Articles tagged with Older Adults
A multicentre study found that biological ageing, measured by frailty index and telomere length, can predict cardiovascular disease risk more accurately than traditional tools. The study, involving over 14,000 individuals, suggests that incorporating biological age into risk assessments could improve cardiovascular health outcomes.
The study found that mRNA-1083 induced higher immune responses than standard care influenza and COVID-19 vaccines, with an acceptable tolerability and safety profile. The vaccine met noninferiority criteria for all 4 influenza strains and SARS-CoV-2 across various age groups.
Paul Mulhausen, MD, will lead the American Geriatrics Society (AGS) in advancing healthcare for older adults. The AGS has elected Mulhausen as its new President following his extensive experience in clinical care, medical education, and policy advocacy.
Researchers developed a new health-assessment tool that uses eight metrics derived from physical exams and routine lab tests to characterize biological age. The tool predicts risk of disability and death better than current health predictors.
A new poll by Michigan Medicine reveals that nearly two-thirds of Americans over 50 believe Medicare will cover their nursing home costs, despite it not currently paying for this type. Only half have taken key actions to prepare for long-term care needs. The poll also shows that 70% of people who survive to age 65 will need long-term c...
This study found a decline in racial and ethnic disparities in receipt of ERBB2-targeted therapies among older Medicare beneficiaries with ERBB2-positive breast cancer. The narrowing of disparities may be attributed to changes in healthcare practices or policies over time.
A new MRI technique measures a person's 'functional age' of their heart, revealing how unhealthy lifestyles add years to their heart's aging process. This method has the potential to transform heart disease diagnosis and offer a lifeline to millions by catching problems early.
Researchers have identified Clusterin as a novel marker capable of functionally categorizing aged HSCs. Clu-positive HSCs showed an increased propensity towards differentiating into platelets or myeloid cells, while Clu-negative HSCs maintained a balanced cell production approach typical of younger stages.
Exposure to high levels of smoke pollution increases hospitalizations for respiratory diseases in older adults. The study highlights the need for interventions to mitigate the health impacts of wildfire smoke exposure.
A recent study developed a VR game that combines olfactory stimulation with immersive gameplay to improve cognitive function in older adults. After just 20 minutes of play, participants showed significant improvements in visuospatial rotation and memory tasks.
A long-term follow-up study found that cycling among older adults improves health and life expectancy, particularly among nondrivers, who experience lower risks of long-term care requirements and mortality. Cycling contributes to maintaining physical and mental health, making it a vital lifestyle companion for this demographic.
A new study suggests habitual coffee consumption of 4-6 cups per day is associated with reduced risk of frailty. The research highlights the possible beneficial association between daily coffee consumption and reduced risk of frailty in later life.
A new study found that staying active through moderate-to-vigorous physical activity is associated with significantly better processing speed, working memory, and executive function in older adults. Even small changes to daily activities can have big impacts on brain health.
Cigarette smoking prevalence is expected to decrease in the US by 2035, primarily among young adults in historically high-prevalence states. This trend is likely to slow health consequences, particularly for older adults.
A new study from the University of Missouri highlights how 'smoothed' graphs can help doctors better manage patients with hypertension. The findings suggest that these graphs can reduce errors in assessing blood pressure control, potentially alleviating pressure on the healthcare system.
The American Geriatrics Society (AGS) has honored 21 leaders in the field of geriatrics, representing various medical disciplines. The award recipients have made significant contributions to high-quality, person-centered care for older adults.
A recent study published in The Gerontologist found no difference in spatial working memory between older people with autistic traits and those who are neurotypical. Most participants maintained their cognitive ability over time, suggesting that autism is not associated with increased risk of age-related cognitive decline.
A new study led by University College London researchers found that people with Alzheimer's disease scored slightly higher on a measure of empathy than peers with mild cognitive impairment. Despite this, emotional reactivity to negative emotions was heightened among those with Alzheimer's disease, contributing to difficulties regulatin...
A study of 120,238 Ontario long-term care residents found that 20% became permanently unable to make everyday decisions, with 13% becoming totally dependent on care. Advance care directives reduced time spent living with severe disability.
A study of 50-90 year olds across 29 countries found that middle-aged Americans experience high levels of loneliness, unlike other countries. The reasons for this vary by country, but factors like unemployment, depression, and poor health contribute to the problem.
Researchers found that surgery induces accumulation of senescent cells in the hippocampal region of aged mice, leading to neuroinflammation. Dosing with a combination of Dasatinib and Quercetin reduced surgery-induced inflammation.
The journal will publish research exploring digital health and advance care planning for older adults, including caregiver integration and technological innovation support. JMIR Aging boasts a strong impact in the field, with a Journal Impact Factor of 5.0 and a CiteScore of 6.5.
Dr. Rameau's cross-cutting research combines clinical expertise with AI to improve detection and treatment of swallowing disorders in older adults. She has made significant contributions to the field, including developing innovative tools for early diagnosis and intervention.
A Northwestern University study found virtual group singing can be an effective tool for promoting well-being and social connection during isolation. Participants reported high satisfaction with the sing-alongs, which helped evoke emotional resonance and promote intellectual engagement.
A multi-state study found that only half of high-risk adults with flu received antiviral treatment, highlighting a critical need for timely care. The gap in treatment increases the risk of severe flu complications, particularly among older adults and those with underlying conditions.
A recent study by researchers from the University of Tsukuba found that cognitively impaired older drivers are less likely to be involved in car-to-car crashes when accompanied by a passenger. The analysis revealed that second-party drivers were more likely to have been accompanied by a passenger than first-party drivers, regardless of...
A cohort study found that hearing loss is associated with an increased risk of incident dementia in older adults. Treating hearing loss may help delay dementia onset for a large number of people, suggesting potential benefits for dementia prevention.
A new study published in Sleep reveals a strong connection between insomnia symptoms, sleep medication use, and disability in older adults. The research found that incremental increases in insomnia symptoms and sleep medication use were associated with a 20% increased risk of disability the following year.
The American Geriatrics Society names Congresswoman Jan Schakowsky as its 2025 recipient of the David H. Solomon Memorial Public Service Award, recognizing her efforts to strengthen the geriatrics workforce and enhance quality care for older Americans. The award celebrates her leadership in advancing critical programs like the Geriatri...
A cohort study found that women with screen-detected estrogen receptor–positive or human epidermal growth factor receptor 2–negative breast cancer who underwent prior screening had an earlier stage of diagnosis and lower breast cancer mortality compared to those who did not undergo prior screening.
Dr. Christine K. Wanich Bradway is recognized for her dedication to improving care for older adults through education and research, particularly in urinary incontinence and severe obesity. She has shaped the field of gerontological nursing and will receive the prestigious Dennis W. Jahnigen Memorial Award at the #AGS25 Annual Scientifi...
A new UBC study examines how long-term social patterns impact eating habits in older adults. Women who engage in a variety of social activities tend to maintain healthier diets, while those with fewer or no interactions show declines.
The statement offers evidence-based guidance to help clinicians navigate cholesterol management in older adults without cardiovascular disease. It balances potential benefits of ASCVD prevention with realities of aging and end-of-life considerations.
A study found that New York's opioid restriction law led to decreased opioid quantities after total joint replacement surgeries. The findings suggest refining laws may further reduce opioid prescribing nationwide.
Rebecca Conant, MD, a pioneering leader in home-based geriatric care, has been honored by the American Geriatrics Society (AGS) as Clinician of the Year for her transformative impact on geriatric medicine. Her leadership and innovations have expanded access to high-quality, person-centered care for older adults.
A Mediterranean diet combined with physical activity mitigates weight loss–related bone mineral density decline in older adults with metabolic syndrome. This study suggests that lifestyle interventions may be effective in maintaining bone health in this population.
Home care cooperatives have achieved half the turnover rates of traditional agencies, thanks to factors like respect, control, job support, and compensation. These cooperative businesses are owned and operated by caregivers themselves, fostering a more collaborative experience.
A new study published in The Journals of Gerontology: Series A found that long-term exposure to high levels of air pollution is associated with lower scores in key cognitive abilities, especially language skills. Exposure to nitrogen dioxide and fine particulate matter was linked to poorer language performance.
A study found that 76% of people aged 50+ have patient portal accounts, with 65% sending at least one message in the past year. However, 13% report paying co-pays or charges for these interactions, especially those with Medicaid or low incomes.
A study of nearly 30,000 adults found that heart failure is associated with a significant decrease in cognition at diagnosis and rapid decline over time. Adults with heart failure reach the threshold for meaningful decline in global cognition nearly six years earlier than those without it.
A UK study found that GPS navigation assistance is associated with increased driving mobility in older adults, particularly those with poor spatial abilities. The study suggests that integrating navigational assistance into strategies can help maintain driving independence.
A new study published in PLOS Digital Health found that older drivers with GPS navigation systems tend to drive more frequently, suggesting these tools help maintain driving mobility. The research reveals that using GPS can alleviate spatial orientation difficulties and support older adults' independence on the roads.
Cynthia Jacelon, a renowned nurse and researcher, has developed the Jacelon Attributed Dignity Scale (JADS), a widely used concept to measure dignity in older adults. Her work focuses on rehabilitation care and promoting function in vulnerable populations.
Researchers found that habitually exercising retired adults outperformed sedentary peers in physical and cognitive tests. The study suggests that regular physical activity can help avoid the negative impacts of mental fatigue on cognitive and physical performance.
A recent study published in the Journal of Ageing and Physical Activity found that older adults exhibit similar or even less muscle damage than young adults after exercise. Muscle soreness was consistently lower in older adults, with reductions of around 34% at 48 hours and 62% at 72 hours compared to younger individuals.
Researchers calculated two indicators from body composition data to examine the relationship between muscle quality and long-term care need. People with low phase angles and extracellular to intracellular water resistance ratios were found to be at high risk of becoming dependent, especially when values fell below median thresholds.
A cross-sectional study found that hospitalized adults with RSV vaccine eligibility were more likely to receive the vaccine. Sociodemographic differences in vaccine uptake occurred, suggesting appropriate prioritization of populations with increased risk.
The University of Texas at Arlington has launched a new Mobile Simulation Lab to tackle workforce and training challenges in rural areas. The lab, equipped with advanced patient manikins and simulation bays, will provide specialized training for local healthcare providers to expand their expertise.
A new Electronic Frailty Index 2 (eFI2) system will improve the accuracy of identifying older people's frailty by integrating data on 36 health problems. This will enable GPs to provide personalized treatments to prevent costly loss of independence and falls in older age.
Research presented at #AGS25 sheds light on the impact of aging on physical resilience, with declines linked to mitochondrial function. Family caregiver distress also shows a significant association with care outcomes, including nursing home placement and psychotropic medication prescribing.
A large majority of older Americans believe health insurance – including Medicare – should cover anti-obesity medications. Nearly 37% of respondents met the criteria for overweight and 36% for obesity. Medicare currently covers a drug used for weight management but only in people with diabetes or a history of heart attack or stroke.
Most older U.S. adults support Medicare covering weight management medications, particularly those with a BMI of 30 or greater. The survey also found that more than half of participants were interested in using these medications to manage their weight.
A new study in Health Data Science identifies individuals with both cardiovascular and musculoskeletal conditions as a distinct high-risk group. These 'osteo-cardiovascular fallers' face a higher risk of severe falls and death compared to healthy participants.
A study of over 105,000 individuals found that following a healthy diet rich in plant-based foods and moderate animal-based foods can promote overall healthy aging. The Alternative Healthy Eating Index (AHEI) was the leading dietary pattern, emphasizing fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and healthy fats.
Groundbreaking research from the University of South Australia shows that any form of exercise can significantly boost brain function and memory across children, adults, and older adults. Regular exercise improves general cognition, memory, and executive function in both healthy individuals and those with clinical conditions.
A new poll found that nearly 3/4 of older Americans have experienced at least one extreme weather event, increasing their concern about climate change's effects on their health. Those who lived through such events are more likely to express worry about the impact on themselves and future generations.
Researchers found that verbal fluency, a measure of vocabulary and ability to use it, is significantly linked to longevity. Verbal fluency was found to be a complex process that relies on multiple cognitive abilities, including long-term memory, vocabulary, efficiency, and visual memory.
Hebrew SeniorLife's outpatient primary care clinics at Orchard Cove and NewBridge on the Charles have been designated as Age-Friendly Health Systems – Committed to Care Excellence. The recognition is based on the organization's commitment to providing safe, high-quality care that aligns with the individual needs of older adults.
A new study of over 1,500 individuals in the US and Europe found that those prone to nostalgia have more close friends and work harder to maintain their relationships. Nostalgia is associated with a greater number of strong social ties and better overall health and wellbeing.
Researchers developed a portable system using AI to spot cognitive impairment by measuring subtle differences in motor function. The device accurately identified 83% of participants with mild cognitive impairment (MCI), offering potential for early intervention and improved outcomes.