Healthy aging and longevity Archive

Home sleep tests are often the preferred approach to detect obstructive sleep apnea. They use less equipment and cost less than studies done in sleep labs. Because people get to conduct the test in their own beds, they are more comfortable than they would be in a sleep lab, and the test is more likely to capture a person's natural sleep habits. But the tests aren't always accurate. And someone with a serious chronic condition, such as heart failure or a breathing disorder, might need additional data from an in-lab study.

Many strategies can help people avoid falls in public places. For example, people can wear shoes with nonslip treads in stores and office buildings, use a rollator for stability in crowded areas such as airports or shopping malls, hold handrails on public staircases (or avoid them), avoid parking too close to vehicles in parking lots, or use the handicap stall in public bathrooms. Another important strategy is regularly strengthening leg and core muscles and practicing balance exercises (such as standing on one leg).

A 2024 study found that a smartphone-based mall walking program may motivate people-especially women and older adults-to walk more.

People who routinely exercise far more than the federal activity guidelines recommend will likely reap heart and longevity benefits. But they should be sure not to neglect other heart-healthy habits, such as getting routine check-ups, keeping tabs on their risk factors, following a healthy diet, and paying attention to heart-related symptoms.

Implantable blood sugar monitoring devices known as CGMs have revolutionized care for millions of people with diabetes. Now several companies are marketing them for people without diabetes to monitor blood sugar levels -- but is there any evidence for health benefits?

It can be frustrating to be asked to fill out medical forms yet again for a health care visit. But even if you have an electronic medical record, a practice might need you to provide or update information, and it's helpful to know what is most important or likely to be requested.

Trees enhance our lives by releasing oxygen, reducing pollution, and preventing flooding. Beyond all of these benefits, there is growing evidence that just being around trees and green spaces improves mood and overall health.