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Healthy aging and longevity Archive

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The popularity of e-bikes and e-scooters is soaring, but are they safe?

The convenience, affordability, and flat-out fun of e-bikes and e-scooters are undeniable. But as their popularity grows, the rate of accidents involving e-bikes and e-scooters is climbing. So how do we minimize risks for accidents?

How to help your preschooler sleep alone

Many parents face the challenge of getting their child to move from sleeping in bed with them to sleeping in their own bed. Changing this habit takes time; being practical and consistent about it helps.

Want to stop harmful drinking? AA versus SMART Recovery

People reckoning with problem drinking choose different paths, including two well-known self-help organizations built around peer support: Alcoholics Anonymous and SMART Recovery. Researchers questioned people participating in these programs, or no program, about their approach.

Mpox is back: What to know and do

In 2022, the largest known outbreak spread to nearly 100,000 people in more than 100 countries. Now, a new outbreak of mpox has put it back in the news. What should you know - and do - about this latest international health emergency?

Mediterranean diet may help you live longer

A 2024 study found that women who closely followed a Mediterranean diet were up to 23% less likely than women who didn't to die over a study period of 25 years.

Subtle cognitive decline foreshadows older adults' end of driving

A 2024 study suggests that cognitive changes are a more reliable signal than either age or biological signs of Alzheimer's disease to foreshadow an older adult's decision to stop driving.

Tattoos may raise lymphoma risks

A 2024 study suggests that having one or more tattoos may raise a person's risk of developing lymphoma, a type of blood cancer.

Music as medicine

Music therapy uses personally tailored interventions such as singing, songwriting, playing an instrument, or moving to the beat to help people with a variety of health conditions manage disease symptoms and treatment side effects. Research suggests music therapy can curb stress, soothe pain, promote sleep, reduce anxiety, and improve memory and focus. People interested in accessing music therapy can ask their health care team or hospital for a referral, or look for a music therapist through the American Music Therapy Association.

Physical therapy: Myths vs. reality

People often aren't aware of the full range of conditions that physical therapy (PT) can effectively treat. PT can be used not only after surgery or injury, but also for stroke, brain injuries, balance problems, neuromuscular conditions, spinal cord injuries, and more. PT is also done to help people avoid falls, as well as for pelvic floor dysfunction and vertigo. People participating in PT work with physical therapists to determine goals and plan a course of treatment to meet those goals by improving mobility, strength, and flexibility.

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