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3 articles from the last 90 days matching "older adults"

ResearchRSSApr 27

Climbing ALS death rates seen in Finland, not due to aging alone: Study

A new study from Finland found that deaths from ALS (a disease that affects nerve cells controlling muscles) have nearly doubled over the last 30 years. The increase is especially noticeable in older adults. Researchers aren't sure why this is happening, and similar increases haven't been reported in other countries.

WHY IT MATTERSIf ALS death rates are rising in Finland, understanding why could help identify preventable risk factors or early warning signs that might apply to ALS patients elsewhere.
ℹ Good to knowAmyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS)
ResearchPUBMEDApr 24

Aging and rare diseases: from epidemiology to a call to action.

Researchers in Italy studied how rare diseases affect older adults. They found that thousands of people are diagnosed with rare diseases after age 65, and thousands more who were diagnosed as children or young adults are now living into old age with these conditions. This study shows that rare diseases in elderly people are becoming more common and important to understand.

WHY IT MATTERSIf you or a family member has a rare disease and are aging, this research highlights that healthcare systems need better plans to care for older patients with rare conditions—which could lead to improved treatment strategies and support services tailored to your needs.
ℹ Good to know
ResearchBIORXIVApr 18

Preprint: Proteomics signatures associated with cognitive trajectories: evidence from the English Longitudinal Study of Ageing

Researchers studied blood proteins in over 2,400 older adults to find which ones might predict memory and thinking problems later in life. They found 34 proteins linked to faster decline in orientation (knowing where you are and what time it is) and 18 proteins linked to memory loss over 15 years. This early-stage research could help doctors identify people at risk for dementia before symptoms appear.

WHY IT MATTERSIf validated, these protein signatures could enable blood tests to identify people at risk for cognitive decline years before symptoms develop, potentially opening windows for preventive treatments in Alzheimer's disease and related dementias.
👁 Watch this spaceAlzheimer's diseaseAlzheimer's disease and related dementias

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