Older adults who are sleepy during the day might have harmful plaque building in their brain that is a sign of impending Alzheimer’s disease, researchers report. A hallmark of Alzheimer’s is the accumulation of a protein in the brain called beta-amyloid. It’s believed that one benefit of sleep is to clear beta-amyloid, and poor sleep…

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In a seemingly counterintuitive finding, new research suggests that high cholesterol is associated with a reduced risk of mental decline in the elderly. People aged 85 to 94 with good brain function whose cholesterol was above normal had a 32 percent lower risk for mental decline over the next 10 years compared with people aged…

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The rising nighttime temperatures that come with climate change could mean poorer sleep for millions, a new study suggests. Americans’ reported nights of insufficient sleep more than double as nighttime temperatures rise during summer months, an analysis of federal health data and weather records concludes. And people will have even more trouble getting rest in…

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Balance exercises can help prevent falls, especially among older adults. But before you begin any exercise program, always consult your doctor. The American Council on Exercise mentions these common balance exercises for active older adults: Side X Balance Reach — Stand on the right leg and lean the body toward the right. Point the right…

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To guarantee a long and healthy life, seniors can make simple changes in their diet to prevent disease and increase energy. Below are some easy recommendations to follow for optimal senior nutrition: -Eat more fruits and vegetables with moderate amounts of whole grains and lean protein. -Reduce the amount of sweets in the diet. Seek…

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As you age, it’s important to keep up your strength. To build your muscles, you’ll need to lift or push weight, the National Institute on Aging says. Here’s the agency’s advice for starting a strength-training program: Talk with your doctor if you are unsure about starting a specific exercise. Don’t hold your breath during strength…

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The rising nighttime temperatures that come with climate change could mean poorer sleep for millions, a new study suggests. Americans’ reported nights of insufficient sleep more than double as nighttime temperatures rise during summer months, an analysis of federal health data and weather records concludes. And people will have even more trouble getting rest in…

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Sex boosts brain power.  Love might be good for the heart, but new research shows that sex is good for the brain.  Researchers at Coventry University in England studied 6800 men and women ages 50 to 89 and found that those who were sexually active scored higher on cognitive tests than those who were not. …

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