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Healthy aging and longevity Archive

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Musical engagement may help lower dementia risk

A 2025 study found that adults ages 70 and older who listened to music most days or played a musical instrument at least weekly may have a lower risk of developing dementia than those who did neither.

A small amount of weekly exercise may reduce depression symptoms in people with chronic illness

A 2025 analysis found that people with chronic illnesses, who are highly susceptible to depression and whose conditions often make activity difficult, may need a relatively small amount of weekly exercise to ease depression.

Why do I bruise so easily?

As we get older, noticeable bruises are usually related to thinning skin and increasing fragility of the tiny blood vessels in the outer layer of skin. There is not much people can do about this, but they should see their doctors if bruising is excessive or becomes painful.

The emotional aftermath of a heart attack

Up to half of all heart attack survivors experience some type of psychological distress, including sadness, worry, or irritability. This problem is known as post-myocardial infarction psychological distress. Cardiac rehabilitation is the best way to get treatment.

Safe and effective high-intensity interval training

High-intensity interval training alternates short bursts of hard effort with recovery, boosting aerobic fitness, heart health, and muscle in less time. For older adults, adjusting intensity to current fitness levels helps keep HIIT safe and effective.

Can you increase your metabolism?

Metabolism-how your body turns food into energy-is strongly influenced by genes, but lifestyle still matters. Choosing nourishing foods, avoiding extreme diets, and building muscle through regular exercise can modestly boost calorie burning and support weight loss.

Boost your cognitive fitness in the new year

The new year is a good time to focus on cognitive fitness. Exercise, healthy eating, mental challenges, good sleep, controlling stress, and social engagement support neuroplasticity and help keep thinking and memory sharp.

Tips to master the power nap

A power nap lasts anywhere from 10 to 30 minutes. The shut-eye can effectively increase alertness and focus, enhance mood, reduce fatigue, and possibly support work performance.

These hormone supplements are popular - but are they safe?

Synthetic dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) is available in various forms, including tablets, capsules, powders, creams, and gels. The supplement is marketed for "fountain of youth" effects, but evidence about its actual effects is mixed.

The best test to measure your diabetes risk

A hemoglobin HbA1c test is standard for anyone at risk for diabetes or anyone with diabetes. The HbA1c is a blood test that shows a person's average blood sugar levels over a three-month period.

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