July 17, 2020

More Clues to the Genes Behind Hearing Loss

THURSDAY, July 16, 2020 -- Dutch researchers have identified a common genetic variant as a cause of deafness, and say it could be a good target for gene therapy.

Deafness in adults is known to be inherited but, unlike childhood deafness, the genetic causes aren't clear.

July 17, 2020

Many Older Americans Face Ageism Every Day, Survey Finds

THURSDAY, July 16, 2020 -- Age-based job demotions, forced retirements and other overt examples of age discrimination can be harmful to older adults.

But what about more subtle forms of ageism -- like jokes about "senior moments," or assuming an older person can't use technology, or the constant barrage of anti-wrinkle ads in the media?

July 9, 2020

U.S. Air Pollution Still at Deadly Levels, Study Finds

TUESDAY, July 7, 2020 -- Fine particulate air pollution remains at levels deadly to older Americans, a new study finds.

If U.S. air quality standards for fine particulate pollution ((PM2.5) complied with World Health Association guidelines, more than 140,000 lives could be saved over a decade, say researchers from the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, in Boston.

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.