Research on health and aging in later life. Covers attention and cognition, longevity, organ aging, and age-related disease.
A study published in Anesthesiology found that combining opioids with alcohol increases the risk of respiratory depression, a potentially life-threatening side effect. The combination is particularly concerning for elderly individuals, who are more likely to experience repeated episodes of shallow breathing.
Taking five or more medicines increases risk for harmful side effects and frailty in older adults. Research suggests reducing avoidable prescriptions can lessen risks.
A study found that elderly non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients experiencing definitive radiation had a lower incidence of esophagitis compared to younger patients. The study, published in the Journal of Thoracic Oncology, showed an inverse correlation between age and rate of esophagitis for both grade levels.
A recent Indiana University study found that older adults in Africa are sexually active and report high-risk behaviors, highlighting the need for targeted HIV prevention measures. The study reveals that older adults are a significant proportion of people living with HIV in sub-Saharan Africa, where most HIV cases occur.
Researchers found association between sleep-disordered breathing and cognitive impairment in older adults, emphasizing need for clinicians to screen for both conditions. Treatment of sleep apnea may improve quality of life but does not delay or prevent cognitive decline.
Engaging in brain-stimulating activities like games, crafting, and socializing can lower the risk of mild cognitive impairment (MCI) in older adults. A study of over 1,900 adults found a strong association between mentally stimulating activities and decreased MCI incidence.
Researchers are exploring aerobic exercise as a potential treatment for mild traumatic brain injuries (mTBI) in wounded warriors. The study aims to improve soldiers' quality of life by assessing intensive cardiorespiratory exercise, which may help alleviate symptoms such as migraines and motor problems associated with mTBI.
The AGS extends its hip fracture co-management program with a new national initiative that positions geriatricians as co-managers with orthopedic surgeons to improve care and health outcomes. The model reduces length of stay, re-admissions, and complications, while increasing older adults' chances of going home directly from the hospital.
Two new articles emphasize the need for comprehensive approach to geriatric care, focusing on person-centered care and evidence-based changes. AGS prioritizes programs supporting high-quality care for older Americans, aiming to improve clinical care and workforce skills.
A recent study found that mutations in blood cells of elderly humans may contribute to atherosclerosis, a leading cause of death. The research suggests that hematopoietic mutations could be an age-dependent risk factor for cardiovascular disease.
A new study links mutations in blood cells to atherosclerosis, a leading cause of death in the elderly. The research found that accumulated DNA mutations in hematopoietic cells contribute to plaque formation and inflammation.
A study found that sedentary elderly women have shorter telomeres, indicating accelerated biological aging. Regular exercise can slow down this process.
Researchers at Tohoku University developed a Processing Speed Training Game (PSTG) that significantly improved processing speed and inhibition among healthy older adults. Regular playing of PSTG also reduced depressive moods compared to a Knowledge Quiz Training Game (KQTG).
Researchers found that older, fitter adults outperformed younger counterparts in memory tasks, with increased brain activity observed in regions typically declining with age. This suggests that cardiorespiratory fitness may contribute to brain maintenance and serve a compensatory role in age-related memory decline.
A Penn Medicine study found that older adults walked 2,348 steps and 2,562 steps per day with financial incentives and charity donations, respectively. The study suggests that goal-based interventions can motivate older adults to exercise more effectively.
A recent study found that cannabis use among older Americans is increasing, with most users taking it less than once a week. The study suggests that social attitudes, state laws, and individual health needs are shaping these paths, and recommends a national survey to inform public policy.
A study found that older adults with obesity receive only one-third the benefit from memory training compared to those with normal weights. Researchers investigated the effects of cognitive training on memory, reasoning, and speed processing in 2,800 participants aged 74.
A study found that performing even a third of the recommended activity is beneficial for older adults with arthritis. Participants who achieved a minimum of 45 minutes of moderate activity, such as brisk walking, per week were 80% more likely to improve or sustain high function over two years.
A study by Yale researchers found that older adults who visit the emergency department (ED) are at increased risk for disability and decline in physical abilities up to six months later. The discharged group had significantly higher disability scores than the control group, and were also more likely to be living in a nursing home.
A study found that high monthly doses of vitamin D reduced acute respiratory infections in older long-term care residents by 40%. However, it also increased the number of falls experienced by these individuals. The study suggests daily dosing with high levels of vitamin D may be needed to minimize risk.
Researchers found that taking an hour-long nap after lunch significantly improved mental health outcomes in older Chinese adults. The study revealed that napping for about an hour was associated with better performance on cognitive tests compared to shorter or longer naps.
A study of 2,394 adults aged 77-101 found that poor vision worsened over time, leading to decreased physical activity and mental stimulation. The researchers suggest that preventing vision loss may also help delay physical and cognitive decline.
A new Yale-led study finds that changes in brain anatomy, specifically the posterior parietal cortex, are more closely related to risk avoidance in older adults than aging itself. The research team used MRI scans and risk-choice experiments to analyze the phenomenon.
A study by University of Illinois researchers links higher blood serum levels of lutein to better performance on crystallized intelligence tests in older adults. Participants with higher lutein levels also showed thicker gray matter in the parahippocampal cortex, a brain region associated with preserved cognitive function.
A study examining late-life couplehood in assisted living found benefits of companionship, support, and affection. Fellow residents can play an important role in shielding against negative health outcomes associated with marital transitions.
A new study by Johns Hopkins researchers reveals a strong link between angiotensin receptor autoantibodies and increased risk of frailty in older adults. The study suggests that common blood pressure drugs targeting the autoantibodies, called ARBs, may help protect against functional decline in some people.
A new study by Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health reveals that only 12% of older Americans have dental insurance, and those who do often face high bills. The research found that income is a significant predictor of receiving dental care, with high-income beneficiaries more likely to receive care than low-income ones.
A new research letter published online by JAMA Internal Medicine suggests that walking fewer than 900 steps per day is associated with hospitalization-associated functional decline in older hospitalized patients. The study included 177 older patients who walked less than 900 steps per day, with 55.4% experiencing functional decline.
A study published in Optometry and Vision Science found that cataracts are associated with higher rates of depressive symptoms in older adults, regardless of education level or socioeconomic status. Symptoms were more common in women and those with lower vision acuity.
Dr. Sarah Szanton has received the GSA's Senior Scholar Award for her research on food assistance and its impact on nursing home admissions among low-income older adults. Her study found that SNAP recipients are significantly less likely to enter a nursing home and have shorter stays.
David Burnes is awarded for his presentation on varying appraisals of elder mistreatment among victims, which highlights the need for detection and response strategies. The award recognizes Burnes' work on understanding and preventing elder mistreatment in community and long-term care settings.
The American Geriatrics Society has released new guidance on care and decision-making for 'unbefriended' older adults. The recommendations aim to support vulnerable individuals while protecting others from becoming unbefriended as they age.
A recent study from the University of Georgia found that individuals with higher levels of lutein and zeaxanthin in their diets had better cognitive performance, as measured by fMRI technology. The researchers suggest that these compounds may help buffer age-related brain decline and improve neurocognitive function.
A decline in dementia prevalence was reported in the US between 2000-2012, affecting an estimated 4-5 million older adults annually. The decline may be attributed to factors such as increased education levels and improved cardiovascular treatment, leading to a 24% reduction in dementia prevalence.
Researchers found that participating in social activities like hobby clubs and volunteer groups can delay the decline in older adults' ability to function. Women who engaged in these activities were less likely to experience a decline, while men who participated in hobby clubs maintained their ability to function.
A new networked system of smart homes, HomeSHARE, will advance research on older adults' health and independence. The IU-led project installs high-tech sensors and equipment in 15 elderly volunteers' homes to collect data.
Researchers found that older adults can outperform younger counterparts on certain problem-solving tasks by broadening their attention more easily. This study challenges the common assumption that aging brains require high cognitive control and highlights the potential benefits of reduced focus.
Researchers induced oxidative stress in cultured RPE cells to explore the development of age-related macular degeneration (AMD). Oxidative stress led to cell senescence and proliferation inhibition, highlighting its potential role in AMD progression. The study suggests antioxidants may be a new treatment approach for AMD intervention.
Studies in the US and Denmark show that older adults are undertrained in CPR, with only 18% reporting current training. Higher education level and household income are linked to increased likelihood of CPR training, but there is a steep drop-off after age 50. The elderly often cite lack of knowledge and fear as barriers to performing CPR.
The Gerontological Society of America has selected 16 distinguished reporters for the Journalists in Aging Fellows Program. The fellows will develop major aging-focused stories or series during GSA's Annual Scientific Meeting, exploring concerns such as elder isolation, homeless seniors, and the digital future.
A study published in Marketing Science found that leveraging psychological theories on sympathy when drafting a fundraising letter can significantly increase donations. The experiment involved varying the content of fundraising letters and measuring the response, resulting in a 300% increase in donations.
A new study from Indiana University found that a low-cost workforce model can effectively reduce depression burden in primary care. The ABC Medical Home program, which utilizes trained and scalable care coordinator assistants, resulted in a 50% decrease in depression severity over six months.
Research at York University found that eating more fruits and vegetables daily, combined with regular exercise, improves cognitive functioning and may delay dementia. The study, which analyzed data from over 45,000 participants, showed a significant relationship between physical activity and better cognitive performance.
A study found that regular physical activity, consuming more fruits and vegetables, and being normal weight or overweight are associated with improved cognitive function. Higher levels of physical activity may mediate the relationship between fruit and vegetable consumption and better cognitive performance.
A cross-sectional study of nearly 107,000 Medicare patients found that older black adults have a 30% increased likelihood of readmission compared to white counterparts. Increasing nurse-to-patient staffing ratios may help reduce these disparities by improving health outcomes for all patients, particularly high-risk groups.
The Alliance will develop a nationwide cohort of advocates with expertise in PCOR/CER to address under-representation of older adults and caregivers. The project aims to improve informed health care decisions and increase the usefulness of PCORI's information.
A study found that elderly Chinese immigrants in the US feel at home due to favorable social policies like Medicare and Medicaid, as well as affordable cost of living. However, language barriers continue to be a significant issue, with many unable to speak fluent English and relying on family members for translation.
A recent review and analysis of published studies found low-to-moderate evidence that dietary and exercise interventions can improve physical function and quality of life in older adults with obesity. The study included 405 adults aged over 60 years, highlighting the need for well-designed trials to address obesity in this population.
A study by NTNU researchers found that older adults who were fit and had the highest fitness levels had lower cardiovascular risk factors despite spending more hours sedentary. Conversely, meeting physical activity guidelines alone was not enough to eliminate these risks if an individual lacked cardiorespiratory fitness.
Elder abuse affects approximately 1 in 10 older adults in the US, with 23 million emergency department visits annually. A new study estimates that only 1 in 7,700 visits result in a formal diagnosis of elder abuse, highlighting a major missed opportunity for patient safety and unmet care needs.
Researchers found that older adults' brains degrade speech processing in quiet environments, making it harder to comprehend speech amidst background noise. The study suggests that brain training techniques may help improve speech comprehension in older adults.
A study published in the Journal of General Internal Medicine found that frequent participation in multiple types of leisure activities reduces heart-related deaths among seniors. Engaging in low-intensity daily physical activity can provide cardiovascular protection.
A study found that high folate consumption is associated with increased risk of peripheral neuropathy in older adults with a specific genetic variant. The researchers recommend keeping folate intake close to the recommended amounts and obtaining nutrients from a balanced diet.
A modified casting technique resulted in comparable functional outcomes to surgery at 6 months, while reducing wound complications and intervention costs. The study found no significant differences in quality of life, pain, or mobility between the two groups.
Researchers found that a new casting technique called close contact casting can reduce the need for surgery in elderly patients with unstable ankle fractures while minimizing drawbacks of traditional casts. The study compared outcomes between close contact casting and traditional surgical treatment.
A study by the American Society for Horticultural Science found that gardening significantly improves physical and cognitive functions in older women. Participants showed reduced waist circumference, improved aerobic endurance, and enhanced hand dexterity. In contrast, those who did not garden experienced increased depression symptoms.
Researchers found that vitamin E supplementation decreased pneumonia risk by 35% in smokers starting at age 21 or older. Vitamin E also reduced pneumonia incidence by 69% in a subgroup of light smokers exercising in their leisure time. This benefit was seen even among heavy smokers and those not exercising.
A new study found that volunteering regularly over time may have benefits for older adults' memory and physical health. Volunteering reduces the risk of cognitive problems by 27%, even among those with other risk factors.
A recent study found that personalized primary care programs can improve daily functioning in older adults, particularly those with higher levels of education. After six months, participants in the treatment groups experienced fewer problems compared to the control group, but further studies are needed to confirm these results.
Research found that healthy lifestyle habits like exercising, eating a healthy diet, and staying socially connected can potentially compress the period of disability in older adults before death. However, factors such as smoking, being inactive, and unhealthy diets were associated with longer periods of disability.