Research on health and aging in later life. Covers attention and cognition, longevity, organ aging, and age-related disease.
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.
A systematic review and meta-analysis found that psychological interventions using cognitive behavioral approaches can reduce chronic pain intensity and improve self-efficacy in older adults. However, the study's limitations highlight the need for further research to develop more effective treatments.
Researchers developed a robotic system that plays Tic Tac Toe with rehabilitation patients to improve their real-life task performance. The study found that patients preferred interacting with the robot over computer-controlled LED lights, and the robot's movement influenced human movement, indicating its potential in rehabilitation.
A new poll finds that older adults are generally satisfied with their sex lives, but health-related issues, lack of communication, and age-related changes can affect intimacy. Nearly two-thirds of older adults are interested in sex, and 73% say they're satisfied with their current sex life.
A study by Penn State researchers found that older adults who used Facebook to share personal stories felt a higher sense of community, while customizing their profiles made them feel more in control. Commenting on posts also provided a sense of social interaction.
Research found that higher aerobic fitness levels are directly related to lower incidence of 'tip-of-the-tongue' states, a common language failure in older adults. Regular exercise was shown to improve language skills and reduce negative consequences for older adults.
At 43% vaccine coverage, a low-efficacy vaccine (20% effective) could avert over 20 million infections, 61,000 deaths, and 2.2 million lost DALYs in the US. The optimal strategy involves targeting elderly populations as efficacy decreases.
Aging nerves are damaged by immune cells that drive degeneration, but a new treatment blocks these cells, restoring nerve structure and muscle strength. Treatment with a cytokine receptor inhibitor reduced macrophage numbers and improved grip force in aging mice.
Older adults are more likely to adhere to a group exercise program when they work out with people their own age. A recent University of British Columbia study found that participants in age-targeted groups attended an average of 9.5 more classes than those in mixed-age groups.
A study of nearly 6,000 Americans found that mid-life chronic inflammation may be linked to an increased risk of frailty and overall poorer health decades later. Having high levels of inflammation in middle age was associated with a 39% higher odds of frailty approximately 24 years later.
A study found that media coverage on cancer rarely addresses the importance of age as a risk factor, resulting in under-representation of older adults. This can lead to a lack of awareness, delayed detection, and poorer outcomes for this population.
A global meta-analysis found that engaging in physical activity decreases the chance of developing depression in people of all ages and geographical regions. The study pooled data from over 250,000 individuals and found consistent evidence that higher levels of physical activity are protective against future depression.
Research suggests that mental fatigue, rather than physical fatigue, has a significant impact on older adults' walking ability. Volunteers performed physically and mentally tiring tasks, with their gait speed and stride length decreasing significantly in those who reported more cognitive fatigue.
A new review concludes that stem cells derived from adult body tissues can differentiate into mature body cells with similar efficiency to those from younger donors. This validates induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) as a viable alternative to embryonic stem cells in regenerative medicine.
A new study found that caregivers can use six proven tools to detect delirium on their own, taking just several minutes or less to complete. This enables caregivers to identify symptoms more easily than healthcare professionals and notify them sooner, potentially leading to earlier diagnoses and improved outcomes.
Recent opioid use is associated with an increased risk of falls in older adults and a higher risk of death during hospital stays. Researchers found that patients who had filled an opioid prescription before injury were 2.4 times more likely to have fallen, resulting in injury and higher mortality rates.
A study of a majority-black cohort found no clear upward trend in cognitive abilities among older adults, contradicting previous observations. Cognitive performance differed significantly by race and function, with black participants scoring lower than their white counterparts.
Researchers found that hydrated older adults showed noticeable improvement in executive function after exercising, while dehydrated individuals also improved but to a lesser extent. The study highlights the importance of hydration for cognitive health benefits in exercise
A study found that elderly patients with locally advanced lung cancer who received simultaneous radiotherapy and chemotherapy had worse survival rates compared to younger patients. In contrast, those treated with sequential chemo-radiotherapy or radiotherapy alone had similar survival rates.
Medical marijuana shows promise in managing pain and chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting in older adults. However, its use requires a thorough assessment of side effects to ensure lower doses have a greater impact.