Age-related Health Issues Research Articles

Gut microbiota and metabolic profile changes unveil the deterioration of alveolar bone inflammatory resorption with aging induced by D-galactose.

The global aging population has led to a rise in age-related health issues, such as malnutrition, metabolic disorders, and even immune decline. Among these concerns, periodontitis holds particular significance for the well-being of the elderly. This study aimed to investigate the impact of aging on inflammatory resorption of alveolar bone in mice with periodontitis, with a specific focus on alterations in the intestinal microenvironment. To achieve this, we established a D-galactose (D-gal)-induced aging mouse model with periodontitis and employed histopathological staining, oxidative stress, and inflammatory factors analyses to assess the severity of periodontitis and the health status. Additionally, the 16S rRNA sequencing and untargeted metabolomics analysis were employed to investigate alterations in the intestinal microbiota and metabolites. Our results showed that D-gal-induced aging mice with periodontitis experienced more pronounced alveolar bone inflammatory resorption and disruptions in the gut barrier, accompanied by an overall decline in physical condition. The microbial composition and structure of aged mice also underwent significant modifications, with a decreased Firmicutes/Bacteroidetes (F/B) ratio. Furthermore, metabolomics analysis demonstrated that D-gal-induced aging primarily influenced lipids and lipid-like molecules metabolism, and enrichment observed in the rheumatoid arthritis and histidine metabolism pathways. These findings provide further evidence that the aging process exacerbates age-related alveolar bone loss (ABL) through disturbances in intestinal homeostasis.

Research Trends and Hot Spots in Telemedicine for the Elderly: A Scientometric Analysis.

As the elderly population rapidly grows, age-related health issues are increasing. Telemedicine helps older adults adapt by providing efficient and accessible health management and medical services. This study employs bibliometric analysis to examine research focus areas, emerging trends, and collaboration networks in telemedicine for older adults over the past three decades. The Web of Science Core Collection served as the primary data source for the publications on telemedicine and the elderly since the database's inception through June 2024. Using CiteSpace.6.2.R4 software, keyword and collaboration network visualizations were generated, including clusters, co-authors, and co-citations. This study analyzed 586 papers from 252 countries or regions, which were published across 246 journals and written by 2750 authors. The analysis revealed three primary research directions encompassing 42 clusters: (1) health literacy and technology adaptation; (2) telemedicine technology and health management; and (3) social interaction and economic impact. Research hotspots include elderly fitness, mobile health, technology acceptance, telemedicine, elderly care, and health literacy. Despite the potential benefit of telemedicine, challenges persist in areas such as technology acceptance, usability, effectiveness, service quality, and privacy concerns. This review provides a comprehensive overview of current research on telemedicine for the elderly and highlights emerging trends in the field.

Can Loneliness be Predicted? Development of a Risk Prediction Model for Loneliness among Elderly Chinese: A Study Based on CLHLS.

Loneliness is prevalent among the elderly, worsened by global aging trends. It impacts mental and physiological health. Traditional scales for measuring loneliness may be biased due to cognitive decline and varying definitions. Machine learning advancements offer potential improvements in risk prediction models. Data from the 2018 Chinese Longitudinal Healthy Longevity Survey (CLHLS), involving over 16,000 participants aged ≥65 years, were used. The study examined the relationships between loneliness and factors such as cognitive function, functional limitations, living conditions, environmental influences, age-related health issues, and health behaviors. Using R 4.4.1, seven predictive models were developed: logistic regression, ridge regression, support vector machines, K-nearest neighbors, decision trees, random forests, and multi-layer perceptron. Models were evaluated based on ROC curves, accuracy, precision, recall, F1 scores, and AUC. Loneliness prevalence among elderly Chinese was 23.4%. Analysis identified 16 predictive factors and evaluated seven models. Logistic regression was the most effective model for predicting loneliness risk due to its economic and operational advantages. The study found a 23.4% prevalence of loneliness among elderly individuals in China. SHAP values indicated that higher MMSE scores correlate with lower loneliness levels. Logistic regression was the superior model for predicting loneliness risk in this population.

Exploring the relationship between perceived social support and quality of life among Indian elderly population: A cross-sectional study

The function of society is vital in influencing the quality of life (QOL) for the elderly population. With this context, the influence of perceived social support on enhancing the QOL among the geriatric population is substantial. This study sought to explore the relationship between perceived social support and QOL, employing a descriptive correlational study method. A multi-stage random sampling method was employed, involving 476 elderly persons. Data collection was conducted utilizing three organized interview schedules: The World Health Organization Quality of Life Scale (BREF version), the Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support, and a sociodemographic questionnaire. Data were tabulated and subsequently analyzed using STATA version 16.0, with categorical data presented as percentages (%) and quantitative data as mean ± standard deviation. The ages of the respondents ranged from 60 to 96 years. Pearson correlation analysis assessed the associations among numerical variables, with statistical significance set at a p ≤ 0.05. The findings revealed that physical health-related QOL was lower among the elderly participants, while social relationship QOL was the highest. More importantly, the family emerged as the primary source of social support. Significant positive correlations were identified between total QOL and total social support, emphasizing the pivotal role of social support in enhancing the well-being of the elderly. The study highlighted that active social engagement is instrumental in mitigating age-related health issues. Through the sharing of experiences, elderly individuals can support each other, derive meaning in life, and collectively improve their QOL. By fostering social connections and encouraging open communication, these strategies can contribute to a more fulfilling and healthier life for the elderly population.

Correlation of serum anti-mullerian hormone and age-related health problems with ovarian function

The objectives of this paper were to analyse the correlation between serum Anti-Mullerian Hormone (AMH) and age-related health issues affecting ovarian function and explore the current opportunities for this novel technique. This article mainly focuses on reviewing the biological processes involved in the female reproductive system and the clinical basis of the development of technologies for female fertility. The Serum AntiMullerian Hormone (AMH) test is a valuable tool for the assessment of ovarian function. The AMH level of each individual sample is catalysed using a Roche Elecsys AMH analyzer and a chemiluminescence immunoassay (ECLA), which measures the light emission of the serum complex at 450 nm. The results demonstrated a strong association between serum AMH levels and age, establishing its reliability in the prediction of the ovarian reserve as well as reproductive lifespan. However, age is not the sole determinant for fertility. Genetic factors, oocyte quality, uterine thickness and other environmental factors showed a potential linkage with ovarian syndromes, which indicates poor ovarian function. Market expansion, raising awareness of reproductive health, policy support, and technological advancements provide multiple channels for the promotion of AMH test technology. These findings can be used for business planning or studying age-related changes on the AMH test.

Prevalence and associated risk factors of sarcopenia in community-dwelling older adults in Pakistan: a cross-sectional study

BackgroundAdvancements in medical facilities have led to an increase in global life expectancy, emphasizing the need to address age-related health issues. Sarcopenia, characterized by muscle mass loss, poses significant challenges for older adults. Despite a higher prevalence in Asian populations, there is a remarkable absence of studies addressing sarcopenia among the older adults in Pakistan. This research aims to determine sarcopenia prevalence, identify risk factors, and explore gender- and age-specific patterns among older adults in Pakistan.MethodsA cross-sectional study involving 142 participants (65 males, 77 females) aged 60 and above was conducted using DEXA scans. Over a six-month period from January to June 2023, data were collected from the Islamabad Diagnostic Centre. This comprehensive dataset covered anthropometric measurements, body composition details, and health parameters. Statistical analyses, including logistic regression, were employed to examine the associations between sarcopenia and various factors.ResultsSarcopenia manifested in 47.18% of the older adult population (n = 142), with a distribution of 39 males (60%) and 28 females (36.36%). The investigation unveiled a compelling correlation between underweight status and sarcopenia across genders. Indeed, males exhibited a significant negative correlation between skeletal muscle mass index and age, whereas females did not show a statistically significant association. Males presented higher odds of sarcopenia in comparison to females (Odds Ratio [OR] = 2.63, 95% Confidence Interval [CI]: 1.33–5.18, p = 0.005). Age (OR = 1.12, 95% CI: 1.02–1.22, p = 0.014), lower BMI (OR = 0.35, 95% CI: 0.20–0.60, p < 0.001), and reduced body fat percentage (OR = 1.75, 95% CI: 1.31–2.33, p < 0.001) emerged as significant contributors to sarcopenia. These detailed gender-specific findings emphasize the importance of customizing intervention strategies to address gender disparities in sarcopenia risk factors.ConclusionThis study highlights the significant prevalence of sarcopenia among older adults in Pakistan, with distinct gender and age-related patterns observed. The overall prevalence of sarcopenia was found to be 47.18%, with higher rates among males compared to females. Age emerged as a significant risk factor, with each additional year increasing the odds of sarcopenia. Furthermore, weight, BMI, lean mass, and total body fat demonstrated important associations with sarcopenia prevalence, highlighting the multifaceted nature of this condition. The practical implications of this study emphasize the need for targeted screening programs and personalized interventions to mitigate sarcopenia’s impact, informing healthcare policies and public health strategies in Pakistan.

Artificial intelligence–enabled care equipment

Abstract With the aging of China’s population and changes in the disease spectrum of older adults, China will face a multitude of age-related health issues and, in turn, demand for medical care services. Artificial Intelligence (AI) care equipment has become an effective means of addressing imbalances between the supply of and demand for medical care services. AI care equipment can provide intelligent, precise and personalized care services for the elderly, the core of which is to analyze the data generated during the use of care equipment and provide real-time feedback. Common AI care equipment includes mobility aid devices, bathing aid devices, smart wearable devices, and care robots. AI care equipment can not only help older adults and other users with daily living assistance and rehabilitation, but also disease prevention, environmental risk factor screening as well as emotional communication and psychological support. The technical, social and market dilemmas faced by AI care equipment will be solved through the establishment of industry standards, the formulation of laws and regulations, and the strengthening of talent training. Our goal is to promote the popularity and development of AI care equipment, and to address the shortage of care resources brought about by the aging population.

Exploring the Therapeutic Role of Art in Enhancing Mental Health and Quality of Life in Older Adults

With a growing population of older adults facing age-related health issues, cognitive decline, and prevalent mental health disorders, the study focuses on the potential of art therapy as a holistic solution. Art therapy, beyond cognitive benefits, offers profound purpose, joy, and playfulness. It serves as a coping mechanism for traumatic events, fostering autonomy and positive self-perception. The study investigates the science and psychology of art therapy and highlights the neural basis for the rewarding aspects of creating art and the role of meta-cognitive processes. Other benefits include its impact on the environment, cognitive function, medical conditions, dementia, and cancer. Comparatively, art therapy emerges as a cost-effective and successful treatment option, particularly for individuals who may struggle with exclusively verbal approaches. Case studies, such as the Open Studio Approach, emphasize the flexibility of art therapy and its potential to aid depression and cognitive interventions for older adults. In conclusion, the incorporation of art therapy to comprehensively address the many health challenges faced by older adults showcases a potential to improve cognitive function, mental health, and overall quality of life.

Vehicle Control by using Human Voice for Physically Disabled and Aged People

The most crucial form of human communication is speech signals. Almost all encounters use speech signals in conversations. With a microphone, sounds and different speech signals can be transformed into electrical form. Physical disability can result from a variety of causes, such as age-related issues, health issues, and accident-related injuries. For these challenged individuals who suffer from impairments in their hands and legs, vehicles are used as a means of transportation. It might be challenging for anyone with certain conditions, such as paralysis, to manually push a wheelchair or use a remote assembly. For these individuals, the project is made to work with voice-based commands, enabling the paralyzed or impaired person to offer directions simply by speaking into the provided microphone. Additionally, the device has directional buttons for remote vehicle control. An Atmega328-based circuit interfaced with a voice recognition module builds up the system. The voice recognition module receives user commands and translates them into digital data, which the micro-controller analyzes to obtain directional orders. The transmitter circuit and the receiver circuit make up the whole system. The voice recognition module is part of the transmitter circuit, and the motor and driver assembly are part of the one that receives circuit. For communication, an NRF trans-receiver module is used. The command issued to the vehicle is shown on a 16*2 LCD. Keywords: Bluetooth module, Arduino, wireless night vision camera, robotic arm.

THE EVALUATION OF THE QUALITY OF LIFE (QOL) AMONG SENIOR CITIZENS LIVING AT AN OLD AGE HOME ON THE MALAYSIAN EAST COAST

This study explores the quality of life (QoL) among elderly individuals residing in Malaysian old age homes, focusing on their physical, psychological, and social well-being. It utilizes a quantitative cross-sectional design, employing the Older People's Quality of Life Questionnaire (OPQOL-35) to assess QoL across multiple domains. The sample comprises 20 participants from Pusat Jagaan Pesakit Dan Warga Emas Seri Damai, aged between 50 and 79, with various age-related health issues. The study's results indicate no significant gender-based differences in overall well-being. However, females reported lower health scores compared to males. Longer durations of care were associated with lower health quality. Positive correlations were found between overall life satisfaction and factors such as neighbourhood quality, psychological well-being, independence, and engagement in activities. Additionally, health status correlated positively with independence and financial status but negatively with the duration of care. A surprising negative correlation emerged between educational status and social relationships, suggesting that higher education does not necessarily enhance social skills and connections. The discussion highlights the importance of a conducive living environment, the role of psychological well-being in life satisfaction, and the gender disparity in health perception. It also examines the paradox of education and social relationships, the significance of independence in well-being, and the impact of home and neighbourhood on psychological health. The study underscores the benefits of an active lifestyle and leisure activities for emotional well-being and challenges the assumption that extended residency in care centres leads to financial strain. In conclusion, the research emphasizes the need for comprehensive care strategies that consider the diverse needs of the elderly, recognizing the multifaceted nature of their well-being. While limited by its small sample size and cross-sectional design, the study offers valuable insights for improving eldercare practices and informs policymakers and caregivers about the factors influencing elderly well-being. Further research with larger samples is recommended for a deeper understanding of these dynamics.

Barriers to the Utilization of Low-Vision Rehabilitation Services among Over-50-Year-Old People in East and Southeast Asian Regions: A Scoping Review.

East and Southeast Asia (ESEA) are facing age-related eye health issues. Low-vision rehabilitation (LVR), which is a special rehabilitation service for individuals with vision impairment, is a promising solution for these health issues; however, poor accessibility to LVR services has been reported globally, including ESEA. Therefore, this scoping review aimed to summarize and understand the barriers to accessing LVR services in ESEA. In total, 20 articles were ultimately considered eligible for this scoping review after an electronic database search using MEDLINE (PubMed), Web of Science, Academic Search Ultimate (EBSCO), and Ichushi-Web (Japanese medical literature database), and an independent review by two reviewers. Twenty-one potential barrier factors were identified in the full-text review. Notably, age, education, economic status, "previous experience using eye care service", and "knowledge, information, and awareness" were the possible barrier factors that were examined for their association with LVR utilization, with supportive evidence in many eligible studies. We also identified research gaps relating to geographical and ethnic diversity, the scope of LVR services, and barriers among eligible articles. Therefore, by conducting further studies addressing the research gaps identified in this scoping review, these findings can be used to make LVR services more accessible to people in ESEA.

Eternal vitality: Ayurvedic secrets to graceful aging

This article explores the profound wisdom of Ayurveda, India's ancient holistic health system, in the context of promoting healthy and graceful aging. In a world where the pursuit of youth often takes center stage, Ayurveda offers a holistic approach that emphasizes balance, inner harmony, and longevity. It delves into Ayurveda's core principles and practices that guide individuals towards aging gracefully. It emphasizes the importance of understanding one's unique constitution or dosha (Vata, Pitta, or Kapha) and tailoring lifestyle choices, dietary habits, and self-care routines accordingly. Ayurveda encourages individuals to embrace seasonal and local foods, emphasizing their role in maintaining optimal health as one ages. It advocates the incorporation of rejuvenating herbs and spices, such as ashwagandha, turmeric, and Amla, into daily life to support overall well-being. Moderation, mindful eating, and intermittent fasting are also discussed as Ayurvedic strategies to prevent age-related health issues, maintain a healthy weight, and promote digestive health. Furthermore, it explores the significance of daily routines (Dinacharya) in Ayurveda, emphasizing the role of balanced sleep, exercise, and stress management in the aging process. It underscores the benefits of daily meditation and yoga practice in maintaining mental and emotional equilibrium. “Ayurveda's holistic approach to graceful aging” offers a profound shift from merely seeking external solutions to embracing the inner wisdom of the body and mind. By aligning with Ayurvedic principles, individuals can unlock the secrets to eternal vitality and age with grace, embracing the fullness of life's journey.

Music Engagement as a Source of Cognitive Reserve.

Music engagement is a ubiquitous activity that is thought to have cognitive benefits for the rapidly aging population. In the absence of robust treatment approaches for many age-related and neuropathological health issues, interest has emerged surrounding lifestyle-enriching activities, like exercise and music engagement, to build cognitive reserve across the lifespan and preserve neurocognitive function in older adults. The present review evaluates evidence of neurocognitive preservation arising from lifelong music engagement with respect to the cognitive reserve hypothesis. We collated a body of neuroimaging, behavioral and epidemiological evidence to adjudicate the benefits of music engagement for cognitive reserve. The findings suggest that music engagement should be considered in tandem with other well-established cognitive reserve proxies as a contributor to differential clinical outcomes in older populations at risk of age-related and neuropathological cognitive decline.

Examining Physical Wellness as the Fundamental Element for Achieving Holistic Well-Being in Older Persons: Review of Literature and Practical Application in Daily Life.

This review examines the impact of physical activity, nutrition, and sleep evaluations on the physical wellness (PW) and overall well-being of older individuals. A comprehensive search was conducted in databases like PubMed, Google Scholar, and EBSCO Information Services. The search spanned from January 2000 to December 2022, resulting in 19,400 articles, out of which 98 review articles met the inclusion criteria. Through the analysis of these articles, key characteristics of the literature were summarized, and opportunities to enhance the practical application of physical activity (PA), nutrition, and sleep evaluations in the daily lives of older persons were identified. Regular physical activity is crucial for older persons to maintain their physical, mental, and emotional well-being and prevent age-related health issues. Older persons have specific nutritional needs, including increased protein, vitamin D, calcium, and vitamin B12 intake. Poor sleep quality in older persons is associated with negative health outcomes such as cognitive decline, physical disability, and mortality. This review emphasizes the significance of considering physical wellness as a fundamental element for achieving holistic well-being in older persons and highlights the importance of physical activity, nutrition, and sleep evaluations in improving their overall health and well-being. By understanding and implementing these findings, we can enhance the quality of life and promote healthy aging in older persons.

Morbidity Pattern Among Elderly in an Urban Area of Burla, Odisha.

Population aging is an inevitable demographic reality that is associated with improvements in the health and medical care system. With longevity and declining fertility rates, the population of older persons is growing faster than the general population globally. The elderly population is more prone to various kinds of morbidity due to decreasing immunity and the risk of advancing age. To describe the morbidity pattern of the elderly in an urban area of Burla. Community-based cross-sectional study was carried out for one year from 1st July 2021 to 30th June 2022. A total of 385 individuals aged 60 years and above residing in Burla were included in the study. Patient-wise data collection was done by a predesigned, pretested structured questionnaire. The chi-square test for categorical variables at a 95% confidence interval and significance set at 0.05 were used as measures of association in the analysis of factors associated with morbidity. The most common health problem involved was musculoskeletal (68.6%), followed by cardiovascular (57.1%), eye (47.3%), endocrine (25.2%), respiratory (21.3%), digestive (20.5%), skin (16.1%), ear (15.3%), general and unspecified health problems (30.7%), and urological (5.5%) and 4.5% had neurological problems. Elderly population has a high frequency of numerous morbidities, so it is important to educate the elderly population about prevalent age-related health issues as well as preventive care.

Lev Petrovich Pitaevskii

Lev Petrovich Pitaevskii

Crosstalk between Oxidative Stress and Aging in Neurodegeneration Disorders

The world population is aging rapidly, and increasing lifespan exacerbates the burden of age-related health issues. On the other hand, premature aging has begun to be a problem, with increasing numbers of younger people suffering aging-related symptoms. Advanced aging is caused by a combination of factors: lifestyle, diet, external and internal factors, as well as oxidative stress (OS). Although OS is the most researched aging factor, it is also the least understood. OS is important not only in relation to aging but also due to its strong impact on neurodegenerative diseases such as amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), frontotemporal dementia (FTD), Alzheimer's disease (AD), and Parkinson's disease (PD). In this review, we will discuss the aging process in relation to OS, the function of OS in neurodegenerative disorders, and prospective therapeutics capable of relieving neurodegenerative symptoms associated with the pro-oxidative condition.

Sex- and site-specific, age-related changes in bone density - a Terry collection study.

As modern populations are living longer, age-related health issues have become more common. One growing concern is the age-related bone density loss that increases the individual's risk for fractures, which unfortunately seems to disproportionately afflict women. These fractures are not only detrimental to the individuals' lives but also come with a great economic burden to the societies. Although age-related bone loss is a normal phenomenon, studies on archaeological individuals have demonstrated that the pattern how this occurs has experienced changes due to our changing lifestyles. Hence, to add to our understanding of secular trends in age-related bone loss, we studied age- and sex-related differences in vertebral and femoral bone densities of a recent past population of late 19th and early 20th century Americans. We used a sample of 114 individuals (55 males, 59 females) from the Robert J. Terry Anatomical Skeletal Collection. Peripheral quantitative computed tomography (pQCT) was used to scan the dry bones. We took one scan from the 4th lumbar vertebra and three scans from the femur. The associations between the age, sex and bone density were analyzed. We were able to detect age-related bone loss in both vertebra and femur. It was observed that men tended to lose more bone density on the vertebra, whereas bone loss in women was more pronounced in the femur. We speculate that differences to modern and earlier archaeological populations are related to the major lifestyle differences between the periods.

Lactiplantibacillus plantarum CCFM8661 alleviates D-galactose-induced brain aging in mice by the regulation of the gut microbiota.

Aging is characterized by a decline in biological functions, leading to various health issues. There is significant interest in mitigating age and age-related health issues. Gut microbiota has emerged as a crucial target for combating aging and influencing host health. This study evaluated the anti-aging effects of Lactiplantibacillus plantarum CCFM8661 in mice and the role of the gut microbiota in mediating its effects. Aging was induced in mice using D-galactose, and L. plantarum CCFM8661 was orally administered for 8 weeks to evaluate its effects on age-related decline and the gut microbiota. The results demonstrated that supplementation with L. plantarum CCFM8661 effectively alleviated cognitive impairment and oxidative stress in the aging brain, as well as liver oxidation and bone damage, and impaired intestinal barrier function in aging mice. Furthermore, L. plantarum CCFM8661 modulated the gut microbiota of aging mice, increasing the abundance of beneficial bacteria, such as Ruminococcaceae, and influenced the functionality of the gut microbiota to promote the production of active metabolites. These findings suggest that L. plantarum CCFM8661 has a mitigating effect on organismal aging, especially brain aging.

THE ROLE OF RELATIONSHIP FACTORS IN HARMFUL CAREGIVER BEHAVIORS: OLDER CHILDREN CARING FOR PARENTS WITH DEMENTIA

Abstract Elder abuse by family caregivers is an often-overlooked phenomenon that affects many older adults. Especially, retirement-aged children caring for their oldest-old parents with dementia may be at greater risk of engaging in harmful or abusive behaviors, given their own age-related health issues and other competing caregiving demands. Most of the elder abuse literature has focused on general demographic predictors of elder abuse, regarding the caregiver, care recipient, and the care environment. Less attention has been paid towards relationship factors, which may play a large role among these parent-child dyads. This study examined how relationship factors are associated with potentially harmful caregiver behaviors (PHCB; e.g., screaming), which have been identified as “early warning signs” for elder abuse. Relationship factors of interest include positive and negative relationship quality measured by caregivers’ mean scores on the support and conflict subscales on the Quality of Relationship Inventory (QRI). We conducted in-depth interviews with 88 caregivers (65+) who are caring for their parents with dementia (90+) as the part of the Boston Aging Together Study. Regression models revealed that relationship conflict was significantly associated with higher levels of PHCB, accounting for caregiver, care recipient, and care environment characteristics. The creation of screeners to identify “high conflict” care dyads could prove useful in the early detection and intervention of potential elder abuse cases, given that caregivers may be more willing to report negative aspects of their relationship (e.g., fighting) than more obviously harmful or abusive behaviors.