Aging & Independence Archives

Medical Marijuana Use Increasing Among Seniors

Sep 21, 2020 · Kate Brophy · Aging & Independence

Since 1996, 33 states have legalized medical marijuana. More than 2 million Americans are enrolled in their state medical marijuana programs, and many of these individuals are older adults. Some states also have legalized recreational marijuana. But whether you are a medical or recreational user of the drug, Bethann Scarborough, … Read More

From the Editor: Flu Remains a Health Threat

Sep 21, 2020 · Kate Brophy · Aging & Independence

Covid-19 has captured most of the health headlines this year, and you’re likely well aware that older adults are among the most vulnerable groups when it comes to suffering severe complications from the virus. But while covid-19 may persist or recur this winter, it isn’t the only respiratory ailment you … Read More

Don’t Underestimate Aspirin’s Side Effects

Sep 21, 2020 · Kate Brophy · Aging & Independence

Millions of Americans have been advised by their doctors to take daily low-dose aspirin to reduce their risk of a second heart attack or stroke. This is what they should be doing. However if you’re taking aspirin for primary prevention (see our Newsbrief on page 2 for more) or because … Read More

Flu In Early Life Portends Susceptibility to Later Infections

Sep 21, 2020 · Carrie Adkins-Ali · Aging & Independence

There was a time when seasonal flu was considered to be a nuisance that sapped your strength and sick days, but could be remedied with rest and chicken soup. Those days are long gone. Most of us are aware of how serious the flu can be—especially given all the news … Read More

Noteworthy Newsbriefs: Operating from a Distance

Sep 21, 2020 · Carrie Adkins-Ali · Aging & Independence

Operating from a Distance. Telemedicine and robotic surgery are familiar facets of health-care in America today, but telesurgery sounds like something out of a sci-fi thriller. Nevertheless, thanks to forward-thinking surgeons and a powerful high-speed 5G network it may be a reality for live patients in the not-too-distant future. A team … Read More

Attending Religious Services Associated with Lower Risk of Deaths of Despair

Aug 21, 2020 · Jay Roland · Aging & Independence

People who attended a religious service at least once a week were significantly less likely to die from “deaths of despair,” which included deaths related to suicide, drug overdose, and alcohol poisoning, according to research published recently in JAMA Psychiatry. The study, led by researchers from the Harvard T.H. Chan … Read More

Molecular “Switch” Reverses Aging-Associated Inflammation

Aug 21, 2020 · Carrie Adkins-Ali · Aging & Independence

It’s been said that death and taxes are the only two certainties in life, but if that adage were amended today the addition of aging and inflammation would surely go uncontested. In fact, this ubiquitous duo has gained so much attention in the world of medical research that like other … Read More

Understanding the NU-AGE Diet

Jul 17, 2020 · Lynn Russo Whylly · Aging & Independence

A Mediterranean diet is an important eating style that helps fight chronic inflammation and promotes heart and brain health. The diet features lots of vegetables, fruits, whole grains, beans, nuts, seeds, and olive oil; moderate or low amounts of fish, poultry, and red wine; small amounts of low-fat and non-fat … Read More

Are You Strong Enough for Surgery?

Jul 17, 2020 · JoAnn Milivojevic · Aging & Independence

Hospitals may refuse elective procedures to people who are considered unfit for anesthesia and surgery. But, surgical fitness, an evolving concept, can help surgical candidates get stronger in order to undergo procedures. Major surgery produces system-wide inflammation, triggering a need for greater oxygen consumption. The cardiovascular system delivers oxygenated, nutrient-rich … Read More

The Health Impacts of Social Rejection

Jul 17, 2020 · JoAnn Milivojevic · Aging & Independence

How would you feel if you weren’t invited to an important social event that most of your friends were attending? Or if you tried to voice your concerns at a meeting but were repeatedly ignored? Rejection can hurt. But it also can cause very real health problems. Researchers call this … Read More

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