Aging
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
Physiology
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. All those gut bacteria have a handful of important jobs to do, including protecting you against pathogens and helping you digest food, which can be especially helpful if you got a little too excited at the all-you-can-eat pizzeria last weekend. Prepare to thank all those tiny bacteria for their hard work as we discuss the important functions that gut bacteria play in our everyday lives and review some tips to help you improve your gut flora. What Is Gut Bacteria? While you have microbes living on your skin and throughout your body, most of them are bacteria that live in your large intestine, small intestine and stomach. Also known as gut bacteria, this gargantuan number of tiny organisms goes by several other names as well, including: Microflora Microbiome Microbiota Intestinal flora Gut flora Regardless of which moniker you use, they all refer to approximately 1,000 species of bacteria that populate your gut, each responsible for various roles in your body. But you’re not born with all these microbes in your body. A baby in utero has an almost entirely sterile gut
Aging
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
Pharmacology
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. One medication that’s used to help manage type 2 diabetes is Ozempic, an injectable drug approved by the FDA in 2017 to improve blood sugar control in adults. Since its introduction, Ozempic has become widely used, not only for its ability to lower blood sugar but also for a notable side effect: weight loss. While Ozempic is not FDA-approved for weight management, its impact on appetite and metabolism has drawn attention beyond the diabetes community. In this article, we’ll explore how Ozempic works, its role in diabetes management and why it’s gained so much popularity
Physiology
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. While the source of this fast-moving, destructive disease remains unknown, 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. More recently, the most consequential outbreak became a worldwide epidemic: Beginning in Guinea in 2013, the disease spread to other West African countries and later Europe, the United Kingdom and the United States. In the period of two and a half years, Ebola was responsible for killing more than 11,000 people. In this article, we explore the devastating effects of the Ebola virus on the human body, tracing its progression from initial symptoms to immune system disruption and organ failure. What Is Ebola? Ebola is a severe and often fatal disease caused by the Ebola virus
Aging
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
How Does the Immune System Work? Exploring the 3 Lines of Defense There’s nothing like that tiny throat tickle that tells you a cold is loading. By the time the sneezes hit, the pathogens have already made themselves at home. But long before you notice a single symptom, your immune system is running its own defense strategy: three layered systems designed to stop invaders, slow them down or eliminate them entirely. Below, we break down the body’s first, second and third lines of defense in a way that’s simple, visual and surprisingly fascinating. What Is the Immune System? The immune system is the body’s built-in defense network. It’s a collection of cells, tissues and organs that eliminate harmful pathogens like viruses, bacteria and other foreign substances. When you think of your immune system, what do you see? A tiny but mighty army defending its fortress? You’re not wrong! The immune system is our body’s first wall of defense when we encounter antigens and pathogens attempting to nonchalantly sneak past those defenses. The immune system is composed of specialized cells that work to identify and eliminate invaders. Like an army, our immune systems use multiple layers of defense to keep those pathogens at bay. The Immune System’s Three Lines of Defense The immune system has three lines of defense: The first line of defense: physical and chemical barriers The second line of defense: the innate immune response The third line of defense: the adaptive immune response These lines of defense aren’t ranked by importance. They work together, not in competition
Aging
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
Aging
Gerontological Design: How We Can Shape Environments for Optimal Aging Empowering older adults to maintain their independence, dignity and quality of life as they age can be challenging. Gerontological design is a subfield of gerontology focused on creating environments, products and services that cater to the needs and preferences of older adults. Sometimes referred to as “design for aging” or “geriatric design,” gerontological design involves applying principles of design, architecture and urban planning to improve the quality of life for aging populations. Gerontological design considers the physical, cognitive, sensory and emotional changes that occur as we age, with the aim of creating spaces and products that are accessible, safe, comfortable and supportive for older individuals. Gerontological Design Put Into Practice Let’s look at some of the ways gerontological design can be used to help people continue to live healthy, fulfilling lives as they age. Accessibility Design environments and products that are easily accessible and navigable for older adults with mobility challenges, such as wheelchair ramps, wide doorways and grab bars. Age-Friendly Urban Planning Plan neighborhoods and cities with features that accommodate the needs of older adults, such as pedestrian-friendly streets, public transportation options and access to healthcare services. Cognitive Support Incorporate design elements that support cognitive function, such as clear signage, simple layouts and contrasting colors for improved visibility. Comfort Create spaces that promote comfort and well-being, including seating with proper support, adjustable lighting and temperature control. Safety Implement features to minimize hazards and risks, such as slip-resistant flooring, well-lit areas and ergonomic furniture with rounded edges. Social Connection Design spaces that foster social interaction and community engagement, such as communal areas for gatherings and activities, and incorporate technology to facilitate communication with family and friends. The Growing Need for Gerontological Design Data from the World Health Organization shows the global population of individuals aged 60 and above is expected to rise from 1 billion to an astonishing 1.4 billion by 2030 — an increase of 40% in just the next few years. This significant surge in the number of older adults worldwide underscores the dual need for broader gerontological design implementation and healthcare professionals dedicated to supporting older adults through life’s transitions. Shape Your Credentials for Optimal Gerontology Career Potential UF’s renowned College of Medicine offers two online programs in the growing field of aging. If you wish to enhance your career while more effectively meeting the healthcare requirements of older adults, these programs are tailored to your needs: Master of Science in Medical Sciences with a concentration in Innovative Aging Studies (now only 30 credits!) Finish your degree in as little as one year. Explore the innovations and trends that inform gerontological design in courses such as Gerontechnology (GMS 6808) and Healthy Aging in the New Millennium (GMS 6717). Graduate Certificate in Aging and Geriatric Practice (15 credits) Finish your certificate in as little as one year. Apply all 15 credits toward our MS in gerontology in the future, if eligible. Want to know more about our online UF gerontology programs? Consider these benefits: Apply with no GRE or clinical experience required. Enjoy competitive tuition rates. Complete your program at your own pace from any location in the world. Use either credential toward a variety of rewarding careers or health-profession school. Get a more complete picture of our online graduate programs in aging now. Sources: https://medcraveonline.com/NCOAJ/the-gerontological-design-a-practice-to-improve-life-quality-of-the-elderly.htmlhttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KtSHhWLa4tM&ab_channel=TheCollabLabhttps://www.assaabloy.com/hk/en/stories/blogs/geriatric-healthcare-designs-that-let-the-elderly-age-gracefully
Aging
Why Do We Age? The Science Behind the Aging Process One moment, you’re scouring your phone’s camera roll for the infamous cake-in-the-hair photo of your kiddo on their first birthday. The next thing you know, you’ve spent an hour absorbed in eight years’ worth of photos, and you’re left wondering where those eight years went. As you watch time fly via photo slideshow, you may also notice a few extra fine lines or gray hairs where there were none a few years ago, which begs the question: Why do we age? Today, we’re exploring five factors that contribute to the aging process. #1 Genetics Our genes are one of the main components that impact how and why we age, with each individual’s unique genetic combinations playing a role in determining our overall lifespan. For example, some individuals are born with robust cellular repair mechanisms. This allows them to physically age at a slower rate than those that have less efficient DNA repair mechanisms. #2 Hormonal Changes Our bodies use hormones to help us complete a myriad of functions, from regulating our metabolism and reproduction to influencing our mood and sleep patterns. Over the years, our hormone production begins to decline. Below, we discuss how lower numbers of certain hormones can exacerbate aging. Estrogen and Testosterone These well-known sex hormones are responsible for more than their fundamental role in helping us reproduce
