contribute to these benefits.
The poll found that only about half of people aged 50 to 80 have set up an account on a secure online access site, or 'patient portal,' offered by their health care provider. Despite the benefits of patient portals, many older adults are uncomfortable with electronic interactions and prefer telephone contact with their providers.
The new guidance, developed by experts at the University of Exeter Medical School, aims to improve quality of life for older adults with type 2 diabetes. For the first time, it provides guidance on stopping treatment in particularly frail adults, a move welcomed by Diabetes UK.
A systematic review of 4,600 clinical trials found that nearly any type of exercise can improve cognitive performance, particularly mental processing speed. Consistent exercise over a longer period may be needed for improved cognition in older adults.
A randomized controlled trial found that paramedic-run health sessions significantly reduced the number of 911 calls and improved quality of life for seniors living in subsidized housing. The program, known as CP@clinic, offered blood pressure and diabetes assessments, as well as referrals to healthcare and education.
A study found that chewing gum while walking increases heart rate and energy expenditure in both male and female participants. Middle-aged and elderly men experienced the greatest effect, with increased distance walked, mean walking speed, and total energy expenditure.
A study of 1280 older adults found that medication-related harm was common, affecting 1 in 3 patients post-hospital discharge, with 50% preventable. The cost to the NHS was estimated at £396 million, largely due to hospital readmissions.
A recent study found that how older adults perceive their relative socioeconomic status influences their feelings about growing older. The researchers conducted an online survey of 296 adults over 60 and found that the way people perceived their status made a significant difference in their aging attitudes.
A study of 9,641 middle-aged and elderly adults found that even moderate plant-based diet adherence can lower BMI and fat mass index over 26 years. Higher scores on a plant-based diet index were associated with lower waist circumference and body fat percentage.
A study published in Demography reveals a widening wealth gap between senior households and those with children, with the richest seniors seeing a $3 million increase in net worth. In contrast, families with children have struggled to gain wealth, with many holding negative net worth due to debt.
A nationally representative sample of older English adults found that wealth in late life is associated with increased dementia risk. The study suggests that individuals with fewer financial resources are at higher risk for dementia.
A study published in Neurology found that people with a better diet, rich in vegetables, fruit, nuts, and fish, had larger brains. The study included over 4,200 participants and found that those who consumed a higher-quality diet had an average of two milliliters more total brain volume.
A recent study published in Springer's Archives of Sexual Behavior suggests that older adults who engage in regular intimate activities and emotional closeness do not experience a slower rate of cognitive decline compared to those who are less active. However, this relationship is only observed on short-term memory tests, not over time.
Researchers found that poor functional status is associated with a higher incidence of initiating hemodialysis and increased risk of central venous catheter use. Elderly patients with poor functional status have an increased one-year mortality by 48 percent.
The new Canadian guideline recommends against routine screening for visual impairment in older adults living independently, as it does not prevent limitations on daily living. Instead, patients should make their own appointments for regular vision screening or seek help if they suspect visual problems.
A study found that over 4 in 5 patients received potentially inappropriate prescriptions, with multiple medications increasing the risk of hospital readmissions and death. The use of STOPP and START criteria identified PIMs and PPOs, highlighting a significant concern for older adults' medication safety.
A new study shows that centenarians outperform younger individuals in recognizing natural foods, indicating the role of experience in shaping semantic memory. The research reveals a decline in semantic memory function only after age 90, making it a potential early indicator for neurodegenerative diseases.
The new Agile Implementation methodology reorders implementation steps to prioritize end-user input and recognizes them as informed customers. The eight-step methodology addresses the need for rapid diffusion of evidence-based innovations in healthcare.
As we age, the locus coeruleus, a key brain network controlling focus, weakens, causing older adults to be more easily distracted by irrelevant information. This disruption can lead to decreased attention and increased susceptibility to emotional arousal.