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.
Topic- Program design
Playing an instrument tied to better brain health for older adults
Engaging in music throughout one's life is associated with better brain health in older age, according to researchers at the University of Exeter, UK. Organizations might consider promoting music participation among members, residents and staff.
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Tai chi may curb Parkinson's disease symptoms for years
Tai chi, the Chinese martial art that involves sequences of very slow controlled movements, may curb the symptoms and complications of Parkinson's disease (PD) for several years, according to recent research. Its practice was associated with slower disease progression and lower doses of required drugs over time, the findings show.
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GSA promotes age inclusivity in higher education
The Gerontological Society of America (GSA) and its educational section, the Academy for Gerontology in Higher Education, with support from AARP, have produced a new toolkit that can be used by faculty, students, administrators, and other campus leaders, to help ensure age inclusivity within academic courses and programs. The tools may be adapted to meet an institution's approach to making the case, building relationships, addressing ageism, crafting new efforts, and conducting assessments, according to GSA. Active aging organizations with communities that are located near universities may want to share the kit with these institutions and encourage partnerships.
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Tripping on a treadmill can help reduce falls
Treadmill-based balance training, which mimics real-life balance challenges (e.g., trips and slips) in a safe setting, yields benefits in only one to four training sessions that may last more than a year, researchers in the UK and the Netherlands have found. Organizations may want to explore this option, particularly with constituents who are unlikely to complete the multiple balance, strength and aerobic training sessions normally required to reduce falls.
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Stats: 20% of LGBTQ older adults in SF fear senior services
One in five LGBTQ older adults in San Francisco don't use aging services because they feel unsafe or unwelcome, according to a recently released report, "Accessing Aging Services Needs Assessment of LGBTQ Senior Health in San Francisco." Other barriers include mobility limitations (nearly 50%) and difficulty accessing transportation (25%). It's likely that results would be similar or more pronounced in cities or regions that are less tolerant of gender differences, and active-aging organizations should be aware that these potential clients and customers are in need but may not easily walk through the door.
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Peer mentoring curbs loneliness, depression
Providing a peer mentoring program in a long-term care setting led to "significant decreases" in participants' depression and loneliness scores in a six-month proof-of-concept study. Peer mentoring is defined as "a supportive relationship between two individuals who share a common experience or characteristic." It's something life plan and assisted living organizations, in particular, might consider.
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