Redefining Old Age
As Time magazine suggested on the cover of its recent Longevity issue, we are in an era of a new old age. Lifespans have changed dramatically over the past several decades, and with that, newer generations of elders have emerged that are far more productive and active than past populations. Follow the link below to read more about the emerging trends and implications of the new old age.
What We’re Reading
In “Making the Best of What’s Left,” Judith Viorst, 94, offers her perspective and that of fellow “oldsters” on making meaning later in life. Viorst purposefully used the term “making meaning” rather than “finding meaning” as she believes we “…need to create our own personal reason for being.” Her most thoughtful advice? Connect with new people, ask for and offer help, and don’t collect hurt feelings.
Train Your Body—and Your Brain
According to a recent analysis of nearly 4,500 adults aged 60 and older, published in Frontiers in Aging Neuroscience, five types of exercise were shown to improve cognitive function. The activity categories included resistance training, aerobic exercise, high-intensity interval training, mind–body practices such as Tai Chi and yoga, and hybrid routines that combine multiple approaches. Among them, resistance training emerged as the most effective in supporting global brain health, including memory and attention. Notably, the study found that strength training delivered measurable cognitive benefits with just two 45–60 minute sessions per week over a three-month period.
Take the Longevity Quiz!
Experts at the Mayo Clinic developed the “Mini Eating Assessment Tool” to determine what comprises a healthy diet. Follow the link below to take the quiz and see if your food choices support wellness and longevity.
Dessert Doesn’t Hurt!
Join Dr. Ezekiel Emanuel, author of the newly released book, “Eat Your Ice Cream: Six Simple Rules for a Long and Healthy Life,” for an honest and refreshing discussion on what really matters for living better and longer. The conversation will take place, January 7th @ 7:30pm ET, in person at the 92nd Street Y, New York, and online. Follow the link below for more information and to register.
Advice From a Super-Ager
What’s Lloyd Kahn’s secret to an active and fulfilling life at age 90? He says, “Moving is so necessary as you get older.” And, also, “admit when you’re wrong, get out of your comfort zone, and don’t focus on regrets.” Follow the link below to read more about Kahn and his adventurous approach to living.
Living a Longer, Healthier Life
The 4th annual Longevity Summit, “The Future of Medicine: Eliminating Diseases of Aging,” is taking place December 9-10 at the Buck Institute for Research on Aging in Novato, CA. Speakers will be sharing advancements in the longevity field, with representatives from biotech companies, hospitals, investment firms, and academic institutions. The program is both in-person and online. Learn more and register by following the link below.
Alzheimer's Affects 50M to 400M Worldwide But a Recent Study Offers Hope
The science journal Nature published research recently that shows a strong connection between lithium loss and Alzheimer's. When lithium—which occurs naturally in the brain—becomes depleted, it accelerates the formation of amyloid-beta plaques and structures and gives way to inflammatory cells in the brain. But researchers found that the use of lithium orotate helped reverse disease-related effects and restore memory function. Read what Harvard Medical School has to say about the subject.
The Emerging Science of Healthspan
Join Mount Sinai medical experts for an online conversation on “Protocols for Living Better, Not Just Longer: The Science Behind Longevity and Healthspan.” Part of 92NY’s Spark Your Health Talk Series, the program will take place November 5th at 7pm ET. Read more about the virtual event and register by following the link below.
It’s a Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood
In 2023, a former U.S. Surgeon General declared loneliness an epidemic, noting that social connection is as critical to good health and longevity as exercise and nutrition. While loneliness is most often associated with older adults, the epidemic impacts people of all ages. San Francisco’s “Meet Six Neighbors,” part of a statewide initiative to strengthen social networks, challenges individuals to connect with six nearby neighbors. It’s an idea that can be implemented in any and every neighborhood, and across all age groups. A focus on intergenerational friendships would be great, too. Read more about the program in the SF Chron.
Doing Good Is Good For You
In addition to serving your community, new research found that volunteering can serve you, as well, particularly in retirement. Learn how to find an opportunity that aligns with your passions, skills, and schedule.
The Lowdown on Longevity Supplements
Experts split anti-aging supplements into two categories: traditional and emerging.
The upshot: There is little scientific evidence to support either avenue, although most doctors are comfortable prescribing conventional vitamins such as D and B12, if they deem a patient deficient. However, the medical community urges caution when it comes to experimental supplements, even as some professionals believe the industry holds promise.
A surprise twist: While the subject of supplements can be divisive, all experts agree that exercise is the only proven option for stemming or reversing epigenetic (alterations at the cellular level) aging.
HIIT and Its Impact on Cancer
A new study shows that even a single session of high-intensity interval training (HIIT) can combat cancer on multiple levels. Scientists found that strenuous exercise produced specific proteins, known as myokines, which positively impact immune responses and inflammation. Furthermore, the research suggests that HIIT not only has the potential to impede the development of cancer, but can also improve survival rates. Read more about the results by following the link below.
Meet Jenness Brewer
From her upbringing in rural Connecticut, to the executive hallways of NY and LA, and now back to bucolic environs, Jenness Brewer’s latest act is the culmination of all that came before. She brings her love of land, art, fellowship, and family together in beautiful and unexpected ways.
Nuns on the Run
A somewhat lighthearted look at a serious issue: Where do you live when you’re old? Read the New York Times piece.
Only in America
In this poignant, personal essay, WSJ writer Katie Roiphe details the beauty and banality of having her nearly 90-year-old mother move in with her. She notes that only in America would this decision be considered shocking, unlike “in India say or Italy, where generations crowd together into a single household.” Roiphe tenderly describes a universal fear/truth of aging in America. Well worth a read.
The Joy of Living
When you add the terms lifespan + health span (the length of time a person spends in good health) the sum is the concept of joyspan. Coined by gerontologist Dr. Kerry Burnight, joyspan refers to a deep sense of well-being and fulfillment, particularly during the second half of life. It allows one to thrive, and not merely survive, while growing older. Burnight offers four “non-negotiables” for cultivating and lengthening your joyspan: grow, adapt, give, and connect. Read more about what each action means in the NYT “Well” column.
Getting Into a Rhythm
Researchers confirmed the relationship between the body’s circadian rhythm and metabolic health. Getting into a rhythm is also critical to exercise performance and benefits. A new study found that working out early in the day, and maintaining consistency, achieved the best results. Read more about the findings at the link below.
Creatine on the Brain
Everyone’s talking about creatine these days. It’s become a popular supplement among women looking to build strength, particularly those in perimenopause and menopause. And, the findings of a recent pilot study show a potential positive link between creatine and brain function. Researchers stated that the results, while preliminary and limited in scope, indicate that creatine supplements can improve brain health among Alzheimer’s patients. More about the study can be found by following the link below.