A Harvard study of over 159,000 people found that following any of six healthy diets—especially the DASH diet—was linked to significantly better cognitive function in later life, with the strongest benefits seen in those who were following a healthy diet in middle age.
A 2026 review of six studies found that people with diabetes or obesity taking GLP-1 medications were prone to developing a number of nutrient deficiencies, particularly in vitamin D, iron, and B vitamins.
A plant-forward, varied diet can help people manage gout. Other helpful steps are to lose weight if needed, stay hydrated, avoid overeating and excessive alcohol, and take medications as prescribed. Small, sustainable changes can mean fewer flares and better quality of life.
Osteoarthritis and musculoskeletal syndrome of menopause can involve overlapping symptoms. But arthritis pain tends to be concentrated in specific joints, while joint pain and achiness from musculoskeletal syndrome of menopause usually occurs in multiple joints and muscles at once.
Appetite tends to decline with age, but this can lead to unwanted weight loss and frailty. Tips to boost a weak appetite include eating smaller, more frequent meals; prioritizing protein; staying active; making meals social and pleasurable; and relaxing overly strict dietary rules.
Vonoprazan (Voquezna) is the first available drug in a new class of GERD medications called P-CABs, which block stomach acid more quickly and consistently than traditional treatments. For people with more severe symptoms who don’t improve with other treatments, P-CABs offer a helpful treatment option.
In January 2026, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services issued cervical cancer screening guidelines that, for the first time, include an option for women to perform an at-home human papillomavirus (HPV) test. HPV causes about 95% of cervical cancers.
Sleep architecture is the pattern and sequence of sleep cycles and stages. People cycle through four to six periods of light and deep sleep each night. Aging, stress, illness, and alcohol consumption can influence people’s sleep architecture.
People on a weight-loss regimen should aim to lose 1 to 2 pounds per week, which translates into eating 500 to 750 fewer calories each day than they expend. Losing weight faster often causes excess muscle loss and lowers metabolism, making it harder to burn fat.
A 2026 study suggested that helping care for grandchildren can offer cognitive benefits, helping older adults maintain stronger memory and language skills. Grandmothers who helped with childcare-related tasks also showed less overall cognitive decline over time than non-caregiving peers.