Healthy aging and longevity Archive

Maximum heart rate refers to the upper limit of what a person's cardiovascular system can handle during exercise. It can be estimated by subtracting the person's age from 220. Target heart rates (which range from 64% to 93% of the maximum) can help people know if they are doing moderate or vigorous exercise. Physical activity guidelines recommend that people get at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity exercise, or a combination of both, per week.

A double knee torso rotation stretches the back, chest, hips, and outer thighs. It also strengthens and stabilizes the core muscles, which are vital for good form and function in many sports.

The incidence of heat-related ailments, such as heat stress, heat exhaustion, and heatstroke, has risen over the past five years, according to a 2022 analysis. People ages 65 and older were at the highest risk compared with other age groups, and men were affected more than women.

Performing regular biceps curls can build stronger biceps muscles and help older men with lifting, carrying, and holding heavy objects.

Adopting a dog is one of the best ways for older adults to combat many common health issues. Research has shown that dog owners have lower risks of cardiovascular disease and take more daily steps compared with non-owners. Having a dog also can lower stress levels and help people become more social.

Dr. Alan Poisner, 88, is one of the country's most decorated master-level walkers. He holds several National Senior Games records. A medical researcher, he also has a long career exploring the physiology of walking, especially among older adults. Here, he shares his decades-long advice for beginner and novice walkers, from how to stay motivated to the best ways to elevate one's workouts.

Most older adults can expect to walk more than 100,000 miles during their lifetime, which can take a toll on their feet. With regular foot care, people can address most everyday foot issues like calluses, blisters, and fungus infections. But older adults also need to be mindful about certain problems that can impede their foot health and make mobility difficult, such as heel pain, flat feet, and osteoarthritis.

The health risks of using tobacco and overusing alcohol begin to drop within days after a person stops using them. However, how past usage may affect a person's longevity is difficult to predict.

A 2023 study found that a 12-week home-based cardiac rehab program may lower a person's risk of dying over the next few years. Cardiac rehab, a program designed to help people recover from heart-related problems, is traditionally done at a medical facility.

A 2023 study suggests that certain social challenges, such as isolation, may be useful to help predict older adults' risk of earlier death.