Step aside, outdated exercise goals. For years, 10,000 steps has been promoted by fitness trackers, health apps and medical professionals as the gold standard for daily physical activity. But if that so-called magic number feels more intimidating than inspiring, rest assured: It’s a product of marketing, not science, and there are key benefits you get … Read more
On the dance floor, Phyllis Bogart moves like she’s made of electricity, not metal. At 78, her pink-and-purple-streaked curls bounce as she shimmies and shakes with the energy of someone half her age, each twirl punctuated by a wide, wild grin. It’s clear that four hip replacements, a mechanical knee and a string of other … Read more
When was the last time you saw a miniature horse step out of a minivan in the middle of Manhattan? Believe it or not, that’s exactly what happened earlier this week when a pair of pint-sized ponies rolled up to an Upper East Side assisted living facility, turning heads and melting hearts as they made … Read more
America’s seniors aren’t immune to the ongoing opioid epidemic. Among adults 65 and older, overdose deaths from fentanyl mixed with stimulants — like cocaine and methamphetamines — have surged 9,000% in the last eight years, which matches rates among younger adults. That’s according to research from the American Society of Anesthesiologists, which was presented at … Read more
If you develop dementia, you can bank on it affecting your decision-making skills. More than 6 million Americans have dementia — a gradual decline in cognitive function like memory, language and problem-solving that significantly impacts daily life. Early signs of dementia include memory loss, difficulty finding words and disorientation. A neuropsychologist warns that problems managing … Read more
Exercise is widely regarded as an essential component of health for older adults — particularly strength training. Health agencies recommend that adults get at least 150 minutes per week of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise and at least two days of strength training exercises, which includes lifting weights or performing muscle-building activities. Marfred Suazo, known online as Fonz the Trainer, was … Read more
For older adults, minor falls can pose major threats, as their risk of death after a fall has tripled in the U.S. over the last 30 years. Some experts believe that certain medications — a category called fall risk-increasing drugs (FRIDs) — could be to blame. Dr. Thomas A. Farley, a Washington, D.C.–based public health expert, writes in … Read more
Staying young might not be all it’s cracked up to be. While most people experience a decline in immune function with age, new research has found that a fortunate few maintain a powerful defense thanks to rare immune cells that stay active well into their senior years. But this “fountain of youth” effect comes at … Read more
As New Yorkers sweat through relentless heat this summer, many are cranking up electric fans in a desperate bid for relief. But a shocking new study throws cold water on the popular cooling fix, warning it could actually backfire for older adults under certain conditions. Researchers found that in some blistering environments, sitting in front … Read more
Want to stay strong in your golden years? It might be time to put some extra hustle in your shuffle. A new study from the University of Chicago suggests that walking just a little bit faster can dramatically improve physical function in older adults who are frail or at risk of becoming frail. That’s no … Read more
This restaurant did not respect its elders. A pleasant lunch outing quickly turned rotten for a group of senior citizens after they received a restaurant bill with a “completely disrespectful” note. The shocking incident occurred earlier this week at Deacon Blues Restaurant in Watervliet, a town just outside of Albany, New York. What was meant … Read more
Half of Americans don’t consider themselves a “caregiver,” but new research revealed that some have already assumed the role. That’s according to a survey of 2,000 Americans, including 1,000 who are caring for (or have cared for) a senior. For those who have not “officially” cared for a senior, 53% didn’t consider themselves a caregiver … Read more
New data has revealed that cannabis use among older adults is at an all-time high. Researchers at UC San Diego and NYU discovered that marijuana use by Americans aged 65 and older increased by nearly 46% from 2021 to 2023, according to an NYU press release. As more states legalize marijuana for recreational use, as well as for medicinal … Read more
Where you live can have a big impact on your mental health. Particularly for seniors, it’s important to settle down in a location that promotes happiness. Older adults face a higher risk of mental health problems due to circumstances like the loss of loved ones, loneliness, chronic illness or disability, medications, changes brought on by retirement and … Read more
An Alaska Airlines flight attendant moved people to tears after giving an elderly man a heartfelt note on his last trip before he passed. The touching sendoff was detailed in a Reddit post that the deceased’s granddaughter penned to the carrier. “Just wanted to say thank you — and to let you know how much … Read more
Older adults are being warned against receiving the chikungunya vaccine before traveling. The Ixchiq vaccination, developed by Valneva to prevent the mosquito-borne chikungunya virus, was approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in November 2023 as the first of its kind. The approval applies to anyone aged 18 and older who has a risk of being … Read more
Old age, new work patterns. The number of workers postponing retirement has boomed across the Western world due to increased life expectancy and economic uncertainty. British businessman Derek Price, 94, still clocks seven days a week at his company, saying full-time work keeps him spry six years out from his centenary birthday. “I live, eat … Read more
Let’s get quizzical! More than 6 million Americans have dementia, which affects memory, language and problem-solving skills. Several lifestyle changes can lower dementia risk, including a healthy diet, exercise, social interaction, blood pressure management and adequate sleep. More than 6 million Americans have dementia, which affects memory, language and problem-solving skills. LIGHTFIELD STUDIOS – stock.adobe.com … Read more
Get a grip! Grip strength measures the force you exert with your hands when holding or squeezing an object. Weaker grip strength is often associated with frailty, and studies suggest that it may be linked to diabetes and a higher risk of cognitive decline, dementia, heart failure and stroke. A study out of Norway even … Read more
What do a fashion feud with Princess Margaret and rumors of young love with Colin Powell have in common? They’ve both become legendary tales at the Life Story Club. Founded in 2019, the Brooklyn-based nonprofit organizes free virtual and in-person gatherings for older adults across the city, giving them a space to share their experiences, … Read more