Articles tagged with Older Adults
A recent study by the American Psychological Association found that retirees moving abroad are at a higher risk of loneliness. This is despite having better socioeconomic status and health compared to non-migrants. Maintaining social connections with family and new acquaintances in the destination country can mitigate this issue.
A study of 24 countries found that digital exclusion significantly increases the risk of depressive symptoms among older adults. The association remains strong even after adjusting for demographic factors.
A cohort study found that healthier diets and lower waist-to-hip ratios were associated with improved brain connectivity and memory in older adults. The study suggests that interventions targeting diet and central obesity may be most effective between ages 48 and 70 to promote better cognitive health.
A new study found that exercise significantly reduced falls among elderly women with polypharmacy. Those using multiple medications benefited the most from the intervention, experiencing a 29% lower risk of fall compared to the control group.
Promoting cardiovascular health may help alleviate neurodegenerative disease burden in older adults, particularly among Black adults. The study found a positive correlation between cardiovascular health and biomarkers of neurodegenerative disease.
A new study suggests that hospital rehabilitation for older adults might only be the beginning of a longer journey. While therapy is crucial in mitigating functional decline, only a small minority of patients receiving intensive therapy (14+ hours/week) had a greater likelihood of home discharge.
Breast cancer death rates are predicted to increase in EU patients aged 80 years and older, while falling in all other age groups. This is attributed to a lack of regular screening and access to modern treatments.
This theme issue explores digital health solutions to address social isolation, health literacy, and cultural influences on aging health. Contributors are encouraged to submit their work by September 30, 2025.
A randomized clinical trial found that a customized smartphone app, Silvia Program, significantly improved cognitive functioning among residents with mild cognitive impairment. The program's combination of daily goal setting, cognitive training, and AI-generated conversations showed promising results.
A comprehensive meta-analysis of 39 studies from 21 countries reveals that group arts interventions can significantly reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety among older adults. The benefits were consistent across different types of art and diverse populations, suggesting a synergistic effect.
Researchers at the University of Missouri have identified a small molecule drug that targets a specific serotonin receptor, showing promise as a treatment for sarcopenia. The study suggests that this neurotherapeutic can improve muscle strength by activating motor neurons to fire more effectively.
A nursing study pairs teens and older adults with smartwatches to test monitoring health in under-resourced communities. The results show that 91% of older adults engaged with the smartwatch prompts, highlighting the importance of social engagement for brain health.
A study by Flinders University found that certain bacteria in the throat may indicate greater health vulnerability in older adults. The presence of Staphylococcus aureus was linked to higher mortality rates, even after adjusting for other health factors.
A new study found that one-third of Canadian adults aged 55 or older are nutritionally at risk, potentially leading to increased hospital stays and emergency visits. The SCREEN-8 tool was used to measure an individual's nutrition risk, and those with higher scores had significantly lower odds of reporting healthcare issues.
Research suggests that resistance exercise is the most effective type for tackling insomnia in older adults, with a significant improvement in sleep quality. Aerobic and combination exercises also show promise, but to a lesser extent. The study analyzed data from 24 studies involving over 2,000 adults aged 60 and above.
A study found that social influence and trust play key roles in older adults' adoption of demand-responsive transportation. The research, conducted in Senboku New Town, Osaka, revealed significant relationships between behavioral intention and performance expectancy among older people.
A new pilot study suggests that intermittent treatment with senolytic medications like Dasatinib and Quercetin may improve cognitive function in older adults at risk of Alzheimer’s disease. The study found an improvement in cognitive scores, particularly among participants with the lowest baseline cognitive function.
A new study suggests that extreme heat exposure accelerates biological aging in older adults, with participants experiencing greater increases in biological age in neighborhoods with more days of high heat. The study analyzed epigenetic changes and found a significant correlation between heat index values and biological age.
Researchers have developed an online exercise program that improves posture, balance, and strength in older adults, reducing fall risk by up to 36% in some cases. The 'Strong Foundations' program uses semi-individualized instruction to correct exercise form and provide personalized guidance.
New research from the University of Surrey found that morning blue light therapy improved sleep quality and daily activity in older adults. The study, which investigated 36 adults aged 60 and over, revealed that exposure to blue-enriched light in the morning led to greater daytime activity and regular sleep patterns.
A novel LASSO-derived model was developed to predict coagulation disorders after coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) in elderly individuals. The model demonstrated good prediction performance, identifying preoperative and intraoperative variables associated with coagulation disorders.
A new University of Cincinnati trial is comparing two types of omega-3 supplements, LPC-DHA and TAG-DHA, to slow or prevent dementia progression in elderly adults. Researchers aim to investigate whether LPC-DHA supplementation increases CSF DHA levels and improves cognitive function.
A new AI model measures how fast the brain ages by analyzing MRI scans, providing a more accurate picture of brain health. The tool closely correlates faster brain aging with increased cognitive decline and dementia risk, offering potential for early biomarkers and personalized treatment.
A new study reveals that most well-known national suicide prevention organizations do not have easily accessible resources targeting older adults, who are at the highest risk of suicide. The findings highlight the urgent need for targeted campaigns and tailored prevention programs that address the unique healthcare needs of older adults.
Researchers found that patients receiving telemedicine care had lower rates of low-value tests, such as cervical cancer screening and imaging for uncomplicated low back pain. However, virtual options may reduce barriers to care but also deter clinicians and patients from completing some low-value tests.
A study found that GLP-1RAs may have a modest effect on depression risk compared to DPP4is, but not SGLT-2is in older adults with diabetes. Researchers used Medicare claims data from 2013 to 2020 and found slightly higher HgbA1c levels in MA beneficiaries, suggesting possible differences in disease management.
Researchers developed a frailty index using electronic health record data from over 500,000 patients, identifying those at high risk of adverse health outcomes. The tool classifies patients as robust, pre-frail, frail or very frail based on age-related health deficits.
A panel of experts identified key biomarkers for PND through a comprehensive literature review of 194 clinical studies. The study highlights the potential for these biomarkers to predict and diagnose PND, improving postoperative cognitive health in elderly patients.
New UCLA-led research finds that Paxlovid does not significantly reduce COVID-19 hospitalization and mortality among vaccinated older adults. The study suggests that Paxlovid's potential effect on COVID-19 hospitalization in vaccinated older adults is four times weaker than originally reported.
Research found that community-dwelling older adults with advanced age, frailty, or multiple prescription medications had greater net benefits from intensive blood pressure lowering. However, this approach can increase treatment-related harms in these groups.
Thousands of Medicare beneficiaries developed postoperative infections up to six months after coronary artery bypass grafting or aortic valve replacement. Women had a 60% greater odds of developing infections, including urinary tract, pneumonia, and sepsis.
A new study from the University of Texas at Arlington found that Americans aged 65 and older who experienced parental divorce as children were more likely to suffer a stroke compared to their peers. The study analyzed data from over 13,000 older Americans and found that about 14% had experienced parental divorce during childhood.
A new study published in Annals of Neurology found that lower concentrations of vitamin B12 in healthy, older adults led to signs of neurological and cognitive deficiency. These individuals showed slower processing speeds, brain lesions, and delayed responses to visual stimuli compared to those with higher B12 levels.
A study published in Annals of Neurology found that severe early-life adversity accelerates brain aging and amplifies neurodegenerative processes in women. Researchers analyzed biomarkers, brain scans, and cognitive tests to determine the link between childhood trauma and later dementia risk.
FAIR Health introduces a new shared decision-making tool for Alzheimer's disease, providing clinical information on self-care options and drug therapies. The tool also offers related cost information to support age-friendly care, available at no cost to users.
A new study reveals a stark wealth divide in physical activity and diet among older adults, with those in lower-income groups experiencing higher rates of depression. Regular exercise and a healthy diet are linked to lower depression risk, highlighting the need for urgent action to address health disparities.
A study of 153 people between the ages of 60 and 89 suggests a modification to the well-established clinical test for assessing balance in the elderly to make it more efficient, accessible, and predictive. The assessment can predict the risk of falling over a six-month period with accuracy.
A new poll by Michigan Medicine reveals that working past age 50 has positive impacts on physical health, mental wellbeing, and overall wellbeing. However, some experience negative effects, with 33% citing a negative effect on physical health and 29% saying it affects mental health.
A study published in the Archives of Gerontology and Geriatrics Plus found that the prevalence of older Americans without disabilities increased from 61% in 2008 to 65% in 2017. This represents a significant improvement, with an additional 2.07 million older Americans potentially having had disabilities if trends had remained constant.
Approximately 1 in 9 US residents used dietary supplements to boost their immunity before the pandemic. Label claims related to immune benefits were common on these supplements, especially among older adults and those in poorer health.
A Washington State University study explores the role of nostalgia and comfort in prepared meals for older adults. The research highlights the significance of texture variety and cheese flavor in increasing appeal, with participants preferring foods that evoke a sense of warmth and familiarity.
A new research paper found that physical activity (PA) is associated with better sleep quality in older adults during social isolation. Reduced levels of PA had a negative association with the quality of sleep in four studies, while one study found improved sleep patterns among active individuals.
A new study by Ohio State University researchers found that older adults who couldn't cover unexpected expenses through credit cards were more likely to report high levels of loneliness. The study suggests that financial stress can lead to social isolation in this demographic, highlighting the need for financial and credit counseling.
Researchers are exploring the effects of herring roe omega-3 on exercise metabolism and recovery in active females. The study aims to investigate its benefits for supporting a healthy lifestyle across all ages, including muscle function, metabolism, and cognitive health.
A study found clear differences in brain health between Hispanic and non-Hispanic White older adults, with Hispanic participants scoring lower on tests of memory, attention, and problem-solving despite similar mental health. Researchers emphasize the importance of considering social, economic, and cultural factors when developing progr...
A $10.8 million trial will enroll 600 patients aged 60+ to determine whether a hip replacement or internal fixation surgery is better for certain types of hip fractures. The study's patient-focused approach aims to inform clinical guidelines and help patients make informed decisions about their care.
A large observational study found that high levels of 'good' HDL cholesterol are associated with a heightened risk of glaucoma, particularly among those older than 55. In contrast, higher levels of 'bad' LDL cholesterol, total cholesterol, and triglycerides are linked to a lower risk of the condition.
A six-week stress management program, O'stress, has been shown to improve the emotional health of seniors by increasing problem-solving strategies and reducing anxiety. The program also addresses emotional contagion, a significant factor in psychological distress among seniors.
A new survey by the Annenberg Public Policy Center finds that nearly half of US adults incorrectly think taking a daily low-dose aspirin reduces heart attack and stroke risk. The survey reveals significant gaps in understanding about aspirin use among older adults, with younger respondents more likely to correctly assess the risks.
A systematic review and network meta-analysis of 601 trials revealed that SGLT2 inhibitors were more cardioprotective in older adults, while GLP-1 receptor agonists offered greater benefits to younger patients. These findings suggest personalized treatment approaches for type 2 diabetes based on age and sex.
A new algorithm proposes measuring quadriceps muscle mass for more accurate sarcopenia diagnosis, potentially leading to earlier detection and better treatment options. Ultrasound imaging is recommended as a cost-effective and practical solution for diagnosing sarcopenia in clinical settings.
The partnership allows for the expansion of on-site fitness programs at senior living communities across the Boston metro area, providing access to high-quality fitness resources and preventative health programs. The Get Movin' program teaches senior residents how to improve their health through balance, mobility, cardiovascular endura...
A review article discusses the importance of physical activity in preventing disease and improving functional independence among older adults. Higher levels of physical activity are associated with improved cognition, mental health, and quality of life, and can potentially add years to an individual's life.
The Deanna and Sidney Wolk Center for Memory Health has been recognized by the Institute of Healthcare Improvement (IHI) as an Age-Friendly Health System level 2. The center provides expertly designed care for older adults with brain health issues and memory loss, incorporating key evidence-based practices into its multidisciplinary care.
A collaborative study investigates how advanced AI tools can make it easier to evaluate interventions for ageing, providing personalised recommendations. The researchers identified eight critical requirements for effective AI-based evaluations and found that following specific guidelines improved the quality of the recommendations.
A recent study found that positive affectivity contributes to higher physical activity levels and increased activity during the COVID-19 pandemic. In contrast, depressive feelings are associated with lower physical activity levels. Mental well-being plays a crucial role in maintaining a physically active lifestyle.
A new study from the Salk Institute has discovered that a protein called BCL6 plays a crucial role in maintaining healthy muscle mass. Increasing BCL6 levels successfully reversed muscle losses in mice, suggesting that pairing GLP-1 medications with a BCL6-boosting drug could help counteract unwanted muscle loss.
A recent study by researchers from the University of Toronto found that older adults who experienced parental divorce during childhood have a 60% higher odds of stroke. The study controlled for known risk factors and still showed a strong association between parental divorce and stroke.
Despite decreased aspirin use among adults with low and higher ASCVD risk, many patients with limited benefit to treatment continue taking aspirin. The study highlights the need for better understanding of individual risk factors to improve treatment decisions.
A new study from Trinity College Dublin reveals that regular dog walking is associated with improved mobility, reduced fear of falling, and a lower likelihood of unexplained falls. The study, based on TILDA data, highlights the potential benefits of this simple activity for older adults.