Latest news with #olderAdults
Yahoo
18 hours ago
- Health
- Yahoo
Shapiro announces PA's designation as an age-friendly state by AARP
May 30—WILKES-BARRE — Gov. Josh Shapiro this week announced that Pennsylvania has officially been designated as an "Age-Friendly State" by AARP, marking a major milestone in his administration's work to make the Commonwealth a place where older Pennsylvanians can live and age with dignity, independence and support. The governor made the announcement at the White Rose Senior Center in York, where he was joined by Pennsylvania Department of Aging Secretary Jason Kavulich, local officials, community leaders and partners from AARP and the United Way. "My administration is fighting for Pennsylvanians every day, and that includes investing in and building a Commonwealth that cares for and supports older adults," Shapiro said. "Our seniors have earned the right to age with dignity and respect, and, under my administration, we created a 10-year master plan that brings together 29 state agencies to deliver real results for our seniors — from expanding access to home care and transportation to cutting their taxes through the Property Tax/Rent Rebate program to increasing transparency and accountability of the local organizations that provide protective services." Pennsylvania's designation comes at a pivotal moment. By 2030, one in three Pennsylvanians will be over the age of 60, with the Commonwealth's older adult population expected to reach 3.8 million — outnumbering every other age group. The Age-Friendly designation, awarded by AARP in partnership with the World Health Organization, recognizes states and communities committed to being great places to grow up and grow older. Pennsylvania is now one of just 13 states nationwide — and the only new state this year — to receive this distinction. "Pennsylvania's aging population provides us with an opportunity — not a challenge — to build better communities for all generations," Kavulich said. "The Aging Our Way, PA plan reflects our commitment to making sure older adults have the services, respect, and support they deserve. Thanks to Governor Shapiro's leadership, we're working across agencies and with community partners to make every town, city, and neighborhood more age-friendly." Walsh to host grant seminars Rep. Jamie Walsh, R-Ross Township, this week announced he will host two grant seminars for municipalities and organizations to learn how to apply for funding to help continue their service to communities in the 117th Legislative District. The seminars will be held on Thursday, June 12. —The first will be from 10 a.m. to noon at the Back Mountain Regional E.M.A. Building, 3593 State Route 118, Dallas. —The second will be from 2-4 p.m. at the Sugarloaf Township Municipal Building, 858 Main St., Sugarloaf Township. "Grants play a significant role in facilitating projects that shape our communities for current and future residents," Walsh said. "I am glad to provide this opportunity for my constituents to learn more about the process of locating and applying for grants." Attendees will hear from Paul Macknosky, regional director with the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development, as well as Tyler Day, community and economic development manager with Northeastern Pennsylvania Alliance. Registrations are required. Contact Walsh's Dallas office at 570-675-6000 or his Sugarloaf Township office at 570-359-2138 for information and to reserve a seat. PSP reports Memorial Day weekend data As part of an ongoing mission to strengthen roadway safety across the Commonwealth, the Pennsylvania State Police this week released the results of its Memorial Day weekend enforcement detail. During the four days between May 23-26, PSP investigated 756 crashes that resulted in 140 injuries and five fatalities. Intoxicated driving was a factor in 57 of those crashes — two of which were fatal. Troopers arrested 519 motorists for driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, and they issued 27,139 citations, including: —7,033 for speeding —977 for failing to wear a seat belt —166 for not securing children in safety seats. These statistics cover only those incidents investigated by the State Police and do not include incidents to which other law enforcement agencies responded. State launches resource to support unpaid caregivers Kavulich this week launched the PA CareKit — a resource to support caregivers including spouses, adult children, and grandparents raising grandchildren — that provides training, connection to respite services, and personalized tools to help informal caregivers address their unique situations. The PA CareKit offers an array of person-centered support like personalized and tailored resource guides, and resources for families to evaluate and select professional caregivers. The development of the PA CareKit started in August 2024 and took nine months to complete. It is the result of year one of implementing Aging Our Way, PA — a 10-year plan to improve the infrastructure of aging services. "When designing the plan, caregivers indicated they needed more tools and resources to maintain the level of care for their loved ones to remain in their homes and communities," Kavulich said. "The PA CareKit is an innovative tool that will help make the caregiving process easier for both the person providing the care and their loved one." In 2023, Shapiro directed PDA to produce Aging Our Way, PA, and his 2025-26 budget proposal includes a $3 million investment for year two implementation of the plan. During this time-frame, the Department will focus on modernizing and strengthening the PA Link, which serves as Pennsylvania's Aging and Disability Resource Center network, designed to streamline access to long-term services and supports. The PA Link facilitates collaboration among Pennsylvania's 52 Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs), Centers for Independent Living, and other community-based organizations to ensure seamless service delivery across the Commonwealth. Pennsylvania is the fifth oldest state in the nation by population. With this growing population, the Commonwealth will need more caregivers to support older adults so they can remain in their homes and communities while aging with the dignity and respect they deserve. Print materials from the PA CareKit will be available for free at community libraries, the AAAs and Senior Community Centers across the Commonwealth. The Department of Aging's Caregiver Support Program also provides supports to caregivers — including those who care for older adults, grandparents raising grandchildren, and older caregivers of adults living with a disability — with the purpose of alleviating stress and promoting well-being to help sustain a healthy ongoing caregiving relationship. Learn about other services and supports that PDA provides by visiting the Department's website. Reach Bill O'Boyle at 570-991-6118 or on Twitter @TLBillOBoyle.
Health Line
22-05-2025
- Health
- Health Line
Chair Exercises for Seniors
Exercise is important for overall health and well-being, especially as you age. Chair exercises may be a good option for people with mobility issues or who want an exercise routine they can do at home. Exercise is an important part of a healthy lifestyle at any age. However, as you grow older, it can be even more important to help keep your mobility and independence. It can also help manage certain conditions, reduce health risks, and boost your mood. Chair exercises can be an accessible way for older adults to get regular physical activity. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that people ages 65 and over aim for 150 minutes per week of moderate intensity aerobic activity and 2 days of muscle-strengthening activities. If you have a chronic condition or limited mobility, you may need to modify these recommendations. That's why it's important to speak with a healthcare professional before beginning a new exercise routine. Specific benefits of exercise for older adults There are various benefits of exercise for older adults. According to the ' Physical Guidelines for Americans, 2nd Edition,' some of the top benefits include: a lower risk of certain health conditions, such as: heart disease stroke hypertension (high blood pressure) type 2 diabetes improved bone health a lower risk of dementia improved quality of life a lower risk of depression A 2018 review of research examined various studies on the impact of resistance exercise on bone health. The review found that resistance exercise, either alone or in combination with other interventions, may be an effective strategy to improve muscle and bone mass in older people. Another study from 2018 examined the role exercise plays in the management of the symptoms of depression in older adults. The researchers found that combining physical exercise of high or low intensity with antidepressants may be more effective for sedentary older adults with major depression than antidepressant drug therapy alone. Getting started Before you begin any new exercise program —even those designed for older adults, such as the one below—make sure your doctor has cleared you to participate in physical activity. These exercises are all doable at home. Alternatively, you may wish to join a fitness class led by a qualified instructor at a physical therapy clinic or fitness center. The key to a successful exercise session is to take it slow, know your limits, and listen to your body. If something doesn't feel right, stop and try a different exercise. If you continue to feel discomfort or pain, consult your doctor or a physical therapist for guidance. 5 seated leg exercises Seated exercises allow you to target the lower body while seated. These may be a good alternative to other exercises for various reasons, such as: mobility issues balance issues that prevent standing exercises recovery from surgery or an injury Safety tips Choose a sturdy chair that does not tilt, move easily, or wobble. If you can, choose a chair without arms so you have more room to move freely. If you have any concerns or have been advised to limit activity, speak with your healthcare professional before beginning the exercise program. Seated marches Seated marches can be a good warm-up exercise as they can get your heart pumping. Sit in a chair with your feet flat on the floor. Slowly raise one knee without leaning back. If your chair has armrests, you can use them to help keep you from leaning. Lower your leg and place it back on the floor. Repeat with the other leg. Do this for 30 seconds, quickening your pace if you are able. Seated knee extensions Sit in a chair with your back straight, your arms at your sides, and your feet flat on the floor. Extend and straighten your right knee while focusing on squeezing your quadriceps at the front of your thigh. Hold for a count of 1. Bend your knee and bring your heel as close to the chair as you can. Lower your leg and place your foot back flat on the floor. Repeat with the other leg. Repeat this process for 30 seconds if you are able to. Seated knee abduction and adduction Sit in a chair with your back straight, your arms at your sides, and your feet flat on the floor. Place your hands on the inside of your knees. Gently push your knees against your hands as they apply counter pressure. Hold for 3 seconds and then relax. Place your hands on the outside of your knees. Gently push your knees outward against your hands as they apply counter pressure. Hold for 3 seconds and then relax. Repeat these steps for 30 seconds if you are able. Seated hamstring stretch Sit up straight near the front of a chair with your feet flat on the floor. Extend your right leg out in front of you with your heel grounded into the floor. Point your toes toward the ceiling. Placing your hands on your left thigh for support, gently hinge forward from the hip. Keep your spine in a neutral position and hold for several seconds. Return to the starting position. Repeat on that leg to reach around 60 seconds in 'hold' if you are able. Repeat the process on the other leg. Ankle stretch Sit in a chair with your feet flat on the floor. Holding onto the side of the chair, straighten your left leg with your foot off the floor. With your leg straight and raised, point your toes away from you. Point your toes toward you. Try to do 2 sets of 5 stretches on each side. 8 full-body chair exercises This full-body routine includes exercises that you can do either seated or standing. It also includes weighted exercises with light dumbbells or hand weights. Doing exercises from a standing position can help improve balance, but if your mobility is limited, you may find it easier to do them seated. Arm circles with or without marching, seated or standing In a seated position, sit up straight with your feet flat on the floor and shoulder width apart. Extend your shoulders and elbows like an airplane. If standing, have your knees slightly bent and your feet shoulder-width apart. Extend your arms as stated above. March your feet in place, if you are able. Keeping your posture, circle your arms in a clockwise motion (backward). Then reverse the circular motion to counterclockwise (forward). Try to do 8 to 12 repetitions. Dumbbell curls Either sitting or standing, hold a dumbbell in each hand. Hold the weights down at your side with your palms facing inward. Slowly bend one elbow, bringing the weight toward your upper chest. As you lift the weight, keep your elbow close to your side and rotate your palm so it faces your shoulder. Pause and then slowly lower your arm back to the starting position, rotating your palm back inward. Repeat with your other arm. Do 12 repetitions on each arm, if you are able. If you are standing, you can hold a weight in one hand and use the other to hold the back of a chair to help with your balance, if needed. Dumbbell reverse fly Either sitting or standing, hold a dumbbell in each hand. Hold the weights about 12 inches in front of your chest. You should have your elbows up and slightly bent, and your palms should be facing each other, as if your arms are wrapped around a large beach ball. Slowly pull the weights apart while trying to bring your shoulder blades as close together as possible. Allow the movement to pull your elbows back as far as you comfortably can. Pause and return to the starting position. Try to do 8 to 12 repetitions if you can. Seated upper body twist Sit upright in a chair with your feet flat on the floor. Cross your arms in front of your body, reaching for your shoulders. Without moving your hips, turn your upper body to the left as far as you comfortably can. Hold for 5 seconds. Repeat on the right side. Do this 5 times on each side. Squats with chair support Stand behind a chair, facing the back of the chair. Place your feet shoulder-width apart with your toes pointing forward. Stand up as straight as you are able, retract your shoulders, and lengthen your neck and spine. Place your hands on the back of the chair for support. Hinge your hips back as if you are about to sit into a chair. Your hips will bend first, then your knees. Bend your hips and knees into a squatting position that doesn't exceed 90 degrees. Your knees should remain behind your toes. Pressing through your heels, return to the starting position. Try to do 8 to 12 repetitions, if you are able. Chair stands Sit upright in a chair with your feet flat on the floor. If you can, you may want to push the back of the chair against the wall so it doesn't move. Keeping your back and shoulders straight, stand up from the chair using your hands as little as possible (or not at all). Sit back down. Make sure each move is slow and controlled. Repeat this standing and sitting movement until you feel you can no longer do it, or do 8 to 12 repetitions if it is more comfortable. If you are able, rest for 1 minute and repeat another two times. If the chair is too low, try sitting on a cushion and then removing it as you feel able. Standing hip abduction with chair support Stand behind a chair facing the chair's back. Place your feet shoulder-width apart with your toes pointing forward. Stand up as tall as you can, retract your shoulders, and lengthen your neck and spine. Place your hands on the back of the chair for support. Pick your left foot up off the floor, keeping your leg straight, and keeping your weight on your right leg. Keeping your hips and toes facing forward, lift your left leg out to the side. Slightly pause at the top of your range of motion. Slowly bring your left leg back to the starting position. Repeat with the right leg. Do 8 to 12 repetitions. Seated bicycle crunch Sit upright in a chair, feet flat on the floor, shoulder-width apart. Make sure your toes are pointing forward. Sit up as tall as you can, retract your shoulders, and lengthen your neck and spine. Place your hands by your ears. Do not lace your finger behind your head or neck. Pick your left foot up off the floor by raising your thigh off the chair. Keeping your hips and shoulders stable, use your core to move your right elbow to the raised knee. Tuck your belly button back toward your spine and return to the starting position. Be sure to sit up right, nice and tall, between exercises. Repeat the exercise by raising the right knee and moving your left elbow toward it. Keep your movements slow and controlled. Do 8 to 12 repetitions. Tips for limited mobility If mobility issues prevent you from completing seated or standing exercises, you can modify the moves and still benefit from them. You may be able to perform the exercise using a shortened range of motion. For example, if you experience pain, shoulder mobility restrictions, or both with the dumbbell reverse fly, don't extend your arms as far back. Instead, only go as far as feels comfortable for you. Listen to your body and start a flexibility and mobility routine in combination with your workouts.
Associated Press
22-05-2025
- Health
- Associated Press
1 in 6 Over-50s Feel Unsafe in Their Bathroom During Winter, New Survey Reveals
Concerns around bathroom safety are rising among older adults in the UK, according to new research. Chesterfield, UK - Concerns around bathroom safety are rising among older adults in the UK, according to new research commissioned by Age Care Bathrooms and carried out by YouGov. The nationally representative survey of 1,008 UK adults aged 50 and over found that almost 1 in 6 either feel unsafe in their bathroom during winter or have already made adjustments to reduce the risk of falling. The findings shed light on an often-overlooked aspect of ageing at home: maintaining safety and independence in spaces like bathrooms, which can become hazardous in colder months due to cold surfaces, reduced mobility, and increased fall risk. 8.2% of over-50s said they sometimes feel unsafe in their bathroom during winter. A further 9.1% have already made modifications to reduce risks such as installing grab bars, slip-resistant flooring, or accessible showers. This means 17.3% of older adults are either experiencing anxiety about safety or have taken action to prevent falls. 'The bathroom is one of the most dangerous rooms in the home — especially in winter when cold conditions and mobility issues can turn daily routines into real hazards,' said Sam Davies, founder of Age Care Bathrooms. 'What this survey shows is that many older adults are already aware of the risks, but too often they're left without the means or support to act on them.' The survey also revealed stark differences between regions. Wales had the highest level of concern, with 11.7% feeling unsafe in their bathroom during winter. The East of England was the most proactive, with 13.6% reporting they had already made safety adjustments, the highest of any region. These findings suggest that while concern is high, awareness and action vary significantly across the UK. The survey also explored what home improvements would most improve winter living conditions for over-50s. While heating and insulation were top priorities, bathroom accessibility and safety ranked as a concern for many. 10.7% of all over-50s said easier-to-use bathrooms, such as walk-in showers, grab bars, or seating, would make the biggest difference to their winter living experience. In London, this figure rose to 14.3%, the highest of any region. In Wales, 15.4% said easier-to-use showers or baths, and 8% wanted safer bathroom flooring — also the highest in the UK. 'We talk a lot about heating support and energy bills, but personal safety is just as critical,' Davies added. 'It's not enough to stay warm — older adults need to feel safe and confident moving around their own homes, especially in the bathroom.' The findings add to the growing national conversation around ageing and the importance of adapting homes to match the evolving needs of an older population. Bathroom safety often goes unaddressed until after a fall or injury has occurred despite being a leading cause of hospital admissions in older age. With the UK's over-50 population now numbering over 22 million, Age Care Bathrooms is calling for greater awareness of safety risks in the home, improved access to advice and funding for adaptations, and joined-up policy approaches to ageing at home that include bathroom accessibility as a core priority. This research was commissioned by Age Care Bathrooms and conducted by YouGov. The online survey was completed in March 2025 and polled a nationally representative sample of 1,008 UK adults aged 50 and over. All figures are weighted to be representative of the UK population aged 50+. About Age Care Bathrooms Since 2012, Age Care Bathrooms has been dedicated to improving the lives of older adults through innovative, accessible bathroom adaptations that enhance safety, comfort, and independence. Alongside their products and services, the company is committed to helping customers navigate challenges like rising energy costs through practical advice and advocacy. Media Contact Company Name: Age Care Bathrooms Contact Person: Sam Davies Email: Send Email Country: United Kingdom Website: Source: PR Company
Medscape
21-05-2025
- Health
- Medscape
Skin Cancer Burden Highest in Older Men, Rich Countries
In 2021, skin cancer affected millions of older adults globally. Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) had the highest incidence, while squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) accounted for the greatest disability burden, and men and high sociodemographic index (SDI) countries, especially in Australasia and North America, bore a disproportionate share of cases and deaths. METHODOLOGY: Researchers analyzed data from the Global Burden of Disease Study 2021 database covering 204 countries from 1990 to 2021. The analysis included age-standardized rates (ASRs) of prevalence, incidence, deaths, and disability-adjusted life years (DALYs) per 100,000 population associated with skin cancer among adults aged 65 years or older. Disease burden was stratified by sex, age, year, and SDI. TAKEAWAY: In 2021, there were an estimated 153,993 new cases of melanoma, 1,463,424 of SCC, and 2,802,354 of BCC. BCC had the highest incidence rate (ASRs, 371.97), whereas SCC exhibited the highest prevalence (ASR, 236.91) and DALYs (ASR, 95.50). Men had a higher incidence than women, and population growth was the major driver of the increasing disease burden. The highest ASRs of melanoma incidence (158.10), prevalence (1165.26), deaths (27.83), and DALYs (502.22) were reported in Australasia. North America had the highest incidence and prevalence rates for keratinocyte carcinoma (KC). Australasia also recorded the highest SCC-related deaths (ASR, 15.37) and DALYs (ASR, 226.92). The highest BCC-related DALY rate (ASR, 1.21) was observed in North America. Melanoma-related death rates were more than five times higher in high SDI countries (ASR, 9.49) than in low-middle to middle SDI countries. Despite high SDI levels, the United States, Greenland, Sweden, and Switzerland had disproportionately high BCC-related DALY rates, while New Zealand, Australia, Norway, North Macedonia, and Slovenia had higher-than-expected melanoma-related DALY rates. IN PRACTICE: 'The findings of this study suggest that the global disease burden of skin cancer in adults 65 years or older is on the rise, particularly among male individuals and in countries with a high SDI level,' the study authors wrote. 'Our results underscore the urgency to enact prevention and treatment strategies tailored to high-risk older populations.' SOURCE: This study was led by Ruiyao Wang, MD, Department of Dermatology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University in Chongqing, China, and was published online on May 21 in JAMA Dermatology . LIMITATIONS: Limitations included underreporting of KC in major cancer registries, reliance on modeled estimates for countries with limited data, and the absence of race and ethnicity data. DISCLOSURES: This study received support from the National Natural Science Foundation of China and Chongqing Science and Technology Commission. The authors did not report any conflicts of interest.
Health Line
20-05-2025
- Health
- Health Line
The Benefits and Safety of Creatine for Older Age
Athletes use creatine to boost muscle strength and performance. It's safe in moderate dosages, and studies indicate it may help effectively combat age-related muscle loss in older adults, among other benefits. Your body derives creatine naturally from foods like red meat and seafood, synthesizing it in your liver and kidneys. It then stores about 95% of it in your muscles in another form called phosphocreatine. This enhances the production of a molecule called adenosine triphosphate (ATP), which can help support your body during exercise and help you maintain strength and muscle mass. Read on to learn more about taking creatine supplements in older age, the potential benefits and risks, and the recommended dosage. Benefits of creatine for older adults Sarcopenia is a condition that can develop in older age. It involves a gradual loss of muscle mass, strength, and physical performance. This can lead to weaker bones, increasing the chance of falling and fracturing bones. Regular resistance training can prevent weak bones, and research suggests that taking creatine supplements may also help. Creatine vs. creatinine It's important not to confuse creatine with creatinine, a waste product made by the kidneys. In combination with resistance training, having creatine supplements could not only help support your muscle strength but also benefit your bones. Some evidence suggests that creatine supplements could help maintain bone mineral density, which can decrease as you age, putting you at a higher risk of developing osteoporosis. However, creatine's benefits in older age aren't limited to muscles and bones. Research suggests it may also help improve cognitive performance, potentially reducing age-related cognitive changes. For example, according to a 2023 study, creatine may help support memory, especially in people between the ages of 66 and 76 years. Also, creatine may have other potential health benefits, such as regulating blood sugar, reducing the chance of developing diabetes, and helping lower fatigue related to COVID-19. Safety of creatine in older age Many claims suggest that taking creatine supplements might not be safe. That said, there isn't enough research to support these concerns. A comprehensive 2021 review of more than 500 research studies suggests that taking creatine is safe and effective when you stick to the recommended dose of 3 to 5 grams (g) per day or 0.1 g per kilogram (kg) of weight. These studies refuted many of the beliefs about creatine, finding that it does not act like an anabolic steroid nor cause any of the following: kidney damage water retention hair loss dehydration muscle cramps weight gain At what age should people not take creatine? Research suggests that creatine is safe at any age as long as one is otherwise healthy and adheres to the recommended dosage. That said, limited evidence for negative side effects doesn't necessarily mean that they cannot occur, especially for children and adolescents. For instance, a 2025 study reported that an adolescent developed kidney disease from taking high creatine doses. Moreover, direct research on the safety of creatine specifically in older people is also limited. For this reason, it's always a good idea to speak with your doctor before starting any supplement. How to take creatine Given creatine's benefits, you may try maintaining an exercise routine while taking it, especially exercises that focus on bone and muscle strength. Creatine typically comes as a powder you mix into a drink. On workout days, consider taking your full dose shortly before, shortly after, or splitting it around your session. Some research suggests that taking creatine after exercise may be more beneficial than taking it before your workout, although the findings on this are mixed. Also, you can still take creatine on days when you don't work out at any time you want to maintain consistent levels.
