Category: Seniors
Older adults who follow healthy diets accumulate chronic diseases more slowly – new study
People who consistently ate a healthy diet developed chronic diseases more slowly, in contrast to those whose diets were considered more inflammatory; that is, diets high in processed meats, refined grains and sugary drinks.
Family and friends shoulder the real cost of dementia − $224B in unpaid care
Our first-of-its-kind estimate of dementia care costs by state also revealed dramatic cost disparities by geography. In the District of Columbia, the average annual cost for a person living with dementia – including both medical spending and the cost of unpaid care – is $37,000, while in West Virginia it is $61,000.
The leading risk factor for cancer isn’t what you think
If you were to ask most people what causes cancer, the answer would probably be smoking, alcohol, the sun, hair dye or some other avoidable element. But the most important risk factor for cancer is something else: aging.
Japanese walking: the benefits of this fitness trend
A fitness trend known as Japanese walking is capturing attention online, promising major health benefits with minimal equipment and time.
Why do cuts to Medicaid matter for Americans over 65? Two experts on aging explain why lives are at stakeWhy do cuts to Medicaid matter for Americans over 65?
People who lost their Medicaid coverage had more chronic conditions and could perform fewer activities of daily living, such as bathing and getting dressed, without any assistance as compared with those who still had Medicaid coverage. In addition, they were twice as likely to experience depression and be in fair or poor health. As people’s health worsened, they also went to the hospital more often and stayed there longer. They also used outpatient surgery services more frequently.
Why do some people get a curved back as they age and what can I do to avoid it?
Older adults often develop a curved back, known as age-related kyphosis or hyperkyphosis.
Why sitting down – and getting back up – might be the most important health test you do today
If you or someone you love finds it difficult to stand up without using your hands, it might seem like a small issue. But in health and ageing, this movement – known as the “sit-to-stand” – can be a red flag. It’s one of the strongest indicators of frailty, a condition that can threaten independence and quality of life.
Slowing Sarcopenia
You can take steps to prevent too much muscle loss and weakness as you age. Getting enough physical activity is key.
Decluttering can be stressful − a clinical psychologist explains how personal values can make it easier
Hoarding disorder is a psychiatric condition defined by urges to save items and difficulty discarding current possessions. For adults with “clinically severe” hoarding disorder, this leads to a level of household clutter that impairs daily functioning and can even create a fire hazard.
There’s a link between walking speed and ageing well. Here’s how you can improve your pace
Various studies have found a link between low walking speed in adults over 65 and a greater risk of cognitive impairment, cardiovascular disease, falls (which could lead to fractures), hospitalisation, and even an increased overall mortality rate.
A higher walking speed, on the other hand, is associated with increased functional capacity, meaning a better ability to move around and do activities independently. It is also linked to greater longevity.
But how fast should you walk?
Healthspan versus lifespan: The vital role of muscle in successful aging
The extension of life expectancy in the 20th century and beyond is one of humanity’s greatest achievements. However, it is crucial to draw a distinction between lifespan — the amount of time between birth and death — and healthspan, which is the amount of time during which a person is healthy within their lifespan. Older people are spending more time in poor health, and this represents a major individual and public health burden.
Caregiving 101: Worksheets, resources, and suggestions from the National Institute on Aging
Whether you’re new to caregiving or have been doing it for a while, the National Institute on Aging’s (NIA) website has expert-backed advice to help make things more manageable. Here is just a sample of what you’ll find.
Medicare Open Enrollment Opens Next Week
Medicare Open Enrollment starts next week! It’s your chance to review or change your prescription drug and health coverage for next year.
Delirium: this common and frightening syndrome looks like dementia, but comes on much faster
Delirium is a common complication of hospitalization can have a direct impact on patients’ illness and mortality rates. It is therefore extremely important to prevent it, or, failing that, to establish an early diagnosis in order to treat it correctly.
How to improve your flexibility – the body’s secret weapon for staying healthy and active
Flexibility might not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think about health and fitness, but it’s one of the most important aspects of maintaining your body’s overall wellbeing.