Legendary TV creator and producer Norman Lear is almost 94, yet his schedule and public profile is as packed as ever. Now featured in a full length documentary, “Norman Lear: Just Another Version of You,” Lear is on a determined mission to produce a new show that highlights the challenges…

This happens more often than you may realize: an older hospitalized patient undergoes surgery, with no complications from the operation, but then is stricken with a dangerous bacteria that leaves her seriously ill with devastating gastrointestinal symptoms. The cause: Clostridium difficile, otherwise known as C. diff. Older hospital or nursing home…

In a small but exceptionally important study (for those of us who can’t live without chocolate), Portuguese researchers have found a link between long term regular chocolate consumption and a reduced risk of cognitive decline. Studying people over 65, these researchers determined that in the 309 people enrolled in the…

Recently the Scottish press announced that a 107 year old woman had died and donated her corneas, making her Scotland’s oldest organ donor. While this story is remarkable, in fact, organ donation programs worldwide regularly welcome and include older organ donors. Every year in the United States 8,000 people die…

The value of exercise for physical well-being is undisputed, and we now know it also helps ward off cognitive decline. As well, social interaction is invaluable for keeping you mentally sharp. Now researchers in Japan report that combining the two – exercise and socializing – is an ideal way to…

On screen, Dame Judi Dench often portrays unconventional and courageous older women. Apparently, her off screen persona is no different.  On the occasion of her 81st birthday, as a gift from her daughter, Dench received her first tattoo, with the age-appropriate “carpe diem” inscribed on her wrist. Older customers represent…