Category: Aging

Why American Life Expectancy Is Falling

February 17, 2025

A Mayo Clinic news article written in August 2024 discusses the reasons for the decline in life expectancy in the United States.

The US outspends every country in the world in healthcare. Yet people in the U.S. still live shorter lives than do people elsewhere in the industrialized world.

The Mayo Clinic article cites three main reasons for the decline in longevity.

  • Deaths from opioid drug overdoses.
  • Consumption of overly processed foods such as toaster pastries and sugary cereals.
  • Sedentary lifestyle.

Read the full article at mcpress.mayoclinic.org

Stay Safe: Non-Slip Ice Grippers for Winter Walks

January 27, 2025

Ice Covered Pavement Is Dangerous

Icy winter pavement presents a dilemma for older adults. They need to get out on local errands, but are stranded at home, waiting for the ice to melt.

When sidewalks and driveways are as slick as an ice rink, even a short trip to the driveway is problematic.

While a strong core prevents falls under normal conditions, ice can override your strength and cause a bad fall.

How Non-Slip Ice and Snow Grippers Prevent Falls

Non-slip ice grippers fit over shoes and boots. They are sold in sizes for men, women and children. Grippers are made with a series of stainless steel spikes that grip the ice, allowing you to walk without fear of falling.

Amazon has a wide array of these devices at various price points. Use the keywords ice grippers, ice cleats, or full foot traction in your search.

Boost Your Thermoregulation by Building Muscle After 65

January 20, 2025

Muscle Mass Makes A Difference In Body Temperature Regulation

Core body temperature decreases with age due to the body’s weakening ability to regulate body temperature. This process is known as thermoregulation.

One way to reduce body temperature changes as you age, is to build muscle. The more physically fit you are, the greater your ability to adjust to changes in ambient temperature.

Aging is a factor in your ability to adjust to variations in ambient temperature. Younger people adapt more efficiently than elders (persons 65 and over).

How To Build Muscle Mass After 65

Muscle mass refers to the amount of muscle tissue in your body. Far too many adults over 65 lack sufficient muscle mass. Falling, loss of independence, balance issues, and frailty and some of the outcomes of low muscle mass.

Resistance training will help you build muscle. Typical equipment is elastic bands or tubing, dumbbells, machine weights, sandbags, or the weight of your own body.

Read More About Building Muscle

Resistance Exercise For Health

Actor Dick Van Dyke Turns 99

December 16, 2024

Dick Van Dyke was born in 1925, and turned 99 on December 13, 2024. His career started in the late 1940s as a radio DJ in Illinois. From there he moved on to television, Broadway theater, and motion pictures.

The actor married for a second time in 2012 to Arlene Silver, who is 46 years his junior. He attributes his well-being to staying active and to his wife. He says that they are very close and that he loves her more every day.

Dick Van Dyke is best known for his role in the movie Mary Poppins, Chitty Chitty Bang Bang, and Bye Bye Birdie, and for his tv series The Dick Van Dyke Show.

The life of Dick Van Dyke is celebrated In this 7-minute Coldplay video All My Love.