Topics

Stretching Feels Good and Does Good

Apr 24, 2024 · UHN Staff · Aging & Independence

Dogs and cats do it every morning, evening, and throughout the day because stretching is natural and necessary for wellbeing. Think about how good it feels to do a few stretches after spending hours on a plane or in front of the computer. Stretching can wake us up more fully, … Read More

What Does It Mean to Receive a Diagnosis of Mild Cognitive Impairment?

Apr 23, 2024 · UHN Staff · Aging & Independence

Some changes in memory and thinking skills are frustrating, though normal, aspects of getting older. However, if you experience changes that go beyond what is typical for your age, you may be diagnosed with mild cognitive impairment (MCI). In simplest terms, MCI represents a stage between expected declines in memory,judgment, … Read More

Study Suggests Some Alzheimer’s Supplements Are Often Mislabeled

Apr 23, 2024 · UHN Staff · Aging & Independence

Dietary supplements, whether they are marketed for immune system support, weight loss, better memory, or other health benefits, often promise more than they can deliver. Supplements are not regulated to the exacting standards of prescription medications, which means some supplements may contain more or less of an ingredient amount listed … Read More

Good Sleep Eluding You? More Exercise May Help

Apr 23, 2024 · UHN Staff · Aging & Independence

When it comes to getting a good night’s sleep, you may tend to focus on nighttime behaviors such as avoiding caffeine and limiting screen time. But how restfully you sleep at night may depend largely on how active you are during the day. In a study published recently in the … Read More

Research Suggests More Schooling Associated with Slower Aging

Apr 23, 2024 · UHN Staff · Aging & Independence

Numerous studies have suggested that people who achieve a higher level of education tend to be healthier later in life and live longer. In a study recently published online in JAMA Network Open, researchers have also found that more education often equates to slower aging. Using data from the Framingham … Read More

THOUGHT DISORDERS

Apr 23, 2024 · UHN Staff · Aging & Independence

Q: I recently heard the term “thought disorder” for the first time. Is that a type of dementia or mental health problem? A: A thought disorder is essentially a disturbance or problem with how your thoughts are organized and expressed. The condition is sometimes referred to as “disorganized speech,” but … Read More

MGH Study: Cannabis Use Linked to Increase in Stroke and Heart Attack Risk

Apr 23, 2024 · UHN Staff · Aging & Independence

As the recreational use of cannabis is increasing, new research suggests that the public needs to become more aware of the health risks associated with that use. A study led by Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH) researchers and published in the Journal of the American Heart Association found that using cannabis … Read More

CLUTTER-INDUCED ANXIETY

Apr 23, 2024 · UHN Staff · Aging & Independence

Q: My wife is a mildly anxious person, but when we visit my daughter’s home, which is sometimes cluttered with her children’s toys and other items, my wife tends to become very anxious. What might be going on? A:For some people, a cluttered or messy home environment can trigger anxiety, the … Read More

MENTAL SHARPNESS IN RETIREMENT

Apr 23, 2024 · UHN Staff · Aging & Independence

Q: I was starting to have memory lapses and trouble concentrating before retirement. But since I retired, I actually feel like I’m sharper mentally. Is that possible? A: While retirement, the sudden loss of work demands, deadlines, and other responsibilities are sometimes associated with unwelcome changes in brain function, it … Read More

Are Those Changes in Memory and Thinking Skills Signs of Dementia or Depression?

Apr 23, 2024 · UHN Staff · Aging & Independence

On their own, dementia and depression may seem to be very different conditions. Dementia is characterized by profound memory loss and difficulties with concentration, communication, and other brain functions. Depression, on the other hand, is marked by feelings of excessive sadness, hopelessness, and the withdrawal from people and activities you … Read More