Chronic stress contributes to cognitive decline and dementia risk – 2 healthy-aging experts explain what you can do about it

Even small lifestyle changes – such as more social interaction and a better diet – can help reduce stress.

Martin J. Sliwinski, Professor of Human Development and Family Studies, Penn State • conversation
May 28, 2025 ~10 min

‘Grit’ and relentless perseverance can take a toll on brain health − particularly for people facing social stresses like racism

Perseverance helps people achieve goals and is linked with well-being. But combined with chronic societal stressors, it can lead to cognitive overload that puts a strain on brain health.

Darlingtina Esiaka, Assistant Professor of Behavioral Science, University of Kentucky • conversation
May 8, 2025 ~8 min


NIH funding cuts will hit red states, rural areas and underserved communities the hardest

The majority of the 23 states disproportionately affected by the cuts are red states.

Mitzi Nagarkatti, Professor of Pathology, Microbiology and Immunology, University of South Carolina • conversation
March 7, 2025 ~11 min

Ozempic and similar weight loss drugs may lower risk of 42 health conditions, but also pose risks

Research shows that people who take these weight-loss medications may have a lower risk of dementia and numerous other health conditions.

Ziyad Al-Aly, Clinical Epidemiologist, Washington University in St. Louis • conversation
Jan. 22, 2025 ~8 min

Cycling can make seniors healthier and more independent − here’s how to design bikes and networks that meet their needs

Cycling provides many physical and mental health benefits, but older riders have specific concerns, such as balance. A bike network expert explains what seniors need to be comfortable pedaling.

Anne Lusk, Lecturer in Urban Agriculture, Boston University • conversation
Nov. 27, 2024 ~10 min

Vulnerability to financial scams in aging adults could be an early indicator of Alzheimer’s disease, new research shows

Adults who self-reported higher vulnerability toward financial exploitation showed lower thickness in a brain region that is affected early in Alzheimer’s disease.

Duke Han, Professor of Psychology and Family Medicine, USC Dornsife College of Letters, Arts and Sciences • conversation
Nov. 22, 2024 ~6 min

What links aging and disease? A growing body of research says it’s a faulty metabolism

Targeting the key players that help your body regulate metabolism could reverse disease progression, including cognitive decline related to Alzheimer’s disease.

Melanie R. McReynolds, Assistant Professor of Biochemistry, Penn State • conversation
Aug. 22, 2024 ~7 min

Family caregivers can help shape the outcomes for their loved ones – an ICU nurse explains their vital role

Including the family in a patient’s treatment plan can help shorten hospital stays and assist in recovery. But caregivers often pay a price.

Courtney Graetzer, Critical Care Registered Nurse, Vanderbilt University • conversation
April 9, 2024 ~9 min


New studies suggest millions with mild cognitive impairment go undiagnosed, often until it’s too late

Medicare covers an annual well-check visit that could potentially identify cognitive issues, but only about half of beneficiaries take advantage of them.

Ying Liu, Research Scientist, Center for Economic and Social Research, USC Dornsife College of Letters, Arts and Sciences • conversation
March 21, 2024 ~6 min

Family caregivers face financial burdens, isolation and limited resources − a social worker explains how to improve quality of life for this growing population

Family caregivers who have stronger support networks and positive communication with loved ones tend to be more resilient.

Kathy L. Lee, Assistant Professor of Gerontological Social Work, University of Texas at Arlington • conversation
Feb. 12, 2024 ~9 min

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