Don’t believe the short sleepers. Those one-percenters — Martha Stewart and Elon Musk, among them — all claim to get by just fine on less than six hours of sleep a night. But sleep is meant to repair and restore, and research shows that unless you’re among the 1 percent with the “short sleeper” gene, you need at least seven […]
8 Frequently Asked Questions About Alzheimer’s Disease
Alzheimer’s disease is a brain disorder that slowly destroys memory and thinking skills and, eventually, the ability to carry out the simplest tasks. Find answers to 8 frequently asked questions about Alzheimer’s disease: 1. What is the difference between Alzheimer’s disease and dementia? Alzheimer’s disease is a type of dementia. Dementia is a loss of thinking, remembering, and […]
Understanding the Differences in Symptoms with a Cold, Flu or COVID-19
Each year, millions of people suffer from seasonal influenza, which is often called the flu. Flu is a respiratory illness caused by viruses that infect the nose, throat, and sometimes the lungs. Flu is a mild illness for some people. But for others, including older adults and those with chronic (long-lasting) health conditions, the flu can be very serious and even life-threatening. Getting […]
Take Care of Your Senses: The Science Behind Sensory Loss and Dementia Risk
The sight of grandchildren’s faces, the smell of home cooking, the sound of a friend’s voice: We process so much of life through our eyes, ears, and nose. While many older adults experience some decline in their senses as they age, there is growing scientific evidence that these changes may also be related to dementia and overall brain health. About one third of older adults […]
5 Exercises That Can Keep Your Brain Sharp
We’ve known for some time that what’s good for your heart is good for your brain. This is especially true when it comes to exercise. Studies show that regular physical activity can help lower the risk of dementia, and recent research offers some clues about why. A 2022 study published in Alzheimer’s & Dementia found that older adults who remain active have higher levels of […]
What Your Blood Type Says About Your Health
Do you know your blood type? There’s a good chance that you don’t. More Americans know their horoscope sign (66 percent) than their blood type (51 percent), according to a survey published this year by medical laboratory company Quest Diagnostics. There are compelling health reasons why you should know, especially when it comes to your heart. Research suggests that people with certain […]
