More than half of all older adults take dietary supplements. For the most part, these substances are not harmful. But there are several things older consumers should know: Supplements are largely unregulated, so there’s no real way to know what you’re buying, and whether it is safe. Supplements are not tested
The old cliché is that older adults should take it easy—maybe even take to their rocking chairs. Today, we know how wrong that is! “It’s a widespread idea in Western societies that as we get older, it’s normal to slow down, do less, and retire,” said Harvard evolutionary biologist Daniel E.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), cancer is the second leading cause of death in the United States, only following heart disease. Each year, almost 1,800,000 people will be diagnosed with cancer, and close to 600,000 people will die of the disease. Just as the CDC’s
Older adults are susceptible to a number of eye conditions that can damage vision. These include cataracts, glaucoma, diabetic eye disease, and age-related macular degeneration, which according to the American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO) is the most common cause of sight loss in people older than 50. Age-related macular degeneration
Did you receive a box of chocolates for Valentine’s Day? If you’re a chocolate fan, you’ve probably been happy to read medical research showing that chocolate can be a healthy food choice. But before you pop that third or fourth mocha truffle, here are some questions to ask: Q: I’ve
During February, we celebrate Valentine’s Day. Gerontologists report that during the pandemic, older couples have been providing a great deal of support for each other’s well-being. At any time, the health of couples can be closely intertwined. For example, the American Heart Association reports that couples often share certain heart-health
Along with the COVID-19 pandemic, we’ve been experiencing another epidemic—this one of misinformation! Spreading unsubstantiated rumors is never a good thing, and in the case of health information, it can be life-threatening. For most of us, it feels good to know we’re sharing factual, accurate information—but how can we be
During a visit to their hometown, Dan and Amy visited their great-aunt. Aunt Becky was glad to see them, but they were worried at what they saw in her home. Her usually spotless house was dirty and unkempt. Though she’d always taken pride in her wardrobe, her dress was dirty
From the beginning of the pandemic, much attention has been paid to older adults, who are at highest risk of serious illness from COVID-19, and who have faced isolation and an interruption to their regular activities as they practiced social distancing. Recent figures show that 75% of people who died
Here’s a common question: “What’s your New Year’s resolution this year?” And a common answer: “To lose some weight … same as last year and, come to think of it, the year before!” It can be so hard to lose weight! If you’re facing this challenge, you’re not alone. More
