June 19, 2020

How Easily Does Coronavirus Spread at Home?

WEDNESDAY, June 17, 2020 -- COVID-19 spreads easily among people who live together and other family members, even before an infected person shows any symptoms, new research shows.

The study -- published June 17 in The Lancet Infectious Diseases journal -- also said that the new coronavirus spreads among household members more easily than severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) or Middle East respiratory syndrome (MERS).

June 15, 2020

Exercise Habits Key to Gauging Seniors' Longevity

FRIDAY, June 5, 2020 -- Knowing how much older adults exercise can predict their odds of developing heart disease or dying early, a new study suggests.

Asking patients during atherosclerosis (clogged arteries) screening about their levels of exercise can help start treatment sooner, researchers say.

June 15, 2020

Want Added Years? Try Volunteering

SATURDAY, June 13, 2020 -- If you're older and you want to prolong your life, try volunteering, new research suggests.

"Humans are social creatures by nature. Perhaps this is why our minds and bodies are rewarded when we give to others," said lead investigator Eric Kim. He is from the department of social and behavioral sciences and the Center for Health and Happiness at Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, in Boston.

May 19, 2020

Get Moving, Seniors: It's Good For Your Brain

FRIDAY, May 15, 2020 -- Want to give your brain a boost? Go for a swim, take a walk, or spin your partner on the living room floor.

A new study finds that aerobic exercise can improve older adults' thinking and memory, even if they're longtime couch potatoes.

May 19, 2020

Healthier Heart, Better Brain in Old Age

MONDAY, May 18, 2020 -- Preventing heart disease may protect you from dementia, researchers say.

The new study looked at nearly 1,600 people, at an average age of 79.5, who were followed for 21 years. Their heart disease risk was assessed at the outset, and participants had annual memory and thinking tests.

May 5, 2020

Common Treatment May Not Help Seniors With Underactive Thyroid

MONDAY, May 4, 2020 -- The medication Synthroid (levothyroxine) is often used to treat a condition called subclinical hypothyroidism, but a new study suggests the treatment might be a waste of time.

For the study, researchers followed 638 people aged 65 and older with subclinical hypothyroidism, also known as mild thyroid failure. About half of the patients were given the medication, and half were given an inactive placebo.