Exercise has many benefits later in life, of course – like increased flexibility, strength and endurance. It also has a way of bringing loved ones closer together, even in these times of physical distancing. Consider Michael Levitan, 78, of Philadelphia, who has found a workout buddy in his son, Eric, 49, who lives in Atlanta.
For people over 50 who know they should exercise but don’t, it’s always one thing after another. They say they don’t have the time. Or money. Or they’re too old… But none of that will keep you independent as you age. It won’t keep you strong enough to enjoy life on your own terms. And
What’s your No. 1 goal for fitness and healthy eating? If you’re like most people, it might be to lose weight. Or, more specifically, to lose fat. It’s possible after 50, for sure. Still, our metabolisms slow down as we get older, even as it becomes more important than ever to keep a healthy weight
The recent death of “Black Panther” star Chadwick Boseman has put colon cancer back in the news. The actor was just 42. But the disease is most common after age 50, according to the American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO). And the risk of colorectal cancer increases with age. Older adults with it face unique
Even before the coronavirus crisis, people over 60 were regularly targeted with hurtful prejudices about what they can do, what they should like, and how they should act. But now, the backlash has grown more disturbing than ever. Some have suggested that younger people get preferential medical treatment, or that “older” people be restricted from
If you’re like most people, dementia is one of your greatest fears about aging. By the year 2050, more than 152 million people around the world will have it, according to Alzheimer’s Disease International (ADI). And while there is no vaccine or cure, research that suggests exercise can reduce the risk or severity of Alzheimer’s
Seems like we’ve talked more about avoiding sickness this year than ever. We have all heard many times that we’re supposed to wash hands frequently, stay at a safe distance from other people, and wear masks in public. Don’t do this, we’re told. Don’t go there. But there’s an important part of disease prevention that
Everybody loves summer, right? Even this year, with so much of our routines disrupted, the sunshine and warm weather can lift our spirits and get us engaging in healthy living. Jogging, gardening, hiking, outdoor swimming… the options are endless with the longer days. Summer is also a good time to remind ourselves about some healthy
Obesity among older people is a growing problem in North America, Europe and the entire developed world. Now, amid the coronavirus crisis, it can complicate health even more for the millions of people who are overweight. But one woman in New York City – Ground Zero for Covid-19 in the United States – shows how
How many push-ups can you do? The question makes some people uncomfortable, bringing up memories of awkward PE classes back in school. But the answer could be helpful to getting or keeping you on track for a better future. Fitness pros have been discussing a new study that suggests push-ups can predict heart health. If