In a new study, in the Netherlands, hand-grip strength was measured in 555 participants at age 85 and again at age 89. The researchers found that a weak handgrip at 85 and 89 years, and a greater decline in strength over time, were associated with an increased risk of death from all causes. They also concluded that the association between hand-grip strength and risk of death increases as people age. Learn more about how a simple test can increase longevity. 

In a recent study, researchers found that seniors who kept up with treatment for poor vision were 64% less likely to develop dementia. Vision loss in the elderly interferes with activities needed to maintain a healthy brain, including reading, board games, and regular exercise. Read more. . .

Healthy food and exercises play an important role in eye health. Learn which foods, supplements and exercises can keep your eyes healthy and which foods and “activities” you should avoid that may be harmful to your eyes.

In addition to improving balance and muscle strength, new studies show that tai chi when done regularly can enhance immune function and improve cardiovascular health and much more. Learn about the multiple benefits of tai chi.

To encourage seniors to exercise, outdoor playgrounds are popping up across Europe. And now London will be opening one. Seniors prefer working out outside as they aren’t intimated by well-toned bodies often seen at a gym or health club. These new activity areas also provide a means for seniors to socialize. Learn more about this new trend.

This device is a must for all elders who may be at risk of falling as it can detect falls and “call” for help. Unlike other in-home devices, Wellcore doesn’t require that the user press anything, it will automatically send a signal that the user has fallen. Additionally, the device can be worn even on the golf course and by using cell phone and GPS technology. If the user has fallen, emergency services will be sent to the location and an alert will be sent to designated caregivers and family members. Learn more about this amazing device.

There is no dispute that many herbs and supplements are safe and effective and can often provide relief with the unwanted side effects of prescription drugs. However, just as we need to be aware of drug-drug interactions, we also need to be cautious when taking certain drug-herb combinations. Even garlic, which seems so innocuous, can increase the risk of bleeding in people who take Warfarin, a blood thinner. Learn which combinations could be deadly.

The Tufts Food Guide Pyramid for Older Adults recommends that seniors drink 8 8-oz. glasses of water or other non-alcoholic drinks a day. They also suggest that seniors take supplements as they cannot get enough nutrients from food alone. Some of the challenges to eating well are loss of appetite, memory problems, poor dental health and the use of certain medications. Read more to learn what are the signs and symptoms that indicate that your loved one is not getting enough nutrients or is dehydrated and which foods are considered to be super foods.