Staying Healthy Archive

Daily morning exposure to blue-enriched light can improve sleep quality and increase activity levels in older adults, according to a 2025 study. Researchers believe morning blue light "wakes up" the brain, which increases alertness and synchronizes the sleep-wake cycle.

Taking a daily multivitamin helps fill in nutritional gaps and some studies have found a link to better cognitive fitness. Adding a vitamin D supplement may help maintain bone health and a B₁₂ supplement is suitable for people who might have difficulty getting this vitamin from food.

People who consume plant-based oil instead of butter may have a lower risk of death from cancer and cardiovascular disease, according to a 2025 study. These oils have more heart-healthy unsaturated fats, which help lower cholesterol levels and chronic inflammation.

In a 2025 study of more than 221,000 people followed for more than 30 years, scientists calculated that swapping about a tablespoon of butter per day for about two teaspoons of olive, soybean, or canola oil was tied to a 17% reduction in premature death.

Older adults are especially vulnerable to heat-related ailments like heat exhaustion and heatstroke. The primary reason is biological, as aging bodies can't maintain a steady internal body temperature when external conditions change. Heart conditions and heart medications can add to the problem. Older adults can protect themselves from heat ailments by taking standard precautions during hot weather and recognizing the early symptoms of ailments so they can seek immediate treatment.

Mosquito repellents that rely on certain natural substances may not be as effective when temperatures reach 90° or higher. For very hot weather, people may get better protection by using the synthetic repellent DEET.

Certain medications can leave people more vulnerable to heat-related effects or the sun's rays. The medications can raise the risk of dehydration, make people sweat too much or too little, impair the body's ability to regulate temperature, or raise the risk of getting a bad sunburn. In addition, higher temperatures may damage some medicines, including diuretics, blood pressure drugs, some antidepressants, thyroid replacement hormones, and some over-the-counter antihistamines.

The protein collagen supports skin, hair, nail, bone, joint, and muscle health. As people age, natural collagen production drops. Some early research suggests collagen supplements offer benefits, but people should ask their doctor about the pros and cons.

If possible, everyone should prepare for the possibility of needing support services or long-term care in older age, even if it’s not yet needed. Ways to prepare include designating a health care proxy and power of attorney; writing advance directives for health care preferences; investigating potential housing options (such as assisted living facilities) and support services (such as a health aide) well in advance; downsizing belongings, including one’s home; and meeting with a financial planner to figure out how to tackle caregiving expenses.

A bird flu strain that began circulating in 2020 continues to evolve globally and locally within the United States. If you're wondering what this means, understanding the basics — what bird flu is, how it spreads, whether foods are safe, and prevention tips — can help.