Researchers Explore Why Women's Alzheimer's Risk Is Higher Than Men's
Scientists are gaining insights into why Alzheimer's is more common in women. The answer involves genetics, hormones and sex-related brain differences.
On Aging
Medicare Advantage Plans Overbill Taxpayers By Billions Annually, Records Show
The federal government wants to deploy several new tools for catching insurers that have overcharged Medicare $30 billion in the past three years alone. But the insurance industry is balking.
Simple Ways To Prevent Falls In Older Adults
Older adults are dying from falls at a higher rate today than 20 years ago. But you can take simple steps to improve balance, vision and alertness — and keep from falling.
Caregiving For A Loved One? How To Get The Help You Need
Your friends want to help you out when there's a family health crisis. But it can be overwhelming to manage the offers of support. Here's advice to help friends help you.
A Genetic Test That Reveals Alzheimer's Risk Can Be Cathartic Or Distressing
Genetic tests can now tell us a lot about our risk for developing Alzheimer's disease. But that doesn't mean people are prepared to receive the information.
HHS Inspector General Finds Serious Flaws In 20% Of U.S. Hospice Programs
Two new reports from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services have found widespread problems in hospice care and say the government needs to open its scorecards on hospice care to the public.
New Markers For Alzheimer's Disease Could Aid Diagnosis And Speed Up Drug Development
Researchers are using brain scans, blood and spinal fluid to detect early signs of Alzheimer's disease. These "biomarkers" may also offer a quicker way to test new Alzheimer's drugs.
A Clearer Map For Aging: 'Elderhood' Shows How Geriatricians Help Seniors Thrive
Physician Louise Aronson treats patients who are in their 60s — as well as those who are older than 100. She writes about changing approaches to elder health care in her book Elderhood.
Rural Health: Financial Insecurity Plagues Many Who Live With Disability
Having to come up with $1,000 unexpectedly can be a challenge for anyone. NPR's recent poll on rural health found that especially true for one group: people with disabilities.
Health Workers Still Aren't Alerting Police About Likely Elder Abuse, Reports Find
Workers in nursing homes, hospital ERs and other health facilities are required by law to notify police whenever they notice likely signs of physical or sexual abuse. But that's often not happening.