Articles tagged with Older Adults
A new national study reveals that loneliness and social isolation have returned to pre-pandemic rates for older Americans, affecting 33% of adults aged 50-80. Those with poor physical or mental health face even higher rates, highlighting the need for clinicians to screen patients for these issues and connect them with community resources.
The American College of Surgeons Geriatric Surgery Verification program significantly decreases hospital stays among older cancer patients, increasing their independence and likelihood of discharge home. The program addresses the unique needs of older adults undergoing major abdominal oncologic procedures.
A study by Politecnico di Milano reveals districts most at risk of cardiovascular emergencies during heat waves in Milan. The research found that 23% of the city's population in 18 vulnerable districts face a 22% increased risk, while 20 low-vulnerability districts show no significant increase.
A new study finds that California's wildfire response is biased towards wealthier communities, leaving marginalized populations without access to necessary resources. The analysis of over 500 wildfire incidents revealed a significant disparity in resource allocation based on socio-demographic factors such as race and economic status.
A study found that user participation and perspective are crucial in developing home-care technology. Common factors across countries include familiarity with robots and a positive impression of them. Japan values convenience, Ireland prioritizes notifying family members, and Finland emphasizes design. These findings highlight the impo...
A study by SWPS University researchers challenges prevailing myths about older adults' decision-making abilities. Older adults demonstrate an inherent ability to resist manipulation effectively and make complex decisions as younger people, contrary to previous studies suggesting they are risk-averse.
A recent study found that US older adults aged 50-80 commonly experience loneliness and social isolation, with high rates reported across various sociodemographic groups. These findings highlight the significant impact of social isolation on physical and mental health in this age group.
Research by UCL experts found that online training can improve speech intelligibility for both older and younger adults, with a 30% improvement in understanding sentences spoken by new voices. The study suggests that practicing listening to regularly encountered voices could enhance everyday communication.
Researchers at Wake Forest University School of Medicine found a strong association between living in disadvantaged neighborhoods and higher blood pressure and lower cognitive scores. The study analyzed data from over 500 adults aged 55+ and used the Area Deprivation Index to measure neighborhood disadvantage.
A CU Anschutz study found that using a decision aid led to less personal uncertainty and distress among older adults, but not reduced depression. The online tool helped participants feel more confident in their decisions.
Researchers found that megakaryocyte conditioned media from younger mice was more effective at promoting blood vessel growth and improving healing. The study provides a potential approach for developing new therapies to speed up fracture recovery in older individuals, reducing pain and improving mobility.
A new review paper finds that regular coffee consumption adds an average of 1.8 years to a person's life, with benefits seen in both men and women. The study suggests that moderate coffee consumption can play a role in mitigating against chronic diseases and promoting healthy aging.
A study found that skeletal muscle loss, particularly in the temporalis muscle, is associated with an increased risk of developing Alzheimer's disease dementia. Participants with smaller temporalis muscle size were more than twice as likely to develop dementia over a median follow-up period of 5.8 years.
Researchers developed an adapted nominal group technique (aNGT) to efficiently build consensus among diverse stakeholders, prioritizing key domains and identifying new care indicators. The approach was effective in reaching a consensus on prioritizing symptoms, functioning, and quality of care.
A researcher is helping young people and older adults tackle hoarding disorder through subtle and positive intervention methods. Her work focuses on the psychosocial impact of hoarding symptoms in college students and the potential for early intervention, finding that simple interventions can lead to life-changing outcomes.
A recent longitudinal study from the University of Toronto reveals that older adults with migraine are at a substantial increase in risk of depression during the pandemic. Increased family conflict, difficulties in accessing healthcare, and caregiving responsibilities were associated with higher risks of depression among this population.
A new treatment combination of surgery and embolization for subdural hematomas has been shown to reduce the risk of follow-up surgeries. The procedure, which blocks specific blood vessels, resulted in a 4% recurrence rate compared to 11% without embolization.
Researchers developed an evaluation scale based on three physical performance tests: single-leg balance, timed up and go, and sit-to-stand. The scale predicts long-term care risk among older adults with high accuracy, particularly those with scores of 41 or more. It provides a comprehensive assessment method for Japanese older adults.
A Rutgers researcher examines how educational attainment affects cognitive performance, memory function, and dementia risk in later life. The study found increased years of education associated with better overall cognitive performance, including improved memory and verbal fluency.
A new review highlights the differences in brain aging and Alzheimer's disease between humans and non-human primates, revealing that primate brains are more resistant to aging-related damage. The study suggests that tau tangles play a critical role in Alzheimer's progression, challenging the amyloid cascade hypothesis.
Residents of Senboku New Town in Japan transformed vacant buildings into supportive housing, community restaurants, and group homes to address aging population challenges. The Senboku Hottokenai Network Project showcases the importance of community-led co-creation in creating Healthy New Towns.
A study published in PLOS ONE found that adults diagnosed with type 2 diabetes at a younger age are more likely to develop dementia. The researchers analyzed data from over 1,200 U.S. adults and found a graded association between age at diagnosis and dementia risk.
A recent study found that electronic letter reminders highlighting the cardiovascular benefits of influenza vaccines increased vaccination rates among over 2 million adults in Denmark. The strategy showed a greater impact on those who have had a heart attack, improving flu shot rates by potentially being cardioprotective. The research ...
A new study by uOttawa highlights the importance of providing culturally and linguistically concordant care to avoid inappropriate prescribing of antipsychotics. Francophone and Allophone residents are more likely to experience inappropriateness compared to English-language patients.
Researchers have created a comprehensive database of protein changes in mice tissues due to aging, providing new insights into age-related diseases. The study reveals proteins that increase with age and improve understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying aging.
A new study analyzed 21 years of data from over 2,300 older Dutch adults, finding that physical frailty can lead to social isolation and loneliness, while also being an indicator of future social isolation. Lifestyle changes such as better nutrition, exercise, and social activities can reverse these conditions.
A cross-sectional study found substantial burden of RSV-related hospitalizations, ICU admissions, and deaths in US adults. Increasing RSV vaccination among older adults has the potential to reduce these outcomes.
A study of over 4,000 participants found that those with both conditions showed faster memory impairment. The researchers suggest that the combination of joint pain and depressive symptoms can lead to an 'overlap' of information in the brain, causing cognitive decline.
A new study found that gabapentinoids, widely used to treat neuropathic pain, increased the risk of hip fractures in older patients. The study tracked patients hospitalized for hip fractures in Australia and found a 30% increased odds of hip fracture within two months of being dispensed gabapentinoid medication.
A new study reveals that many older adults in low-income communities are living with undiagnosed cognitive impairments, including mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and dementia. The study found significant racial disparities, with African American patients being more than twice as likely to have undiagnosed MCI or dementia.
Researchers found that cognitive performance worsened for older adults on days they felt lonelier than usual and the following day. The study suggests a vicious cycle between loneliness and cognitive decline over the short term, highlighting the importance of early intervention to prevent chronic loneliness.
A recent study found that vitamin D supplementation can decrease blood pressure in older adults with obesity and those with low vitamin D levels. High doses of vitamin D did not provide additional health benefits compared to the recommended daily dose.
A new poll by Michigan Medicine reveals that having grandchildren and regularly seeing them can have a positive impact on older adults' mental health. Grandparents who care for their grandchildren under 18 or see them frequently are less likely to feel isolated and report better mental health.
A study by the University of Gothenburg found that unclear procedures and distribution of responsibilities among healthcare workers can lead to poor oral health in older adults in nursing homes. The researchers suggest that a more structured process can promote communication and awareness of good oral health practices.
A survey of older adults with heart conditions found that their sexual health impacts mood and well-being, but most healthcare professionals do not offer this information. Patients favor conversations with healthcare professionals about sexual health, including topics like medication side effects and anxiety before sex.
A new study found that significant year-to-year fluctuations in cholesterol levels without medication changes could indicate an increased risk of developing dementia or cognitive decline. Researchers suggest that reducing cholesterol variability could potentially be a promising therapeutic target for dementia prevention.
A study found that seniors vulnerable to emotional contagion are 8.5-10 times more likely to experience anxiety or anxious depression than less vulnerable individuals. Researchers analyzed data from 170 adults aged 55+, exploring the relationship between emotional contagion and psychological distress.
A time-series study found heat waves associated with increased adverse health events among 65-year-olds, highlighting the need for heat adaptation strategies. Dually eligible individuals face vulnerable outcomes without such measures.
The ECOG-ACRIN Cancer Research Group and PrECOG, LLC will present several abstracts at the 66th American Society of Hematology Meeting & Exposition. Promising results from a phase 2 study in acute myeloid leukemia and new data from the practice-changing E1910 phase 3 trial show improved outcomes for patients with B-cell acute lymphobla...
A study of socially and economically vulnerable older adults found that African Americans have twice the odds of unrecognized cognitive impairment as White patients. Approximately 82% of Black patients had undiagnosed dementia or mild cognitive impairment, compared to 64% of White patients.
Researchers found using a fan with skin wetting reduces heat-induced cardiac strain in older people in hot and humid conditions. However, in very hot and dry conditions, fan use had an adverse effect, while skin wetting alone was effective in reducing heart work.
Research by UTHealth Houston found that ownership changes in home health agencies can result in increased Medicare spending and reduced staffing levels. The study also found that quarterly star ratings increased, but this may be due to upcoding of quality measures.
A Michigan Medicine study of over 18,500 adults found that obstructive sleep apnea was associated with a higher risk of dementia symptoms or diagnosis at every age level. Women were more likely to be diagnosed with dementia than men, especially as they aged.
A new study provides a clear definition of late-life homelessness, which is shaped by age-based structures, social relations, and intersecting forms of oppression. The researchers argue that policy makers and professionals need a comprehensive understanding of this issue to effectively address it.
Aging adults face increased risk of life-threatening complications when undergoing elective noncardiac surgeries too soon after a heart attack. Delaying surgery for three to six months following a heart attack can significantly reduce this risk, according to new research published in JAMA Surgery.
A new study by University of Eastern Finland researchers shows that life satisfaction remains high until very old age, but eudaemonic quality of life declines after 70. Having sufficient personal resources, such as health, financial, and social resources, can help maintain subjective well-being from age 50 to very old age.
Researchers found that polypharmacy in older adults with Alzheimer's disease exacerbates symptoms, functional decline, and health outcomes. The study highlights the need for medication optimization strategies to improve quality of life among this vulnerable population.
A new study led by CAMH shows that a combination of therapies can slow cognitive decline in older adults with conditions increasing the risk of dementia. Participants receiving Cognitive Remediation plus transcranial direct current stimulation experienced slower cognitive decline compared to those receiving a control intervention.
Researchers found that participants with Parkinson's who performed rapid side-to-side eye movements showed reduced body sway and improved posture. In contrast, those with Parkinson's who made vertical saccadic eye movements experienced increased body instability.
A new study published in the journal Aging & Mental Health found that people with more positive expectations of aging tend to report less frequent cognitive problems and are less likely to perceive a decline in their cognitive performance over time. Researchers suggest that modifying older adults' aging expectations could support healt...
New RSV vaccines have been found to be highly effective in preventing severe respiratory illness and hospitalizations, with an 80% efficacy rate. However, vaccination rates remain low, especially among older adults, highlighting the need for better understanding of risk factors and improved healthcare provider education.
This study reveals a substantial increase in US elderly cutaneous malignant melanoma incidence rates, peaking at 1.53 per 1,000 males and 0.59 per 1,000 females aged 85+ from 2012 to 2016. Incidence rates escalated with age and birth cohort, with continuous increases observed.
A new study found compositional and functional differences in the gut microbiota of Chinese long-living adults (over 90 years) compared to elderly adults (65–74 years). The researchers noted lower relative abundances of bacteria in certain genera, which may regulate biological processes like autophagy and telomere maintenance. These fi...
A new study from UT Arlington found that setting reminders can significantly reduce age-related declines in memory, particularly in prospective memory. The study suggests that reminders help counteract cognitive strain by making memory retrieval less reliant on internal processes.
Non-Hispanic Black patients are more likely to receive inadequate care and experience poor survival outcomes due to delays in treatment initiation. Guideline-concordant care is crucial in improving survival rates among these patients.
A new Concordia study reveals that bilingualism is associated with larger and healthier hippocampi in patients with Alzheimer’s disease. The research found no evidence of hippocampal atrophy in bilinguals across the continuum of Alzheimer’s development.
A new study found that 3% of people with traditional Medicare switch to Medicare Advantage each year, but many switch back after a short period. The researchers discovered that people who switched from MA to traditional Medicare were more likely to choose higher-rated plans or those with broader networks.
The American College of Surgeons Geriatric Surgery Verification program reduces surgical death rates by nearly half and increases the percentage of patients with documented care preferences. Implementing the program also enables hospitals to improve patient-centered care and reduce costs.
Younger adults diagnosed with colorectal cancer have later-stage disease with more aggressive types of tumors. Obesity, family history, inflammatory bowel disease, and symptoms are strongly associated factors. These findings highlight disparities in colon cancer incidence among younger adults, particularly non-Hispanic Black patients.
A multi-state study published in The Lancet found the RSV vaccine to be highly effective in protecting older adults against severe disease, hospitalization, and death. The vaccine provided approximately 80% protection against these outcomes, including severe disease and ICU admission.