The Art of Aging

A recent article in The Washington Post outlines the benefits of participating in the arts. Painting, listening to music, or viewing fine art can enhance physical, mental, and emotional wellness, as well as alleviate the symptoms of illness. The author explores the personal narratives of people who engage in creative aging and provides an overview of research confirming the positive relationship between art and wellness. For more information, see: http://www.washingtonpost.com.

Preparing Communities for an Aging Population

The Aging in Place Initiative has selected Chicago as one of its six workshop sites to promote utilizing art and culture to keep older adults engaged in the community. The workshop's goal is to increase national awareness of the community building that is considered necessary to support an older population. For more information, see: http://www.businesswire.com.

Scientist Forced to Retract Fabricated Ant-Aging Technology Findings

A South Korean scientist retracted his research papers that claimed he had been able to extend the lifespan of mammalian cells with Magnetism-Based Interactive Capture (i.e. MAGIC). He is believed to have fabricated evidence of his findings. For more information, see: http://news.bbc.co.uk.

On Using Home Equity to Fund Retirement

Financial experts suggest including, as a last resort, the equity in your home as part of your retirement portfolio. The article points out that this is especially true today with the downward trends in the housing market. For more information, see: http://www.post-gazette.com.

A Series on Long-Distance Caregiving

This article is the second in a three-part series that focuses on long-distance care offor older parents. It discusses ways to overcome communication barriers, and specfically suggests that caregivers base their relationships on respectful communication that is tailored to family history. The series promotes creating a care plan, communication strategies, and the importance of self-care for the caregiver. For more information, see:
http://www.craigdailypress.com.

Caring for Family Heart Patients Strains the Heart

Research presented at the American Heart Association’s annual Conference on Cardiovascular Disease and Epidemiology indicates that family caregivers are at risk of cardiac disease. This study examined more than 500 family members who were caring for heart patients. Those caregivers providing the most amount of care were more likely to display psychological distress and eat less heart-healthy diets. For more information, see:
http://health.usnews.com.

Medicare and Medicaid Create Financial Disincentives in Long-Term Care

This article outlines common conflicts in Medicare and Medicaid finance. The primary conflicts lie within the cost-sharing and cost-shifting rules of the two programs, and are especially problematic for dually-eligible beneficiaries. The author discusses a number of different solutions related to capitation, pay-for-performance, and federalizing Medicaid for the dually eligible. For more information, see: http://www.milbank.org.

New Study Demonstrates that Modest Improvements Can Reduce Disability Risks for Older Adults

This study examines the relationship between government programs and disability patterns in older adults. The authors sought to examine whether economic and social policies impact rates of disability. They confirmed their hypothesis that more generous payments from the federal cash program to poor elderly, Supplemental Security Income (SSI), would reduce disability. Interestingly, an increase in benefits as small as $100 per month was shown to decrease the risk of disability significantly. These reductions have the potential to significantly reduce medical costs. For more information, see:
http://www.milbank.org.

Thyroid-Stimulating Injections Shown to Help Prevent Osteoporosis

Researchers at the Mount Sinai School of Medicine experimented with the bone density of mice and found that injections of a thyroid-stimulating hormone were able to improve bone strength and stop the onset of osteoporosis. These findings suggest that there could be a safer alternative to Hormone Replacement Therapy, commonly used to prevent bone density loss. For more information, see: http://www.pnas.org.

The Review Journal "Progress in Osteoporosis" Being Made Available Free Online

The International Osteoporosis Foundation is providing free access online to its quarterly review journal. "Progress in Osteoporosis" provides summaries and critical analysis of the current osteoporosis research literature. For more information, see:http://www.iofbonehealth.org.

Soy Supplements Show Potential to Improve Bone Health and Blood Sugar Metabolism

Researchers in Japan were able to replicate findings that soy isoflavone supplements can promote bone formation in post-menopausal women in a placebo-controlled experimental study. Furthermore, these supplements increased the bone metabolism of study participants. For more information, see:http://www.blackwell-synergy.com.

Federal Government Taskforce on the Aging American Workforce Recently Issued a Report

The Taskforce on the Aging American Workforce recently released their advisory report that addresses topics such as: the job market for older workers, their range of work skills, barriers to employment, legal and regulatory issues, assisting older workers in the workplace, retirement and financial literacy education, and outreach efforts. For specific information, see: http://www.doleta.gov.

Illumination and Quality of Life in Senior Living

A recent article proposes establishing lighting standards for Senior Living residences. The authors of this article seek to reconcile recommended lighting levels in residences with the residents’ need to maintain a quality, home-like and comfortable environment. To obtain this article please contact:sking@matherlifeways.com.