Research on health and aging in later life. Covers attention and cognition, longevity, organ aging, and age-related disease.
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.
A recent study found that sensory loss is a common issue among older adults, affecting 94 percent of those in the US. The most prevalent deficit was decreased sense of taste, with 48% of participants rated as poor. Understanding the underlying causes and developing prevention strategies are crucial for improving quality of life.
A study published in Cancer found that combining chemotherapy with radiation therapy improves survival rates among a subset of elderly head and neck cancer patients, specifically those aged 71 to 79. This improvement was not previously shown in patients older than 70 years.
The American Geriatrics Society and National Highway Traffic Safety Administration have released a new guide to assessing and counseling older drivers. The guide provides healthcare professionals with practical, person-centered advice on safely navigating the road for older adults, who account for 10% of all traffic fatalities annually.
A new study finds that unpaid caregivers, often family members, experience significant emotional, physical, and financial difficulties due to their caregiving responsibilities. They are also more likely to be less productive at work and require support from healthcare providers and employers.
A new study suggests that caregivers providing substantial health care assistance experience emotional, physical and financial challenges. The study highlights the importance of supporting family caregivers who provide most assistance with everyday activities.
Cognitive scientists have found that younger and older adults show different brain wave patterns when performing the same memory task. The study used MRI and MEG to track potential age-related differences in brain activity, revealing a surge of theta power in younger adults and alpha oscillatory power in older adults.
When older adults stop driving, they experience doubled symptoms of depression, faster physical and mental health declines, and increased mortality risk. Effective programs ensuring mobility and social activities are needed to mitigate these adverse effects.
By 2050, older adults representing minority groups are projected to rise to 39% globally, with significant increases among Asian and Native Hawaiian populations. To address this growing need, the American Geriatrics Society recommends culturally sensitive indicators to improve healthcare outcomes for diverse older adult populations.
As the US welcomes its largest and most diverse group of older residents, AGS sheds light on health disparities and the importance of culturally effective care. The new guidance outlines present health disparities and the need for sensitivity to culture and health literacy when working with older individuals.
The financial industry is facing a major economic threat from elder financial exploitation and cognitive decline, which can result in significant losses for individuals and society. New research and initiatives are being developed to detect, prevent, and intervene in these cases, including predictive models and algorithms.
A study published by The BMJ found no direct association between benzodiazepine use and dementia, but suggests a possible link in those with low or moderate use. Healthcare providers are still advised to avoid benzodiazepines in older adults due to potential adverse health outcomes.
A recent study published in the Journal of the American Geriatrics Society found that serious depression symptoms increase the risk of stroke and heart disease in older adults. The study discovered that adults with high levels of depressive symptoms had a significantly higher risk of experiencing heart disease or stroke events over a 1...
A study found that lower respiratory tract infections, such as pneumonia, account for 26 percent of all ER visits for infectious diseases and 15 percent of deaths during hospitalizations. Influenza vaccination is underutilized among older adults, with about one-third not receiving the vaccine.
Negative attitudes towards aging have been shown to negatively affect both physical and cognitive health in older adults. Participants with positive attitudes exhibited improved cognitive ability. Researchers highlight the importance of societal-wide interventions targeting attitudes towards aging.
A new study found that individuals with fewer than 12 years of schooling benefit more from cognitive training than their more highly educated counterparts. Cognitive training on speed of information processing resulted in a 50% greater effect for those with less than a complete high school education.
A recent study found that adolescents are more prudent in their decision-making when a slightly older adult is present. The researchers discovered that groups with younger soldiers benefited from the inclusion of a mid- to late-20s soldier, who led to fewer risks and a stronger preference for delayed rewards.
A recent study published in The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition found that zinc supplementation significantly improved serum zinc concentrations and T-cell function in older adults with low zinc levels. The researchers also discovered a positive correlation between serum zinc levels and the number and effectiveness of T-cells.
A study by Columbia University's Mailman School of Public Health found that older adults who stop driving face accelerated declines in cognitive function and physical health. This cessation is linked to a higher risk of depressive symptoms, reduced social networks, and increased dependence on caregivers.
A population-based study found that preoperative frailty is strongly associated with an increased risk of death following surgery, particularly in younger patients and after joint replacement. Frail patients are at a higher risk of mortality, especially in the early postoperative period.