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Geriatric palliative care news

Magic mushrooms in palliative care: Clinicians are keen but ill-equipped

Once relegated to the counterculture, psilocybin—the psychoactive compound in "magic mushrooms"—has been receiving renewed scientific attention. A growing body of research points to its potential for treating depression, ...

The hidden role of a cell-cycle regulator in senescent cells that don't divide

In a tale of identities as divergent as "The Prince and the Pauper," a well-known cancer-causing gene also influences cells in a zombie-like state meant to prevent cancer.

App-based support improves dementia caregivers' well-being

As the prevalence of dementia increases, family members continue to be the primary caregivers for loved ones coping with the disease. Some of the most distressing aspects of dementia are behavioral symptoms—such as agitation ...

Chronic pain is missing from America's heat warnings

When a heat wave arrives, the public health advice follows a familiar script: Drink water, watch for heat stroke, check on people with heart or lung conditions. That list saves lives. But it leaves out something that shapes ...

Will GLP-1s lead to fewer prescriptions for older adults?

As people age, they often develop chronic conditions, many of which need to be managed with multiple prescription medications. While medications are important for disease management, polypharmacy poses an increased risk for ...

Robots can improve the health of older people, trial shows

A new trial has shown that using telepresence robots to support the well-being and health of older people in their homes can improve physical strength and balance, as well as social interaction and confidence. The work is ...

How quickly older adults can take a step may predict longevity

Researchers from Ben-Gurion University of the Negev (BGU) have found that how quickly an older adult can execute a voluntary step—especially when distracted (concurrently performed cognitive task)—may serve as a valuable ...

Dementia care: Re‑envisioning the role of music

As a certified music therapist, I have observed firsthand the many ways music can bring meaning and beauty into people's lives, even under very difficult circumstances. Much of my clinical work and research has occurred in ...

At 85 and healthy? Why more medicine may do more harm

When a patient has made it to 85 years old in reasonable health, their instinct—and often their physician's—is to redouble prevention efforts, optimize every number and close every gap. I want to argue the opposite.