All articles tagged with #older adults
A six-month Melbourne study found that adults aged 66–89 who consumed 43g (about 3 tablespoons) of peanut butter daily improved their sit-to-stand speed, indicating increased muscle power, without weight gain; researchers say peanut butter could be an affordable, accessible aid to mobility alongside resistance training.
A study of 47 older adults in Queensland, Australia found that bedroom temperatures above about 75°F during sleep increased the heart's stress and reduced recovery, with the odds of a clinically relevant drop in heart recovery rising to 40% between 75–79°F, doubling between 79–82°F, and nearly tripling above 82°F. Keeping overnight bedroom temperatures near 24°C (75.2°F) may lower stress responses in those 65 and older, though the observational design means causation cannot be established and the findings may not apply to other populations. The research used wearable devices over a southern summer and was published in BMC Medicine.
As cannabis use climbs among people over 65, Stanford Medicine experts warn that today's high-potency products may raise risks for heart disease, cognitive decline, falls, and drug interactions, while research remains limited by federal legal constraints. About 30% of regular cannabis users may develop cannabis use disorder, and patients should discuss use with a healthcare provider to weigh benefits against potential harms and consider safer alternatives, especially for those with chronic conditions or on other medications. FDA-approved cannabis-related drugs exist for specific conditions, but cannabis as medicine lacks broad approval.
Australian researchers followed over 120 healthy older adults (average age ~72) for six months and found that high‑intensity interval training (HIIT) reduced fat while preserving lean muscle mass, whereas moderate- and low‑intensity workouts also cut fat but were associated with small or unclear muscle loss. The findings suggest exercise intensity is key for aging body composition, though results apply to healthy individuals and HIIT may not suit everyone; medical or trainer guidance is advised before starting such a regimen.
In a small, real-world feeding study of adults 65 and older, lowering ultra-processed foods to under 15% of calories (via two eight‑week diets—one meat-based, one vegetarian with dairy) led to natural calorie reductions, weight and abdominal fat loss, and improvements in insulin sensitivity, cholesterol, inflammation, and appetite/metabolism hormones, with similar benefits across both diet types; the study suggests realistic dietary shifts away from ultra-processed foods can boost metabolic health in aging populations, though larger, longer trials are needed.
A recent study shows that COVID-19 continues to significantly impact older Americans, causing high rates of illness, hospitalization, and death, especially among those over 65, despite declines compared to earlier pandemic years. The study highlights the need for increased vaccination and better access to treatments to protect this vulnerable group.
A study finds that helping others through volunteering or informal support can slow cognitive decline in adults over 50 by 15-20%, with 2-4 hours of weekly help being most beneficial, highlighting the importance of social engagement for brain health.
Vaccines not only protect older adults from specific diseases like shingles, R.S.V., and influenza but also offer additional benefits such as reducing the risk of dementia and decreasing hospitalization rates, highlighting their broader health advantages.
Core strengthening is crucial for older adults as it helps prevent falls, supports proper posture, and makes daily activities safer. Many older adults neglect exercises that target deep trunk muscles, which are essential for maintaining mobility and stability as they age.
Virtual reality technology is being used in retirement communities to enhance social interaction, mental stimulation, and emotional well-being among older adults by allowing them to experience travel, revisit childhood memories, and engage in immersive activities, potentially reducing social isolation and cognitive decline.
For adults over 65, the RSV vaccine is recommended, but booster doses are not currently advised due to limited evidence of benefit, despite waning immunity after a year.
A large-scale study finds that objective social isolation directly accelerates cognitive decline in older adults, independent of loneliness, across all demographic groups, highlighting the importance of social connections for neurological health and Alzheimer's prevention.
A study in the Journal of Psychopharmacology found that frequent cannabis use in older adults causes specific temporary cognitive declines, especially in processing speed and executive function, despite strong subjective intoxication feelings. The research highlights nuanced effects, with some cognitive functions unaffected or even improved, and emphasizes the need for further research on age-related differences and long-term impacts.
A study shows that daily consumption of unsalted, skin-roasted peanuts can increase brain blood flow and improve memory in older adults, likely due to nutrients like L-arginine, antioxidants, and healthy fats, though further research is needed to confirm long-term effects.
The article argues that injuries among older pickleball players are less risky than inactivity, emphasizing that active movement like pickleball is beneficial for health, especially for women during menopause, and should be encouraged as a form of medicine to maintain strength and independence.