A person’s genes play a far greater role in likely lifespan than previously thought, according to a major new study published Thursday in the journal Science . Using data from human twin studies, an international team of researchers arrived at the conclusion that the genetic contribution to how long we’re likely to live is as high as 55%. This new finding is strikingly higher than previous estimates, which have calculated the role of genetics in lifespan could range from 6% t

There are more than 2 million new cancer cases diagnosed each year in the United States, and cancer is the country’s second leading cause of death. Most cancers are caused by factors outside your control, but at least 42% of new cases are potentially avoidable. Strategies that can lower your risk often improve your overall health. ‘I’ve Been Intentional About Having Fresher Foods’ Research has repeatedly linked ultra-processed foods—generally those with a long shelf life that

It’s likely that you might have taken your health for granted in early adulthood. Maybe you could run a quick mile or stand on your feet all day long at a theme park. However, as you age, you may notice that your body doesn’t usually work as well as it used to. For example, after the age of 50, bone breakdown happens quicker than formation, which results in bone loss. That said, there are daily habits and practices that older adults can engage in to help ease some of the ache

Can you help your brain stay healthy as you age by doing things that challenge your mind? Could that also help you avoid memory loss, or even prevent or delay dementia such as Alzheimer's? Scientists need to do more research to find out for sure. But a number of studies show there are benefits to staying mentally active. Here’s what we know about the impact of exercising your brain. Can brain exercises help delay memory loss or dementia? When people keep their minds active, t

Step into any suburban garage and you’ll see the relics of January resolutions that have fallen by the wayside. Whether it’s a piece of cardio equipment, a label maker, or a spiderweb-covered juicer, these items often stick around far longer than our motivation. Each New Year can feel like the perfect time for dramatic and sweeping changes, but those big shifts don’t always stick, especially when we attempt several at once. In fact, research shows that small goals are far eas

When you think of volunteering, what comes to mind? Maybe it’s serving Thanksgiving dinner at a shelter or joining your community for spring clean-up day at your local park. Helping others during high-need seasons is admirable. Still, there are plenty of reasons to give back all year long. And many of them benefit you just as much as the people (or furry friends) you’re serving. “Volunteering is one of the most important things you can do for your mental health,” says Julian

According to data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, 57% of U.S. adults use dietary supplements, with multivitamins being the most commonly used. Yet, despite their popularity, there’s still plenty of debate over whether multivitamins actually work. As with most things related to nutrition and health, the answer is more nuanced than a simple yes or no. At their core, multivitamins are “designed to supplement your diet, providing essential vitamins and

Find a New Purpose When you retire, you don’t just leave a job. You enter a new stage in your life. If you do something you find meaningful, you’ll be happier and healthier. Volunteer at a hospital or library. Take part in projects at your house of worship. Tutor kids who need help in school. Care for animals in a shelter. Help assemble gift boxes for soldiers overseas. Long-term, this can help both your mind and body. The Right Surroundings Where you live can help set you up

Getting older. A sedentary lifestyle. Low levels of calcium. All of these are well-known risk factors for osteoporosis , a condition that causes bones to weaken and becomes more common with age. But there’s another lesser-known one that belongs on the list: certain medications. Research shows that some of the most common medications among people 50 and over can lead to what’s known as medication-induced osteoporosis, and even an increased risk of fractures . “Most patients an

Anyone who’s lost a loved one to Alzheimer's disease may be worried about noticing symptoms in themselves. Alzheimer's takes a terrible toll. It’s the most common cause of dementia — abnormal brain changes that lead to memory loss, impaired thinking skills and confusion. Patients become unable to learn, remember and recognize family. The biggest risk factor is age, followed by family history, says Mary Sano, Ph.D., professor of psychiatry and director of the Alzheimer's Disea

If Toenails Could Talk Whether you’re washing your hands or admiring a manicure, you spend a lot more time looking at your fingernails than your toenails. Maybe it’s time to focus on your feet more often (and not just during sandal season). Toenail color changes -- from a big blue spot to a thin brown line -- could signal health problems. Here’s what you need to know.  Black Toenail: Common Causes If your toenail turns black, it’s most likely a bruise under the nail, technica

Oftentimes, vitamin C (for your immune system) and vitamin B (for nerve health and energy) get the attention. But a dietitian says vitamin K , specifically vitamin K2, may be worth adding to your routine. Before incorporating any supplement to your stack, be sure to connect with your healthcare provider, so you don’t start to exhibit signs you’re taking too many vitamins . What is vitamin K2? As a whole, vitamin K primarily supports blood clotting and bone health. It’s fou

Collagen is the most abundant protein in the human body. It plays an important role in maintaining healthy skin, bones, joints, ligaments, and tendons. As you age, your body’s natural production of collagen declines, which may lead to sagging skin and wrinkles. The integrity of the collagen network found in bones also decreases, leading to a reduction in bone and joint strength. Supplementing with collagen peptides, which are broken down collagen that’s easier for your body

Falls are a leading cause of injury and death in older adults, and research suggests that prescription drugs such as opioids and antidepressants may be fueling the trend. A research review published in JAMA warns that the rising use of medications that impair balance or cause drowsiness may be contributing to a surge in fall-related deaths. Studies show that 65%-93% of the older adults who had a fall-related injury took at least one "fall risk-increasing drug" (FRID) at the

Why Is It Important to Identify Respiratory Problems? Breathing problems can indicate a medical emergency. If ignored, you could possibly suffer from serious medical complications of the respiratory system like pulmonary embolism, pneumothorax, problems with the bronchi, trachea, or other parts of your airway system, or any other conditions that could potentially damage the nerves or muscles of breathing control. The following are signs that should never be ignored when it co

What Is Frailty? Frailty isn't just normal aging. It's when your body becomes less able to handle stress and recover from illness or injury. You might feel weaker, move slower, or get tired more easily. The good news? Catching early signs can help you take steps to stay stronger longer. You're Feeling Weaker Than Before Having trouble opening jars, carrying groceries, or getting up from chairs? Muscle weakness is often the first sign of frailty. You might notice tasks that u

If you’ve ever stepped into a sauna, you know the feeling: warmth wrapping around you, muscles relaxing, and stress melting away. But did you know that saunas may offer real health benefits — especially for older adults? From heart health to joint comfort, that short session in the heat can support your wellness in more ways than one. Let’s take a closer look at how (and when) to make the most of sauna time. What happens to your body in a sauna A traditional sauna raises the

The “Shaking Palsy.” Those are the words Dr. James Parkinson used in an essay more than 200 years ago to group together symptoms and describe a mysterious infirmity afflicting six individuals in London. The British physician was the first to identify and document the condition now known as Parkinson’s disease, a progressive movement disorder. Its hallmark is damage to the dopamine-producing neurons in the brain that can lead to muscle stiffness, slowness, balance issues and a

Treating Age Spots These small, flat, dark areas on your skin won’t hurt you, so you don’t have to treat them. But if you don’t like how they look, you can make the spots less noticeable or even make them disappear. You also can stop new ones from forming and keep the ones you have from getting darker. Skin-Lightening Creams and Lotions You can find lots of skin-lightening products at the drugstore. But before you buy, check the ingredients. Look for creams that contain trane

A cancer diagnosis is overwhelming, not just emotionally, but financially, too. In fact, according to the American Cancer Society, three out of four people with cancer worry about how they will pay for the cancer treatment and keep up with their day-to-day costs. Even with health insurance, the out-of-pocket costs can stack up fast depending on the treatments. That’s where cancer insurance comes in. What is cancer insurance? Cancer insurance is supplemental coverage designed