Articles tagged with Older Adults
A recent study found that imagining an action between two objects and its potential consequence can improve memory performance. Older adults who learned to use this strategy showed significant improvements, suggesting a promising approach for personalized memory rehabilitation.
The American Geriatrics Society calls for bipartisan collaboration to improve the nation's healthcare system, focusing on expanded in-home care options and adequate resources for caregivers. Experts also emphasize the need for geriatricians' training and research on healthy aging and age-related health problems.
A study of older adults seen in emergency departments found that nearly half had visited an ED before their death, yet many did not receive mental health evaluation or treatment. The researchers concluded that improving responses to suicide risk detection and treatment for older adults are crucial to reducing deaths from suicide among ...
Alcohol use disorder increased in the US population from 65.4% to 72.7%, with significant growth among women, older adults, racial/ethnic minorities, and those with lower educational levels and family income. High-risk drinking also rose by 29.9% over two decades.
A recent review suggests that frailty can be prevented with proper exercise, weight management and socialization. By adopting these measures, the elderly may be able to live healthier lives and avoid symptoms like fatigue and isolation.
A study found that older adults who visit emergency departments for falls are less likely to participate in fall prevention programs. Despite this, patients reported discussing their falls with healthcare providers and family members, suggesting room for improvement in the healthcare response.
A University of Michigan study found that hospital admissions for older adults rose an average of 4 percent in the 30 days after a tornado outbreak in 2011. This increase was significant even when excluding the initial three days following the disaster.
A study of 2,597 older adults found that those with poor appetites consumed less protein, fiber, and solid foods, but more dairy and sweets. Researchers hope to identify specific food preferences to help improve appetite and diet quality.
A University of California San Diego study found that moderate alcohol consumption is associated with reduced mortality and greater chances of remaining cognitively healthy into older age. Among men and women aged 85+, individuals who consumed 'moderate to heavy' amounts of alcohol were twice as likely to be cognitively healthy than no...
A community-based service learning experience involving interaction with older adults positively impacts medical residents' career development. Participants gained knowledge of resources, improved communication skills, and expanded their understanding of health topics important to older people.
A population-based study found a 16% increased risk of hospitalization among elderly individuals taking potentially inappropriate medications. The study estimated that 27,444 fewer hospitalizations would have occurred if exposure to these medications had been zero.
A study by Hirojuki Hikichi and colleagues found that group relocation increased informal socializing and social participation among older adults. Nearly three years after the disaster, respondents who relocated with their community showed increases in meeting with friends and participating in sports clubs.
Eating Mediterranean and MIND-style diets is linked to lower risks for memory difficulties and cognitive impairment in older adults. The studies found that participants who ate these healthy diets scored significantly better on cognitive function tests, with a 35% lower risk of poor performance.
Researchers found that dog owners who walk their pets regularly are more active and less sedentary on rainy days than those without dogs. Dog ownership is linked to increased physical activity levels, reduced daily sitting time, and improved health outcomes.
The GSA-developed KAER model provides a four-step process for primary care providers to assess, evaluate, and refer older adults with cognitive impairment. The toolkit offers practical guidance, measurement instruments, and community resources to aid in earlier diagnosis and better care.
The Gerontological Society of America has released a white paper making six recommendations to promote oral health in older adults, including education, integrated interprofessional programs, and improving access to dental care. The recommendations aim to create a culture of oral health champions across all professions.
A study published in the Journal of the American Geriatrics Society found that tai chi significantly reduced the rate of falls by 43% compared to other interventions. Tai chi also showed promise in reducing injurious falls risk, with a 50% reduction over short-term follow-up.
A study found that an individual's awareness of aging affects their mood, with positive attitudes leading to better moods and negative experiences having a bigger impact on mood for those with positive attitudes. The study enrolled 116 participants aged 60-90 who kept daily logs of stressors, age-related experiences, and affect.
A study published in JAMA found that long-term, moderate-intensity physical activity led to a small reduction in total sedentary time among older adults with mobility impairments. The intervention also showed sustained effects over 24 months.
A study in Mexico found that certain occupations contribute to mobility problems among older adults, exacerbating income-based disability disparities. Poorer workers are more likely to hold physically demanding jobs, leading to increased mobility limitations.
A study of 930 older adults found that non-elective hospitalizations accelerated cognitive decline by 60%, while elective hospitalizations had no association. Researchers highlight the need for attention on hospitalization as a risk factor for dementia and cognitive decline in older adults.
Scientists found greater cortical thickness in elderly female yoga practitioners' brains, associated with improved cognitive functions like attention and memory. Long-term yoga practice appears to shape the brain structure and could offset age-related cognitive decline.
A new study found that dying adults in the US receive almost twice as much caregiving support per week compared to those not at the end of life. Unpaid family caregivers, particularly spouses, report high levels of physical difficulty and time constraints.
A new study published in JAMDA found that visits from home health workers within a week of discharge from skilled nursing facilities lower the risk of hospital readmissions within 30 days. This association was strongest compared to appointments with physicians or nurse practitioners.
Researchers review three cases of delayed-onset PTSD in patients with dementia, highlighting the importance of recognizing early life trauma. Clinicians can differentiate between PTSD and BPSD by considering a patient's unique narrative and history of previous trauma.
A recent study found that elderly patients who visit emergency departments due to falls are at risk for adverse events, including additional falls, hospitalization, and death within 6 months. The study highlights the importance of educating patients on how to prevent falls after discharge from the emergency department.
A multilingual group program for older adult caregivers in Ontario uses talk therapy principles to improve their mental well-being. The program has helped over 275 caregivers since its launch in 2015 and aims to provide a cost-effective treatment option for those in need.
A multidisciplinary research team is focusing on the economics of providing transportation for rural elderly populations. The study aims to identify innovative solutions and information technology that can improve the coordination and efficiency of rural transit systems.
A new study found that older adults are less likely to leave the hospital against medical advice than younger individuals, with men and people insured by Medicaid or without health insurance at highest risk. Factors such as race/ethnicity, poverty, and suboptimal communication play a role in this phenomenon.
Researchers found that older adults improved movement performance when encouraged to make larger and faster movements, even if it meant making mistakes. This approach helped fine-tune their control and reduce variability in movement patterns.
A study estimates the national incidence of facial fractures in adults 55 and older due to recreational activity, with a 45.3% increase between 2011 and 2015. The most common causes were bicycling, team sports, outdoor activities, and gardening, with men being more prone to injuries from these activities.
Dog ownership has been found to encourage older adults to be more physically active, with an average of 22 minutes spent walking per day compared to non-owners. The study, published in BMC Public Health, also showed that dog owners had fewer sedentary events than non-dog owners.
Researchers at Nagoya University found that people eat more and rate food as tasting better when eating with a mirror, not just another person. The study suggests a possible approach to improving the appeal of food for older people who frequently eat alone.
Researchers studied data from nearly 4 million Medicare beneficiaries over 65 with multiple chronic conditions, comparing hospitalizations, deaths, and medical costs between those who saw PCPs and specialists. People who saw PCPs had fewer hospitalizations and lower costs.
A recent study found that a significant number of older adults with delirium were not diagnosed by healthcare professionals. The researchers concluded that developing more objective screening tools could improve diagnosis accuracy. Understanding delirium is crucial to recognize and address the condition in older adults and caregivers.
The study found that adult children are the largest group of caregivers, with many limiting social activities due to caregiving responsibilities. Few caregivers used respite care or support groups, but those caring for people with dementia and disability were more likely to use these services.
A new study by Michigan State University scholar William Chopik found that friendships become increasingly important to one's happiness and health across the lifespan. In older adults, friendships are actually a stronger predictor of health and happiness than relationships with family members.
A new study explores how spouses influence an older adult's decision to complete advance directives, revealing differences in gender and relationship characteristics. The results suggest that joint experience as a couple plays a crucial role in end-of-life planning, with some insights shedding light on individual and spousal factors
Researchers at the University of Iowa found that even simple conversations on a cell phone can affect drivers' brain ability to focus on the roadway. The delay is about 40 milliseconds, which compounds and contributes to impaired driving.
Older adults with UTIs often don't show symptoms, but antibiotics can still cause harm. New research suggests that natural microorganisms in the body may help prevent UTIs. However, certain groups like pregnant women and those undergoing surgery may benefit from antibiotic treatment.
Research suggests that older adults require more protein than previously thought to maintain muscle mass and prevent weight loss. Experts argue for increased focus on leucine-rich proteins like milk and whey to support elderly health.
A new study published in JAMA Internal Medicine analyzed data from a clinical trial and found no benefit of statins for all-cause mortality or coronary heart disease events when started for primary prevention in older adults. The authors concluded that treatment recommendations should be individualized for this population.
A recent NYU study reveals a significant gap in education and training for outdoor fall prevention among community-dwelling older adults. The research highlights the importance of wearing proper footwear, being aware of environmental hazards, and practicing safe walking strategies to prevent falls.
Researchers found that nearly one-third of older adults prescribed opiates while hospitalized experienced poor outcomes, including being restrained and requiring bladder catheterization. Alternative pain management options like acupuncture and tai chi should be integrated into inpatient care, according to the study's findings.
The American Geriatrics Society has awarded Sei Lee, MD, MAS, for his groundbreaking contributions to preventive care for older adults, while Anne M. Suskind, MD, MS, received recognition for her study on the risks of minor urologic surgery in nursing home residents. Both awardees will receive support through 2033.
Researchers found that severe foot pain and flat feet were associated with a higher risk of recurrent falls. The study suggests that targeting foot pain may help reduce hospitalizations and loss of independence for older adults.
A computer-generated physician is being developed to explain medical test results to patients in layman's terms, using graphics and videos. The system aims to improve health literacy and patient engagement, particularly among older adults with lower health literacy levels.
A Norwegian University of Science and Technology study found that herniated disc surgery can bring relief to patients 65 and older, with the condition improving more in this age group than younger patients. However, complications were more common and hospital stays longer among seniors compared to younger patients.
A new study reveals that a police training program in age-related health can improve how officers assist older adults. The program addresses issues like dementia, wandering, and elder abuse, increasing empathy, patience, and knowledge of community resources.
Researchers evaluated macular changes using spectral domain type optic coherence tomography in 63 eyes of patients with acute NAION, finding normal posterior pole in 33.3% and subretinal fluid in 34.9%. The study suggests that macular OCT can identify coexistent macular abnormalities and monitor disease progression.
A training program on aging-related health improved police officers' empathy and skills to interact with older adults. Participants reported increased knowledge scores, including how to identify safety concerns during police interactions.
The American Geriatrics Society announced Dr. Richard Allman's prestigious 2017 Henderson Lecture, focusing on leadership, research, education, and quality improvement in older adult care. Dr. Allman has extensive experience developing policy and programs for the Department of Veterans Affairs.
A retrospective study found that treatment improved overall survival in elderly patients with early-stage esophageal cancer. Surgery and local therapies such as chemoradiation showed significantly improved five-year overall survival rates compared to observation, with a median age of 84 years.
Dr. Fatima Sheikh, MD, CMD, MPH, is recognized for her outstanding work in post-acute and long-term care, as well as her dedication to mentoring a diverse team. She has championed programs to manage chronic conditions and advance care planning for older adults.
Dr. Sei Lee is recognized for his groundbreaking contributions to individualized care for older adults, including the development of the Lee Index mortality prediction index. He will deliver a plenary presentation on preventive care at the AGS 2017 Annual Scientific Meeting.
Amazentis' Phase 1 clinical data show that Urolithin A is safe and effectively increases mitochondrial gene expression and modulates plasma metabolites linked to muscle function in healthy elderly individuals. The study's findings have significant implications for the treatment of age-related decline in mitochondrial and skeletal muscl...
Studies presented at AGS17 show promising results for deprescribing benzodiazepines using tools for healthcare providers and education for older adults. A Patient-Facing Advance Care Planning website increased ACP documentation and engagement among older primary care patients.
The AGS Annual Scientific Meeting will showcase novel approaches to goals-oriented care, explore the future of Advance Care Planning, and highlight innovative dementia care models. The meeting will also feature renowned speakers, awards ceremonies, and expert discussions on policy priorities.
A study by the University of Washington finds that military service is associated with improved mental health and quality of life among transgender older adults. This contradicts previous expectations, suggesting that military experience may be a protective factor for this population.
A new study reveals that 72% of Medicare beneficiaries report improved function after receiving rehabilitation services. This positive outcome is crucial as the older adult population doubles by 2050, emphasizing the need to plan sufficient resources for rehabilitation services.