Scientific research
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Access and utilize the ICAA library of scientific studies, reports and statistics to assist you with the development of your business case for wellness, program and community design and development, evidence-informed lifestyle choices and marketing strategies and approaches.
Older adults with obesity face “hidden burden”
Older adults living with obesity can feel judged or dismissed by care providers due to their weight, leading to a reluctance to seek help, a recent study showed. Conducted by researchers from Anglia Ruskin University and the University of West London, UK, the qualitative study involved in-depth interviews with 33 older adults. The participants shared their experiences and needs related to formal and informal social care, and the report highlighted the hidden care gaps caused by obesity.
moreObesity
Global aging: the positive story
The economic drawbacks of population aging are not as intractable as commonly depicted, according to Goldman Sachs Research economists. Although rising public sector pension/retirement costs remain a concern for some economies, the most effective means of counteracting the impact of aging on dependency ratios is to extend working lives, they write. In fact, this trend is already in motion. The report provides an intriguing perspective on current and future trends in population aging.
moreLongevity
New tool measures pace of aging, predicts health risks
A new "Pace of Aging" measurement reveals trajectories of healthspan and lifespan in older people, providing a powerful tool for predicting risks associated with aging, including chronic illness, cognitive impairment, disability, and mortality. Developed by researchers at Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health, New York City, the method offers researchers and policy makers a novel approach to quantify how quickly individuals and populations experience age-related health decline. Its development offers a fascinating look behind the scenes at how data are compiled and analyzed to uncover important issues.
moreAging
Hispanic older adults: heritage and heart
There are 15 million Hispanic adults 50 and older in the United States, and that number is projected to increase by over 25% to 19 million by the end of the decade. Therefore, AARP conducted a national, multi-phase study to highlight the experiences of older Hispanic adults on topics such as healthy living, financial security, connectedness, retirement, caregiving and aging, focusing on their priorities, values, concerns, and the role of language and culture in their lives. Together, these experiences help define a growing market for active-aging communities.
moreDiversity
Stats: 95% of caregivers concerned about retirement finances
Although two in five US adults currently identify as family caregivers and nearly half are expected to become caregivers in the future, there is a lack of support for caregivers nationwide, according to Edward Jones, in partnership with Morning Consult and Age Wave. The team conducted an online survey (fielded between February 28 and March 2, 2025) among a sample of 3,100 US adults. The research sought to better understand caregiver concerns, challenges and ways to support them more effectively. The findings could inform program and services' development in active-aging communities.
moreCaregiving
Tech Talk: AI races forward, human development stalls
The United Nation's Development Program(UNDP) has released a new report aimed at "unpacking the power and possibilities" of artificial intelligence (AI) without sacrificing human development. The provocative and insightful report aims to show how the choices we make in the coming years will define the legacy of this transition for human development. It can serve as a fascinating read and valuable reference for the industry.
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