Articles tagged with Older Adults
Research found that young people with older friend connections exhibit reduced ageism, even without direct experience. Knowing positive relationships among peers expands acceptance of older adults.
A recent study published in Journal of the American Geriatrics Society found that older adults with probable dementia but without a diagnosis are more likely to perform potentially hazardous tasks, such as driving and managing finances. This suggests that early diagnosis can help address safety concerns and plan for the future.
Research finds that hearing problems impact older people's ability to communicate, move about, and participate in hobbies. Studies show that those with hearing issues have a limited life space and lower quality of life compared to those with good hearing.
A study published in Optometry and Vision Science found that visual blurring, like bifocals or progressive lenses, can cause errors in foot position when walking. This can contribute to the risk of tripping and falling in older adults, especially in challenging environments.
A new study published in JAMA Oncology found that frailty prevalence among young bone marrow transplant survivors is similar to that of the elderly population. Frailty was associated with a more than twice increased risk of subsequent death in these patients.
A Johns Hopkins study found that undiagnosed dementia patients are nearly twice as likely to engage in potentially unsafe activities, such as driving and cooking. Those without a diagnosis, however, were less frequently engaging in these activities compared to those with possible or no dementia.
Researchers at the University of Missouri have developed radar and bed sensor technologies that monitor walking speed and heart rate to detect early signs of illness. These non-invasive systems provide significant benefits for older adults, allowing for timely intervention before health problems become severe.
A study examining obese older adults in nursing homes found that those with higher body mass indexes were more likely to be admitted to facilities with deficiencies in care. Nearly 22% of admitted residents were obese, with morbidly obese individuals facing even greater challenges.
A new study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition found that urine tests are not reliable for detecting dehydration in older adults. The researchers tested 383 participants over 65 and found that urine tests were too low to be useful, missing some dehydrated individuals and incorrectly identifying others.
Higher blood pressure fluctuations are associated with faster declines in brain and cognitive function among older adults. Average blood pressure readings were not linked to changes in brain function, suggesting that controlling blood pressure instability may be key to preserving cognitive function.
A survey by Northwell Health found that nearly 7 in 10 older adults with hip fractures are not informed about osteoporosis, despite the disease being a common cause of hip fractures. The study suggests that improved education and treatment for osteoporosis could reduce re-fracture rates and improve patient outcomes.
Intensive therapies to reduce high blood pressure cut the risk of heart disease in older adults by nearly a third and death by almost a quarter. Participants with diabetes or heart failure were excluded from the trial.
A new study reveals that chronological age plays little role in determining differences in older people's health and well-being. The research presents a comprehensive model of health and aging, highlighting the importance of psychological, social, and physical factors in addition to diseases.
A new approach using a two-minute video has been shown to boost pneumococcal vaccination rates among older adults, with 64% watching the entire video and receiving the vaccine. The study found that patients who viewed at least part of the video were three times more likely to receive the vaccine.
Dr. Callahan has spent over two decades developing new models of care to improve the health of older adults with internists or primary care physicians. His research emphasizes team-based care, social services, and practical strategies for primary care physicians.
The American Psychological Association's special issue explores the importance of psychology in promoting healthy aging, preventing dementia, and ensuring retirement security. Researchers examine the impact of ageism, financial exploitation, and family dynamics on older adults' well-being.
A simple 20-second arm test has been developed to rapidly and accurately identify physiological frailty in older adults, using wearable technology. The test showed high agreement with the gold standard frailty index, making it a valuable tool for surgeons to assess risk of postoperative complications.
A small study by University of Florida researchers suggests that as we age, we may become more sensitive to pain and experience a quicker and higher magnitude inflammation. This could predispose older adults to chronic pain, making anti-inflammatory medication an early treatment option.
A study found that specific personality traits, such as neuroticism and extraversion, were associated with individual differences in the use of MBSR during and post-training. The findings suggest that MBSR programs can be tailored to targeted populations based on their personality traits.
A long-term study of 3325 adults aged 55 and over found that depression symptoms that steadily increase in older age are more strongly linked to dementia than any other types of depression. The study suggests that increasing depressive symptoms may indicate the early stages of dementia.
A nationwide study by Texas A&M University found that approximately 15% of people in residential care facilities suffer from injurious falls. The majority of these falls occurred among female residents who required assistance with daily activities and lived in larger facilities.
Researchers aim to determine if enhancing cognitive functioning through speed of processing training can improve quality of life in middle-aged and older adults with HIV. The study will compare the effects of varying amounts of specialized speed of processing training on cognitive ability and everyday functioning skills.
A review of clinical evidence concludes that individualized preventive cardiovascular therapy is crucial for older adults, with cholesterol-lowering and blood pressure-controlling treatments being the most effective. The target systolic blood pressure should be individualized based on frailty and comorbidities.
A mobility assessment tool may help predict early postoperative outcomes for older adults by identifying those at risk of complications. The study found that preoperative scores on the Mobility Assessment Tool: Short Form (MAT-sf) were predictive of early postoperative complications, longer hospital stays and discharges to nursing homes.
A study of over 300,000 patients with chronic kidney disease found that higher systolic blood pressure is linked to poor outcomes, but this association diminishes with advanced age. The findings support current clinical guidelines for younger patients, but suggest a more cautious approach for very elderly patients.
A large analysis found that older adults who met strength-training guidelines had significantly lower mortality rates, even when controlling for demographic variables and health behaviors. The study suggests that strength training is beneficial beyond improving muscle strength and physical function.
A study found that older adults who form strong bonds with their dogs tend to exercise longer and more often, leading to improved physical health. Additionally, dog walking offers a means to socialize with pet owners and others, making it an accessible way for seniors to stay active and connected.
Researchers found that older adults with vascular health conditions, depression, difficulty performing daily activities, and multiple chronic diseases were at higher risk of traumatic brain injury. In contrast, sedentary lifestyles or self-reported alcohol problems did not increase the risk of TBI.
Research suggests that episodic memory is crucial for emotion recovery in midlife and older adults, who may struggle with negative emotions after a stressful event. The study found that stronger memory skills were linked to improved positive emotion regulation, suggesting that cognitive processes are closely intertwined.
A recent study found that seniors use Facebook primarily for social bonding and curiosity, with a desire to stay connected to family and friends. The researchers suggest that simple and convenient interface tools are essential for attracting older adult users and motivating them to use the site longer.
The AGS Annual Scientific Meeting presented numerous high-profile sessions and symposia focusing on de-prescribing medication in older adults, improving interprofessional team communication, and strategies to reduce cardiovascular outcomes in skilled nursing facilities. Bench research findings from 2015 will be applied to bedside care ...
A study of 70 elderly patients found that diverting urine through a single stoma resulted in lower operative times, blood loss, and hospital stays compared to ileal conduit diversion. Quality of life showed no significant difference between the two groups.
A new study finds that person-centered dementia care can be effectively provided by an engaged low-cost workforce of care coordinator assistants. These assistants, with limited education, are trained to conduct home visits and support caregivers, extending primary care to older adults' homes.
A new study by researchers from the University of South Florida found that certain types of training can improve driving skills in older adults. The training, known as SPT, improved mental quickness and attention, leading to increased driving frequency among participants.
A high-quality protein diet, including lean beef, can improve balance, lower-body strength and walking speed in obese older adults with limited ability to exercise. This study supports the benefits of protein-enhanced meals for fostering improvements in physical function during periods of weight loss.
A systematic review of studies found associations between poor oral health and increased risk of cognitive decline, particularly among those with dementia. However, more research is needed to confirm these findings and explore the potential causal link between oral health and cognitive status.
Scientists at Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology Graduate University identified 14 age-related compounds that decrease with age, including those related to muscle strength and antioxidants. These findings suggest the importance of consuming antioxidant-rich foods and exercising regularly after 65 to improve body conditions.
A study published in the Journal of the American Geriatrics Society found that transitions in care for older adults with dementia are linked to medication errors, hospital readmissions, and increased risk of death. Receiving coordinated care and a long-term care plan can help reduce unnecessary transitions.
A new study found that one in six older adults now regularly use potentially deadly combinations of prescription and over-the-counter medications and dietary supplements. The study identified 15 potentially life-threatening drug combinations, with nearly half involving nonprescription medications or supplements.
A new study by JAMA Network reveals that concurrent use of prescription and over-the-counter medications and dietary supplements among older adults increases the risk of major drug interactions. The study found that 15.1% of older adults in 2010-2011 were at risk for a major drug interaction, up from an estimated 8.4% in 2005-2006.
The study analyzed 105,002 elderly patients' outcomes from 2000 to 2014, showing improved overall mortality rates and reduced length of hospital stay. However, factors such as age, pre-existing disease, and weekend operations increased in-hospital mortality
New research published in the Journal of the Royal Society of Medicine suggests that austerity measures in England have been associated with significant increases in mortality rates among pensioners aged 85 and over. The study found a 1.4% rise in mortality for every 3% drop in pension credit spending per beneficiary.
A new hearing aid adjustment program, HEAR, has shown promising results in increasing overall use among patients who need them. By systematically gradual adjustments, the program helps reduce frustration and social isolation caused by inadequate hearing aid use.
A randomized controlled trial found that practicing tai chi significantly reduced the risk of injury-causing falls in older adults compared to leg strengthening exercises. After six months and a year of training, participants who practiced tai chi were 50% less likely to experience an injury-causing fall.
A four-month study of 94 young adult college students found that 52% fell at least once, with 16% resulting in injury, while physical activity levels increased fall rates. The most common cause of falls was talking while walking, highlighting the cognitive demand of multi-tasking on balance and stability.
A study of 31,951 US veterans found that older adults initiating warfarin therapy for atrial fibrillation are at increased risk of traumatic intracranial bleeding. Several factors, including dementia and labile INR, were identified as risk contributors.
A study by Penn State researchers found that older adults who recalled more robots in films had lower anxiety toward robots. The researchers suggest that incorporating features reminiscent of Hollywood portrayals, such as human-like interfaces and sympathetic designs, may ease apprehension toward robots.
A new study finds that individuals in their 60s who give advice to a wide range of people tend to see their lives as highly meaningful. In contrast, those who dispense advice to fewer types of people are less likely to report high life meaning.
A study by Pamela Norum found that millennials are more likely to donate clothing rather than throwing it away, with 65% donating at least some clothing to charity. Older adults were less likely to recycle textiles, instead sending clothes to landfills.
The updated MyPlate for Older Adults icon emphasizes the nutritional needs of older adults, focusing on 50% fruits and vegetables, 25% whole grains, and 25% protein-rich foods. The icon also encourages physical activity and reduces sodium intake through spices.
A study published in Social Science & Medicine found that social support can reduce depressive symptoms but also lead to feelings of loss of control, increasing symptoms. This contradictory effect is more pronounced for women than men, highlighting the need for policy-makers to consider both positive and negative effects.
A four-month dance program helped older Latino adults walk faster and improved their physical fitness, reducing their risk for heart disease. The culturally-tailored intervention increased leisure time physical activity by nearly 300 minutes per week, with significant benefits also seen in stress reduction and community building.
The study found that trauma surgeons working with geriatricians improved multidisciplinary care for elderly accident victims, leading to reduced short-term mortality rates and ICU readmissions. The program increased referrals for cognitive evaluation and advanced directives, demonstrating the benefits of comprehensive clinical pathways.
A new study by the University of Toronto and Cornell University found that older adults living alone with their abusers were up to four times more likely to experience severe mistreatment. The 'youngest old' (ages 60-74) were particularly vulnerable to the most severe forms of abuse.
A study published in Journal of Social Science and Medicine found that older adults who participate in social activities, such as attending religious events, tend to get better sleep. This suggests that engaging in social connectedness can be an important factor for promoting healthy aging.
Paul Lee examines the USPSTF's latest report on vision screening for asymptomatic older adults. The study highlights strengths and challenges in the current recommendation process, emphasizing the need for more rigorous clinical trials to inform treatment decisions.
A study of over 15,000 people found a 10% rise in older adults developing second or third chronic conditions, while physically active individuals were healthier. The prevalence of multimorbidity increased from 31.7% to 43.1% between 2002/03 and 2012/13.
Researchers at UCSF discovered that homeless individuals aged 50+ often experience difficulties with daily activities such as bathing, dressing, and medication management. Cognitive and visual impairments are also common, with rates comparable to those of people in their 80s.
A new study from UMass Amherst found that older adults report feeling more serenity and having a richer concept of what it means to feel serene. They also exhibit fewer depressive symptoms and less shame associated with negative emotions compared to younger adults.
A study found that 94% of older adults experience sensory loss, with hearing and vision being the most affected. Multisensory losses are linked to poor quality of life and increased mortality.