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Physiology

1 year ago

Sleep Physiology: The Restorative Power of Rest

We spend about one-third of our lives asleep, making it no surprise that sleep is a favorite activity for many. Yet, few of us consider the internal processes at work as we settle into bed and drift into dreamland. This is where sleep physiology comes into play. It delves into the biological processes behind sleep, exploring how our bodies regulate it, its effects on bodily functions and the different stages of sleep. So, grab your favorite pillow and join us as we uncover the essentials of sleep physiology and discover how to enhance your sleep habits for optimal rest and renewal. The Sleep Cycle Each night, we cycle through two primary phases of sleep: Nonrapid Eye Movement (NREM)NREM sleep accounts for approximately 75% of your sleep time and consists of three stages: Stage one: This brief phase occurs as you start to fall asleep and lasts about five minutes. Stage two: After we nod off, we enter a light sleep for around 25 minutes. Stage three: This is the deepest phase of NREM and often the hardest to wake from

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Aging

1 year ago

Cultural Perspectives on Aging: How the Experience of Aging Differs Around the World

When you imagine your life as an older adult, what do you envision? Some people plan on living with their children, adjusting to a comfortable intergenerational lifestyle, while others might see themselves in an assisted living facility that offers enough daily activities to feel like they’re on a never-ending cruise ship vacation. In truth, everyone’s answers will vary based on a wide range of factors, and most of them pertain to cultural perspectives on aging. Today, we’re diving into aging experiences around the world to unpack how different cultures value older adults and influence their roles in society as they progress in age. Western Cultures It’s a truth we can’t ignore: Everyone ages. Some will experience physical symptoms sooner than others, reluctantly welcoming wrinkles and gray hair. Much of Western culture, however, views aging as an unfortunate aspect of life, taking extreme measures to retain youth for as long as possible. But how does this negative cultural mindset regarding aging impact how Western society views and cares for its aging population? For many, it means that older adults rely on retirement communities and nursing homes for long-term care. As of 2024, more than 1.4 million people in the United States live in Medicare- and Medicaid-certified nursing homes. Western society often embraces individualism, which prioritizes the well-being of the individual

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Aging

1 year ago

Opportunities for Connection: 5 Benefits of Intergenerational Relationships

When you think of current public health concerns, what comes to mind? Mental health disorders, vulnerabilities in our healthcare systems and environmental pollution might be at the top of the list. One that many don’t think of? Loneliness. According to U.S. Surgeon General Dr. Vivek Murthy, approximately 50% of adults reported experiencing feelings of loneliness in the United States — and that was before the COVID-19 pandemic. During the peak of the pandemic, especially during periods of isolation, the number likely grew, particularly among who lived alone or had limited access to technology to stay connected with loved ones. Loneliness is associated with a heightened risk of various health issues, including cardiovascular disease, stroke, dementia, depression and even premature death

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Physiology

1 year ago

Gut Flora 101: Key Functions of Gut Bacteria and Health Tips

This very second, you have trillions of microorganisms living inside your body — so many that they make up one to three percent of your entire body weight! While you have a sizable combination of bacteria, fungi and viruses swarming around inside you, most microbial cells in your body consist of different types of bacteria, many of them residing in your gut.

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Aging

1 year ago

Aging and Health Disparities: What’s Keeping Older Adults From Getting the Care They Need

As we age, our bodies’ systems begin to weaken, making us more vulnerable to illness and injury and more dependent on regular access to healthcare. Older adults need to visit medical providers more often, whether they be urologists, rheumatologists, gastroenterologists or geriatricians. Yet, despite this greater need, many older adults have less access to medical care than they did in their younger years. Let’s examine some of the reasons for this healthcare disparity. Factors Affecting Access to Care for Older Adults Cost In a 2010 United Nations survey of adults aged 60 and older from more than 30 countries, 63% of respondents reported difficulty getting the healthcare they required, primarily due to cost. Their reasons ranged from low-paying jobs to limited pensions and family support

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Physiology

1 year ago

Ozempic Explained: How It Works for Diabetes and Why Some People Lose Weight

In the United States, approximately 38 million people have diabetes. Within that population, about 95% have type 2 diabetes, a condition that affects your body’s ability to metabolize sugar, otherwise known as glucose.

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Physiology

1 year ago

What Is Ebola — and How Does It Affect Your Body?

In 1976, researchers first identified a frightening virus that had emerged in the African nation then known as Zaire. The source of this fast-moving, destructive disease remains unknown, but Ebola is believed to have spread to humans from apes, monkeys and bats. There have been several Ebola outbreaks since 1976, primarily in African countries, though the disease has been found in animals originating from Asia as well.

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Aging

1 year ago

Preparing for the Longevity Revolution

In 1950, the average global life expectancy was 45 years. Today, many people at that age are in the prime of their lives, with decades remaining to make lasting memories with family and friends. In fact, the current global life expectancy is 73, a vastly higher number that only seems to be increasing. Some research suggests that humans have the potential to live up to 150 years. Dr. David Sinclair goes so far as to argue, “The first person to live to 150 has already been born.” This ever-increasing life expectancy has brought more attention to the idea of the longevity revolution. But what is this age-defying revolution, and how can we prepare for it? What Is the Longevity Revolution? Have you heard? 70 is the new 50

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Physiology

1 year ago

How Does the Immune System Work? Exploring the 3 Lines of Defense

There’s nothing worse than feeling a tinge of discomfort in your throat alerting you that something’s not quite right. When it’s accompanied by a sudden bout of sneezes or a slight fever, you know that it’s time to accept the inevitable: A pathogen has staked its claim in your body, and you’re officially getting sick.

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Aging

1 year ago

14 People and Organizations Advocating for Older Adults

Older adults face complex challenges, from chronic illness and caregiver shortages to financial hardship and age discrimination. Globally, advocates are working to improve policies, reshape public attitudes and strengthen support systems for these aging populations. Below are 14 influential leaders and organizations advocating for older adults through research, public policy, community programs and education. If you’re interested in becoming a senior advocate or pursuing a career in aging, these examples highlight the real-world impact of dedicated advocacy work. Influential Leaders Advocating for Older Adults These individuals — even those no longer among us — are continuing to improve the standard of living among older adults. Rosalynn Carter Before her teenage years, late former First Lady Rosalynn Carter took care of her father, grandfather and younger siblings. In 1987, she harnessed the desire to help others developed in her youth by founding the Rosalynn Carter Institute for Caregivers. The organization supports family caregivers by forging cross-sector partnerships, spearheads research projects and strategic initiatives, creates and implements evidence-based programs and advocates for beneficial public policy. Maria Shriver Journalist and author Maria Shriver has published the Radically Reframing Aging & Longevity Guide as part of the Sunday Paper portion of her website. This free guide highlights the accomplishments of today’s older adults and shares many valuable resources for them

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