Why food may not taste like it used to
We know that as we age, eyesight and hearing may decline, but did you know that taste and smell can as well? We start out with thousands of taste buds, not only on the tongue, but in the throat and on the roof of the mouth. Some taste buds are sensitive to sweet, others to sour, salty, bitter, and more. When taste buds are damaged (like from scalding coffee), they are able to regenerate... READ MORE
What cognitive tests can and can’t show
It was the new chant in Washington politics last month: “Get a cognitive test!” Political opponents, armchair pundits and even nervous supporters demanded that President Joe Biden undergo such testing after his dismal debate performance — even though his physician said he gets, and passes, an annual neurologic exam. Former President Donald Trump, who’s only a few years... READ MORE
Gym’s water cooler is fountain of youth
Here’s the message from Dr. Marcas Bamman, a physiologist with decades of research into aging who preaches the benefits of weight-resistance training for those who are getting up there. We’re talking people 60-plus — women and men. And we’re talking about hitting the gym and weight training. “Resistance training is in many ways the true fountain of youth,” Bamman said in... READ MORE
Balance telemedicine and in-person care
Patients can now see an array of doctors without leaving their recliner, thanks to telemedicine. But that doesn’t mean trips to the doctor’s office should end. Finding the right balance between virtual and in-person visits can be a key to getting good care. Here’s what you need to know about which form of care may be right for you and when. What is telemedicine? This term... READ MORE
Pan-fried chicken with whole-grain Dijon
Pan-fried chicken cutlets are a convenient weeknight dinner, but they can be a little bland. Adding layers of flavor to each component of the dish ensures delicious results. In this recipe from our cookbook Milk Street 365: The All-Purpose Cookbook for Every Day of the Year, whole-grain Dijon mustard is whisked into the egg mixture that coats the cutlets, providing a bright, pleasantly ... READ MORE
Can AI make one immortal, in a sense?
When Michael Bommer found out that he was terminally ill with colon cancer, he spent a lot of time with his wife, Anett, talking about what would happen after his death. She told him one of the things she’d miss most is being able to ask him questions whenever she wants because he is so well-read and always shares his wisdom, Bommer recalled during a recent interview with The... READ MORE
Prepare in advance if you need new knee
Q: I have knee osteoarthritis that will eventually require knee replacement surgery, perhaps in the next 12 to 18 months. What steps can I take now to prepare for it and perhaps delay it even longer? A: It’s great you are thinking about this well in advance. Here are some suggestions. Consider pain-reducing options. A few things may enable you to go a little longer without a... READ MORE
Studying effect of exercise on cognition
Did you know there’s a special exercise program specifically for U.S. veterans 65 and older? It’s called Gerofit, and it started at the Veterans Affairs office in Durham, North Carolina, in 1986. In 2012, the program began to become more popular after a demonstration was released on a DVD. Currently, more than 30 VA centers offer the program to their older veterans. It’s ... READ MORE
A late night kiwi may improve your sleep
One of the most beautiful and delicious fruits, kiwis are favorites of children and adults alike. However, these bright green fruits might be most adored by the wellness community, as they’re incredibly nutritious. One potential health benefit of kiwi that’s been causing some buzz recently? Eating one before bed might help you sleep better. Here’s all you need to know... READ MORE
Extreme heat affects older adults more
Dear Savvy Senior, I work for a county health department, and every summer, we’re seeing more and more seniors get sick and even die from heat-related illness. Can you write an awareness piece on the affects extreme heat has on older adults, and what they can do to guard against this summertime risk? —Health Advocate Dear Advocate, Happy to oblige! Most people... READ MORE