RAPAMYCIN: CAN THIS DRUG SLOW AGING? I’ve noticed rapamycin being mentioned in numerous articles from outlets like National Geographic, NPR, and AARP. The buzz surrounding this drug centers on its potential to slow the aging process. Rapamycin, initially approved by the FDA as an immunosuppressant to prevent organ transplant rejection, functions by modulating the immune system and decreasing inflammation. Now, researchers are exploring its broader applications, particularly as a possible intervention to delay aging and improve health span. Seeking a concise update on the latest developments, I came across an article by Graham Lawton on NewScientist.com titled Rapamycin is a...
MAXIMIZE YOUR WALK For most of us seniors, walking is an integral part of our lives. Whether it’s a regular stroll for exercise, an occasional hike, or simply taking the dog out, walking offers many advantages. In the past, I’ve highlighted the assets of this routine, including my November 2018 post titled The Benefits of Walking. Now, to maximize your walk, I offer you six practical tips from the November 20, 2024, online article from Harvard Medical School, titled Get your heart pumping on your walk: According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, adults should aim for...
CBT: EFFECTIVE FOR MANY HEALTH CONDITIONS Like many seniors, I struggle with recurring insomnia. This week, I discovered that cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) might be the solution to addressing the challenges of insufficient sleep. While I knew CBT was highly effective for managing mental health issues, I had overlooked its usefulness in treating non-psychological health conditions such as fibromyalgia, migraines, tinnitus, and insomnia. Curious to learn more, I delved into how CBT works. If you’re interested in this goal-oriented approach to therapy, I offer excerpts from an article by ClevelandClinic.org titled Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). What is cognitive behavioral therapy...
FINALLY, A SIMPLE BLOOD TEST FOR COLORECTAL CANCER SCREENING I recently read that the U.S. Food & Drug Administration (FDA) has approved the first-ever blood test for colorectal cancer screening. This test, called Shield, is a game-changer because FDA approval means it will likely be covered by many insurance plans. For those with Medicare Part B, there are no out-of-pocket costs, while Medicare Advantage enrollees may only need to provide a co-pay. Interestingly, during my annual wellness visit with my primary care doctor last week, she recommended I get screened for colorectal cancer, as it had been a while since...
SHOULD YOU RSVP TO THE RSV VACCINE? At least once a week, I get a text from CVS advising me to come in for my RSV vaccination. I haven’t gone, mostly because I know next to nothing about RSV other than it causes cold-like symptoms. In fact, I had what seemed like a cold a couple of months ago—maybe it was RSV? Thinking that we seniors might benefit from knowing more about this virus, I did a little online research. First, I found that those letters are an acronym for the hard-to-remember name of the bug: Respiratory Syncytial Virus. Then,...
DO YOU FOLLOW THE 5-SECOND RULE? I’m sure you’ve heard of the 5-second rule: if you pick up dropped food within five seconds it’s okay to consume it. As a kid, I certainly followed it—at home, at friends’ houses, even my school cafeteria. But now in my golden years, I’ve become rather germaphobic and toss anything I’ve dropped. (Well, if it’s unpeeled like a banana or an orange, not so much.) In any case, I came across an October 12, 2024 online article in Consumer Reports by Pang-Chieh Ho, titled Does the 5-Second Rule Work? Here are excerpts: It seems...
IS A TURKEY TROT FOR YOU? I’m posting this article a few weeks before Thanksgiving, giving you plenty of time in case you want to sign up and prepare for your first Turkey Trot. Thanksgiving often centers around family and friends—and indulgent feasting. But how about adding a new tradition—participating in an annual Turkey Trot? Most of these Thanksgiving morning events are not only fun but also raise money for a charity. And don’t worry; you don’t have to “trot”! Many participants simply walk part or all of the course, especially if they’re not regular runners. Turkey Trots are usually...
Nuts for Nuts I’ve been hearing about how beneficial unsalted nuts are for reducing the risk of heart disease, and also managing diabetes & lowering inflammation. On top of that, I’ve learned they’re packed with protein, fiber, and essential nutrients. Every day, I grab a handful of nuts—not just for the health factor, but because they make an excellent snack between meals. They’re not only tasty, but they’re also a better option than the cookies or chips I’d normally reach for. And I bet the couple hundred calories in that handful of nuts is less than my other choices. Many...
KICK YOUR PAIN FROM PROLONGED SITTING In recent weeks, I’ve shared posts about health issues often experienced by us seniors—foot problems, lower back pain, and occasional dizziness. This week, I’m addressing another common challenge among us older adults: pain from prolonged sitting, leading to a condition known as gluteal amnesia or, more colorfully referred to as, “dead butt syndrome.” I found an online article in my ‘go to source,’ Harvard Health Watch. Here are excerpts from the October 1, 2024, post titled The end of painful sitting by Matthew Solan, Executive Editor: What can you do about pain and discomfort...
KEEP YOUR FEET FIT TO SUPPORT AN ACTIVE LIFESTYLE I hadn’t seen a podiatrist in years, but last week I visited one about an issue with my toenail. For the past year, the nail on my left big toe had developed a crack down the middle. I kept hoping it would grow out, but it didn’t seem to improve. I even tried using nail glue to seal the crack, which worked for a couple of days before the split reappeared. That’s when I finally arranged to see a foot doctor. After examining my toe, he explained that the nail had...
