Senior Health Update Archives

Scientists spot brain changes that may help predict stages of dementia

Most individuals are currently diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease only after cognitive decline has set in and brain damage has become irreversible. Alterations in brain metabolism and blood flow to the brain can be identified in...

More plants, less meat could help reduce risk of kidney disease, study finds Copy

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a condition that affects millions of people, and factors such as high blood pressure, diabetes, and obesity can increase a person’s risk. Research has shown that diet and exercise are...

Shingles vaccine may reduce dementia risk, slow progression

Over the last few years, research has been published showing a potential link between the shingles vaccine and a lower risk for dementia. Research published in April 2025 found that people receiving the shingles vaccine...

Soybean oil may contribute to obesity, new study shows

Soybean oil encompasses 57% of all cooking oils used in the United States, and 30% globally. More than 50% of soybean oil is made of an omega-6 fatty acid called linoleic acid. Past studies show...

A ‘spoonful’ of black cumin seed powder a day may help lower cholesterol

Obesity and cholesterol are two components that affect the risk of more serious health conditions like heart disease. Finding strategies to help address obesity and cholesterol is a critical area of medical research. A recent...

Untreated sleep apnea may double risk of Parkinson’s

A new study finds that having obstructive sleep apnea increases the risk that a person will eventually develop Parkinson’s disease, and the more severe the apnea, the higher the risk. CPAP therapy cuts the increased...

MIND diet, 3 other lifestyle interventions may help reduce cognitive decline

While it’s not uncommon for people to experience problems with thinking and remembering with aging, moderate to severe cognitive decline is not a common aging experience. While not all cases of mild cognitive impairment lead...

Even small amounts of alcohol may increase dementia risk, study finds

Alcohol consumption, particularly heavy alcohol use, is linked to many health conditions, including an increased risk of dementia. However, studies have suggested that consuming small amounts of alcohol might actually decrease the risk of developing...

Exercise, healthy diet can help older adults regain ‘optimal well-being’ within 3 years

The global population of older adults ages 60 and over is expected to jump from 12% in 2015 to 22% by 2050. Past studies show there are several lifestyle factors that can have a negative...

Green Mediterranean diet, including green tea, may help slow brain aging

The Mediterranean diet, which includes lots of fruit, vegetables, and fish, has gained popularity due to its links to good health. Past studies show that following the Mediterranean diet may help improve our brain health...