Aging and Senior Health (Audio)

Elizabeth Blackburn, Ph.D., examines the relationship between telomeres, cellular aging, and metabolic health, highlighting how telomere regulation differs between insulin-sensitive and insulin-resistant individuals. She discusses the effects of environmental factors—like glucose levels, stress hormones, and drugs—on telomere maintenance, which can disrupt cellular coordination and contribute to age-related diseases. Blackburn also shares insights from studies on hibernating lemurs, indicating that while their telomere health remains stable during metabolic slowdowns, it declines upon reactivation. Ultimately, she suggests that telomere maintenance could serve as a valuable biomarker for early signs of metabolic dysfunction, informing strategies for long-term health and resilience. Series: "Stem Cell Channel" [Health and Medicine] [Science] [Show ID: 39944]

Dennis O. Clegg, Ph.D., discusses treatments for age-related macular degeneration (AMD), a condition that causes vision loss. Clegg explains that while patients often report improved vision after receiving implants, objective tests don't always confirm this. He explores the potential differences in patients' responses based on genetics and disease progression. There is also an ongoing challenge in finding the best ways to reduce immune rejection of these treatments. New trials are underway to test implants in earlier stages of the disease, and researchers are looking at different strategies like localized immunosuppression. Additionally, some studies suggest that secretions from retinal cells may help preserve vision. Overall, there are many open questions, but advances in the field offer hope for better AMD treatments. Series: "Stem Cell Channel" [Health and Medicine] [Science] [Show ID: 39459]

The risk for many chronic diseases is directly linked to metabolic changes in the body and loss of muscle mass often associated with aging. In this program, Dr. Natalie Marshall focuses on the central importance of movement, strength training, and body composition to improve metabolic fitness and tips to help you get started “building muscle for life." Series: "Osher WISE: Well-being and Integrative Science for Everyone" [Health and Medicine] [Show ID: 40071]

Colin Depp delves into the critical role of social connections in our well-being, particularly in the context of aging. Depp explores the impacts of digital versus in-person interactions, the influence of cultural differences on social needs, and the potential health benefits of both deep and superficial connections. Depp also discusses the challenges of loneliness, the effects of grief, and offers practical daily practices to strengthen social ties. Series: "Stein Institute for Research on Aging" [Health and Medicine] [Show ID: 39388]

Curious about what happens to our cells as we age and how it affects our health? Shiri Gur-Cohen explores the role of tiny chemical tags on our DNA, like methylation, in influencing our healing and overall well-being. Gur-Cohen discusses how these tags might be shaped by our body's systems, such as the lymphatic system, and could even help repair or regenerate various parts of our body. Gur-Cohen proposes that uncovering these processes could lead to innovative ways to slow aging or boost our body’s natural healing capabilities. Series: "Women in Science" [Health and Medicine] [Science] [Show ID: 39979]

What can you do today to improve or maintain your brain health? Join Sarah Banks, Ph.D., a leading expert in healthy aging, dementia, and Alzheimer's disease, as she discusses the latest research on the effects of exercise on brain health. Stay informed and proactive about maintaining cognitive function as you age with insights from cutting-edge research. Series: "Stein Institute for Research on Aging" [Health and Medicine] [Show ID: 40062]

What can you do today to improve or maintain your brain health? Join Sarah Banks, Ph.D., a leading expert in healthy aging, dementia, and Alzheimer's disease, and discover actionable steps you can take to protect your brain health. Series: "Stein Institute for Research on Aging" [Health and Medicine] [Show ID: 40061]

What can you do today to improve or maintain your brain health? Join Sarah Banks, Ph.D., a leading expert in healthy aging, dementia, and Alzheimer's disease, as she discusses the latest research on diet and cognitive decline. Learn how diet, vascular health and inflammation contributes to cognitive function and discover actionable steps you can take to protect your brain health. Stay informed and proactive about maintaining cognitive function as you age with insights from cutting-edge research. Series: "Stein Institute for Research on Aging" [Health and Medicine] [Show ID: 40063]

What can you do today to improve or maintain your brain health? Sarah Banks, Ph.D., an expert in healthy aging, dementia, and Alzheimer's disease, explores risk factors and corrective tips associated with sleep apnea. Series: "Stein Institute for Research on Aging" [Health and Medicine] [Show ID: 40042]

Maria Rosario (Happy) G. Araneta, Ph.D., M.P.H., highlights the significant impact of prenatal and childhood malnutrition on later health outcomes, including coronary heart disease and diabetes. She emphasizes the importance of physical activity, strength training, and the need for inclusive research to address health disparities. Future research directions include understanding cognitive impairment related to diabetes and developing effective interventions for diverse populations. Series: "Stein Institute for Research on Aging" [Health and Medicine] [Show ID: 39392]