Latest news with #NationalInstituteonAging
Yahoo
3 days ago
- General
- Yahoo
What Is Aging in Place, and Is It an Option in Your Current Home?
As people age, they're faced with a choice between continuing to live in their own homes or opting for a senior living arrangement. More and more, families are making the choice to stay put as part of a phenomenon known as aging in place. Aging in place has many different interpretations, but the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention defines aging in place as 'the ability to live in one's own home and community safely, independently, and comfortably, regardless of age, income, or ability level.' The National Institute on Aging calls aging in place staying in your own home as you get older and has tips for connecting to local resources to make aging in place easier, as well. Essentially, aging in place is making the decision to stay put as you get older—and then making the necessary accommodations and renovations to make your home as safe and accessible as possible. Once you've decided that you do want to age in place—which is a choice you can make years or even decades before the fact, if you're planning far in advance—you need to consider whether that's a possibility in your current home. Some homes—those with multiple stories, for example, or those with narrow passageways that would be difficult to widen—aren't as accommodating of modifications for aging in place as others. Moving into a home that can be easily modified years before you actually need those modifications can make your transition into aging in place much simpler and less stressful. As you consider your options for aging in place, these experts have some insights into whether you should upgrade your current home or purchase a new one. is a vice president at Caring, a company that helps seniors and their families find the best living and care solutions for their needs. is an author, speaker, and senior living design expert who founded Mosaic Design you make the choice between staying and upgrading your current home or finding a new home better suited to aging in place, ask yourself: Do you feel safe and connected in your current neighborhood? Many seniors are reluctant to leave their current location because they have local support, connections to doctors, a favorite grocery store, et cetera, says Susann Crawford, vice president at Caring. But if you feel unsafe in your current location or disconnected from neighbors or relatives, you might look for a different location, says Lisa Cini, an Ohio-based designer specializing in senior living. If your home needs all of the necessary upgrades but you lack the cash flow to complete the upgrades, you might be better off selling your current home and buying a new one that's already been upgraded with key aging in place features. This could even yield some profit, which you can put toward other future needs, such as in-home nurses or caretakers. Crawford says most home contractors these days are familiar with the types of common requests for aging in place upgrades, and you should be able to easily find a local pro to help with the installation of shower grab bars, for example. Cini, who specializes in consulting with senior residents about the safety of their homes, suggests hiring a designer like herself to come in and tell you what parts of your home pose a risk before deciding to move. If you think you'd rather move onto a different property, look for a new build. Many new builds have larger hallways, doorways, and stairways, Crawford says. They might even come with some key aging in place features, as builders account for the growing number of seniors in the housing market. 'There are homes specifically built to accommodate future needs, and we're seeing more and more builders taking that into consideration and having those options available,' Crawford says. Tell your real estate agent what you're looking for as you house-hunt to make sure you're seeing the full range of aging-friendly homes. Once you've determined that your current home can be modified to suit your needs as you age or you've found a new home that is well-suited to aging in place, it's important that you do everything you can to minimize the risks associated with aging—namely, the risk of falling. Here, our experts suggest key rooms and features to consider as you prepare your home. Falls are common in the bathroom, where moisture is ever present and surfaces are slippery. As you assess the safety of your current home to make it better suited to aging in place, start with this room. 'It's dangerous from a slip and fall standpoint, and a lot of times the lighting is not good,' Cini says. One way to combat these risks is to install grab bars in the shower and near the toilet for added stability and to aid with balance. Cini suggests a bidet, as well, to make bathroom hygiene safer. You can address problems with body temperatures by installing combination heat light bulbs, Cini says. And there are also mirrors that resist fogging, which makes it easier to see yourself and prevent slippery condensation from building. Related: The 6 Best Bidet Attachments, Tested by BHG Lighting is another common factor in at-home falls and other accidents. Poor lighting makes it difficult to navigate the home and even prepare meals in the kitchen. If you're choosing to stay in your current home as you age, adequate lighting is a good feature to invest in, Crawford says. 'Older homes tend to be darker, more dim, and there are not as many windows,' Crawford says. 'And people trip and fall when they can't see well.' The problem of low lighting compounds other mobility problems. Cini says that, generally, older adults require more lighting than younger adults. Additional overhead lighting can be a simple fix. Consider adding lights in your kitchen, bathroom, and bedroom, as well as above staircases. Related: 5 Smart Home Upgrades that Can Make Every Day a Tiny Bit Easier Other potential navigational obstacles in the home include narrow hallways, doorways, and staircases. Many older homes were designed with narrower spaces and can be difficult to navigate if you end up needing a wheelchair, walker, or cane. Newer homes, on the other hand, have wider doorways and stairways. 'It's so much easier then to install something like a chair lift,' Crawford says, should you need one down the road. Another factor to consider is the number of stories in your home. If you often have to negotiate steps, you might want to consider moving your bedroom to the main floor or finding a ranch-style home. Keep in mind that even single-level homes can pose risks. Watch for steps into the garage or up onto a porch or entryway. There can also be difficult transitions between rooms and types of flooring. An easy way to make your home aging in place friendly is to remove area rugs, which can pose a trip hazard, Crawford says. 'Flooring can pose risks; bubbles under carpeting, even chipped tile,' she says. 'But the other thing that really gets people with falls is decorating and clutter.' Removing decorative plants, side tables, and other knick-knacks and staying on top of piled laundry, mail, or magazines can clear a path for you to navigate your home safely, and it's something you can do for free. Whether you choose to stay or go, investing in home tech can be a great way to enhance your at-home independence while making life easier for residents of all ages. These days, you can automate the lights in your home, your heating and cooling systems, and safety features such as locks and home security equipment. Both new and old homes can accommodate these features, which are relatively affordable. But you can get creative, too. Seniors living at home can provide their children or caretakers with access to home cameras so someone can keep an eye on the property and the people living there. 'It used to be you needed to have Life Alert or your phone on you to contact someone,' Crawford says. Cini suggests installing blackout shades in the bedroom to improve sleep quality, which can help with many medical conditions. You can even have these automated, which she finds is a good investment. Related: 14 Universal Design Tips to Make Your Home More Accessible Read the original article on Better Homes & Gardens
SBS Australia
6 days ago
- Health
- SBS Australia
Australia approves new drug to slow Alzheimer's progression
This illustration made available by the National Institute on Aging/National Institutes of Health depicts cells in an Alzheimer's affected brain, with abnormal levels of the beta-amyloid protein clumping together to form plaques, brown, that collect between neurons and disrupt cell function. Credit: AP
Time of India
7 days ago
- Health
- Time of India
Why strength training is crucial for seniors (And how to start safely)
Strength training isn't just for bodybuilders or young fitness enthusiasts. For seniors, it's one of the most powerful ways to age well. After the age of 50, we naturally start losing muscle mass and bone density—a process known as sarcopenia. This can lead to weakness, poor balance, and even falls. But the good news? Regular strength training can help reverse or slow down this decline. Here's why strength training is essential after 60—and how seniors can get started without risking injury. Preserves Muscle Mass and Strength From lifting groceries to climbing stairs, daily tasks become harder without strong muscles. Research from the National Institute on Aging shows that strength training helps older adults preserve lean muscle, improve mobility, and maintain independence. Even two to three sessions a week can make a big difference in overall strength. Protects Bones and Prevents Fractures As we age, bones become more fragile, especially in women post-menopause. Resistance exercises, such as squats, lunges, or using light dumbbells, put gentle stress on the bones—which in turn stimulates bone growth and lowers the risk of osteoporosis. Stronger bones mean fewer fractures and better balance as you age. Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like 5 Books Warren Buffett Wants You to Read In 2025 Blinkist: Warren Buffett's Reading List Undo Boosts Metabolism and Supports Weight Control Muscle burns more calories than fat, even at rest. By increasing muscle mass through strength training, seniors can boost metabolism and make it easier to manage weight. This is especially important for older adults dealing with sluggish metabolism or belly fat. Plus, staying active helps balance blood sugar and cholesterol levels. Improves Balance and Reduces Fall Risk Falls are a serious concern for seniors and often lead to long-term injuries. Strength training helps improve coordination, stability, and posture, especially when focused on the lower body and core. Studies published in The Journal of Aging and Physical Activity have found that older adults who perform resistance training experience fewer falls and greater confidence in their movement. Enhances Mental Health and Mood Strength training isn't just about physical gains—it's good for the brain too. Regular resistance exercises release endorphins, reduce anxiety, and help improve self-esteem. Some studies even suggest a link between strength training and better memory and cognitive function in older adults. How Seniors Can Start Strength Training Safely Step 1: Get Medical Clearance Always consult your doctor before starting any new workout, especially if you have chronic conditions like arthritis, heart issues, or high blood pressure. Step 2: Begin with Bodyweight Exercises You don't need weights to begin. Start with chair squats, wall push-ups, calf raises, and gentle lunges. These moves help activate key muscles and improve flexibility. Step 3: Use Light Weights or Resistance Bands Once comfortable, add light dumbbells (1-2 kg) or resistance bands to increase the challenge. Focus on low reps with proper form to avoid strain. Step 4: Include Rest Days Give your muscles time to recover. Two to three sessions per week are enough for beginners. Avoid training the same muscle group on back-to-back days. Step 5: Work with a Trainer (If Possible) If unsure about form or technique, consider working with a certified fitness trainer—preferably someone with experience in training older adults. Strength training after 60 isn't just beneficial—it's essential. It helps seniors stay strong, independent, and confident. And the best part? You don't need a fancy gym or heavy equipment to get started. One step to a healthier you—join Times Health+ Yoga and feel the change
Irish Examiner
23-05-2025
- Health
- Irish Examiner
There may be more to the saying ‘stop to smell the roses' — it may help to keep your brain sharp
Many of us have experienced the sensation of a smell immediately returning us to our childhoods. Freshly-cut grass reminds me of athletics in the back field at school. Enticing aromas from sizzling sausages create mental images of delicious smells wafting up the stairs on Sunday mornings. A turf fire brings me back to summer evenings with cousins in the country. Recent research, led by the National Institute on Aging and published in Neurology (2023), suggests that a declining ability to detect scents as we age could be linked to conditions such as Parkinson's and Alzheimer's. However, the good news is that other studies have found that training our sense of smell may delay cognitive decline and might even help reverse some of its effects. Our olfactory ability works like a muscle — the more we use it, the stronger it gets. It never occurred to me that exercising my sense of smell was important to keeping it in tip-top condition, and I am not the only one who underrates its importance. In 2015, a survey of some 7,000 young people worldwide found that they would 'rather give up their sense of smell than their smartphone'. Human olfaction is less well developed than it is in animals. Dogs are renowned for their tendency to sniff the air, vegetation, other humans, or anything that crosses their path. In the late 19th century, the neuroanatomist Paul Broca defined all mammals as osmatiques, such as dogs, or anosmatiques — animals less guided by their snouts, including dolphins, whales, monkeys, and humans. His categorisation of mammals into two groups was based on variations in the size of the olfactory bulb. A dog's olfactory bulb is about 40 times as big as that of humans. However, more recent evidence suggests that humans' sense of smell is more refined than previously thought. In 2014, research at Rockefeller University in New York used 128 odorous molecules to test participants' ability to notice any change in composition. The researchers found that participants could distinguish subtle changes in scents to a remarkable degree. A further study found that humans can distinguish up to 5,000 odours. Links to mood Brain injury, viral infections, and chronic sinusitis are common causes of anosmia, or a lack of the sense of smell. A study in Nature (2022) investigated just how deeply olfactory dysfunction can affect people. Lead author Thomas Hummel, at the Dresden University of Technology in Germany, tracked 171 people with a damaged sense of smell over 11 months. The researchers found a clear link between patients' ability to smell and their depressive symptoms over this period. Even more interesting, as their olfactory function improved during recovery, so did their mood. There is mounting evidence of a link between olfactory ability and cognitive function. A study published in Alzheimer's Research and Therapy (2019) assessed the sensitivity of 7,000 participants and found a clear correlation between the ability to discern odours and mental abilities. The weaker the sense of smell, the worse participants scored in verbal fluency, attention, memory, and learning. The researchers suggested that olfactory testing could be a useful screening test for cognitive impairment. A study published in Alzheimer's Research and Therapy (2019) assessed the sensitivity of 7,000 participants and found a clear correlation between the ability to discern odours and mental abilities. Other studies have reached similar conclusions, with some researchers suggesting that lost smell sensitivity could contribute to the brain's deterioration. Brain scans support this theory. A study in Frontiers in Allergy (2023) reported widespread loss of brain grey matter accompanying olfactory dysfunction, with the most pronounced changes seen in the olfactory bulb itself. Research has also linked olfactory dysfunction with impaired immunity. The Karolinska Institute in Sweden found a clear link between participants' ability to distinguish between smells such as rotten eggs, urine, vomit, and fermented fish, and markers of inflammation in their saliva. The fouler the stench, the higher the levels of inflammation. This finding suggests that the foul stench primed the body to produce an inflammatory response to protect against pathogens. Meanwhile, pleasant odours such as eucalyptus, lavender, ginger, citrus, and peppermint have been shown to suppress inflammation. Could a healthy sense of smell help to keep our immune system in check, raising inflammation when it perceives a potential threat to our health and lowering it when we are in a safe environment? Scientists at the Karolinska Institute suggested that olfactory dysfunction may throw this balance out of kilter, leading to chronic inflammation that damages the brain. Smelling trouble Paying more attention to our sense of smell could help improve our olfactory sensitivity and support cognitive function. A study published in Laryngoscope (2009) recruited 56 people with olfactory dysfunction. Forty were assigned to smell training over 12 weeks, during which time they sniffed four odours for at least 10 seconds twice a day and kept a diary of their experiences. The study group demonstrated increased odour sensitivity, compared to no change in the control group. Crucially, the training was shown to boost brain function. A study in Neuropsychology Review (2023) found promising evidence that smell training can slow or even reverse certain signs of cognitive decline. This included some evidence of neurological changes in the brain, in regions such as the hippocampus, that are important for cognitive ability. There may be more to the saying 'stop to smell the roses' than taking the time to enjoy life. It might also be helping to keep your brain sharp as you age. Pure essential oils, such as lemon, clove, eucalyptus, and rose, are available in health shops or online and can help make regular 'smell training' part of your daily routine. Catherine Conlon is a public health doctor Read More What your step count says about your fitness levels
The Guardian
20-05-2025
- Lifestyle
- The Guardian
Tell us: how has your sex life changed after 60?
Culturally, sex is often portrayed as something enjoyed exclusively by the young and nubile. In reality, that's far from the case. 'At 74, I have never had such a fulfilling sex life,' Jane Fonda told the Sun in 2012. 'When I was young I had so many inhibitions — I didn't know what I desired.' According to the National Institute on Aging (NIA), 'many older couples find greater satisfaction in their sex lives than they did when they were younger.' Some of the possible reasons are that older couples enjoy fewer distractions, have more time and privacy, and aren't worried about pregnancy. 'They also may be better able to express what they want and need,' suggests the NIA. We want to hear from people aged 60 and up about how your sex lives have changed and improved over time. You can tel us how your sex lives have changed and improved over time using this form. Please include as much detail as possible. Please include as much detail as possible. Please include as much detail as possible. Please include as much detail as possible. Please include as much detail as possible. Please note, the maximum file size is 5.7 MB. Your contact details are helpful so we can contact you for more information. They will only be seen by the Guardian. Your contact details are helpful so we can contact you for more information. They will only be seen by the Guardian. If you include other people's names please ask them first. If you're having trouble using the form click here. Read terms of service here and privacy policy here.
