Aging
More than 5 million people in the United States have Alzheimer’s disease or related dementias. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) say that figure is likely to triple by 2060. Currently no treatment can alter the course of dementia associated with the death of brain cells (neurodegeneration). Dementia [...]
With 25 years of volunteering under his belt, 93-year-old Norm Serra calls himself a “professional volunteer” – and understandably so. Two days a week, he volunteers for different UCLA Health departments, including its Spiritual Care office and UCLA Health 50-Plus [...]
Older adults can benefit from regular physical activity. Fortunately, the activity does not need to be strenuous to achieve health benefits. Even a leisurely stroll around the neighborhood or a nearby park can benefit both body and mind. While activities such as hobbies can contribute to maintaining independent, [...]
Everybody has an occasional sleepless night, but sleep disturbances among older adults are especially common, as part of the aging process. In fact, an estimated 50 percent of people age 55 or older suffer from a sleep problem, including not being able to fall asleep or stay asleep, compared with [...]
As we age, we all experience some decline in our abilities, but there are ways seniors can maintain their quality of life and maximize their independence. What are some tips? Staying active both physically [...]
Dear Doctors: What’s the best type of exercise? I’ve been reading that high-intensity interval training can actually slow down the aging process. Really? Why? I'm not too keen on this approach but I do walk at least a mile every day. Dr. Elizabeth Ko and [...]
Dear Doctor: I’m 71 and, after a recent bone scan, my doctors are insisting I take a bone-building medication. I couldn’t tolerate Fosomax, so they want me to take Prolia. I’m worried about it, but my mother had severe osteoporosis, so I’m worried about that too. How can I choose [...]
Dear Doctor: A friend suggested I try MSM crystals for arthritis. What are they, and do they work? If they do, where can I find them? Methylsulfonylmethane (MSM) is an organic sulfur-containing compound naturally found in plants such as Brussels sprouts, [...]
Dear Doctors: I am a 74-year-old man and have been diagnosed with osteoporosis. Is this common in men? I thought this was a disease that women get. What will the treatment be? Will it help? Your diagnosis [...]
Dear Doctor: I’ve recently been diagnosed with meningioma, but my doctor tells me not to worry about it. That can’t be right. What should I know? Meningiomas are the most common brain tumors within the central nervous system and, let me [...]
