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How did health insurance coverage changes affect older adults? Two new studies take a look

Two new studies found that those who turned 65 after the ACA took effect had lower out-of-pocket health costs and fewer hospitalizations. However, dual-eligible individuals over 65 saw negative impacts from Medicaid 'unwinding,' with 12% losing coverage and many going without needed care due to cost.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalJAMA Health Forum·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJan 20, 2025
Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station

Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station offers research-grade local weather data for networked stations, campuses, and community observatories.

Boosting physical fitness increases language comprehension in older adults

A six-month exercise programme improved language comprehension in older monolingual adults, with a 7% increase in detection speed. In contrast, bilingual participants did not show the same improvement, suggesting a complex relationship between fitness and language processing in bilingual brains.

SourceUniversity of Birmingham·JournalAging Neuropsychology and Cognition·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateJan 16, 2025

85% of Mexican Americans with dementia unaware of diagnosis, outpacing overall rate

A University of Michigan study finds that 85% of Mexican Americans with dementia are unaware of their diagnosis, surpassing the overall rate for US Hispanics and Latinos. The lack of awareness is attributed to physicians' reluctance to diagnose dementia due to cultural and communication barriers.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalJournal of General Internal Medicine·DateJan 14, 2025
SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB

SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB transfers large imagery and model outputs quickly between field laptops, lab workstations, and secure archives.

Medicare enrollment linked to sharp decline in use of mental healthcare services

A new study from the USC Schaeffer Center finds that people with mental health symptoms from low- and middle-income households experience a 71% decline in outpatient mental health visits after enrolling in Medicare. This decline is also associated with a 47% lower likelihood of receiving psychotropic drugs.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·JournalHealth Services Research·DateJan 14, 2025

New study links home temperature to cognitive function in older adults

A groundbreaking study has identified a significant relationship between indoor temperatures and cognitive performance in older adults, with findings suggesting that even current climate conditions are placing older adults at risk. The study found that older adults reported the least difficulty maintaining attention when their home tem...

SourceHebrew SeniorLife Hinda and Arthur Marcus Institute for Aging Research·JournalThe Journals of Gerontology Series A·TypeObservational study·DateJan 13, 2025

NUS Medicine study: Brain connectome phenotype linked to cerebrovascular disease can track cognitive decline

Researchers discovered a brain functional connectome phenotype related to multiple cerebrovascular disease markers that contributes additively to cognitive decline and neurodegeneration alongside Alzheimer's disease. The study highlights the role of cerebrovascular disease in reshaping our understanding of dementia.

SourceNational University of Singapore, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine·JournalAlzheimer s & Dementia·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 12, 2025
Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C)

Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C) provide clear calls and strong noise reduction for interviews, conferences, and noisy field environments.

Study sheds light on depression in community-dwelling older adults

A recent study by Columbia University's Mailman School of Public Health found that engaging in volunteering activities can significantly reduce the odds of depression in community-dwelling older adults. The study, which analyzed data from over 2,900 participants aged 65-79, also revealed that older adults with a negative history of dep...

SourceColumbia University's Mailman School of Public Health·JournalJournal of the American Geriatrics Society·DateJan 8, 2025

Major depressive disorder and driving behavior among older adults

A longitudinal cohort study found that older drivers with major depressive disorder demonstrated higher rates of hard braking, cornering, and unpredictability in their driving patterns. Tailored interventions are crucial for maintaining independence and ensuring driving safety among this population.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateDec 30, 2024

Chinese Medical Journal review provides insights into respiratory syncytial virus

Researchers provide comprehensive review of RSV's virology, clinical impact, and prevention strategies, emphasizing the need for effective vaccines to mitigate this critical health need. The review highlights RSV's severe impact on infants, children, and older adults, as well as its potential effects on multiple organs and systems.

SourceChinese Medical Journals Publishing House Co., Ltd.·JournalChinese Medical Journal·TypeSystematic review·DateDec 20, 2024
Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro)

Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro) powers local ML workloads, large datasets, and multi-display analysis for field and lab teams.

Young English speakers are most comfortable with digital health

A study by UCSF researchers found that language, education, and age affect someone's ability to engage with digital health tools. Young English speakers are most comfortable using digital health tools, but others face barriers due to limited education or language proficiency.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalJournal of the American Medical Informatics Association·DateDec 17, 2024

Ditch TV and read a book: UniSA research delivers best moves to reduce dementia risk

Researchers at UniSA found that certain sedentary behaviors, like reading, are beneficial for cognitive function, while others, such as watching TV, have a negative effect. The study suggests a nuanced approach to thinking about the link between sedentary behaviors and cognitive function.

SourceUniversity of South Australia·JournalThe Journals of Gerontology Series A·TypeCase study·DateDec 15, 2024
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

Apple iPhone 17 Pro delivers top performance and advanced cameras for field documentation, data collection, and secure research communications.

Loneliness and isolation: Back to pre-pandemic levels, but still high, for 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.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalJAMA·TypeSurvey·DateDec 11, 2024

Geriatric surgery verification program can improve outcomes for older cancer patients in community hospitals

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.

SourceAmerican College of Surgeons·JournalJournal of the American College of Surgeons·DateDec 10, 2024

Milan under stress due to heat waves: study reveals districts most at risk of cardiovascular emergencies

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.

SourcePolitecnico di Milano·JournalPopulation and Environment·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateDec 10, 2024
Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach

Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach provides rugged GNSS navigation, satellite messaging, and SOS for backcountry geology and climate field teams.

The inequity of wildfire rescue resources in California

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.

SourceSociety for Risk Analysis·DateDec 10, 2024

Empowering older adults with home-care robots

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...

SourceChiba University·JournalScientific Reports·TypeSurvey·DateDec 10, 2024

Loneliness and social isolation among US older adults

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.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA·DateDec 9, 2024

Online training could help older adults communicate in noisy environments

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.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalJournal of Experimental Psychology·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 9, 2024
Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4)

Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4) runs demanding GIS, imaging, and annotation workflows on the go for surveys, briefings, and lab notebooks.

Living in a disadvantaged neighborhood linked to higher blood pressure and lower cognition

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.

SourceAtrium Health Wake Forest Baptist·JournalAlzheimer s & Dementia Diagnosis Assessment & Disease Monitoring·DateDec 6, 2024

Effects of megakaryocyte conditioned media on endothelial cell angiogenesis

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.

SourceImpact Journals LLC·JournalAging-US·TypeNews article·DateDec 4, 2024
Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm)

Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm) tracks health metrics and safety alerts during long observing sessions, fieldwork, and remote expeditions.

Muscle loss could increase dementia risk

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.

SourceRadiological Society of North America·DateDec 3, 2024

Adapted nominal group technique effectively builds consensus on health care priorities for older adults

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.

SourceAmerican Academy of Family Physicians·JournalThe Annals of Family Medicine·DateNov 25, 2024

Hoarding by young people, older adults tackled by researcher

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.

SourceMississippi State University·JournalJournal of American College Health·TypeSurvey·DateNov 21, 2024

People with migraine at high risk of depression during pandemic

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.

SourceUniversity of Toronto·JournalJournal of Pain Research·TypeObservational study·DateNov 21, 2024
Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply

Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply powers sensors, microcontrollers, and test circuits with programmable rails and stable outputs.

Developing an evaluation scale to predict the risk of requiring long-term care based on three simple physical performance tests

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.

SourceUniversity of Tsukuba·JournalGeriatrics and Gerontology International·DateNov 20, 2024

How educational attainment may impact memory and dementia risk later in life

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.

SourceRutgers University·JournalEpidemiology·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateNov 20, 2024

Brain aging and Alzheimer's: Insights from non-human primates

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.

SourceImpact Journals LLC·JournalAging-US·TypeNews article·DateNov 19, 2024

Healthy New Town: Revitalizing neighborhoods in the wake of aging populations

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.

SourceOsaka Metropolitan University·JournalHabitat International·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateNov 19, 2024
CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock

CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock simplifies serious desks with 18 ports for high-speed storage, monitors, and instruments across Mac and PC setups.

Earlier diabetes diagnosis linked to dementia risk

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.

SourceNew York University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateNov 19, 2024

Language comprehension impacts medical prescriptions for Ontario's long-term care Francophone, Allophone residents: uOttawa study

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.

SourceUniversity of Ottawa·JournalBMC Geriatrics·TypeMeta-analysis·DateNov 15, 2024
GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter

GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter logs beta, gamma, and X-ray levels for environmental monitoring, training labs, and safety demonstrations.

Age on the molecular level: showing changes through proteins

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.

SourceOsaka Metropolitan University·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 14, 2024

Social isolation, loneliness and frailty in older adults have a complex and sometimes mutually reinforcing relationship

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.

SourceConcordia University·JournalAge and Ageing·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateNov 14, 2024

Neuropathic pain drugs found to increase risk of hip fracture in older adults

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.

SourceMonash University·JournalJAMA Network Open·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateNov 13, 2024
AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope

AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope supports teaching labs and QA checks with LED illumination, mechanical stage, and included 5MP camera.

Unseen dementia: Study finds high rates of undiagnosed cognitive decline in vulnerable communities

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.

SourceEmory Health Sciences·JournalJAMA Network Open·TypeObservational study·DateNov 12, 2024

Cognitive decline and loneliness linked in older adults over short time periods

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.

SourcePenn State·JournalJournal of Gerontology·TypeObservational study·DateNov 12, 2024
Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars

Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars deliver bright, sharp views for wildlife surveys, eclipse chases, and quick star-field scans at dark sites.

Unclear routines risk the oral health of older adults in nursing homes

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.

SourceUniversity of Gothenburg·JournalBMC Geriatrics·TypeSurvey·DateNov 12, 2024
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope combines portable Schmidt-Cassegrain optics with GoTo pointing for outreach nights and field campaigns.

“Emotional contagion” a factor in senior’s mental health

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.

SourceUniversity of Montreal·JournalPLOS Mental Health·DateNov 11, 2024

ECOG-ACRIN and PrECOG announce multiple presentations at ASH 2024

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...

SourceECOG-ACRIN Cancer Research Group·DateNov 7, 2024
Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C)

Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C) keeps Macs, tablets, and meters powered during extended observing runs and remote surveys.