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Health Issues around the World
- Archive 2010 -
Articles in Arabic
| Chinese
| French
| Russian
| Spanish
Also see our section on the UN Disability Rights
Convention, US Health
Issues and Older People
and HIV/AIDS
Africa
Madagascar:
Concrete Measures for Combating Alzheimer (September 10,
2010)
(Article in French)
With the occasion of the Global Day against Alzheimer, the
Madagascar-based NGO Masoandro Mody has decided to launch
several concrete projects to help people suffering from
the disease. The projects include fundraisings, centers
for the ill and training of proper personnel to attend the
needs of those suffering with the disease.
Report: Tanzania: Building
Bridges (2010)
HelpAge International has developed a model for supporting
older home-based older careers in the crucial role they
play in the response to HIV and AIDS. This summary
guideline describes a model for supporting older
home-based people how take care of HIV infected members of
their family in Tanzania. A growing number of older women
are playing an important role for family members living
with HIV, and for orphaned and vulnerable children.
Nevertheless, their contribution is rarely recognized and
they don’t receive any support from the government.
Report: Kenya: Insecurity and Indignity: Women’s
Experiences in the Slums of Nairobi, Kenya (2010)
This Amnesty International Report describes women’s
experiences in the slums of Nairobi, Kenya, and documents
the fact that Nairobi's informal settlements have been
excluded from public services such as water, sanitation
and adequate policing. The report also shows that Kenya's
efforts to meet the sanitation standards fails to make
adequate provision for a particularly disadvantaged group
- specifically women living in slums. Women and girls in
Nairobi’s slums live under the constant threat of sexual
violence that makes them prisoners in their own homes, too
frightened to use communal toilet and bathroom facilities.
As a result, the poor sanitary conditions for women,
including older women, contribute to their poor health and
high health care costs.
Report: Ghana: The Nutrition
Situation of the Elderly in Ghana: A Case Study (June,
2010)
Older Ghanians are urgently facing a deteriorating
situation around access to food and good nutrition that
seriously threatens their health. Read this report on food
insecurity for old people in Ghana; it contains
information on socio-demography, lifestyle behaviors,
dietary habits, state of health, level of physical
activity, and nutrition levels. Older women faced the
greatest food insecurity: a loss of a spouse, low
education and gender also influenced food
insecurity.
Africa: African Gene Trawl May Provide Secrets to Long
Life (February 17, 2010)
(Article also available in Arabic)
A genetic peek deep into the heart of Africa confirms that
Africans have more genetic diversity than Europeans or
Asians and provides insights into how to live a long life
despite disease and famine. Researchers sequenced the
complete genomes of five southern Africans over the age of
80: Archbishop Desmond Tutu from South Africa and four
Bushmen from Namibia.
Senegal: Free Care for Older
Persons: Hospitals are Invited to Continue the “Sesame”
Plan (January 7, 2010)
(Article in French)
Since September 1, 2006, thanks to the « sesame
» plan launched by the President of Senegal, health
care is free for older persons. In fact, when an hospital
takes care of an old patient, it has to send supporting
documentation to the Health Ministry to get paid. The
problem relies on the fact that the payment is delayed:
the government is now heavily indebted to the hospitals.
Unfortunately, this situation threatens the free access to
care for the elderly.
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Americas &
Caribbean
Canada: Chronic Diseases and Acute
Problems Faced by the Elderly (December 13, 2010)
How do we
know that older people are faced with many health
problems? Older people are physically vulnerable
because their bodies have reduced capacity to protect
them against viruses and bacteria. Experts recommend
that friends and family members need to check often
whether older people have a good mental and physical
health.
Argentina: AIDS in Older
Adults, a Taboo That Still Exists (November 30,
2010)
(Article in Spanish)
The lack of sex education among older adults
has increased rates of sexually transmitted diseases,
HIV / AIDS. According to the Ministry of Health, the
cases of older persons diagnosed with HIV in Argentina
in 2001 came to
7 percent, in 2008, they nearly
doubled: 12 percent.
Costa Rica: 33% of Older People Are
Obese or Overweight (November 27, 2010)
(Article in Spanish)
A third of older Costa Ricans
(32.6%) have problems of obesity or overweight. Experts
say this high weight makes them to lose their skills and
exposes them to heart disease and cancer.
Canada:
Study Says Diet Rich in Vegetables Helps Protect
Against Fractures (November 22, 2010)
(Article in Spanish)
Older adults who eat
vegetables and fruit have better bone mass and,
therefore, are less likely to fracture. A study by
Canadian researchers shows that for every 40 percent of
more calories of vegetables, the possibility of
suffering a fracture in 10 years fell 14 percent in
women.
Colombia:
People Over 60 Are Dying of Tragedies (November 22,
2010)
(Article in Spanish)
The deaths of people
over 60 years by accident, homicide, suicide and falls
have risen by 47% deaths in the last thirty years. The
results shows that in so far as the older population in
Colombia has been
rising, injuries have become a public health problem .
Canada: Recruiters Brace for
Shortage of Nurses as Boomers Retire (October 30, 2010)
Canada expects a growing demand for nurses. Experts
predict that the health-care needs of many baby boomers
who are expected to retire shortly will add to this
demand. The majority of jobs currently available for
registered nurses are in home care and long-term
facilities across Canada.
Chile: Earwax is One of
the Leading Causes of Deafness in Older People (October
19, 2010)
(Article in Spanish)
It estimates that 30% of adults older than 60 years have
hearing problems. According to experts, ear-wax in the
ears is a major cause of deafness. A course in ENT
Geriatrics, organized by the University of Chile, will
discuss the major diseases affecting hearing in the
elderly, 28 and 29 October.
Canada: Most Canadians 50+ Lack
Antibodies to Fight H1N1 (October 18, 2010)
Although many Canadians over age 50 are still vulnerable
to the virus and should get a flu shot, they may not have
the antibodies to protect them against H1N1 this year
according to a new study.
Panama: Glass of Milk for
Older People (October 11, 2010)
(Article in Spanish)
A legislative initiative wants to write a law requiring a
glass of milk every day not only for students but also for
older people. According to Representative Carlos "Tito"
Afu, Panamanians need to consume more milk to help the
national industry and to improve their nutrition.
Canada: Fire in Seniors' Home a
Wake-up Call for Action (October 2, 2010)
Government officials in Ontario have encouraged making
sprinklers mandatory in all senior homes. Government
administrators recommend full retroactive installation of
automatic sprinklers in all such facilities or
significantly boosting overnight staffing levels.
Canada: Cracks in Long-Term Care
Are Widening (October 1, 2010)
The provincial ombudsman reports a reduction in the number
of inspections of long-term care facilities. As the
government increasingly turns to private residences for
seniors--and seniors like to stay in their own
homes--well-implemented policies and funds to assess the
level of quality and control to ensure adequate care are
necessary.
Canada: Why Canada Needs a
National Strategy on Dementia (September 23, 2010)
While the Canadian federal government refuses
to invest in a strategy for dementia, Canada needs more
strategic health and welfare systems since the cost for
Alzheimer’s disease already has escalated to $15 billion
a year and will increase ten times within three decades.
Strategies recommended: keep people at home as long as
possible, train specialists to find proper care, delay
the decline with early diagnosis and prompt treatment,
support caregivers in getting training, make information
and access to services easily available, teach Canadians
to keep their mind and body in good health, increase
research.
Canada:
Suicide Among the Elderly: A Worrying Reality (September
23, 2010)
(Article in French)
During a recent symposium about the suicide among the
elderly, the Quebec Association of public and Para
governmental sector of retirees (AQRP) laid emphasis on
this worrying issue. According to the statistics of the
National Institute of Public Health in Quebec, the
age-group of 65-years-old and over persons, has the second
less favorable tendency among all the age-groups, after
people between 50 and 64 years. The AQRP President
encourages the development of the network of sentinels to
prevent suicides among older persons.
Bolivia: Study
Reveals that One in 10 Older People has Alzheimer
(September 25, 2010)
(Article in Spanish)
A study of ABL Pharma reveals that at least 10 percent of
the older people in Bolivia suffer Alzheimer. Some
patients do not know that suffer from this illness for
lack of medical consultation. The most common symptoms are
repetitive and chronic disorders of memory, and lack of
fixation of new facts.
Report: Brazil: Physical
Abuse of Older People Reported at the Institute of
Forensic Medicine in Recife, Pernambuco State, Brazil
(2010)
This author details trends of physical abuse among older
persons in Brazil in order to determine the profile of
physical abuse. It appears that the majority of victims
were men aged 60-69 years old. The majority of abusers
were men that victim knew. The author calls for greater
investment in programs that deal with the problem
directly.
Ecuador: Art is Used as
Therapy for Older People (September 20, 2010)
(Article in Spanish)
About 11 NGOs of gerontology of Guayas, Ecuador,
participated in a painting contest. Gerontologists say the
arts help the elderly to express their feelings and feel
useful in society. The art competition was organized by
the Ministry of Economic and Social Inclusion (MIES),
through its area of gerontology.
North America: Ageing and
Destination Amnesia (September 10, 2010)
(Article in Arabic)
In recent neurological studies conducted by the Rotman
Research Institute in Toronto, Canada, seniors could
suffer from “Destination Amnesia.” Older people tend to
forget with whom they shared information, causing them
embarrassment. The unfortunate matter is that this amnesia
is usually laced with over-confidence, according to
Psychology and Ageing. Despite all the memory errors, the
elderly remain highly confident.
Report:
Chile: National Study on the Dependence of Older Persons
(2010)
(Report in Spanish)
In the "National Study on Aging Dependence," researchers
from the University of Chile and Senama demonstrated that
24.1% of older Chileans depend on one or more of their
family members for financial or physical support. Most
Latin American countries now face an accelerated
demographic transition, revealing the many ways aging is
affecting the population. The report shows class and
gender inequalities among people over 60 years, and how
education can prevent dependency.
Mexico: Children and Old
People Face Impotence and Diseases During Floods (August
30, 2010)
(Article in Spanish)
Older persons and children suffer the most in floods.
Recent torrential rains in Mexico harmed a
disproportionate number of old people and children, so
much so that they suffered foot and respiratory diseases.
Moreover, the young and old feel alone and isolated as
they confront the desolation of losing their homes.
Mexico: In Mexico,
There Are Only 350 Nursing Homes for 10 Million Older
Adults (August 27, 2010)
(Article in Spanish)
Mexico needs more resources to address one of the biggest
challenges in public health: the aging of the population.
In 2050, the proportion of citizens who are over 60 years
will increase from 8.2% to 28%. Health Secretary Jose
Angel Cordova Villalobos regretted that there are only 350
nursing homes in the country for more than 10 million
older adults.
Canada: Hospital for Seniors
(August 9, 2010)
(Article in French)
The Montmagny Hospital in Quebec welcomes old people, even
though its infrastructures were not designed for seniors.
In this hospital, care is focused on keeping seniors
physically agile as long as possible. A new program called
Vision Gerontonomie has demonstrated that one of the worst
things to do is to leave elder patients alone in their
beds. To the contrary, they must attempt to walk and move
to conserve the autonomy they had before entering the
hospital. However, to extend this kind of program, the
Quebec hospital must re-design its facilities to
accommodate older patients.
Canada: Caution With Hot Water!
(August 3, 2010)
(Article in French)
According to the coroner’s office, nursing homes should
limit the hot water temperature in their showers. Although
the current law stipulates that hot water must not exceed
49 degrees on new shower systems, most nursing homes were
built before this law went into effect and do not comply
with this new system. Many accidents have occurred over
the last 10 years, including 15 incidents of old people
who died since 2000 due to shower burns.
Obesity Rise Linked to
Disability Increase Among Elderly in Latin America and
the Caribbean (July 26, 2010)
Getting better nutrition is one way to prevent the
development of diseases. Another way to stay healthy
involves exercising and increasing levels of activity.
Recent research by the University of Texas focused on the
connection between obesity rates and increasing disability
among old people. The study shows that a change in
nutritional habits causing obesity leads to significant
trouble for older persons in everyday activities.
Argentina: Concern about the
Spread of AIDS in Old People in Rosario (July 18, 2010)
(Article in Spanish)
AIDS among older persons is a neglected problem. The
majority of HIV/AIDS prevention campaigns ignore this
segment of the population. In Rosario, Argentina,
detecting this disease in people over 60 is becoming more
frequent. In this situation, members of local NGOs decided
to launch an information campaign in senior centers by
organizing lectures and handing out brochures and condoms
about this important subject.
Mexico: Sexual Life Continues
(July 17, 2010)
(Article in Spanish)
Over the year, the sex life of individuals slows down but
does not disappear. Some polls show that three out of four
adults between 57 and 64 are sexually active. Experts say
that middle-aged couples come to enjoy more loving and
sexual relationships, as women are no longer worried about
possible pregnancies.
Mexico: Launch a 'Help Button'
for Old People (July 14, 2010)
(Article in Spanish)
An alarm button to alert medical care staff will help 100
old people in situations of high vulnerability and with
chronic problems. By pressing a button, these
beneficiaries will be aided by specialists and ambulances
will be provided depending on the type of emergency. The
program will begin in August after the selection of
beneficiaries, to be funded by the Institute for the Care
of Aging and Health Secretary of Mexico City.
Canada: New Medic Alert Device
Detects Falls — and Calls for Help (July 12, 2010)
The growing number of seniors determined to stay in their
homes as long as possible raises questions about safety.
The new device, Lifeline, monitors the movement of seniors
using accelerometers and pressure sensors able to detect
falls and sends a signal to a response center. In
addition, the device allows seniors to overcome the fear
of going out and brings more mobility into their everyday
life.
Peru: Old People May
Have Diseases Because of Self-Medication (July 11, 2010)
(Article in Spanish)
Older adults who self-medicate are more prone to disease.
Experts from the Peruvian Directorate of General of
Supplies and Drugs (Digerid) explained that older people
are more vulnerable to the adverse effects of drugs. Why?
Because at older ages, people often have pre-existing or
chronic diseases. The risk increases, obviously, if the
drug is taken without a prescription and without knowing
the correct dose.
Canada: Want to Slow Aging?
New Research Suggests it Takes more than Antioxidants
(July 6, 2010)
New research from Canada suggests that choosing
antioxidants over favorite food does not guarantee a
longer lifespan. The results of the research contradict
the popular theory that the production of toxic reactive
oxygen species in tissues is responsible for aging. In
fact, eating less might be a better way to longer life.
Honduras: 200 Old People Die Every Year after Being Hit
by Cars (July 4, 2010)
(Article in Spanish)
Two hundred old people die each year after car drivers hit
them in the streets of Honduras, according to a report of
the Violence Observatory of the Institute for Democracy,
Peace and Security. Experts say it is necessary to
eliminate architectural barriers for older persons in
order to improve their safety on roads and streets. How
about some campaigns targeting reckless or sadistic
drivers?
Uruguay: Thousands of Uruguayans
Benefited from Operation Miracle (June 26, 2010)
(Article in Spanish)
In two years more than 17,500 pensioners have received
free cataract surgery and more than 2,000 were given free
pterygium surgery, the Social Insurance Bank has reported.
This is the outcome of Operation Miracle, a rehabilitation
program for low-income people with ophthalmic problems,
promoted by the Bolivarian Alliance for the
Americas.
Ecuador: Ecuador Develops an
Exercise and Nutrition Handbook for Old People (June 26,
2010)
(Article in Spanish)
An expert group has developed a handbook of nutrition and
physical activity for seniors, with financial support from
the government of Ecuador. The professionals stressed the
need for older people to have a balanced and varied diet,
which is also easy to prepare, palatable and easy to chew
and digest. On the other hand, it is important to
accompany this diet with regular exercise. The government,
through the Regional Health Secretariat Costa/Insular,
will revise the handbook, to be published shortly.
Mexico: 66% of Adults Over 59
Are Overweight or Obese (June 14, 2010)
(Article in Spanish)
Sixty-six percent of adults over 59 years in Mexico are
overweight or obese, according to the Instituto Mexicano
del Seguro Social (IMSS). Hypertension, diabetes, stroke,
heart disease, heart attacks and cancers are associated
with being overweight or obese. While the Institute’s
researchers said that no causal relationship between aging
and overweight exists, they stated that older and obese
adults must change their eating habits gradually, reducing
the excessive consumption of foods rich in sugars and
fats.
Mexico: Old People Can Get Free
Cataract Surgery (June 5, 2010)
(Article in Spanish)
The Federal District Government announced people over 68
years living in areas of very high marginalization, are
eligible for free cataract surgery. The program which has
just begun,already has more than 200 candidates for
surgery. In addition,, hearing aids and glasses will be
provided at no cost to those who are eligible.
Canada: More Than 40% of
Seniors in Residential Care Suffer from Depression (May
25, 2010)
(Article in French)
A recent study shows that 44 percent of seniors living in
residential care facilities in Canada are suffering from
depression. Researchers found that 26 percent of residents
of nursing homes, personal care homes and long-term care
facilities have been diagnosed with depression while
another 18 per cent have clear symptoms but no documented
diagnosis. Nancy White, manager of home and continuing
care development at the Canadian Institute for Health
Information, emphasizes that efforts to detect depression
must be improved.
Chile: Reduction of Health
Care System to Start with Older Retirees and More
Economically Vulnerable (May 24, 2010)
(Article in Spanish)
The President of Chile, Sebastián Piñera,
announced that 7 percent of the government’s contribution
to the health system for retirees will be reduced for
older seniors and the most vulnerable. The initiative,
which will be implemented next year, will effect a total
of 940,364 people over 65 years, among them 497,000 have a
monthly income of less than 200 dollars. Why is the
Government focusing its cuts on older people?
Canada: Book About Aging Well
Hits Home (May 24, 2010)
Using reflections from a new book on aging well, the
author of this article examines how to go about it.
Lyndsay Green incorporates narratives from 40 elders, whom
she says, "run counter to our society's obsession with
staying forever young, and to my own assumption that I
must fight aging at all costs." Rather, Green learned,
while writing her book, that aging well depends on "an
acceptance, sometimes even an embrace, of the aging
process."
Argentina: Health Department
Inspections 130 Nursing Homes (May 20, 2010)
(Article in Spanish)
Mendoza has historically had a large number of nursing
homes which do not have official authorization; it is
believed that today there are about 500. The Ministry of
Health has begun a series of nursing home inspections in
order to regulate the care they provide for residents. In
total, 130 nursing homes in the province are pending
regulation. The Argentine government wants to assure that
the private organizations provide high quality services
for older persons with regular inspections of
facilities.
Mexico: The Elderly Suffer
from Hypertension and Diabetes, says Red Ángel
(May 17, 2010)
(Article in Spanish)
The Institute for the Care of Aging analzyed physical
ailments affecting older persons in Mexico City; 35
percent suffer from hypertension, 15 percent suffer from
varicose veins in legs, 7 percent, arthritis, 5 percent,
heart disease, and 2.7 percent, diabetes. Staff gathered
these results during the Institute’s program of home
health visits, which have been carried out for just two
years. The program producedf 18,000 geriatric assessments
of old people who receive pension payments from the
national government.
US/Canada: Canadians
Live Longer, Healthier than Americans: Study (April 29,
2010)
(Article also available in Arabic)
A study published in BioMed Central's journal Population
Health Metrics claims Canadians can expect to live until
79.7 years of age, versus 77.2 years for Americans. A
healthy 19-year-old Canadian can expect to have 52 more
years of perfect health versus 49.3 more years for
Americans. Canadians have a universal healthcare service,
which is free at the point of care, whereas Americans'
access to health insurance is usually based on employment,
income through Medicaid, or age through Medicare, and not
universal.
Report: Canada: Drug Use
Among Seniors on Public Drug Programs in Canada, 2002 to
2008 (2010)
Pharmaceuticals make up an increasing cost segment of the
Canadian health care system and public drug expenditures
are growing every year. Using data from a national
database, these researchers are looking at several key
trends and issues regarding seniors’ drug use and
expenditures. They are examining how many drugs seniors
are using, how much of public drug programs are spent on
seniors, and how this funding is distributed.
Bolivia: Retirees March From
the Town of Caracollo to La Paz (March 21, 2010)
(Article in Spanish)
The National Confederation of Retirees of Bolivia
organized a march to the capital city to protest the
health system and other issues that affect them. The group
demanded that the government give more attention to the
health system, which needs better administration to
provide improved services, especially for older persons.
The Confederation also proposed restructuring the social
security system, including its administration, budget and
human resources.
Canada: 62% of Older People
Take at Least 5 Types of Medicines (March 19, 2010)
(Article in French)
A Canadian institute for health survey reveals that more
than half of older persons in Canada take at least five
types of prescription medicines. Many older persons suffer
from chronic diseases that require several medications.
Mexico: Older Age Increases Sexual
Desire in Men (March 15, 2010)
(Article in Spanish)
A recent study by University of Chicago researchers found
that men have a longer sexual life than women. The study
of 6,000 older adults, revealed that 4 out of 10 men
between the ages of 75 and 85 continue to have sexual
relationships. However women in the same age range, only 2
out of 10 women continued to have sexual relationships.
They also confirmed that a healthy sexual life lengthens
the quality and time of life.
Canada: Flu Shots Futile: Study
(March 11, 2010)
A new study shows that immunizing nursing home care
workers does not reduce the number of older patients who
contract the flu. Coming at the end of the largest
flu-vaccination campaign in Canadian history, the review
of previous studies calls for stepped-up research into
alternative, low-tech ways to combat the virus, such as
improved hand washing.
Chile: Feeling Young Increases
Cognitive Abilities in the Old Age (March 8, 2010)
(Article in Spanish)
According to new research, people who feel younger than
their age are more likely to maintain their mental
abilities and have a better quality of life and health in
older adulthood. The aim of the researchers was to
determine the influence of subjective and actual age in
the maintenance or loss of cognitive abilities in old age.
"Self confidence is of utmost importance to a person in
old age," says University of Chile psychiatrist Eliecer
Maluenda.
Canada: Budget Likely to Ignore
Impact of Aging Population (March 3, 2010)
In the midst of building the federal budget, Canada’s
legislators are apparently ignoring the demographic
“elephant in the room” of the country’s aging baby
boomers. The coming demographic transition will heavily
strain federal finances, and the government will have to
raise nearly $30 billion in the next budget to keep its
deficit in check.
Mexico: From Malnutrition
to Obesity (March 1, 2010)
(Article in Spanish)
Scientists show that people over the age of 60 start
losing muscular mass and strength in their bones, causing
metabolic activity to decrease. In this stage, the older
person's metabolism is unstable and people may go from
having malnutrition problems to obesity problems.
According to the National Survey on Health and Nutrition
in Mexico, 33 percent of older adults between the ages of
60 and 70 suffer from obesity issues. In the next decade
experts expect that the number of older persons will
increase; they recommend that the younger population eat a
healthy diet and be physically active.
Report: US and Mexico:
Obesity and Excess Mortality Among the Elderly in the
United States and Mexico (February 2010)
Scientists now confirm that increasing levels of obesity
may compromise future gains in life expectancy in low- and
high-income countries. Although excess mortality
associated with obesity and, more generally, higher levels
of body mass index (BMI) have been investigated in the
United States, researchers have little evidence about the
impact of obesity on mortality in Latin American
countries, where they observe a very rapid growth in
obesity and overweight that occurs jointly with poor
socioeconomic conditions. The authors intend to assess the
magnitude of excess mortality due to obesity and
overweight in Mexico and the United States.
Canada: Series on Health Care
for Elderly, Part 3; Interim Solution to Bed Crunch?
(February 18, 2010)
In the third part of the series on interim care for the
elderly in Canada, administrators at an Ontario facility
appear to fill in the health care gap for elderly
successfully and meet all of the qualifications outlined
by Dr. Andrew McCallum, Ontario's top coroner. While it is
an imperfect solution to the bed shortage in Ontario
hospitals and qualified interim care facilities, this
might prove to be successful for the time being. Read all
about here.
Canada: Series on Health Care
for Elderly, Part 2; Death Shows Health Care Loophole
(February 17, 2010)
In the second part of the series on interim care for older
patients in Canada, the death of an elderly woman in a
private retirement home sheds light on a serious health
care loophole within the Canadian system. The Prince of
Wales Manor, the home in which the woman died, received $2
million last year, and has yearly patient payments of up
to $19,000. However, inspectors have identified multiple
weaknesses in the quality of care, including poor patient
nutrition, limited wheelchair access to bathrooms, and too
few nursing stations in the Prince of Wales Manor. Where
were the State Inspectors?
Canada: Series on Health Care
for Elderly, Part 1; 'Interim Care' Places Elderly at
Risk: Chief Coroner (February 16, 2010)
Medical authorities transferred a 92-year-old Ottawa woman
from the Queensway Carleton Hospital to a privately run
retirement home. She died, in part because of inadequate
care there, says the province's chief coroner, who warns
the practice could put other aged patients at risk.
Canada: Making Room for Aging
Relatives (February 6, 2010)
As an older person, specific needs and handicaps sometimes
make assisted living residences more appropriate than
moving in with children or family. While many family
members often have space for elderly relatives, there are
still barriers such as narrow doorways and flights of
stairs that make it physically difficult for older people
to function. Residences for older people also offer a
sense of community for people who are the same age, along
with providing long-term care if needed.
Panama: Older Adults Need Less
Sleep Than Young People (February 1, 2010)
(Article in Spanish)
A study published by SLEEP, the official organ of the U.S.
Academy of Sleep Medicine and Sleep Research Society,
showed that sleep time declines progressively and
significantly with age. The study was conducted on adults
of different age groups that are in good health. The
researchers found that people between the age of 66 and 83
sleep 20 minutes less than people between 40 and 55, who
sleep 23 minutes less than people between 20 and 30.
The study also found that deep sleep--the most important
phase--also declines with age.
Report: Mexico:
Psychological Intervention in the Alcoholic Aged, Family
and Society (January 2010)
(Report in Spanish)
This report examines the contemporary social problems of
alcoholism in older men. This article touches on the need
to consider these problems as health problems, and also
underlines the importance of interventions in preventing
future addictions among younger generations, as older
persons are considered as family role models.
Mexico: 28 Older Adults Will
Benefit from the Medical Assistance Offered by a Private
Ambulance Service (January 29, 2010)
(Article in Spanish)
The Grandparent Foundation (Fundación Abuelo)
launched a recycling initiative among some education
institutions. Students raised enough money through
recycling to help the older people of the community. As a
result, 28 older adults received free private ambulance
service for one year, and they will be able to call
anytime at no cost in case they fall or feel sick. The
ambulance service includes a doctor, a nurse and a
paramedic to assist the older person during the transfer.
Many schools and universities are now joining this
initiative so the students can fulfill hours of social
service required by the State.
Brazil: Bit of
Alcohol May Benefit Aging Brain (January 28, 2010)
Brazilian researchers claim that light drinking might help
older persons stay mentally sharp, while heavy drinkers
are at a higher risk of dementia. The study looked at
about 1,200 people over the age of 60 years old living in
Brazil, tracking their alcohol consumption in relation to
their cognitive functioning and health status. The report
will be released this coming April in the journal
Alcoholism: Clinical & Experimental Research.
Mexico: Falls for Older People
Reveal Their Possible Illnesses (January 24, 2010)
(Article in Spanish)
Everyone trips and falls from time to time, but a fall for
an older person can be more than a bad step. Doctor Miguel
Flores, president of the Geriatrics Association of the
State of Jalisco, explains that “pneumonia in an older
person could be presented exclusively by a fall, without
having any other symptom.” Even a simple fall at an older
age can cause irreversible damages like paralysis, loss of
vision or loss of a body part, not to mention how it
affects the whole family. It is estimated that in Mexico
65% of people older than 65 suffer at least one fall per
year.
Haiti: Elderly and
Abandoned, 85 Haitians Await Death (January 17, 2010)
In the aftermath of the earthquake that struck Haiti
on Wednesday, January 12, older residents are perishing.
While food and water are nearly impossible for all victims
to obtain, the crippled and incapacitated elders from one
collapsed nursing home are now completely helpless; one
man has already died. The food and aid that reached Haiti
on Sunday did not make it to the nursing home as it is
located near a violent slum that frightened foreign aid
workers. Emmanuel, a local official, hopes to see help
soon. “I'm pleading for everyone to understand that
there's a truce right now, the streets are free, so you
can come through to help us.”
Mexico: When Age Touches the Eyes
(January 11, 2010)
(Article in Spanish)
Macular degeneration associated with age is the main cause
of blindness in people after the age of 55, and it will
affect one of every three people when they reach 75 years
of age. This dysfunction reduces the capacity to perform
daily activities such as reading, driving or writing. In
Mexico, the disability affects more than 350,000 people.
Although there is no formal treatment, a group of chefs
from Spain have put together some recipes with special
nutrients that may help maintain good eye health.
Canada: Dementia Could
Cost Canada C$1Trillion (January 4, 2010)
(Article also available in Arabic)
Canadians are developing dementia at such a rapid rate
that dealing with the problem will cost a total of more
than C$870 billion ($830 billion) over the next 30 years
unless preventive measures are taken, a report released
Monday said. Canada's Alzheimer's Society said more than
103,700 people developed dementia in 2008 in Canada, a
country of around 33 million. By 2038, 257,800 new cases
per year are expected, with almost 3 percent of the
population affected.
Argentina: Argentina's "Elvis,"
Singer Sandro, Dies at Age 64 (January 4, 2010)
(Article also available in Arabic)
Singer Sandro, who was called Argentina's Elvis Presley,
died on Monday at age 64 after a career spanning over four
decades in which he helped promote Latino music to a world
audience. The singer, whose real name was Roberto Sanchez,
began his career in the 1960s as a Latin American version
of Elvis Presley complete with gyrating hips but moved on
to become a ballad singer and one of Latin America's most
popular musicians.
Cuba: The Privilege of Ageing
in Cuba (January 1, 2010)
(Article in Spanish)
In the Habana Province, the 50-year-old Home for the
Elderly is the place where many older people have found
love and comfort. A project was recently launched to
renovate the building, almost in ruins. There is now more
room for medical services, therapy sessions and
rehabilitation. The center is proud to say that life
expectancy of residents is 85.5 years and will continue
that way. Caridad Diaz, one of the residents, noted: “I am
75 years old but with this type of care I'm on the way to
the 200-year-old club!”
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Asia Pacific
Reports
| Articles
Reports
Report:
Australia: 2010 National Dementia Research Forum is a
Resounding Success (November 2010)
The National Dementia Research Forum has received funding
to continue to raise dementia awareness, providing earlier
diagnosis and researching swifter prevention and treatment
methods. The new Australian government wants to respond to
its seniors’ health care needs with greater service
provision and support.
Report:
Australia: Annual Survey Into the Australian Aged Care
Industry (2010)
This report is an annual survey that depicts the state of
the Aged Care Industry in Australia as of 2010. A major
theme of this report is of the rapidly aging population
and the challenge for the structure of care to meet the
expanding need, especially in lieu of the global economic
downturn and increasing costs of land. This of course
points to the lack of access by providers for the funding
necessary to meet the demand.
China:
Social Support, Health Service Use and Mental Health
among Caregivers of the Elderly in Rural China (2010)
In rural China, most caregivers of older persons tend to
seek help from physicians or traditional healers.
Researchers learned, not surprisingly, that those who
cared for healthy older people experienced less depression
than those who helped old people who were sick. Depression
among caregivers can be influenced by the background and
incomes of caregivers and care-recipients. Social support,
according to this report, influences feelings of
depression.
China: Incidence and
Predictors of Hypertension Among Rural Chinese Adults:
Results From Liaoning Province (2010)
How can researchers figure out the incidence of
hypertension and its risk factors among rural Chinese
adults? A population-based sample of 24,360 rural Chinese
adults aged 35 years and older who are free from
hypertension at baseline was observed from 2004-2006 to
2008. They learned that hypertension affects many rural
Chinese adults and is related to the rapid social changes
in the country. These issues may apply to other areas in
the developing world. It is urgent rural Chinese persons
seek treatment for hypertension because its presence in
their bodies will impact the quality of their old age. So
far, no prevention and control programs are available in
rural China and the condition goes untreated.
China:
Associations of Environmental Factors with Elderly
Health and Mortality in China (2010)
China's rapid economic growth is coupled with significant
environmental degradation. Although socioeconomic
development may improve population health and survival,
related environmental degradation may have an opposite
effect in China. The study’s authors look at air pollution
and the physical environment on elder health and survival
in China. Considering the communities' gross domestic
product per capita, adult labor force participation rate,
and illiteracy rate, researchers found significantly
association with physical, mental, and overall health and
mortality among older Chinese. Efforts to reduce pollution
and improve socioeconomic conditions could significantly
improve older persons’ health and survival.
Japan:
Wandering and Fecal-Smearing in People with Dementia
(May 2010)
Dementia can cause bizarre behaviors, such as wandering
and fecal smearing, known as catolia. Many caregivers feel
troubled and uncomfortable around these behaviors.
Reserachers for this study wanted to clarify the clinical
characteristics of patients with these symptoms and
propose solutions and advice to caregivers who face these
problems. Apparently these behaviors are most likely
associated with cognitive dysfunction and insomnia.
China: Modeling the Effects of Macro-Measures on Elder
Health in China: A 'Fresh Sample' Approach (April 2010)
The health and well-being of Chinese elderly are an
increasing concern to world health organizations,
demographers, envoronmental experts, public health
officials and others worldwide. As the chinese population
ages, the complexities of this are increased due to the
underdeveloped economy. This 2010 report takes a good look
at how elder health is affected by macro-measures of
regional and socio-economic conditions.
India: Prevalence of Health
Related Disability among Community Dwelling Urban Ederly
from Middle Socioeconomic Strata in Bangaluru, India
(April 2010)
Research has shown that health related conditions and
socio-economic factors influence disability in the
elderly. This study examines the prevalence of health
related disability in community dwelling elderly (>65
yr) residents in a suburb of Bangaluru, Karnataka, India,
and assessed the association of disability with various
socio-economic variables and current health status. In
this urban elderly population while majority had current
medical conditions, a significant proportion did not
experience any difficulties in activities of daily living.
Restriction in participation in activities of daily living
was more influenced by increasing age and impairment in
cognitive functions and not current health status. A
multidimensional measure of disability as captured by the
ICF needs to be applied to other populations such as urban
poor and rural elderly to get a more comprehensive picture
of disability among the elderly in India.
Nepal: Status
Report on Elderly People (60+) in Nepal on Health,
Nutritional and Social Status Focusing on Research Needs
(March 2010)
Due to the combined effect of lower fertility and improved
health, Nepal’s older population has increased, creating
challenges for its government. Developing nations feel the
impact harder due to their poverty.
Australia:
Overweight Older Persons Have Lower Mortality Risk
(February 2010)
Researchers detail in a new Australian study that
overweight men and women aged 70-75 years have 13% less
risk of dying than those who are normal weight. It also
found that being sedentary doubled mortality risk across
weight class and gender. The study shows that the World
Health Organization’s standards for Body Mass Index, or
the ratio of height to weight, for older people is overly
restrictive. Overweight older people are not at a greater
mortality risk than those who are a normal weight.
Articles
Singapore: More Elderly People
Contracting AIDS (November 29, 2010)
According to the Health Ministry of Singapore, the
number of people above 50 years old diagnosed with AIDS
has doubled in the last year to 31 per cent. While the
treatment for older AIDS patients is complicated due to
their chronic diseases, the treatment is more affordable
due to the recent price reduction of antiretroviral
drugs for AIDS sufferers.
Malaysia: Malaysia Urges
Elderly Couples to Recall the 'Joy of Sex' (November
22, 2010)
In effort to
slow divorce rates, Malaysia is encouraging couples on
the brink to enhance their sex lives by “bringing back
the joy in sex”. They are offering sex education, a two
night honeymoon, and couples counseling. They have yet
to find out whether or not these measures will halt the
rising divorce rate.
China: Doctor
Find Gauze in an Old Man’s Body 5 Years after Surgery
(November 17, 2010)
(Article in Chinese)
Lin Yibo, a 60-year-old senior citizen in Zhangzhou City,
had been suffering constant pain recently. The doctor
suspected he had cancer and operated on him. Instead of a
tumor, the doctor found a piece of gauze left in his body
5 years ago in a surgery.
New Zealand:
Elderly Most Likely to Have Long ED Stays (November 15,
2010)
Dunedin Hospital's clinical leader, Dr. John Chambers,
said that elderly patients are the most likely to have
long stays in the emergency department. Generally, the
older patients have a higher chance of not being treated
and discharged or admitted within the target time of six
hours.
Australia: 20%
of Elderly Die Month after Surgery (November 12, 2010)
In Australia and New Zealand, one in 20 elderly patients
who undergo surgery die within a month. The research
showed that at least half of the older surgical patients
also had complex health problems in need of close
management. Experts suggested that such patients need
highly specialized care for individual health problems
before, during and after their operation.
Australia:
Test Found Which Can Pick Up Signs of Dementia in Middle
Age (November 10, 2010)
Australian research has found a simple way for accurate
detection of early signs of cognitive decline during
middle age. A brain health test could become part of a
doctor's routine check-up, with very low cost. The test
assesses a person's reaction time while also looking for
irregular answering patterns, raising a red flag for
dementia-related brain lesions later revealed through an
MRI scan.
China: Old
Couple Commit Suicide to Avoid Being a Burden to Her
Only Daughter (November 4, 2010)
(Article in Spanish)
The suicides of older adults
are becoming more frequent in China
. Experts say that the impact of the aging society,
product of the country’s one-child policy, is a problem
that the Chinese regime has to face.
Australia:
Elderly Left in Dark on Sleep Drugs Danger (November 2,
2010)
A recent study from a Sydney hospital found that sleeping
medication might be the cause for falls, fractures and
memory problems among many elderly people. Experts warned
that the risks of sleeping drugs are not widely known in
the community, so it is often difficult to encourage the
elderly to gradually stop taking the drugs.
Australia:
Audit Uncovers Possible Lapse in Elder Suicide
Prevention (October 30, 2010)
Following on audit findings, the Mental Health ACT
(Australian Capital Territory) failed to assess and
address adequately the suicide risk among older mental
health patients. The Chief Minister said that workers’
heavy workload had compromised their care. Also, ACT must
respond to extremely increased demand for mental health
services among older people. He recommended improving the
current level of service.
China: Over 15 Million Chinese
Seniors in Need of Long Term Care (October 29, 2010)
(Article in Arabic)
According to the Chinese Science Society of Aging, more
than 15 million Chinese seniors need Long Term Care. The
Society also conducted a study that revealed that some
167 million older persons live in China and make up over
12.5% of the nation’s population. This number is
projected to increase to 200 million by 2013.
New Zealand:
Call to Find Ways to Cut Prescribing to Elderly (October
27, 2010)
In New Zealand, a Southern District Health Board committee
asserted that ways must be found to reduce the amount of
medication prescribed to the elderly. Most prescribed
drugs are costly, and some anti-psychotic drugs--for
managing people’s behavior--were not necessary.
China: 40% of
Elderly Women Suffer Osteoporosis (October 26, 2010)
(Article in Chinese)
According to data released by the Ministry of Health on
World Osteoporosis Day, 40% of women aged above 60 years
old have osteoporosis, and the total osteoporosis
sufferers in China nears one hundred million. Experts
suggest moderate aerobic exercise as a good measure to
prevent osteoporosis for old people.
Australia: RV
There Yet? Retirees Hit the Road with No Particular
Place to Go (October 23, 2010)
The number of ''grey nomads'' is booming in Australia. An
estimated 330,000 recreational vehicles (RV’s) are
registered. However, there are not enough public service
resources such as rest areas or caravan parks prepared for
serving the expected surge in number of motor home
tourists.
Japan:
Japan's Dancing Grannies Defy the Aging Routine (October
19, 2010)
A Japanese mayor put eight elderly women on TV three years
ago to promote tourism of the city with their
song-and-dance routine. Now, they are national pop stars
who show a new and more energetic attitude toward aging
and encourage others. The performers challenge the notion
that older women are tired and ‘retiring’.
China: “Ken
lao” Causes Psychological Problems in the Elderly
(October 18, 2010)
(Article in Chinese)
In China, able-bodied but unproductive young people who
live off their parents are called “ken lao zu,” or “those
who bite the old people.” According to a recent survey,
65% of Chinese families provide financial support to their
children, and nearly 30% of young people, partially or
totally, rely on their parents. Family conflicts provoked
around financial issues have become a major cause of
psychological diseases for old people.
New
Zealand: Profit-Driven Aged-Care Needs Revolution
(October 15, 2010)
New
Zealand needs a revolution in its current care systems
for older persons. Aged-care experts suggest
recommendations for improving the system and the staff
training of those who care for older people. Can
profit-driven care-giving really work?
Hong Kong: Number of Older
Persons in Hong Kong to Double by 2030 (October 15,
2010)
(Article in Arabic)
According to a survey conducted by the local government,
the number of older persons in Hong Kong exceeds 900
thousand. This number is expected to rise to 2.1 million
by the year 2030. The local government is readying
itself for this by creating programs that support aging.
China: An
82-Year-Old Man Volunteered to Pave a Road (October 4,
2010)
(Article in Chinese)
In Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, a senior citizen is paving
a road from his community to a nearby farmers' market.
This 200-meter-long road will benefit more than one
thousand residents in the community. The 82-year-old man,
a former cancer patient, said that the road would be
finished in 10 days.
South Korea:
Only 1 in 4 Elderly Live with Children (October 3, 2010)
Only 25 percent of elderly Koreans live with their
children. This demographic has changed rapidly from the
past inter-generational family tradition because of
sprawling urbanization and the change to an independent
life style.
Indonesia:
Growing Trends Seen Among Elderly Facebook Users
(September 30, 2010)
Increasing numbers of Indonesian elderly are joining
Facebook. Indonesia is ranked the third-most active
country in the world in terms of Facebook use, under the
UK and US. Older social network users meet their childhood
friends, see their grandchildren’s daily life, or create a
network for jobs after retirement through Facebook.
Singapore:
A Happy Coffin Before You Die (September 28, 2010)
In Singapore, nursing home residents and designers prepare
and celebrate the art of dying by designing own coffin.
The coffin turns from a negative symbol of death into a
creative canvas for reflection and inspiration, and a
positive celebration of life. This movement allows people
to accept death as a part of life, not something fearful.
Russia: Huge Increase
Predicted in Osteoporosis Fractures Due to Aging
Populations (September 28, 2010)
Osteoporosis is a disease of the bone that leaves people
at greater risk of bone fracture. While the overall
population will decrease in 2050, the percentage of
people aged 50 and over will increase by 56%. In the
Russian Federation the number of people with
osteoporosis is expected to increase by one-third by the
year 2050.
China: Hainan Boasts Most
Centenarians (September 27, 2010)
(Article in Chinese)
In 2010, 1,378 Hainan citizens are age 100 years or above.
According to data released in 2009, Hainan has the highest
percentage of centenarians per population in the entire
province. All senior citizens over 100 years of age are
eligible to receive 200 RMB additional allowance every
month in Hainan.
Australia: Brain Damage May
Explain Elderly Living in Squalor (September 26, 2010)
According to Caulfield Hospital researchers in
Melbourne, Australia, brain damage could be a leading
cause of elders living in squalor. Squalor has become so
prevalent that a National Squalor Conference was held
last year. The frontal lobe, associated with planning,
organization, judgment and social awareness, may be
related to the cause.
Malaysia:
Elderly Malaysian Rhino Enlisted in Breeding Attempt
(September 23, 2010)
Sumatran Rhino are one
of the world's most endangered species, only 150-300 of
the animals known to exist. Recently, Malaysian wildlife
officials on Borneo Island reported they would attempt
artificial insemination of an elderly female rhinoceros
in an effort to repopulate the species.
Japan: Supporting the Elderly
(September 21, 2010)
Celebrating Keiro No
Hi (Respect-for-the-Aged Day), Japan reaffirmed the need
for more systemic social systems and programs such as
training and supporting social workers and volunteers to
support Japanese older persons properly.
Singapore:
Singapore Expands National Drive to Make Seniors
IT-Wise (September 20, 2010)
The government of Singapore will raise funds for a
national program to familiarize Singapore senior
citizens with technology to improve their lives and
strengthen family ties.
Japan:
Number of People Exceeding the age of 100 Years
Increases to 44,449 (September 15, 2010)
(Article in Arabic)
According to a recent survey conducted by Japan's Health
Ministry, the number of people who have lived over 100
years has increased from 4,050 to 44,449 in the past year
alone. Japan is considered one of the oldest states in the
world, since over 22.7% of the population is 65 years of
age or more.
China: More
Elderly Seeking Plastic Surgery (September 14, 2010)
(Article in Chinese)
Nowadays, plastic surgery is not just for young people.
More and more elderly desire some form of cosmetic surgery
to make them look younger. Most children support their
parents’ decision to do the surgery, while some object out
of concern that surgery may bring health risks to the
elderly.
Singapore:
Days of Reflection for the Man Who Defined Singapore
(September 11, 2010)
Former Prime Minister of Singapore, Lee Kuan Yew, is
reaching a vibrant 87 years old. He tries his best to stay
as fit and as active as he can, while his wife’s health
has darkened his spirits a bit since she suffered a series
of strokes. Today, Yew is a minister mentor, maintaining
his presence within the government while also
concentrating a great deal on his health- keeping a
regimen of swimming, cycling and massage. Yew said quite
simply, “I know if I rest, I’ll slide downhill
fast.”
Japan: Old
People Enjoy a Long Quiet Life (September 10, 2010)
(Article in Arabic)
Japan has the highest population of aged people compared
to other countries, for several reasons. Progress in
health sciences along with healthy diet, a relatively high
standard of living and financial stability all factor in
and increase the average age in Japan. The downside is
that aged people tend to live alone in the last years of
their lives. As families move to cities elders are left
behind in rural areas. Sujin Kato was found in his home
with a newspaper dating back to 1979, opening up the
unfortunate possibility that he could have been alone and
possibly dead for over 30 years.
Japan:
Japan Missing More than 230K Listed Centenarians
(September 10, 2010)
A survey carried out by the Justice Ministry of Japan
shows that 234,354 centenarians in Japan were still listed
as alive, their whereabouts unknown. According to a
ministry official, many of the missing people probably
died, lost touch with relatives or moved overseas. In
Japan, the share of the population aged 65 and older hit a
record high of 22.7 percent last year, and the graying of
Japanese society has brought many other social problems.
China: Five
of the Ten Oldest People in China Live in Xinjiang
(September 2, 2010)
(Article in Chinese)
According to a list published by the Gerontological
Society of China, half of the ten oldest people in China
live in Xinjiang. Sadiq Sawut, a 123 years old Kashgar
resident in the northwestern Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous
Region, has been the oldest male in China for the last
three years. Until September 2009, there were 40,592
seniors over 100 years old living in Mainland China.
China:
Increasing Number of Older Persons Threatens
Sustainability of Insurance Funds (August 20, 2010)
(Article in Arabic)
The rapidly increasing number of older people in China is
posing a threat to the sustainability of the government
health insurance fund. China now has an older population
of 167 million people, constituting 12.5 percent of the
population, an increase by half a percentage point last
year.
China:
106-year-old Man Had Successful Hip Surgery (August 6,
2010)
(Article in Chinese)
Ji’an Huang is a 106-year-old man in Guangzhou, China.
Recently he became the oldest patient to have hip surgery.
Huang hurt his hip while on vacation, and his surgery was
successful. Huang was confident that he would soon have
enough energy to go mountain climbing.
China:
Elder People should be Aware of Heat Stroke (August 6,
2010)
(Article in Chinese)
Older persons have become victims of the summer heat in
China. Recently, a considerable number of senior patients
were sent to the hospital because of heat strokes.
Although older people may spend more time at home and have
less exposure to the heat than younger adults, they are
still vulnerable. Doctors suggest that older people take
advantage of air conditioning and fans, and frequently air
the rooms where they reside.
Japan: "Japanese
Centenarians in the Limbo" (August 5, 2010)
(Article in Spanish)
Where are the centenarians in Japan? After discovering
that "the oldest man in Tokyo" had been dead for three
decades, Japanese officials are now trying to find the
country's supposedly oldest woman who was last seen 24
years ago. Police suspect that families hide the death of
their elders so as to continue collecting their pension.
Pakistan:
Healthcare for Elderly a Dream Gone Sour (July 29, 2010)
Despite planning for national healthcare for older persons
during the past two years, the Pakistani government has
been unable to provide it. The World Health Organization
has urged the government to develop a national program
aimed at providing health care to older persons. Yet the
Ministry of Health showed no interest, so it was not
approved as a policy. Old people in Pakistan make up 5.6
percent of the population. That number is expected to rise
to 11 percent by 2025.
China: China
Surveys Chronic Disease Prevention Capabilities (July
26, 2010)
The Chinese government recently launched a nationwide
survey of chronic disease prevention and control
capability. The survey impacts older people because they
are vulnerable to chronic diseases. The earlier the
patients are aware of the disease, the more possibility
they have to recover.
Japan: New
Health Care Plan for Elderly Outlined (July 19, 2010)
The current health insurance system for elder people in
Japan has often been a subject of criticism; it separates
elder health plans from other health care plans. In
addition, the premiums are deducted directly from
pensions. The article discusses the planned changes or a
new health insurance system for older people.
China: A Study
on Elderly Household, Health and Care-giving Costs (July
12, 2010)
(Article in Chinese)
Aging experts in Peking University, China conducted a
study focusing on different issues caused by the: poverty,
health and care-giving costs for an aging generation. The
study also includes a multi-dimensional model for
projecting family households adopted by the Population
Administration Decision Information System.
China: “I Can Bike for 20 more
Years!” Elderly Cyclists in China Are Energetic (July
12, 2010)
(Article in Chinese)
Cycling is a popular exercise among older people in China.
Zhixiao Zhao, a 74-year-man from Xi’an, China has been
cycling for more than 10 years. He participated in the
cycling event in Chengdu, China, in July 2010, along with
47 colleagues from the cycling club in his community. Zhao
was excited to join the competition and proud to be an
older cyclist.
China:
Double-whammy: Aging China Has Fewer Children to Care
for It (June 30, 2010)
China’s fertility rate declined since the government
carried out its one-child policy in the late 1970s.
However, the current generation lacks caregivers since
parents and grandparents have always depended on their
children, according to China’s tradition-ruled society.
Asia: Asia is
Not Equipped to Handle Large Numbers of Alzheimer’s
Patients (June 30, 2010)
(Article in Arabic)
Older Asians will represent more than half of patients
with senile dementia in the world within 40 years; China
will be the major contributor. With a very limited number
of centers for older persons or efficient daytime health
care facilities or plans to build more facilities, experts
say the region is not prepared to deal with the sharp
increase in Alzheimer’s patients who need specialized and
intensive care.
New Zealand:
Group Calls for Council to Set Up Outdoor Exercise
Playground (June 30, 2010)
In Dannevirke, New Zealand, older citizens are campaigning
to establish the first playground especially designed for
old people in their nation. Outdoor gyms for older
persons, known as “Pensioners' Playgrounds,” are very
popular in China and many European countries.
China:
Hospice Care in Early Development (June 20, 2010)
(Article in Chinese)
China’s medical system personnel see increasing demand for
hospice care. As the population ages, chronic diseases
have become more prevalent among older persons. They are
usually diagnosed at a late stage, especially tumors.
While hospitals recommend that dying patients spend their
last days at home, young working families don’t have time
to take care of their old and sick parents. At present,
China lacks professional hospice caregivers or a scheme
for running a successful hospice care organization.
South
Korea: Elderly Account for 33 Percent of Suicides
(June 11, 2010)
Growing numbers of older persons are taking their own
lives: one out of every three Koreans who have committed
suicide was a senior citizen. The author points to the
possible reasons and the necessity to support old people.
Elders and their families must grapple with this new
reality in their society and find ways to be more
welcoming to old people.
Japan:
Alcoholism Increasing Among Older Women (June 8, 2010)
A research team from the health ministry at the Kurihama
Alcoholism Center discovered an increase in alcohol
consumption in the drinking habits of older women. The
article indicates some possible reasons underlying this
trend.
China: Beijing
Creates Hotline for Old People to Solve Their
Psychological Problems (June 7, 2010)
(Article in Chinese)
Beijing aging organizations have created a hotline
particularly for older people. Professional psychological
therapists and experts will console old people and help
solve problems regarding post-retirement issues, marriage
in older age, loneliness, and age-related diseases. The
cost of this psychological therapy for old people is much
less than regular therapy and service coupons may be used
for payment.
China: Three
Major Eye Diseases That Can Cause Blindness (June 7,
2010)
(Article in Chinese)
Glaucoma, cataract, and macular
degeneration are three major eye diseases affecting old
people. Experts suggest that early treatment of these
diseases can significantly reduce the possibility of
blindness.
China: Beijing
Launches its Largest Luxury Apartment for Old People
(June 7, 2010)
(Article in Chinese)
Beijing has opened its largest apartment
building for older people. The luxurious 4-star
hotel-style apartments include 425 suites for over 1,000
residents. It requires an annual membership fee of
approximately $15,000 including rent. The facility will
also provide public welfare beds for disabled veterans and
other public welfare workers.
China: Old
Persons Should Be Cautious About Health Products Scam
(June 4, 2010)
(Article in Chinese)
The majority of old people pay particular attention to
health issues. However, sellers exploit many elder persons
with health product scams, including over-priced health
medications and facilities that boast health care. Older
customers should be alert to false advertising and request
receipts and service manuals in case of potential legal
conflicts.
Australia:
Elderly Woman Dies in Waiting Room at Queen Elizabeth
Hospital (June 4, 2010)
Aileen Promnitz, 79 years old, could have lived if only
someone had paid attention to her suffering. State Coroner
Mark Johns discovered that her March 2006 death could have
been avoided. He said the woman's condition was treatable.
However, during the six hours before her death, she was
checked twice by a nurse but not by a doctor.
China:
73-year-old Man in Nursing Home Risked His Life to Catch
Kids' Attention (May 23, 2010)
(Article in Chinese)
For Mr. Fu, there is nothing worse than his own kids
ignoring him. Desperate to see his children, the
73-year-old man in a nursing center in Shenyang, China,
attempted to commit suicide by cutting his veins. Fu's
children rarely visited after they sent him to the nursing
center. A nurse stopped Fu's fatal attempt in time. Since
Fu's children have violated the Elderly Protection Act,
the lawyer suggests Fu use legal means to defend his
legitimate rights and interests.
New Zealand: Health
Service Cutbacks Concern Elderly (May 23, 2010)
Vulnerable older people in New Zealand may risk living
alone in their own homes following cutbacks by district
health boards. The danger focuses on older persons need to
hire caretakers who may be either untrained or
unscrupulous, and expose themselves to risk, said a Senior
Care NZ general manager.
China: Public
Bathhouse Says No to Old People (May 19, 2010)
(Article in Chinese)
A public bathhouse in Harbin, China, refuses to accept
aged customers unless they waive any claims holding the
bathhouse responsible for accidents including falls, heart
disease and sudden brain hemorrhage caused by the high
temperatures and slippery floors. The Consumers
Association in Harbin has requested the bathhouse to set
up non-slip facilities and other amenities for elder
customers instead of discriminating customers due to their
age and avoiding responsibilities.
Australia: $533m Aimed at
Australia’s Ageing Population (May 11, 2010)
The Australian Federal
government will invest $533 million into aged care over
five years, as it takes on full responsibility for the
sector. In preparing for Australia’s ageing population,
the funding from this year’s budget will go into
improving access to high-quality ageing care facilities,
helping more people to receive superior care.
China: The Elderly Are the
Heaviest Sleepers (May 5, 2010)
(Article in Russian)
Chinese researchers conducted
a study hoping to determine how sleep affects age. The
study involved a total of 15,638 people from 22 regions
of China, ages 65 and older. Included in the study were
3,927 between the ages of 90 and 99 as well as 2,794
over a century old.
Japan: Aging Not Good
for Happiness as Pension Anxiety Grows (April 29,
2010)
The older Japanese people are, the less happy they feel,
due mainly to anxieties over the government-run pension
and medical insurance systems, according to a recent
survey. Respondents were asked to grade their degree of
happiness on a scale of one to 10. They were asked to
give 10 points if they felt "very happy" and zero if
they felt "very unhappy." Those aged 70 or older had the
lowest scores.
Singapore:
Nutrition Drive to Get Elderly to Eat Healthily (April
21, 2010)
The People's Association's Active Ageing Council of
Singapore has made healthy eating tips for seniors one of
its focus points for the next five years. The council
hopes that through the cooking groups, seniors will
realize the benefits of eating more vegetables and fruit
as well as learn how to cook with less fat, salt and
sugar.
China： Seniors
Who Talk a Lot Over The Phone Are More Vulnerable to
Deafness (March 16, 2010)
(Article in Chinese)
Aging is not a major condition for deafness. However,
proper prevention and treatment could reduce the
probability of deafness.
China: A
101-Year-Old Woman Grew a Horn (March 10, 2010)
(Article in Russian)
Last year, a horn began to grow on the forehead of a
100-year-old Chinese woman named Chan Rufang. According to
her, it all began with a small pimple, to which she paid
no attention. But in the past 12 months that “pimple” grew
to 6 cm. According to recent updates, a second pimple
began to grow on Chan Rufang's forehead--parallel to the
first one.
China:
Do Chinese Seniors Threaten the World? (March 4, 2010)
(Article in French)
Currently, 176 million Chinese people--12.79% of the
country's population--are 60 years old and over. Four
major developments explain this phenomenon: the one-child
policy; changing cultural expectations (some young couples
don't want to have kids); the celibacy of many men; and
increased life expectation. According to projections, in
20 years one-fifth of the Chinese population will be 60
years old and over. Given this imminent change, China will
have to reform its pension system.
Korea:
Spectre of Ageing Population Worries Economists (March
2010)
While the public health insurance system in the Republic
of Korea helps its citizens attain affordable health care,
supplemental insurance has been necessary for most people
to be able to shoulder the out-of-pocket expenses. Now, as
Korea is slated to become an “aged society” by 2018, with
the 65 years and older population steadily growing, a
financially separate public insurance system that
specifically supports older persons is needed before the
private sector and potentially high costs, dominate the
market.
China:
Dancing Can Make Seniors Healthy and Happy (February 20,
2010)
(Article in Chinese)
Dancing has been promoted as a way to keep seniors healthy
and happy, but they need to take certain precautions to
stay safe. For example, after waking up, they should have
a cup of water before trying dance movements and it is
recommended that they rest for 40 minutes after meals
before they start to dance.
South Korea: A
Universal Health Care for Everyone (February 5, 2010)
(Article in Chinese)
In Korea, 96 percent of the people are registered in the
country's health care system, with the remaining 4 percent
covered by the government. Koreans strongly support their
health care system. The government aims to narrow the gap
between the rich and the poor.
China: One
of the Best Hospitals Signed a Partnership With One
Senior People's Home (February 1, 2010)
(Article in Chinese)
On June 2010, a medical team from Wujing Hospital will
open an office in a home for senior people in Beijing and
provide them professional medical treatment. This is the
first case of such a practice in Beijing.
China: Dementia Senior
Shouting and Yelling; Most Homes for Seniors Refused to
Accept Her (February 1, 2010)
(Article in Chinese)
Qingdao has more than 79 homes for seniors in the
metropolitan area. However, the homes are reluctant to
accept a woman with disruptive behavior, emphasizing their
need to use medications to control her behavior. Very few
agreed to admit her because of the special care
required.
Australia:
The Real Cost of a Long Life (January 28, 2010)
As medical treatment modernizes, it also grows more
expensive. Procedures that were once rare and only
mentioned in movies, like hip replacements and radiation
treatment, are now commonplace and come with a high price
tag. In Australia, public policy officials are preparing
for the boom in the aging population to determine ways to
help subsidize medical treatment.
China:
“Lao San Jie”: The Aging of One Generation (January 25,
2010)
(Article in Chinese)
As the most important social generation since the
establishment of the People's Republic of China, people of
this generation are becoming a disadvantaged group as more
and more social reforms are implemented. Now that they are
aging, healthcare expenses become a burden. For most of
this generation, they have never been rich and have had no
health insurance for most of their lives. Now they are
expected to follow the healthcare reform as do younger
generations and to assume more medical expenses to lessen
the burden on the government.
China: The
City Provided Seniors 9.23 Million Prioritized Doctor's
Appointments and 140 Thousand Received Free Health
Examinations (January 18, 2010)
(Article in Chinese)
The Beijing municipal government considers providing
senior people prioritized service an important way to
solve social problems. Based on this goal, they developed
five specific measures, including a free general
registration fee and first-round community health service.
China: Greying China:
Getting Old Before Getting Rich (January 13, 2010)
(Article also available in French)
As China's aging population reaches 80 million, the
country struggles to take care of its older people. This
population is the first wave of older persons since China
implemented its population policies in 1979. Now there is
a 4-2-1 pyramid, 4 grandparents, 2 parents, and one child,
with the responsibility for elders falling on one child.
As a result, many need nursing homes and government care,
as families do not have the space or means to take care of
their aging relatives.
India:
The Elderly Are Left Out in the New India (January 4,
2010)
As India modernizes and its economy grows stronger, some
80 million elder citizens are left without a system of
specialized care. With many national issues on its plate,
India is giving priority to infant mortality and disease
control, rather than focusing on elder care. Aging Indians
have little to no saved money and no pensions; once out of
the workforce, they must rely on others to survive.
Despite the lack of resources, older Indians have yet to
demand their rights to government-supported care.
Return to Top of Page
Europe and Central Asia
Reports | Articles
Reports
Report: United Kingdom: Skills and Training for
an Ageing Workforce (2010)
Experts at the UK Age and Employment Network have
examined the difficulties older persons face in
maintaining and acquiring new skills necessary for
employment in old age. They suggest several practical
ways to resist the present trend to ignore training
older persons and thereby force them out of the
workforce. One suggestion: Make it national policy to
require employers to honor “An obligation to help each
worker remain employable”.
Report: United Kingdom: Older People and
Functional Foods (November 2010)
What do we eat to assure good health in old age? In the
UK, researchers are suggest eating functional foods that
are “conventional food products modified in some way to
give a health benefit above and beyond basic nutrition.”
Will such modifications in food be helpful and add years
to life?
Report:
Europe: Social Well-being of Disabled Older Persons:
An Evidence of Unequal Ageing in Europe (October 2010)
How are European countries insuring the well-being of
their disabled older citizens? These researchers studied
older persons with disabilities current situation and
their living standards, future optimism, respect and
social contacts. Unfortunately, but not surprising,
disability negatively impacts older people's social
well-being. What can be done? Develop a supportive
environment so that older persons with disabilities can
participate in society.
Report:
United Kingdom: Equality and Diversity and Older
People with High Support Needs (October 2010)
This report developed at the Joseph Rowntree Foundation
looks at a capability-based approach to equity. The
Foundation supported work analyzing older people with
‘high support’ needs in four main area: first, the
equality profile of older people with high support
needs; second, the equality and diversity issues in
accessing and experiencing services; third, the gaps in
the evidence base; and fourth, a summary of the key
debates and recommendations.
United Kingdom: Administration of Medicines in Food and
Drink: A Study of Older Inpatients with Severe Mental
Illness (May 2010)
Difficulties in administering medicines to older people
are common. Medicines are sometimes mixed with food and
drink to help people swallow them. Little is known about
this practice or that of covert administration. The author
of this study examines the nature, frequency, safety,
reasons for and documentation of mixing medicines in the
food and drink of older persons in care facilities.
Sweden: Risk groups and other
target groups- preliminary ECDC guidance for developing
influenza vaccination recommendations for the season
2010-11 (March 25, 2010)
Swedish scientists who reviewed the data detailing the
2009 flu season found that those experiencing severe
symptoms of the flu pandemic included those born before
the 1950s. However, many of that age-group seemed to be
immune. This report by the European Centre for Disease
Prevention and Control stated that it is difficult to
predict the risk and target groups for the 2010-11
influenza season because there is no experience with the
new influenza (H1N1) virus in its seasonal form. The flu
virus changes from year to year and often effective
vaccines from a previous year no longer work. Experts are
weighing different approaches to combat this
challenge.
United Kingdom:
Personalisation, Nutrition, and the Role of Community
Meals
(March 2010)
More older people in the UK receive meals in their own
home than there are older people living in nursing homes.
As the government discusses funding social care and and
increasing numbers of people continue to live
independently into older age, how does it ensure that the
diet and nutrition needs of older people are met? Read
these recommendations that include a government nutrition
plan that incorporates the diverse nutritional needs of
older people, a cost-benefit analysis of community meals
services, and a campaign to inform old people about the
importance of good nutrition.
Europe: A Problem Shared
is a Problem Halved? Dementia: Learning Opportunities
from Europe (February 2010)
This policy brief aims to stimulate debate and drive
improvements in dementia research, diagnosis, treatment
and care by identifying key priorities for action at the
Member State and EU level. With 7.3 million Europeans
living with dementia and with the numbers set to increase
to 15 million by 2050, this policy brief argues all
European governments need to allocate more resources to
dementia.
Romania:
Recognition of Elder Abuse by Home Care Workers and
Older People in Romania (January 2010)
Do home care workers and older persons themselves
recognize elder abuse in Romania? Apparently no previous
studies looked at such abuse in Eastern Europe. The
researcher tried to determine the proportion of home care
workers and older people receiving care in a Romanian home
care service who correctly identified elder abuse in a
vignette, and who detected elder abuse at work.
Germany: Assessing
Old-Age Long-Term Care Using the Concepts of Healthy
Life Expectancy and Care Duration: the New Parameter
"Long-Term Care-Free Life-Expectancy (LTCF)" (January
2010)
Many know that reaching an advanced age likely means
increased risk of illness and a need for long-term care.
This study draws on statistics on the prevalence of
statutory long term care in Germany to derive a parameter
that links increased survival with care duration. The
report found that the average life expectancy can be
qualitatively divided into a lifetime spent in good health
and a lifetime spent in long-term care dependence. In
Germany women’s average care duration amounts to 3.6 years
while men need 2.1 years.
United Kingdom: Improving
Dementia Services in England – an Interim Report
(January 14, 2010)
“Dementia” describes a range of progressive, terminal
brain diseases, affecting an estimated 600,000 people in
England. Age is the main risk factor, and people with
dementia need a complex mix of health and social care
services. The number of people with dementia in England is
expected to double within 30 years, and estimated costs
are expected to increase from £15.9 billion in 2009
to £34.8 billion by 2026. This report, from the
National Audit Office, takes stock of the situation of
Dementia services in England and makes some
recommendations to improve the National Dementia Strategy.
Articles
France: Thyroid Surgery:
a Revolutionary Technique Arrives in France (December
15, 2010)
(Article in French)
As a new technique for thyroid surgery—developed by a
Korean doctor to meet the request for a more “esthetic”
surgical procedure—arrives in France, this article
explains the thyroid gland, its function and role in the
body, as well as the possible consequences if the gland
stops working properly.
France: Public Health
Forum: Aging Brings about Innovation (December 13, 2010)
(Article in French)
The fourth Public Health Forum organized by the
pharmaceutical company Sanofi-Aventis was held on December
3, 2010 at the Oceanographic Institute of Paris. Several
experts gathered to discuss problems of and solutions to
the challenging caused by aging. The following is a
synthesis of the forum.
Russia:
Expensive Medication Causes Harm: Health Ministry
Accused on Inflating Drug Prices (December 13, 2010)
(Article in Russian)
The Russian General Prosecutor’s office is charging some
Ministry of Health and Social Development officials with
violating the law by improperly organizing state purchases
of medicines. The absence of any real competition on the
market resulted with 3.4 billion rubles. This contributes
to the rising cause of medicines. Federal purchases of
drugs are a result of the DLO program, created in 2005 to
provide Russia’s seniors and socially unprotected with
subsidized medication. Today, although the law does not
allow for limitations on the number of companies bidding,
officials continue to place restrictions.
Denmark: New Computer for the
Elderly (December 9, 2010)
A Danish IT company has designed a new ‘plug-and-play’
computer to assist the elderly online. According to
Statistics Denmark, 44 percent of people aged 65-89 have
never used a computer, and 53 percent of this group have
never used the Internet. In addition, over 500,000
people over 60 do not have access to computers at home.
UK:
Sharp Drop in Cold Weather Deaths (November 23, 2010)
According to the Office for National Statistics (ONS),
deaths related to cold weather were down by 30% in the
2009-10 winter compared to 2008-09. The main reason for
the drop is the lower levels of flu. However, the National
Pensioners Convention said that the figures still
suggested that nine elderly people died every hour last
winter, and the government should do more to protect
vulnerable elderly people against cold weather illness.
United Kingdom: Technology
Improves Care for the Elderly and Cuts Cost ( November
15, 2010)
New technologies used in elderly care do not only save
councils millions of pounds but also enable elderly people
to enjoy care services in their own homes. Various elderly
care devices, ranging from location buzzers to emergency
sensors, are demonstrated as an efficient and economical
way to provide high-quality care services to elderly
people.
Russia:
After Reorganizing the Hospital, Disabled Persons
Might be Evicted from an In-patient Clinic (November
17, 2010)
(Article
in Russian)
The Guriev district
hospital in Russia’s Tula region will fire 28 nurses and
their aids as part of Russia’s modernization of
healthcare in 2011-2012. These hospital workers take
care of the heavily ill and disabled retirees that
require round the clock care help. A unit of forty five
adult and five children beds will be closed.
Spain: 50% of Older People with
Diabetes Are Undiagnosed (November 12, 2010)
(Article
in Spanish)
In Spain,
50% of elderly patients with diabetes are unaware that
they have this illness. Diabetes currently affects
about 4 million Spanish, of which 40 percent of newly
diagnosed are over 65 years. Many older people believe
that ageing is the cause of problems related to
diabetes.
United Kingdom: Dementia
Sufferers to Increase by 70% within 20 Years (November
10, 2010)
The number of the elderly with dementia will increase by
70 percent to more than 1 million in the next 20 years,
according to the National Health Service in the United
Kingdom. Researchers asserted that the country’s health
and social care system needs more specialized support to
cope with the “massive” increase in elderly patients with
dementia, many of whom cannot communicate effectively with
their nurses.
Finland: Rapeseed Oil Can
Efficiently Reduce Fibrinogen Level (November 9, 2010)
(Article in Chinese)
A recent Finnish study shows that rapeseed oil can
effectively reduce fibrinogen level in the human body,
which affects blood clotting. Since high fibrinogen levels
are always seen in elderly people, researchers suggest
that elderly people should take rapeseed oil to replace a
quarter of their intake of nutritional fat.
Europe: Rosetta: A European
Program Using New Technologies to Keep Seniors
Independent (November 8, 2010)
(Article in French)
The Rosetta project began with a question: “Can new
technologies help people afflicted by neurodegenerative
diseases—such as dementia or Parkinson’s—maintain their
quality of life and stay in their own home while
maintaining a secure environment?” The European program,
coordinated by Irek Karkowski, aims at developing secure
living space for people with challenging illnesses.
Ireland:
Broken Hip Injury Can Be Bigger Curse Than You Think
(November 8, 2010)
Breaking a hip is one of the great risks for older persons
since this injury may result in the end of their
independence, admission to a nursing home or even death.
The number of patients with broken hips who will have to
be treated in the hospital will increase as the population
ages. One in three older people fall every year.
United
Kingdom: Chemical Cosh Drugs to Be Cut by Two Thirds
(October 27, 2010)
Currently, more than 140,000 people with dementia are
given antipsychotic drugs. However, research shows that
this drug does not have benefits for dementia; rather, it
doubles the chance of death. Around 1,800 people die early
because of the drugs. Ministers have pledged to cut the
number of chemical cosh drugs prescribed to people with
dementia by two thirds within a year.
Russia: Two
Older men Place nonexistent Ministerial and
Gubernatorial positions for Sale. (October 27, 2010)
(Article in Russian)
The police detained two males, age 60 and 70, for selling
high federal positions. The press secretary stated that
the older persons were probably involved in the federal
system in the past. According to the Department of
Economic Security Ministry, the market for such services
has recently become quite extensive.
Russia: A
Taxi Driver ran Over an Elderly man and Continued his
Route because of Rushing passengers?... (October 25,
2010)
(Article in Russian)
The driver of a shuttle taxi in Dnepropetrovsk heavily
injured a 73-year old man and without offering help
continued his route. The shuttle ran over the elderly man
when while walking on the sidewalk, he stumbled and fell
on the road. The degree of the driver's guilt has not been
determined by the investigative agencies and the
court.
United
Kingdom: Women More Gloomy Than Men in Old Age, Study
Says (October 21, 2010)
British researchers found that women are more emotionally
affected when they stop working, compared to men.
Researchers noted that older women are more likely to be
living lives of loneliness due to isolation and reduced
social contact, such as partners’ dying, or lowered
spending power.
Finland: Vitamin
B12 Lessens the Risks of Getting Affected by Alzheimer’s
(October 21, 2010)
(Article in Arabic)
A study conducted in Finland that there is a relation
between a person’s Vitamin B12 consumption and getting
Alzheimer’s. Vitamin B12 is abundant in fish, eggs,
poultry and other types of meat.
France:
Alzheimer: Alternatives to Neuroleptics (October 20,
2010)
(Article in French)
Doctors often use neuroleptics to control behavioral
problems caused by Alzheimer’s disease. These drugs,
however, are known to be ineffective and dangerous for the
patient. What effective alternatives exist for caregivers
of Alzheimer patients?
Russia: Medicine
for Old Age: Officials Decide How to Ensure the Elderly
(October 20, 2010)
(Article in Russian)
The head of the Russian Federation Dmitry Medveded, held a
conference in Kozielsk Kaluga region, where he discussed
completely insuring drugs for older persons while reducing
the financial burden of federal and regional budgets. They
discussed a separate drug inventory for older persons,
reforms in drug delivery and drug insurance.
France: Which
Fruit and Vegetables Battle Aging Best? (October 18,
2010)
(Article in Arabic)
A study conducted by French magazine “Top Sante” discussed
the fruit and vegetables that are the best for fighting
cancer and aging. According to the study, consuming 5
kinds of produce each day can help prevent cancer. Berries
(blueberries, blackberries and strawberries), apples,
pears, bell peppers, avocado, broccoli and many others
have a high level of Salvestrols which is a key ingredient
in cancer prevention and lead to longer healthier lives.
United Kingdom: Old Age Has Been
Delayed Indefinitely (October 18, 2010)
The age at which Britons consider themselves old has
steadily moved up. According British Organization, Britain
’s ageing population is healthier and more energetic than
any previous generation. Many want to remain economically
active.
France:
Eating Fish Regularly Decreases the Dangers of Old Age
Blindness (October 17, 2010)
(Article in Arabic)
A new study shows that older persons who eat fish at
least once a week lessens their chances of being
affected by Macular degeneration. The Omega-3 fatty
acids in fish like Salmon, Tuna and Mackerel help keep
the eyes healthy and protects against diseases that may
cause blindness during old age.
United Kingdom: One in 10 Elderly
People in Britain Are at Risk of Malnutrition, According
to a New Report (October 11, 2010)
A study found that community meal services for Britain’s
older persons are decreasing, as local authorities have no
legal obligation to provide them. The elderly at risk from
malnutrition are not being identified early enough due to
lack of interaction with meal service providers, who are
forced to provide minimal service due to tight budgets.
United Kingdom: Over-50s
Apprenticeships Double, Say Charities (October 6, 2010)
According to United Kingdom charities, the number of
people over 50 years of age taking up apprenticeships has
nearly doubled in two years. Charities are urging the
government not to cut back on senior apprenticeships.
Belgium: World's
Oldest Known Twins Turn 100 in Belgium (October 2, 2010)
(Article in Spanish)
Two Belgian sisters turned 100 years old, becoming the
oldest twins in the world, according to the Guinness Book
of Records. In a celebration attended by 200 people,
including 28 relatives, the world's oldest twin sisters
blew out the candles.
France: Instructional
Kits to Improve the Quality of Caregivers (October 1,
2010)
(Article in French)
Nora Berra (Secretary of State for the Elderly), Laurent
Vachey (director of the CNSA), and Jean-Pierre Aquino
(president of the SFGG) signed an agreement as part of the
Mobiqual program to improve the quality of caretakers for
the elderly. Educational kits on pain, palliative care and
depression are to be distributed to institutions and
professionals in the field of home healthcare.
Spain: Study Reveals That
One in 10 Older People Has Alzheimer (September 25,
2010)
(Article in Spanish)
A new guide promotes a healthier old age. Generalitat de
Catalunya, in Spain, presented a guide with
recommendations about diet and physical activity for older
people that live in nursery homes. According to a
government survey, 80% do not exercise more than ten
minutes every day, and 60% spend most of the time seated.
United Kingdom:
Elderly Living Alone Use Internet to Keep in Touch
with Family (September 22, 2010)
According to data of the Office for National
Statistics, old persons in the UK who live alone are
increasingly using the Internet to keep in touch with
family and friends. Now almost 40 percent of the “Silver
surfers” are going online in greater numbers to
communicate electronically with people who live far away
or with others who are not otherwise accessible.
United Kingdom: Alzheimer's Cost
the World 602 Billion Dollars (September 21, 2010)
(Article in Arabic)
A medical report estimated that it would cost the world
nearly 388 billion pounds (602 billion U.S. dollars) for
the treatment of Alzheimer's, and this number is predicted
to rise quickly in the next few years. The Alzheimer's
Society of the United Kingdom reported that treatment for
the disease costs an estimated 20 Billion Pounds (31
billion U.S. dollars) per year. Currently there are over
35 million people who suffer from this disease, estimated
to triple by 2050, bringing the world total to 115
million.
Russia: Russians Living Longer
(September 20, 2010)
(Article in Russian)
Russia’s Surgeon General Tatiana Golikova stated that the
country’s life expectancy grew by 3 years. Since over 7
million elderly people are looking for institutionalized
care, Russia’s ministry of health is looking to improve
its medical infrastructure hand in hand with the system of
pensions.
.
World: A Walk that Fights Aging:
experts show that walking develops our brain (September
14, 2010)
(Article in Russian)
Recent studies have shown that the elderly gain both
physical and intellectual benefits from talking walks.
Regular physical activity fights the steady deterioration
of the brain. A study published in the Frontiers in Aging
Neuroscience Journal illustrated that after a year of
steady walking, the brains of the elderly people who
participated in the research improved in the spheres of
memory, attention span and an array of other cognitive
processes.
United Kingdom: Vitamin ‘B’
Proven to Reduce Rate of Brain Cell Deterioration
(September 10, 2010)
(Article in Arabic)
British studies proved that taking a daily dosage of
Vitamin ‘B’ pills could decrease the rate of brain cell
deterioration by half. This could benefit elders who
suffer from memory problems and may slow or even eliminate
the progress of dementia.
Germany: How German Palliative Care
Physicians Act at the End of Life (September 6, 2010)
A new study reveals that some German physicians hasten
death for their patients. This practice is against ethical
guidelines and occasionally without substantial patient
involvement. Physicians with supplementary qualifications
in palliative care were less likely to make decisions that
knowingly hasten death. This research could not have been
published at a more critical time, as the German
guidelines to end of life care are currently up for
review.
France: An Anti-Alzheimer Train
Will Travel France (September 5, 2010)
(Article in French)
The French National Railways and France Television have
organized an Anti-Alzheimer train to start a 12-city trip
on September 6, 2010. The train, with 14 cars, will aim to
inform the French public about Alzheimer’s. It will return
to Paris on September 21 for the Global Day against
Alzheimer’s.
Russia: A Retirement Home Burns
Down (August 30, 2010)
(Article in French)
A retirement home situated in the region of Tver burned
down, killing nine older persons and severely injuring one
in the process. Rescue workers evacuated another 480
people from the building. This event is not isolated and
follows a series of similar tragedies: 23 dead at a
retirement home fire in January 2009 and another 30 dead
in a fire at yet another retirement facility in 2007. It
appears that French public officials must create or
enforce existing laws to assure the safety of aged persons
in retirement “homes.”
Sweden: Stress in
Middle Age Could Contribute to Late-life Dementia
(August 15, 2010)
Research from the University of Gothenburg established the
relationship between stress in middle age and development
of dementia in elder years. Previously, other studies
confirmed similar findings for stroke, heart attack and
hypertension. The new research leads to better
understanding of both the consequences of stress and the
causes of dementia.
Germany: Scientists Develop
Intelligent Device to Help Keep Elderly Fit (August 10,
2010)
(Article in Arabic)
German scientists from the German Intelligence Center in
the industrial city of Kauserslautern developed a new
device that can help keep older persons fit. The aim of
the research behind this device--still under
development--is to act as a fitness coach, urging older
persons to stay active. The device may ultimately reduce
medical-related costs in an aging society with a growing
older population.
World: Older Adults Get HIV
Diagnosis Later, Die Sooner (August 5, 2010)
Those aged 50 and above are more likely to be diagnosed
with late-stage HIV than younger adults. One reason is the
myth that this demographic group is less prone to risk due
to their age. In addition, better health and a growing
rate of divorce has led to an increase in sexual activity
for older persons. More awareness of HIV risk is needed.
Russia: The Heat Continues
(July 27, 2010)
(Article in Russian)
Unprecedented heat continues in Russia, creating high
risks for the population’s health. People over 55, those
suffering from chronic diseases, as well as children under
three are especially vulnerable. The article shares advice
on how to protect oneself in conditions of severe heat.
Russia:
With the Heat wave, Thousands of Deaths of Ederly in
Moscow (August 6, 2010)
Summer 2010 has become the hottest on record in modern
Russian history, leading to an increase in the number of
deaths in the capital. An official from the Moscow
registry office said the heat wave had resulted in 8,826
deaths of Muscovites aged 71 and above in July while 5,293
of the same age died in June.
France: Study Links
Depression with Cholesterol Level (July 28, 2010)
(Article in Arabic)
A new medical study from a French university links
symptoms of depression in the elderly with cholesterol
levels. The study also called for a need to monitor the
cholesterol level in older persons while taking into
consideration differences between genders to help prevent
depression.
United Kingdom: Insight into Why
Low Calorie Diet Can Extend Lifespan -- Even if Adopted
Later in Life (July 15, 2010)
A new study suggests a relationship between a restricted
diet and a longer lifespan, along with a decrease in
age-related disease for a significant number of animals.
It is too early to say if the diet will bring the same
results for humans. However, research points to ways of
keeping people healthy and independent for longer periods
of time.
United Kingdom: Heat Wave Kills
(July 14, 2010)
(Article in Arabic)
The Health Protection Agency in Britain has discovered
that the recent heat wave has led to the deaths of
hundreds of people, especially older persons. The agency
indicated that preventive measures implemented in a timely
manner could significantly reduce deaths caused by
excessive heat.
France: Scorching Heat This Summer (July 6, 2010)
(Article in French)
Seven years after the heat wave of 2003, France may face
scorching heat again this summer. Some measures have been
implemented, such as prevention of fatalities by providing
information. For instance, the French government made it
compulsory for nursing homes to provide residents with air
conditioning in each room. When facing the new heat wave,
the biggest problem remains the lack of staff in both
hospitals and nursing homes.
Norway: Sense of Humor Improves
Life Expectancy (July 5, 2010)
According to a Norwegian survey, a sense of humor can
extend life expectancy. It also has a positive effect on
mental health and social life. However, the survey points
out that researchers have not observed this effect in
people above 65 years of age. They also reported that the
“humor” that was studied is a friendly humor, meaning that
it was neither conflicting nor insulting.
United Kingdom: Financial
Planning for the Worst (July 4, 2010)
More than 700,000 people live with dementia in the UK;
that number will hit 1 million by 2015. “Planning what
would happen to you if you were to lose capacity is
incredibly important,” says Ruther Sutherland, acting
chief executive of the Alzheimer’s Society. When most
people think about dementia, they think of Alzheimer’s,
which is more aggressive than other forms. The writer
suggests how to prepare for a future with dementia,
stipulating who will serve as your caregiver as well as
naming a person to provide medical care through an LPA
(lasting power of attorney in the UK).
Netherlands: Low Vitamin D Linked
to the Metabolic Syndrome in Elderly People (July 1,
2010)
Researchers have discovered that a lack of vitamin D in
older persons could lead to metabolic syndrome, increasing
the risk for diabetes and cardiovascular disease. More
studies are needed to establish the exact relationship
between vitamin D deficiency and these diseases to find
ways to prevent them.
United Kingdom:
Parkinson's Breakthrough as Side Effect from Therapy
Eliminated (June 30, 2010)
Dyskinesia is a common side effect of the drugs used to
treat the symptoms of Parkinson's disease. New research by
the Medical Research Council and Imperial College London
suggests that dyskinesia was caused by malfunctioning
serotonin cells, and can be treated with drugs. This
promising new area of research may lead to a cure for
Parkinson’s disease.
France: High Temperatures: Older
People, the Right Reaction! (June 28, 2010)
(Article in French)
The Ministry of Health has advised older persons, who are
more prone to dehydration and hypothermia, that they must
spend the day in a cool or air-conditioned place and drink
approximately 1.5 liters of water daily and be certain to
eat on a regular basis.
Spain: 15% of Adults
Over 65 Suffer from Depression (June 13, 2010)
(Article in Spanish)
About 15 percent of Spanish adults over 65 years suffer
some kind of depression, according to Sanitas, a medical
company. This depression can be divided into two
categories: external and internal. The internal ones are
those associated with the aging process or related to
illnesses such as diabetes or hypertension. External
causes, however, occur in all situations of daily life
that cause stress, such as social, economic or
psychological factors.
Spain:
New System Developed for Early Diagnosis of
Alzheimer's Disease (June 10, 2010)
Researchers at the University of Granada have developed a
new computer program that allows early diagnosis of
Alzheimer's disease through processed images. The study
reports 90 percent success rate in early diagnosis of the
disease. Neurologists will soon have a tool as precise as
a team of experts with this new system.
Russia:
Take Grandmother's Hand (June 8, 2010)
(Article in Russian)
Psychologists find that physical contact is often
associated with feelings of being loved and cared for and
can have enormous health benefits not only for children,
but especially for older persons. Holding someone's hand
can help to alleviate isolation and reduce the chances of
depression.
United Kingdom: Older
Breast Cancer Patients 'Miss out' on Treatment (June 9,
2010)
Staff at Breakthrough Breast Cancer stated that despite
advances in the treatment of breast cancer, treatment
opportunities are not equal for all. The organization
claimed that older woman are less likely to have surgery
and less likely to receive radiotherapy or chemotherapy
than younger women.
France: Lung
Cancers: No Age Limit for Treatments (June 7, 2010)
(Article in French)
A French survey shows that old persons diagnosed with lung
cancer can be treated the same as other patients. It is
often believed that due to their age older people cannot
tolerate chemotherapy. However, the survey shows that
older people are wrongly considered weaker and less
resistant to cancer treatments. Forty-five percent of the
patients who underwent the more drastic treatment were
still alive a year later.
United Kingdom: Society
'Should Stop Viewing Holding Hands as Romantic and Reach
out to Older People' (June 4, 2010)
How often do we hold our grandparent's hand? Psychologists
find that physical contact is often associated with
feelings of being loved and cared for and can have
enormous health benefits for older persons. Holding
someone's hand can help to alleviate isolation and reduce
the chances of depression.
Europe: Special Care Plan
Does not Slow Decline in Patients with Alzheimer's (June
3, 2010)
A new study on the effectiveness of a specific care plan
in patients with Alzheimer's disease shows us that such
plans do not slow functional decline compared with more
standard care. Further research is needed to establish a
more effective intervention.
France: Diabetes: Stop
Complications (May 31, 2010)
(Article in French)
The French Diabetic Association (AFD) has launched its
third campaign to fight against complications of diabetes.
Diabetes is becoming more common in France, causing €12.5
billion for health insurance. However, half of this amount
is dedicated to refunding medical costs incurred by 10
percent of the diabetics who suffer from complications.
French authorities rely on information to warn people
against the dangers of this pathology and to avoid the
complications that sometimes accompany the illness.
France:
Does a Healthy Way of Life Protect You From
Alzheimer's disease? (May 31, 2010)
(Article in French)
Ninety-nine percent of Alzheimer's disease cases appear
after the age of 65. According to this author, a healthy
lifestyle can help prevent the disease. High blood
pressure, diabetes and obesity are risk factors. A
Mediterranean diet is recommended, along with regular
physical activity and keeping up intellectual and social
activities.
Russia: A 76-Year-Old
Weightlifter Enters The Guinness World Record (May 23,
2010)
(Article in Russian)
Igor Goldman , a 76-year-old resident of Moscow, has
lifted a 100 kg (220 lbs.) dumbbell, the equivalent of his
own weight, while lying down. His ability to tolerate such
weight at this age is considered extraordinary. The
contest judges voted, and Goldman has made his mark in the
Guinness Book of World Records, before the eyes of
hundreds of spectators.
Russia: Let's Sharpen Our Eyes
(May 20, 2010)
(Article in Russian)
Is there a way to maintain good eyesight while aging? The
answer is yes. There are many eye exercises that people
over the age of 45 can do. One of them includes sitting up
straight and focusing on an object far away. Focus your
eyes on the far object and then on an object close to you,
then move your eyes left to right. Repeat this exercise
3-10 times.
United Kingdom: London’s New
Senior Playground for Older Persons (May 19, 2010)
(Article in Russian)
A playground for older persons has opened in London’s Hyde
Park. City authorities who started this campaign to
promote healthy lifestyles among senior citizens.
According to the playground's organizers, several lines of
senior citizens were waiting to use the six new exercise
machines the morning the playground opened.
United Kingdom: Is Ageing
A Disease? (May 19, 2010)
Biogerentologists from the Salk Institute in California
and the Howard Hughes Medical Institute who are studying
the science of ageing, say it's time for a fresh look at
the biological process -- one which recognizes it as a
condition that can be manipulated, treated and delayed.
"Ageing is common for all of these diseases -- and yet
we're not investigating the common mechanism for all of
them. We are just looking at the specific diseases," said
researcher, Nil Barzilai of the Albert Einstein College of
Medicine. By studying the common factors for these
diseases, scientists can start finding genetic mechanisms
that help prevent illnesses for a longer period of
time.
Ireland: Euthanasia Body to
Set Up Irish Group (May 16, 2010)
Exit International, the controversial pro-euthanasia
organization, is creating an advocacy group in Ireland.
The first group of its kind in Ireland is sparking
controversy, with opposition coming from the Irish
Association for Palliative Care.
Greece: How To Live a Long
Life: A Brew for Longevity (May 13, 2010)
(Article in Russian)
The Greek island of Icaria has the largest percentage
of inhabitants 90 years old or older, compared to the rest
of the world. The natives of Icaria brew a mountain herbal
tea of their own recipe, which is consumed several times a
day. The brew consists of a rich variety of herbs,
including wild mint, rosemary, purple sage and
chrysosplenium.
France: Does Memory Loss
Announce Alzheimer's Disease? (May 10, 2010)
(Article in French)
According to Professor Jean Jacques Hauw, member of the
French National Medicine Academy, loss of memory is not
always a sign of Alzheimer's disease. For instance, it can
be related to stress or fatigue. Among older people,
memory loss is also common and is sometimes due to
excessive doses of medicine or to nervous conditions not
linked to Alzheimer's.
United Kingdom: A Spouse with
Dementia Increases Your Own Risk (May 5, 2010)
Having a husband or wife with dementia is linked to an
increased risk of the partner also becoming ill.
Researchers aren't sure why this happens, but it is clear
that caring for a loved one with dementia puts a lot of
stress on the spouse and other family members charged with
the care.
Russia: Urals Maintain Safe and
Comfortable Conditions for the Elderly (April 29, 2010)
(Article in Russian)
The quality of care for older single people living in the
many centers for the elderly remains among the top
priorities of the government of the Kurgan region. This
year the elderly will reside in special houses located in
Ketovsk, Vargashinsk and Petuhovsk.
Germany: Elder People (April 26,
2010)
In Germany, approximately one in four residents is older
than 60 years of age. Due to a low fertility and
increasing life expectancy of the elderly, Germany,
judging by the percentage of elder people in society, is
the third largest after Japan and Italy.
France: Health: A Call to
Improve Care for Older Persons (April 26, 2010)
(Article in French)
In France, people over 75 represent 20% of health care
expenses. A council looking at the future of health care
insurance has recommended that the health care system be
reorganized for this segment of the population, not only
for medical but also for economic reasons. They believe
that some expenses allocated to care for the elderly could
be avoided; some may even represent a danger to older
people.
France: Coffee and Slowing Of
Cognitive Skills: What Do Studies Say? (April 22, 2010)
(Article in French)
According to several surveys, caffeine’s beneficial
effects on vigilance, learning and attention, could have
positive effects associated with cognitive decline as we
age. Study results hypothesize that caffeine could
increase cognitive resources available to older people.
Another survey showed that a higher consumption of coffee
is associated with better performance in women over 80
years of age.
Russia: Pensioners Will Vote for
Clinics with Money (April 21, 2010)
(Article in Russian)
The Health Foundation of nonworking pensioners, about the
creation of which was announced by the Prime Minister
Vladimir Putin, would enable older people to "vote with
money" for quality of medical care in clinics.
France: Is the Volcanic Cloud
Dangerous for Older People's Health? (April 19, 2010)
(Article in French)
The cloud of volcanic ash that wafted from Iceland to
France and shut down airports across Northern Europe is
not a reason to panic regarding older people's health,
according to the French minister of health, Roselyne
Bachelot. Nevertheless, if microscopic volcanic ash
touches the ground it could have negative effects on older
people with respiratory disease, who would need to remain
in their homes.
United Kingdom: Brown Challenged
on Suicide Laws (April 14, 2010)
Right-to-die campaigner Debbie Purdy has challenged
British Prime Minister Gordon Brown to legalize assisted
suicide in the UK. Ms. Purdy, who suffers from multiple
sclerosis, is seeking to change the UK laws on assisted
suicide but Prime Minister Brown insists on keeping these
laws in place.
Russia: Innovated Technologies
will take care of Kirov Pensioners and Disabled (April
14, 2010)
(Article in Russian)
On April 13-14, 2010, Kirov held an inter-regional
conference called "Innovative Technologies in the
Organization of Home Care for the Elderly and Disabled,”
reports the press center of the Kirov region.
France: Parkinson's: Patients
Want to Break Isolation (April 14, 2010)
(Article in French)
Parkinson's disease affects about 150,000 persons in
France. Ninety percent of the patients are over 45 years,
but the disease also touches younger people. The disease
is incurable, little is known about it and it is often
difficult for patients to maintain a social life. In
addition, the Parkinson's Association in France denounces
the failures in follow-up care for patients. This
association tries to increase political awareness of
Parkinson's. Spokespersons presented a report to the
French health minister Roselyne Bachelot to encourage a
better understanding of the disease and to ask for a plan
for action.
Ukraine: Pensions Might Be
Cut for Working Pensioners (April 13, 2010)
(Article in Russian)
The Cabinet of Ministers of Ukraine decided that reducing
the deficit of the Pension Fund may be possible by
reducing the pensions given to currently employed
pensioners.
Ireland: Special Investigation:
Nursing Homes at Centre of New Abuse Scandals (April 12,
2010)
Shocking instances of abuse and serious lapses in care at
nursing homes have been revealed in Ireland 's nursing
homes. Among the documented complaints are incidents of
physical abuse of residents, instances where patients'
conditions deteriorated rapidly after admission to a
nursing home and residents' complaints of theft.
Responsibility for investigations and inspections has
since been passed to the Health Information and Quality
Authority (HIQA).
France: Age and Be Healthy (April
9, 2010)
(Article in French)
During a conference held April 8 in Toulouse (France),
Monique Ferry and Yves Rolland, both geriatricians,
discussed the elderly and dependency. According to them,
it is crucial for seniors to keep practicing a physical
activity and to be careful about maintaining a balanced
diet to prevent cardiovascular problems and cancer.
Russia: Officials Have Paid
for the Poisoned Pensioners (April 8, 2010)
(Article in Russian)
Many people are concerned about the mass poisoning of
pensioners living in a retirement home in Arkhangelsk. As
the result of an investigation of this horrible incident,
the director of the retirement home, Alexander Chernyakov,
and Deputy Minister of Health and Social Development,
Andriy Kalashnikov, have been laid off.
United
Kingdom: Scientists Find Aging Gene is Linked to
Immunity (March 31, 2010)
British scientists studying the genetics of aging
reported that experiments on laboratory worms showed
that a specific gene is strongly linked to lifespan,
immunity and disease resistance. Since the gene, called
DAF-16 in worms, is found in many animals and humans,
the finding could open up new ways to affect aging,
immunity and resistance in humans, the scientists said.
France: Happiness Protects
Against Alzheimer's (March 30, 2010)
(Article in French)
Among older people, having a goal in life, feeling useful
and keeping in touch with relatives decreases the risks of
being infected by Alzheimer's. Happiness is a
scientifically proven protection against the disease.
Spain: Food Industry Innovates
for the Older Adults (March 30, 2010)
(Article in Spanish)
It is estimated that in the year 2049 there will be more
than 15 million older adults in Spain. The older
population is growing very fast and the purchasing power
of older adults has increased over time as well. Today
more companies are designing their products based on the
needs of the older population. Food companies now offer
products enriched with vitamins, calcium and fiber as well
as products low on sodium, salt and cholesterol.
United Kingdom: In Beveridge's
Footsteps--Making Care Free For All (March 30, 2010)
In Britain, Sir William Beveridge presented a new National
Care Service to Parliament to provide personal care and
support to adults on the basis of need and to ensure that
an ageing society remains a decent and fair society. The
policy is said to promote social mobility. Most
importantly, it will promote a more positive vision of the
ageing society, where old people can look forward to
retirement with peace of mind and not fear “being a
burden.”
United Kingdom: Having Plenty of
Supportive Relatives Increases Fear of Dying (March 29,
2010)
Most of us believe that a network of supportive caring
family eases the fear of death. However, recent research
shows that having a large number of supportive relatives
increases the fear of dying among the elderly in ethnic
minority groups. More than three out of four (77%) of the
research sampling--which included people of Indian,
Pakistani, Black Caribbean, and Chinese ethnicities--had
strong fears around death.
Scotland: Standard of
Scottish Care Services Graded (March 26, 2010)
A new report on Scottish nursing homes rated 80% of all
homes as good or very good, and one in six homes providing
unsatisfactory or weak service. Care Commission director
Ronnie Hill said: "The grading system provides people in
care and their families with better information and
therefore more choice and involvement about the standards
provided at every care service in Scotland."
United Kingdom: Men Do Not Grow
Grumpy With Age, Research Finds (March 26, 2010)
Contrary to many stereotypes of “grumpy old men,”
researchers have recently found that older people view the
world through rose-tinted spectacles, remembering the good
times rather than the bad. In fact, a study that examined
the brain scans of younger and older people suggests it is
younger people who have a more negative outlook on life.
Spain: Women Bear Care Giving
Responsibility in Cases of Dependency in Spain (March
25, 2010)
Despite the noteworthy advances of recent decades, women
continue to be the main caregivers for minors as well as
for the elderly, disabled or the sick. Spain is
characterized by the homogeneity of the caregiver's
profile: a female in 83% of the cases, with an average age
of 52, married and without a paying job.
France: Be Careful About
Cardiovascular Risks When You Practice a Physical
Activity After Being Inactive (March 23, 2010)
(Article in French)
When people over 40 start a physical activity following a
long period of inactivity, they should be careful about
the cardiovascular risks they take. Consult with a
cardiologist before playing sports or engaging in other
strenuous activities if you’ve been a couch potato for a
while.
Belarus:
Clowns Pay a Visit to Baranovichi Pensioners (March 20,
2010)
(Article in Russian)
Six aged pensioners under Red Cross care received a visit
from a team of clowns along with a supervising nurse.
Psychologists believe that laughter and smiles tend to be
one of the most effective means to combat stress. That is
the reason they use “clown therapy,” which helps disabled
older people to overcome feelings of loneliness and fear,
turning them into positive emotions.
Germany:
Herb Shows No Added Benefits
for Women's Bones (March 19, 2010)
New research shows that the herb black cohosh does not
benefit women's bone density. The study focused on women
who had recently undergone menopause, and looked at the
combined effect of exercise and black cohosh. Ultimately,
the study clearly demonstrated the positive effects of
exercise on postmenopausal women's bones, while the effect
of black cohosh is still in question.
Europe: How to Define If You Are
Old (March 19, 2010)
(Article in Chinese)
A study reveals that various countries in Europe hold
different concepts regarding definitions of “middle age”
and “elderly.” Many Northern European countries consider
that a person is no longer “young” after he or she passes
34 years old. Countries such as the Republic of Cyprus, on
the other hand, do not consider that one's youth ends
until he or she is 52 years old.
United
Kingdom: Swinging 60s Had Nothing on the Noughties: Sex
Study (March 16, 2010)
Young women today are nearly three times more sexually
active than those of their grandmothers' generation in the
liberal heyday of the "Swinging 60s," according to a
recent survey. The study found that women in the so-called
Noughties between 2000 and 2009 had an average of 5.65
different sexual partners by the time they were 24 years
old.
France: To Age Well in
Spite of Schizophrenia (March 12, 2010)
(Article in French)
Persons with schizophrenia have more difficulty
maintaining social relations after they reach 50 years of
age. This can be explained by a deficit in 'spirit
theories': older schizophrenic people are less able to
anticipate the behavior and intentions of others. The
practice of memory- and attention-based exercises could be
an efficient way to solve this problem.
Belgium: This Winter Has Been
Murderous for Many Old People (March 11, 2010)
(Article in French)
The cold spell that touched Belgium this winter is
responsible for a 10% increase in the death rate among
older persons, particularly those who are more than 85
years old. The cold reduces immune defenses and makes
respiratory diseases as well as cardiovascular diseases
more threatening.
France: Everyday Life
Accidents: Especially Older Persons (March 2, 2010)
(Article in French)
According to a study of the National Health Monitoring
Institute, 18,549 people died in France in 2006 because of
an everyday life accident. Among them, two-thirds were
older persons 75 years and older. The most common causes
of accidents were falls, suffocation, drowning and
poisoning.
France: Many Older Persons
Have Epilepsy Without Diagnosis (March 1, 2010)
(Article in French)
Epilepsy might be the cause of the sudden and unexplained
fainting that plague many older people. Epilepsy is a
serious problem; fainting can result in bone fractures and
other injuries. Most of these people are not diagnosed and
medical examinations to determine the illness are often
quite expensive.
United Kingdom:
Relatives Who Helped Loved Ones to Die Fear Rise in
Botched DIY Suicides (February 26, 2010)
New laws in the UK enforce stricter policies on
prosecuting health care practitioners who participate in
assisted suicides. Those who have assisted their ill loved
ones to commit suicide warn British policy makers that
unless the laws on doctor participation are loosened, they
will likely see more botched and sloppy at-home attempts
at assisted suicides.
France: Autonomy of Older
Persons Living at Home (February 22, 2010)
(Article in French)
According to a recent study on the autonomy of older
persons carried out by French Director of Search, Studies,
Evaluation and Statistics, most seniors living at home are
independent. The study, aimed at estimating the degree of
autonomy of older persons living at home, shows that 6
persons out of 8 who are 80 years old and over are
autonomous in their everyday life.
Spain: “Memoriza” Encourages
Activity to Prevent the Loss of Memory in Older People
(February 16, 2010)
(Article in Spanish)
The City Council of Zamora launched a new initiative to
help older people with memory loss. The program is called
"Memoriza" with the main objective to prevent loss of
memory or to detect early damage and apply an adequate
treatment. With their motto: “Take care of your memory to
live a better life,” the Council seeks to raise awareness
of the problems related to memory loss. The program also
offers varied activities, such as healthy walks and
hydrotherapy workshops for the old people.
France: The Funding of
Long-Term Care, a Priority in 2010 (February 15, 2010)
(Article in French)
Nicolas Sarkozy has announced that 2010 will be the Year
of Dependency: he wants to create a 'fifth social risk'--
after illness, work accidents, old age and family, which
were created after World War II. The issue of dependency
will soon become more important with the growth among
older people in the population. According to the National
Institute of Statistics and Economic Studies, by the year
2050, the number of French people 80 years old and over
will increase by 75 percent.
United Kingdom: London to
Open 1st Exercise Area for Older People (February 10,
2010)
London is planning to open its first park for older people
this year. Located in Hyde Park, the park will be labeled
“Hyde Park Senior Playground,” and contains six pieces of
low-impact exercise equipment. While these parks are
popular throughout Europe and Asia, this is London's
first. Madeline Elsdon, one of the organizers of the
effort, says, "We wanted something that would be of
long-term benefit to people, so we came up with this idea
for an older person's playground."
Spain: Sex, Also at 80 Years Old
(February 5, 2010)
(Article in Spanish)
Many gerontologists agree that sexual activity after the
age of 70 is still considered a taboo. According to one
expert, “old age is not an illness” and any older person
can enjoy sex as much as they can enjoy eating or reading
a good book. It is important to understand sexuality as a
process; it transforms itself but does not disappear from
our lives. Thanks to medical advancements and the good
quality of life, more people are expected to live longer
and this topic will no longer be taboo.
United Kingdom: Older
Adults Need Less Sleep (February 1, 2010)
A new research study in the UK confirms previous
indications that older people need less sleep. It also
suggests that variations in sleep hours needed are normal
and healthy, as long as one does not feel overly sleepy
during the day. The study looked at the sleeping patterns
of 110 healthy people without sleeping disorders. In an
eight hour period in bed, older people aged 66-83 slept
the least amount of time. Older people do not require as
much sleep as younger people, but feeling sleepy during
the day is not normal. Dr. Dijk, one of the researchers of
the study, maintains, “Whether you are young or old, if
you are sleepy during the day you either don't get enough
sleep or you may suffer from a sleep disorder.
United Kingdom: Elderly
Excluded From Drug Trials (February 1, 2010)
A new European Union project funded shows that medications
are less likely to be tested on older people, even though
as a group they take the most medications. The research
project looked at nine different EU countries and
interviewed 50 older people and their caregivers. Because
many older people have more than one illness or condition,
scientists who conduct drug trials may exclude older
people because it is too troublesome. To change the
situation, researchers call for practical changes in the
drug research process, such as traveling to older people's
homes instead of expecting them to travel to the test
site.
Spain: Weight Lifting is Good For
the Mind of Older People (January 28, 2010)
(Article in Spanish)
A recent study published in the Archives of Internal
Medicine discovered that practicing weight lifting could
improve the cognitive functions of older people,
especially older women. The study was done on women
between the ages of 65 to 70 who had never practiced
weight lifting. It is known that physical activity is very
beneficial to the brain of older people but now
researchers have found new reasons to declare exercise a
tool for healthy ageing.
France: Alzheimer's: New
Research Leads to Discovery for Treating the Disease
(January 26, 2010)
(Article in French)
Professor Etienne-Emile Baulieu, from the French National
Institute of Health and medical Search (INSERM), announced
major discovery for a treatment against Alzheimer's
disease. One of the characteristics of the disease is the
accumulation of a protein called Tau in the brain cells.
Researchers found that the FKBP52 protein, which is
naturally in our organisms, can reduce the concentration
and action of Tau protein. However, research has not been
carried out on living animals or humans; therefore,
results are uncertain. Still, it gives some hope for the
fight against several human neurodegenerative diseases.
United Kingdom: Martin Amis
Calls For Euthanasia Booths on Street Corners (January
24, 2010)
The well-known British novelist, Martin Amis, calls for
euthanasia booths on street corners for the elderly who
want to end their lives. In an interview with the Sunday
Times, Amis said he fears the “silver tsunami” of aging
baby boomers and wants “a way out for rational people
who've decided they're in the negative.” On a personal
level, he is also worried about the death of his own
talent as a writer, but this time has yet to come, as he
is about to release a new long-awaited novel.
Spain: A Positive Attitude in
Old Age Can Lengthen Longevity by Seven Years (January
20, 2010)
(Article in Spanish)
A handbook to improve the health of older people proposes
to help older people live a happier and healthier life.
The author explains that it is important to have a
positive attitude in old age since it could lengthen their
lives by 7.5 years. He also mentions that sleep
deprivation can multiply the risk for illnesses and
depression and increase the chances of a fall.
France: Very Old and Very
Beloved France (January 19, 2010)
(Article in French)
According to the recent INSEE demographic report, France
had 5.4 million persons 75 years old and over in 2008,
compared to 4.3 million in 2000. This aging population,
which modifies the balance between generations, is mainly
the result of increased life expectancy and the baby
boomers. As baby boomers are starting to retire, the peak
of dependence will occur in 2030-2050. To face this social
and financial challenge, the government will have to build
new nursing homes, train staff and strengthen the home
care system.
Russia: The Opposite Side of the
Tablet (January 12, 2010)
(Article in Russian)
A drug can cure, but it can also kill. This article
shows that after the FDA finding in the US that more than
100 thousand people die every year from the side effects
of drugs, this problem has come to the attention of many
other countries. It turns out that every year side effects
of drugs lead to hospitalization of 6-7% of the population
in US; 11.5% in Norway; 13% in France and 16% in Britain.
In Russia, these findings are harder to confirm because
the Russian Federal Center for Drug Control is not well
organized. However, it became mandatory for Russian
doctors to report to WHO concerning side effects, and
numbers increased from only 192 to 5,600 cases from
2007-2009. This implies that Russian doctors now give more
attention to this problem.
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Page
Middle East & North Africa
Reports | Articles
Reports
Palestinian Territories:
Census: 4.4% of the population are older persons
(October 2, 2010)
(Report in Arabic)
The president of the Palestinian Census published an
updated report on the current state of older persons in
Palestine to mark the International Day of Older
persons. They expect this percentage to stay steady over
the next few years while the number of children, now
over 50% of the population, is expected to rise. They
stated that this was an important census because it is
rare for the focus to be on this part of the world.
Report: Palestinian
Territories: On the Occasion of the World Elderly
Day (October 1, 2010)
The Palestinian National Authority produced a brief
report on the status of its older population citing
statistics on an array of topics and life
situations, including literacy, labor force
participation, and widowhood.
Articles
Egypt: Does Having an Older
Father Increase the Chances of an Impaired Child?
(December 3, 2010)
(Article in Arabic)
The chances of a child being born with an impairment does
not highly correlate with the increasing age of the
father. But it is highly dependent on the health and age
of the mother.
Jordan: Old Persons’ Addition to
Chronic Medication (October 25, 2010)
(Article in Arabic)
Many old persons dangerously take medication without
consulting their physicians. Mixing medications could be
deadly too. Some medications like blood pressure medicines
usually bare side effects. Some of those are coughing and
muscle fatigue. It is best for Older persons to consult
their doctors for them to live longer healthier lives.
United Arab Emirates: Campaign to Raise
Awareness on Osteoporosis ( October 13, 2010)
(Article in Arabic)
The Primary Healthcare Sector in Dubai organized a
campaign to raise awareness on Osteoporosis. This
initiative was taken to demonstrate to older persons and
the entire society the importance of taking early
medical examinations to check for it.
Morocco: 2.4 million aged in
Morocco in 2010 vs. 833 thousand in the 60's
(October 6, 2010)
(Article in Arabic)
A study in Morocco
showed that average life expectancy increased from
62 years of age from the 60's to 73.1 now. This
means that the number of seniors in Morocco
more than doubled in the past
forty years. The study shows that the number will
increase at an annual rate of 3.5% per year, pushing
the number up to 5.8 million in 2030.
Saudi Arabia: 65% of
Alzheimer's Victims Seek Late Medical Treatment Due to
Embarrassment; 30% Resort to Traditional Treatment
(September 21, 2010)
(Article in Arabic)
According to Dr. Najib Qadi, Neurological, Cognitive and
Behavioral Sciences consultant at the King Faisal
Specialist hospital in Riyadh and chairman of the
Scientific and Medical charity for Alzheimer's disease,
more than 30% of Alzheimer's victims use traditional
remedies while 65% resort to late medical treatment in
late stages when it might be too late. He also said that
despite advances in medical science, the only medication
available for Alzheimer's slows its symptoms down but
does not cure it. He expressed his concern for elders
who may be easily manipulated by friends, family and
strangers, and not realize what is going on.
Jordan: Physician Activity for
the Elderly is an Urgent Need during Ramadan (August
15, 2010)
(Article in Arabic)
In a Royal Society for Health Education study, the
authors suggest regular physical activity is important
for preserving one’s health and preventing illness,
especially among older persons.
Egypt: Egyptian Court Strikes
Down New Market-Based Medicine Pricing System as
Undermining “˜Health Security” (April 2010)
A new medicine pricing system that linked the price of
drugs to the global market was introduced by the
Ministry of Health which threatened the accessibility
and affordability of drugs in Egypt, especially the
price of generic drugs, which Egyptian citizens,
especially older citizens, rely heavily due to their
relative low cost. Through a rights-based approach, the
Egyptian court issued an injunction to suspend
implementation and confirmed the intricate link between
what it called the “health security” of the individuals
with their rights to access medicines which should be an
integral component in designing drug pricing systems.
UAE: Jumeirah Dental Center
Recieves 30 Older Patients Daily (June 24, 2010)
(Article in Arabic)
Dr. Fawzia Khalfan, director of the Jumeriah Dental
Center run by the Ministry of Health, called for the
establishment of mobile clinics for elders living
throughout the Emirates, stressing that older
generations deserve appreciation and praise for their
contributions to the nation. She urged all
community-based organizations and businesses to support
this idea for mobile clinics as a means to thank a
generation of parents and grandparents. The clinics will
provide healthcare and oral health follow-up wherever
older people reside, preventing suffering and long waits
in dental clinics.
Report: Palestine: Study on the
Psychological and Social Problems of Elderly People of
Gaza Strip in Relation to some Verifications (June
2010)
(Report in Arabic)
The author of this study tries to identify how gender,
residence, citizenship, economic level, social support
and the psychological effects of loneliness may impact
senility. Apparently, older persons suffer different
psychological and social problems according to their
gender and place of residency. Social support for older
persons helps psychological stability. This study
recommends that either governmental or non-governmental
organizations become involved in lowering the
psychological and social pressures on older persons and
mirror this in national policy. One must ask why the
researchers did not look at the older persons’
psychological stability in the midst of the unrelenting
struggle to survive in Gaza due to the long Israeli
border blockade.
Report: Israel: Death and Dying
Anxiety Among Elderly Arab Muslims in Israel (March
2010)
Researchers looked at anxiety about death and dying
among older Arab Muslims in Israel. Nursing home
residents reported higher death anxiety than others.
Women and uneducated participants reported greater
levels of fear of death and dying. There were no
differences based on religiosity. The researchers
learned that if one has a supportive social and familial
network, then death and dying anxiety among older Arab
people is reduced.
Iran: Scientists Find way to
Predict Timing of Menopause (June 28, 2010)
Knowing the age of menopause in advance is important for
women as it allows planning for family and career. New
research by Iranian scientists offers women an
opportunity to discover the age at which they will begin
menopause based on a blood sample. The next step will be
to determine the age when fertility begins to decline.
Egypt: Ministry of Health Warns
Older Persons and Children to Avoid Heat Strokes (June
22, 2010)
(Article in Arabic)
Doctor Abdel-Rahman Shaheen, the official spokesperson
of the Ministry of Health, warned that the following
persons should avoid strong sun exposure because they
are more likely to experience sun stroke: those over 65
years of age, infants and young persons, those who
suffer from chronic diseases, especially heart disease
and high blood pressure, and patients at risk for
convulsions
Saudi Arabia: More
Health-Care Facilities Planned for Older Persons (June
8, 2010)
(Article also available in Arabic)
The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has launched a five-year
strategy to improve health care services for older
persons. The Saudis believe that promoting good health
among the elderly, encouraging them to remain active
while they age, and educating them to be proactive in
caring for themselves will shape the new strategy.
Health care centers will play a major role in
implementing the plan.
Arab Gulf: One-third of
Older Persons in the Gulf Suffer from Osteoporosis
(May 28, 2010)
(Article in Arabic)
Head of the department of endocrinology at Jahra
Hospital, Dr. Sameer Al-Shamri, announced that a third
of men ages 65 and older suffer from osteoporosis, which
is also prevalent in post-menopausal women.
Algeria: There is a Need to
Establish More Geriatric Units for Older Persons (May
24, 2010)
(Article in Arabic)
Algeria has witnessed a continuous increase in its
ageing population. It is currently estimated that there
are 3.5 million older persons in Algeria, including one
million persons aged over 80. Specialists have come
together to establish medical units for the elderly, an
inevitable need. This care is especially urgent because
there are increasing numbers of persons with
Alzheimer's, one of the most visible signs of aging.
Kuwait: Older Persons Are
More Susceptible to Viral Disease with Burn-like
Symptoms (May 22, 2010)
(Article in Arabic)
Dr. Mariam Al-Fadli, the Internal Medicine specialist at
the Hospital for Communicable Diseases in Kuwait, warned
that persons above 60 years are more susceptible to the
disease known as Herpes Zoster (Shingles), an outbreak
of rash or blisters on the skin provoked by the same
virus that causes chickenpox. The disease results in
pain that is experienced through burns and in rashes,
and the disease tends to appear on one side of the body,
usually on the abdomen or chest. The symptoms are
usually described as feeling a “ring of fire
United Arab
Emirates: Hearing Impairment Causes Depression in the
Elderly (May 18, 2010)
(Article in Arabic)
Leaders in the Ministry of Social Affairs in Dubai
conducted a workshop, the first of its kind, for local and
government institutions on how to interact with the
elderly. One of the objectives of the workshop was the
proper communication with older people.. Because older
persons with hearing disabilities often feel depression,
frustration, and detachment, the workshop called for
proper care-giving and consideration of the special needs
of those with hearing impairments.
Syria: Region's Bone Health
Specialists to Reveal Latest Osteoporosis Research in
Damascus This Month (April 21, 2010)
Arab and international experts and practitioners are
gathering in Damascus this month for the largest bone
health convention in the region to discuss the latest data
on osteoporosis research, prevention and treatment. Karine
Antoniades Turk, nutritionist with Nestlé Middle
East, a partial funder, says, “Our aim is to help increase
awareness as to the role of the right nutrition and
physical activity in building and maintaining strong and
healthy bones; crucial for osteoporosis prevention.”
Morocco:
Pharmacy Expo 2010: Care of Older Persons at Center of
Conference Debate (February 20, 2010)
(Article in French)
During the seventh International Exhibition of Pharmacists
held in Marrakech, organizers focused on the theme of
caring for older persons in Morocco. Speakers underlined
the challenges raised by aging in terms of demography,
especially in Southern Hemisphere countries. Moreover,
they emphasized how pharmacists can alert older people to
the danger of some medicines.
Egypt: End of Free Health
Care Hits Poor Hardest (February 15, 2010)
(Article also available in Arabic)
Around 35 million of the country's 80 million people
are in the state health insurance system, according to the
Health Ministry, and most of the rest, are supposed to get
free health care. Those seeking free treatment must make
their case at a Health Ministry office. If successful,
they receive an official letter authorizing public
hospitals to treat them for free. The hospitals then
reclaim payment from the ministry. But the Egyptian
government has incurred debts of US $219 million to
hospitals and is no longer able to pay its health bills.
Since mid-December 2009, hospitals have stopped treating
the uninsured patients that the Health Ministry sends to
them.
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World
Reports | Articles
Reports
World: Frontotemporal
Disorders: Information for Patients, Families, and
Caregivers (2010)
Few people know about frontotemporal dementia that
causes devastating effects on personality, behavior,
language, and movement. According to the report, getting
an early, accurate diagnosis and the right medical team
are crucial first steps. Researchers and clinicians are
working toward a deeper understanding of frontotemporal
disorders and better diagnosis and treatment, which may
help people manage these challenging conditions.
World: Elderly Might Not Benefit from TB Vaccines
in Development (September 20, 2010)
Older persons might
not benefit from some of the emerging tuberculosis
vaccines, including TB. A specific molecule in the
vaccine, which is designed for the immune response, is
not active among older persons. Researchers suggest
that a new study on vaccines is needed to ensure that
the older population also receives protection against
the disease.
World: Nutritional
Supplementation for Hip Fracture Aftercare in Older
People. (2010)
The Cochrane Collaboration examines the nutritional
aspects of hip fractures as related to older people. A
detailed focus on the effects of a nutritionally-based
intervention sheds light on how nutrition can aid older
people recovering from hip fractures.
World: World
Alzheimer Report 2010: The Global Economic Impact of
Dementia (2010)
By the year 2030, over 65 million people will suffer
from Alzheimer's. In 2010, the total estimated
worldwide costs of dementia will be US$604 billion.
The report cites a staggering comparison that if
dementia care were a company, it would be the world's
largest by annual revenue, exceeding Wal-Mart (US$414
billion) and Exxon Mobil (US$311 billion). The World
Alzheimer Report 2010 said that governments are
"woefully unprepared" for the scale of the disruption
that the dementia population boom will cause.
World: Coffee Consumption and
CYP1A2 genotype in relation to bone mineral density of
the proximal femur in elderly men and women: a cohort
study (2010)
Researchers have found that high consumption of coffee
appears to contribute to a reduction in bone mineral
density (BMD)- more so in older men than women, however.
How do individuals metabolize coffee? Much more remains
to be learned. It is important to note that there are
differences in bone health among women and men as
related to coffee intake (caffeine intake).
World: Effects of Memory
Training on Cortical Thickness in the Elderly (May
2010)
Scientists studied the short-term effects of an
intensive memory training program on cognition and brain
structure in middle-aged and older volunteers who were
in good health. The results showed that memory training
improved source memory performance. Memory trainers also
demonstrated regional increases in cortical thickness
among those who had memory training, compared with those
who had none. This research study included short-term
assessments. However, follow-up studies are needed to
assess whether such training indeed alters the long-term
structural path of memory retention.
World: Exploring the
Nutritional Needs of Older People in a Hospital (April
2010)
While the numbers of older persons are growing rapidly,
it is more important than ever to ensure their health
care needs are adequately addressed. This study
investigated how health care education is promoting
interest and knowledge of nutritional care, specifically
for older people. The researchers also considered ways
to improve current care for older people.
World: Are there Sex
Differences in Physical Aggression in the Elderly
(April 2010)
Sexual selection theory suggests that the correlation
between physical aggression and gender may be due to
greater competition to reproduce for males than for
females. This difference seems to peak for people around
20 to 30 years of age. This study explores the
relationship between aggression and gender among those
between 65 and 96 years old. Although differences in
physical aggression were present, the effect size was
lower than the effect sizes obtained in younger samples.
Furthermore, women showed higher levels of anger.
Although the results seem to fit with sexual selection
theory, they will have to be confirmed by future studies
in new cohorts.
World: Stories of Quality of
Life in Older Persons With Advanced Illness (April
2010)
What is the quality of life for older persons with
advanced illnesses? In older patients with advanced
illness for whom little can be done to alter the
progress of the disease, maintaining quality of life
(QoL) becomes an increasingly important goal. This study
provides a longitudinal examination of global quality of
life among older persons with advanced illness.
World: The Economic
Value of Healthy Ageing and Working Longer
(April 2010)
This report summarizes two panel discussions hosted by
the International Longevity Center-UK. Panelists
included government officials, academic researchers, and
non-profit professionals working in the field of aging.
As average life expectancy is increasing at the rate of
around two years every decade, we must try to ensure
that healthy life expectancy increases at the same rate
as life expectancy. The panelists discussed many issues,
including the extent that poor health is a barrier to
working longer, the effect that changes in pension age
will have on public expenditures, and health promotion
as a means to secure a healthier future.
World: What Can We
Learn From (and About) Global Aging? (February 2010)
Although aging is a global phenomenon, we see large
differences among nations in the speed of aging and the
physical condition that older persons enjoy. In this
working paper, the RAND Center for the Study on Aging
staff looks at world data on aging and discusses under
what circumstances this data can predict policies.
World: Time to Call It Quits?
The Safety and Health of Older Workers (2010)
The workforces of many countries are aging, creating
pressure for older workers to retire later despite
greater vulnerability to various occupational safety and
health (OSH) risks. Some specific risks to older workers
arise from age-related physical or psychological
changes, while others reflect exposures to poor work
organization or employment conditions. This article
reviews evidence on the nature of the OSH risks faced by
older workers, focusing on work ability, contingent
work, and working hours. The authors discuss
organizational practices and regulatory policies to
protect and enhance the OSH of older workers.
Articles
World: Can Life
Expectancy Improve Eternally? (December 16, 2010)
(Article in French)
Average life expectancy has risen over 50 years since
1750. Is there a limit to this seemingly eternal
increase? The author of this article follows the history
of an ever-increasing life expectancy, highlighting
medical advances that lowered the mortality rate for
older persons.
World: A Few Steps Could
Lead to Big Gains for Hospitalized Seniors
(December 10, 2010)
Authors of new study have shown that older patients
can reduce their hospitalization stay by taking
short walks. Researchers say that mobility is key to
maintaining older people's independence and quality
of life in a hospital setting. While clinicians also
recognized the importance of patients’ mobility,
there is no standard procedure in hospitals for
checking on patient’s mobility.
World: Maintaining Mobility
in Older Age (December 7, 2010)
Experts highlight that being able to stay mobile is
crucial to older people's well being, as loss of
mobility means limiting a person's social life and
access to other activities. A study found that a
fairly active group of older people spends 70 percent
of the day sitting or lying down. Experts assert that
providing effective transport networks and a good
range of local services are important to meeting older
people's needs.
World: Sex Remains Important to
Elderly Men (December 7, 2010)
A recent study shows that elderly men are still
interested in sex, and some men in their 90s remain
sexually active. What's more, many older men who are
sexually active say they'd love to be having more sex.
However, illness—especially prostate—related
diseases--could interfere with sexual activities in
elderly.
World: Sub-Saharan Africa
Remains the Most Affected by HIV/AIDS, According to
a Report by UNAIDS (December 1, 2010)
(Article in French, Report in English)
UNAIDS published its 2010 World Report on HIV/AIDS.
According to the report, there is still much work to
be done in order to understand the impact of the
epidemic on elderly persons. The report has very
limited data on the elderly living with HIV/AIDS.
World: What is the Best Diet
for Older Persons? (December 2, 2010)
(Article in Arabic)
This Article explains the psychological and
physiological parameters on what defines old age. What
does it really mean to be "Old"? It is also
recommended that an older person's diet should be high
in protein, regular intake of carbohydrates, low in
fats and highest in minerals, vitamins, fiber and
liquids.
World: Omega-3s in Fish,
Seafood May Protect Seniors' Eyes; A New Test May
Catch Glaucoma Early (December 1, 2010)
Researchers at Wilmer Eye Institute, Johns Hopkins
School of Medicine, proposed a diet rich in Omega-3s
to protect against advanced age-related macular
degeneration (AMD)-- the leading cause of blindness.
Recent studies highlight that high concentrations of
Omega-3s have been found in the eye's retina and the
nutrient may be essential to eye health.
World: Reaching 100 Years
of Age May Be More about Attitude and Adaptation
than Health History, UGA Study Finds (November 30,
2010)
University of Georgia research found that how we
feel about ourselves and our ability to adapt to
challenging life experiences is perhaps more
important than health factors for living to be 100
years old. The research found that an open and
conscientious attitude is crucial for successful
aging.
Early
Retirement 'is good for us', Research Shows
(November 24, 2010)
While there are different
studies about the health benefits and potentially
harmful effects of retirement, a new study found
that retirement can significantly lower depression
and fatigue, especially if work is the cause. If
work is the cause for health problems, retirement is
a good remedy, although unfortunately not many can
retire as soon as they would like, if even at all.
World: Music-Based Exercise
Reduces Falls in Elderly People (November 23, 2010)
A recent study shows that music-based exercise
programs can reduce the risk of falls as much as 55%
in elderly people. The expert suggests falls
prevention services as an essential measure to prevent
unnecessary deaths among old people.
World: Fast Heart Rate,
Rhythm Problems Found in Bereaved (November 14, 2010)
Researchers noted that bereavement due to death of a
spouse or child can trigger potentially harmful rapid
increases in heart rate and changes in levels of
depression and anxiety. The emotional and physical
health of bereaved survivors should be of concern to
medical professionals, as well as family and friends.
World: What to Eat to Keep
Your Bones Healthy (November 9, 2010)
Many old people live with osteoporosis, a disease that
causes bones to become weak and breakable, increasing
the risk of fractures. The risk factors for osteoporosis
include advanced age, a bone fracture after age 40,
family history, low bone mass, cigarette smoking,
inactivity, excessive alcohol consumption and long-term
use of corticosteroid medications. People can help keep
bones healthy and strong by a simple change in diet and
life style.
World: Bilingualism Delays
Onset of Alzheimer's Symptoms (November 8, 2010)
A new study found that speaking two languages could help
delay the onset of Alzheimer's symptoms by as much as
five years. Bilingual ability seems helpful to hold off
memory loss, confusion and difficulties with problem
solving and planning. Experts emphasized that this
result is especially important for multicultural
societies such as those in Canada where bilingualism is
common.
World: Heavy Smoking
in Midlife May Be Associated with Dementia in Later
Years (October 25, 2010)
A new study shows that heavy smoking in middle age more
than doubles the risk of both Alzheimer's disease and
vascular dementia for men and women across different
racial groups. Following an average follow-up of 23
years, 25.4 percent of the total participants of the
study were diagnosed with dementia.
World: 70-year-olds Smarter
Than They Used to Be (October 22, 2010)
Today’s older persons over 70 score higher in
intelligence tests than their predecessors. The recent
Swedish study provides data on cognitive symptoms that
researchers have used to predict the development of
dementia, and also to investigate whether the symptoms
have changed in recent generations.
World: Devastating
Impact of Spinal Osteoporotic Fractures Revealed on
World Osteoporosis Day (October 20, 2010)
A report for World Osteoporosis Day addressed
under–diagnosis and lack of treatment of spinal
fractures. Such fractures render millions of people at
high risk of chronic pain, deformity, and disability.
Experts urged health professional and public to
recognize the signs of spinal fracture.
World: As Populations Age-
A Chance for Younger Nations (October 14, 2010)
As the world’s population ages, some countries are
still younger than others. This could have potential
negative effects, but if used wisely, the exchange
between the young and the old could be quite
beneficial to all.
World: Building a More
Resilient Brain (October 12, 2010)
A recent study shows that being bilingual can delay
the symptoms of dementia by four years on
average. The build-up of cognitive reserve,
enhanced by the processes of bilingual thinking, helps
cognitive functioning as one ages, thus delaying signs
of dementia.
World: New Alzheimer's
Guidelines Aim for Early Diagnosis (October 11,
2010)
International experts on Alzheimer's disease are
proposing new guidelines for diagnosing the dementia
at an earlier stage. Recent scientific developments,
including the use of biomarkers, or biological
signals, can help predict if a person is at risk of
the disease before they have any symptoms.
World: Moderate Kidney
Disease Linked to Hearing Loss (October 1,
2010)
Older adults with moderate kidney disease may require
checking for hearing loss. In a new study, 54 percent
of older persons with moderate kidney disease had some
extent of hearing loss, while 30 percent of those with
the disease suffered severe hearing loss.
World: Exercise Has Lasting
Benefits for Older Women (September 27, 2010)
New research shows that older women with thinning
bones who exercise regularly have sustained
improvements in their balance and walking speed that
may protect them from fractures and even extend their
lives.
World: Insulin May Hold
Key to ‘Diabetes of the Brain’ (September 24,
2010)
Researchers suggest that insulin might be helpful for
brain function. They suggest that insulin helps
neurons communicate and improve one’s memory and
learning. However, some researchers warn that insulin
treatment for Alzheimer's could be dangerous since too
much insulin in the brain “would be toxic.”
World:
Alzheimer’s Report 2010: The Global Economic
Impact of Dementia (September 21, 2010)
By
the year 2030, over 65 million people will suffer
from Alzheimer's. In 2010, the total estimated
worldwide costs of dementia are US $604 billion.
The report cites a staggering comparison that if
dementia care theoretically represented company
revenue, it would be the world's largest annual
income, exceeding Wal-Mart (US $414 billion) and
Exxon Mobil (US $311 billion). The World
Alzheimer’s Report 2010 said that governments are
"woefully unprepared" for the scale of the
disruption that the dementia population boom will
cause.
Forgetfulness May Not Be
Normal Part of Aging (September 16, 2010)
According to a recent study in the journal
Neurology, brain lesions could cause memory loss.
Robert S. Wilson, a neuropsychologist at Rush
University Medical Center in Chicago and researcher
of the study, stated that older persons’
forgetfulness can be associated with aging, but
aging alone does not cause the process of memory
loss.
World: Anemia, A Real
Mirror for Aging (September 13, 2010)
(Article in Arabic)
A sense of weakness and listlessness, fatigue, and
the constant desire to rest may signal aging. In
fact, scientists do not pay any attention to that
argument. Rather, they are more interested in a
seemingly forgotten condition: Anemia. They advise
seniors to take a simple blood test to check for
sings of Anemia in their blood. A good level of iron
in one’s diet is a precaution for avoiding anemia.
World: High Daily
Vitamin B Doses Blow Brain Shrinkage in Elderly
(September 10, 2010)
According to a new study conducted by the University
of Oxford, taking high daily doses of vitamin B may
be helpful in preventing old persons’ mild cognitive
impairment (MCI). MCI may cause memory loss and
worsen mental functioning, leading to the
development of Alzheimer’s disease within five years
of diagnosis.
World: Alzheimer’s: The
Hope of Cerebral Stimulation (August 9, 2010)
(Article in French)
Scientists may have found a new way treatment for
Alzheimer’s disease. Neurologists can now use a
probe system to stimulate the cerebral lobes, which
could slow the disease by 6 months or a year. It is
important to note that patients least affected by
the disease got the best results. However, this kind
of treatment is in its infancy and these results
must be confirmed over the coming years.
World: Calcium Pills
Danger to Old People (July 31, 2010)
According to a new study published in the British
Medical Journal, calcium pills may increase heart
attacks in older persons. The study warned that
these pills may increase the risk of heart attacks
by 30%, and based on data from a clinical trial, the
pills are not very effective in preventing
fractures.
World: Studies on
Relationship between HIV and Aging Show Mixed
Results (AIDS 2010) (July 28, 2010)
Researchers presented multiple studies regarding
HIV-related diseases and their complications during
the 2010 International AIDS Conference which focused
on the relationship between HIV and aging. Some
studies found that HIV-related diseases are more
prevalent in older adults with HIV. However, other
studies showed that HIV may not cause the immune
system and brain to decline with age. Further
research emphasizes the benefits of exercise and
strength training in older persons with HIV.
World: Conference on HIV:
Age with HIV is Still Difficult (July 23, 2010)
(Article in French)
An increasing number of people over the age of 50
are living with HIV. It has been predicted that they
will soon represent half of HIV positive persons
living in the United States. Even if the life
expectancy of people living with HIV is high (they
can expect to live until 80 due to recent advances
in treatment), the aging process is accelerated.
Moreover, most suffer from depression because they
don’t believe in their future and don’t undertake
new projects.
World: Link between
Delirium and Risk of Death (July 21, 2010)
(Article in Arabic)
Researchers in the US have discovered a correlation
between the incidence of delirium and paranoia and
an increase in the risk of death among older
persons. The study also noted that the incidence of
delirium is associated with dementia or admittance
into nursing homes. It is not related to gender,
severity of illnesses or injuries or other diseases.
World: Fish Lowers Risk of
Eye Atrophy (July 20, 2010)
(Article in Arabic, also available in Spanish)
A study conducted by researchers at Johns Hopkins
University revealed that older persons who eat fish
rich in the fatty acid omega--such as salmon,
mackerel, and albacore tuna--have a reduced risk of
eye degeneration associated with aging. Macular
degeneration, a major cause of blindness in older
people, is caused by the growth of abnormal blood
vessels behind the retina as well as the collapse of
light-sensitive cells in the retina itself.
World: Children of Alzheimer's Sufferers Want to
Know their Risk (July 16, 2010)
New criteria for diagnosing Alzheimer’s were
discovered during The International Conference on
Alzheimer's Disease 2010. Brain scan technology will
detect physiological changes that signal the
development of the disease. For many people it means
an earlier treatment and possibly, better chances
for a cure.
World:
Vitamins E and D May Diminish the Risk of Dementia
Among Older Persons (July 13, 2010)
(Article in Arabic, also available in French)
In recent years, researchers have been shed light on
the effectiveness of food supplements and vitamins
on decreasing the risk of common brain diseases
among the aging population. Recent studies have
shown that foods rich in vitamin E lower the risk of
dementia while people who have higher levels of
vitamin D are at a lower risk for Parkinson’s
disease.
World: The
Impact of Chronic Diseases on the Immune System
(July 8, 2010)
(Article in Arabic)
A group of researchers from the University of
Marmara and Istanbul University studied the impact
of chronic diseases on the function of white blood
cells and the immune system. They used a sample of
patients between 60 and 90 years of age who are
suffering from diabetes, high blood pressure, and
cancer. The results show that the function of immune
cells in these patients decreases significantly when
compared to their healthy counterparts. Therefore,
the scientists urged older persons to avoid the risk
of chronic diseases and to strengthen their immune
system by eating foods rich in vitamins and
antioxidants.
World: Depression
Leads to Dementia (July 7, 2010)
(Article in Arabic)
A US study clams that older people who face social
difficulties are more susceptible to inflammation of
the brain. According to results, the risk of
dementia increases by 70 percent for people who have
suffered depression, even after controlling for
other factors such as age, gender, and education.
World: High
Temperatures Affect the Brains of Older Persons
(July 7, 2010)
(Article in Arabic)
Heat strokes are not the only well-known dangers of
intense hot weather. High temperatures can also
affect brain cells , changing the levels of metal
ions resulting in increased blood pressure and heart
problems, in addition to psychological problems that
are no less dangerous. Heat also causes anxiety and
depression. It affects normal life patterns and
forces many older persons to stay at home, away from
family on vacations, leaving them in isolation and
suffering loneliness, especially since community and
social centers as well as stores are closed. This
anxiety shows up in various symptoms such as
irregular heartbeat, dizziness, extreme fatigue and
poor appetite
World: Childhood
Malnutrition will Affect Mental Capacity in Later
Life (July 5, 2010)
(Article in Arabic)
Researchers at Michigan State University found that
poor nutritional intake during childhood may affect
brain function in advanced age. The study has many
implications for developing and poor countries.
Adequate and nutritious food fights hunger, savesl
lives and also promotes mental health as people age.
Previous studies gave little attention to the
long-term negative effects of poor nutrition on
brain development and function
World: Health Habits to
Boost Your Memory (June 27, 2010)
(Article in Arabic)
Although memory loss is associated with older
persons, the betrayal of one’s memory also depends
on the habits they adopted at a young age. If one
adopts healthy habits in early in life, such as
eating a balanced diet, avoiding drugs and the
consumption of too many medications and regular
sleep, it is possible to avoid memory-loss problems
in the future.
World: Vitamin “B”
Deficiency Causes Depression in the Elderly (June
22, 2010)
(Article in Arabic)
This medical study warns older persons who
experience a deficiency in vitamins B-6 and 12 that
they may be more likely to suffer from depression
and heart attacks.
World: Doubts Cast on
“Male Menopause” Criteria (June 16, 2010)
(Article also available in Arabic)
For many middle-aged and elderly men, low libido, a
depressed mood and lack of energy may just be the
signs of normal aging, not low testosterone levels.
That's the conclusion of a new study from the
University of Manchester; researchers found only
about 2 percent of men between 40 and 79 years would
qualify for a strict diagnosis of so-called
late-onset hypogonadism, sometimes called "male
menopause."
World: Yoga and Flexibility
Can Protect Against Fractures (June 13, 2010)
(Article in Arabic)
Yoga, considered to be one of the most common types
of recreation, has grown in popularity in recent
years. It is accompanied by the recent trend of
returning to nature, the internal search for one's
self and energy, and the desire to be healthier. A
group of Indian researchers have found that yoga can
help older people avoid the risk of falling, which
sometimes leads to death in the event of large bone
fractures.
World: New Hormone Fights
Aging (May 25, 2010)
(Article in Arabic)
Specialists from the University of Liverpool and the
University of California showed that an anti-stress
hormone can delay aging by maintaining the strength
and integrity of muscles.
World: Can
Chocolate Fight Aging and Make Your Skin Glow?
(May 20, 2010)
(Article also available in Arabic)
The world’s largest chocolate producer has developed
a way to preserve the flavanols found in cocoa beans
during the chocolate-making process, allowing them
to produce a bar that is richer in flavanols.
Scientists have learned that flavanols slow down
damage caused by free radicals that can damage
healthy cells in the body and accelerate the aging
process.
World: Alzheimer's: No
Efficient Way to Prevent the Disease (May 19,
2010)
(Article in French)
Fifteen experts from the National Institutes of
Health (USA) have established that no medicine,
diet, or lifestyle change is currently proven to be
efficient enough to protect against Alzheimer's
disease. This report should encourage the research
community to investigate further and explore new
avenues such as the link between high blood pressure
and Alzheimer's, according to Doctor Serge Gauthier.
World: Vitamin
D Deficiency Causes Depression in the Elderly (May
14, 2010)
(Article in Arabic)
According to a medical study, lack of vitamin D in
among older persons may be a cause for depression.
About 1,000 men and women over 64 were studied for
six years. A follow-up study indicated that about
42% of women and 18% of men who suffered from a
shortage of vitamin D had been subjected to bouts of
depression.
World: Seeking Long
Life? Go to Iceland or Cyprus (April 29, 2010)
(Article also available in Arabic)
Men in Iceland have the best shot at living into old
age, while women in Cyprus do, according to a study
published on Thursday in the Lancet medical journal.
In most places, men have twice the relative
mortality rate of women, Dr. Christopher Murray of
the University of Washington in Seattle and
colleagues found.
World: Diet Can
Sharply Cut Alzheimer's Risk (April 12, 2010)
(Article also available in Arabic)
A diet rich in olive oil, nuts, fish, poultry and
certain fruits and vegetables may have a powerful
effect in staving off Alzheimer's disease,
researchers reported on Monday. People who ate
nutrients specifically selected for brain health had
a 40 percent lower risk of developing Alzheimer's
disease compared with others, Yian Gu, an
Alzheimer's disease researcher at Columbia
University in New York, and colleagues found.
World:
Pharmaceutical Companies Seek Genetic Clues to
Healthy Ageing (April 6, 2010)
They may be a little wrinkly, and there may not be
many of them, but centenarians are the fastest
growing demographic in the developed world.
Scientists believe people who live to 100 years or
more hold valuable secrets in their genes that can
reveal targets for medicines to tackle a wide range
of age-related diseases, as well as improving
longevity itself.
World: Anesthesia May
Increase Alzheimer's Risk (March 25, 2010)
Anesthesia is safe for normal mice, but potentially
harmful for mice with genetic risk factors for
Alzheimer's disease, Spanish researchers have
learned. The use of repetitive anesthesia with
isoflurane--one of the most common anesthetics by
inhalation--increases the risk of developing changes
similar to those observed in brains with Alzheimer's
disease in mice with mutations of the amyloid
precursor protein.
World: Pfizer
Alzheimer's Disease Drug Fails in Study (March 3,
2010)
(Article also available in Arabic)
A promising Alzheimer's disease drug being developed
by Pfizer Inc. failed to work in a late-stage study,
a startling disappointment after initial tests kept
symptoms from worsening for a year. Pfizer and
partner Medivation Inc. said Wednesday that the
experimental drug Dimebon failed to meet its primary
and secondary goals: improving thinking ability and
overall daily function over six months in patients
with mild to moderate Alzheimer's disease.
World: Stress
Weakens the Memory of Elderly (February 28, 2010)
(Article in Arabic)
Another US study linked the recent increase in
stress and risk of memory loss and the weak
cognitive abilities of elderly patients with
diabetes type II. Scientists discovered this
important relationship after a study that included
900 men and women between the ages of sixty and 75
years who were all suffering from diabetes type II.
World: Depression
May Cause Disability in Ageing (February 24, 2010)
(Article in Arabic)
Authors of a US study show that those suffer from
depression during “middle age” may increase their
risk of disability as growing older. The study
looked at 7,000 people with an age range from 50 and
61 years when the study began. The study, supervised
by University of California, San Francisco,
researchers state that the resulting disability in
old age could deprive them of carrying out the tasks
of daily life.
World: Around The
World, People Living Longer Lives, But Not Better
Ones (February 6, 2010)
Human longevity can be seen as an accomplishment of
modern society. It reflects improvements in science,
public policy, and socioeconomic development. But
increased longevity does not necessarily mean an
improved quality of life. On the contrary, as people
age, their well-being and social support tend to
dwindle. According to the UN's Population Division,
by the year 2050 one in five people will be over the
age of 60. But recent UN findings suggest that
developing countries are poorly prepared for greater
numbers of people living longer, with little in the
way of long-term care facilities or social and
health workers specially trained in the needs of
older people. Despite widespread NGO efforts and the
diplomacy of some countries, older persons still
have no comprehensive international treaty or
monitoring regime to protect their rights at the
international level.
World:
Overweight Elderly Less Likely to Die (January 28,
2010)
Australian researchers say that overweight adults
age 70 and older are less likely to die over a
10-year period compared with normal weight adults.
Lead researcher Leon Flicker of the University of
Western Australia said the finding calls into
question current body mass index guidelines for
older adults.
World: Three
Proteins May Lead to Alzheimer's (January 20,
2010)
Researchers from the Translational Genomics Research
Institute in Phoenix have identified three
kinases-or proteins--that dismantle connections
within brain cells. Dr. Travis Dunckley, the senior
author, and colleagues created tests to look at all
572 known and theoretical kinases within human cells
and identified 26 associated with the formation of
tau and the three found to cause tau dysfunction.
World: Aging Is
Opportunity for Industry (January 18, 2010)
(Article in French)
With the aging of the population--in Europe as in
other parts of the world--the issue of the
dependence of older persons will become a major one.
However, we already face a workforce shortage in
this sector and financial difficulties. One of the
solutions could be to develop “gerontechnologies,”
technologies adapted to the specific needs of older
persons. In Japan, the leader in the domestic robot
market, the baby seal robot Paro can keep persons
suffering from cognitive deficits company and can,
according to studies in nursing homes, lead to
psychic improvements.
World: Eye Test
Could Diagnose Alzheimer's Disease (January 14,
2010)
(Article also available in Arabic)
A simple eye test carried out by your optician could
pick up Alzheimer's disease years before it develops
and lead to early treatment to stop it in its
tracks, claim scientists. British researchers have
developed a technique that highlights nerve cell
damage in the retina of the eye that they have
proved correlates nerve cell damage in the brain.
They say the quick, noninvasive and cheap test,
which only involves applying eye-drops and then
taking a photo with an infrared camera, could
revolutionize detection of dementia. Once diagnosed,
treatment could begin immediately.
World: Avanafil: The New
Medicine Against Erectile Dysfunction (January 12,
2010)
(Article in French)
After age forty, one-third of all men face erection
disorders. As the population ages, medicines for
erectile dysfunction are a promising market for
laboratories. A new drug, Avanafil, will soon
threaten the three leaders of this market. Avanafil
offers the advantage of being very fast: 72% of the
men who tested it reacted after only 15 minutes
compared to 30 to 60 minutes for the other
medicines. Launch for the treatment is set for 2012.
World: Cell
Phones May Protect Brain from Alzheimer's (January
7, 2010)
(Article also available in Arabic)
A study of mice suggests that using cell phones may
help prevent some of the brain-wasting effects of
Alzheimer's disease, US researchers said. After
long-term exposure to electromagnetic waves such as
those used in cell phones, mice genetically altered
to develop Alzheimer's performed as well on memory
and thinking skill tests as healthy mice, the
researchers wrote in the Journal of Alzheimer's
Disease.
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