Health & Well-being

Lifelong Learning Reimagined—An Opportunity and Challenge

We need to ensure that added years can be lived joyfully and with dignity, and in a way that does not bankrupt individuals, families and society, while overwhelming our healthcare system.

US Masters Swimming thinks swimming is for everyone. And they're working to make that a reality for older adults across the country.

‘If I could make a change, it would be for this field to show more appreciation for what we do.’

'In 2019, 34 percent of workers were ages 50 and older, totaling almost 53 million workers.'

'About 60 percent of our study participants reported exposure to community violence—that’s two out of three patients.'

'I find I choose medication over food. And I need to take food with my medication. I try to balance, but I’m in between a hammer and a hard place.'

Two years ago, San Diego’s West Health, in partnership with the University of California San Diego Health launched a pilot study to better understand the challenges and opportunities in bringing telehealth to nursing homes and assisted living facilities. The aim was to connect residents with health system providers to proactively address their needs and help reduce“panic transfers” to the emergency room (ER).

COVID-19 has highlighted our health system’s shortfalls, but it has also galvanized policymakers into action to achieve meaningful change. Thoughtful policy recommendations must address underlying community-level factors that promote social and health disparities. 

Three new tech innovations that are helping support older adults during the COVID-19 pandemic

New app, designed by two college Northwestern University college students, streamlines communication between families of older adults and their caregivers, or between family members.

The time is ripe to consider housing for older adults and whether, generally, it aids social connection or prevents it. Architect Charles (Chuck) Durrett and gerontologist Alexandria Levitt likely have one solid answer.