Air pollution may contribute to Alzheimer’s and dementia risk – here's what we're learning from brain scans

The tiny air pollutants known as PM2.5, emitted by vehicles, factories and power plants, aren’t just a hazard for lungs. A study finds more brain shrinkage in older women exposed to pollution.

Jiu-Chiuan Chen, Associate Professor of Preventive Medicine, University of Southern California • conversation
Jan. 5, 2021 • ~7 min

These at-home exercises can help older people boost their immune system and overall health in the age of COVID-19

Older adults, who are at a higher risk for COVID-19 complications, can strengthen their immune systems by exercising.

Lisa Charles, Fitness/Wellness Research Coordinator for the Rutgers Aging Brain Health Alliance, Rutgers University - Newark • conversation
Nov. 24, 2020 • ~7 min

Why do older people heal more slowly?

Healing is a complicated process. As people age, higher rates of disease and the fact that old cells lose the ability to divide slow this process down.

Matthew Steinhauser, Associate Professor of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh • conversation
Nov. 24, 2020 • ~9 min

Why nursing home aides exposed to COVID-19 aren’t taking sick leave

Over one-third of America’s COVID-19 deaths have been nursing home residents. Employee policies, particularly for low-paid aides, have sharply raised the risk.

Tara Sklar, Professor of Health Law and Director, Health Law & Policy Program, University of Arizona • conversation
Nov. 23, 2020 • ~8 min

Racial discrimination ages Black Americans faster, according to a 25-year-long study of families

A study of 800 Black American families shows early experiences of racism have long-term consequences for physical and mental health.

Sierra Carter, Assistant Professor of Psychology, Georgia State University • conversation
Nov. 17, 2020 • ~5 min

Nearly two-thirds of older Black Americans can't afford to live alone without help – and it's even tougher for Latinos

Elder economic insecurity is a problem for all races, but it's far more common for people of color, particularly in certain states.

Jan Mutchler, Professor, Department of Gerontology, McCormack Graduate School Director, Center for Social and Demographic Research on Aging, Gerontology Institute, University of Massachusetts Boston • conversation
Nov. 17, 2020 • ~8 min

Older people like President Trump are at more risk from COVID-19 because of how the immune system ages

Older coronavirus patients face grimmer outlooks. A virologist explains the aging-related changes in how immune systems work that are to blame.

Brian Geiss, Associate Professor of Microbiology, Immunology & Pathology, Colorado State University • conversation
Oct. 2, 2020 • ~7 min

Video: How will society change as the US population ages?

Americans 65 and older are living longer. The change toward longer old age in the U.S. will have profound effects on health care needs, families and what it means to be old.

Marcia G. Ory, Regents and Distinguished Professor of Environmental and Occupational Health, Texas A&M University • conversation
Sept. 25, 2020 • ~6 min

Does forgetting a name or word mean that I have dementia?

September is Alzheimer's Awareness Month and therefore a good time to talk about dementia. Alzheimer's is the most common dementia, but there are others to be aware of, a gerontologist explains.

Laurie Archbald-Pannone, Associate Professor Medicine, Geriatrics, University of Virginia • conversation
Sept. 1, 2020 • ~9 min

The loneliness of social isolation can affect your brain and raise dementia risk in older adults

The social isolation older adults are experiencing as they try to stay safe from the coronavirus pandemic is raising new mental health risks, but people can take steps to protect themselves.

Martin J. Sliwinski, Professor of Human Development and Family Studies, Director of the Center for Healthy Aging, Pennsylvania State University • conversation
Aug. 4, 2020 • ~9 min

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