Monthly Archives: September 2025

Exploring the Role of Physical Frailty in Dementia Onset

A major new study has provided fresh insight into the connection between physical frailty and dementia, suggesting that frailty may not only be associated with, but could also contribute directly to, the development of the disease. The findings were published on September 17, 2025, in Neurology®, the medical journal of the American Academy of Neurology. This large-scale investigation strengthens the case for understanding frailty as more than a sign of general health decline and positions it as a possible risk factor for dementia itself.

Frailty, in medical terms, was defined in the study as the presence of at least three out of five key symptoms: persistent tiredness, low physical activity, slower walking speed, reduced grip strength, and unintended weight loss. These indicators have long been recognised as markers of physical decline, but the research team sought to explore whether they might also be linked to long-term cognitive changes. “We have known that frailty is tied to a higher risk of dementia,” explained lead author Yacong Bo, PhD, of Zhengzhou University in China. “Our study provides evidence that frailty may actually be a cause, though it is still possible that frailty represents early changes in the disease process.”

The research drew on health data from an impressive cohort of 489,573 participants, with an average age of 57, who were followed for approximately 14 years. Among these individuals, 4.6% were classified as frail, 43.9% fell into the “pre-frailty” category with one or two symptoms, and just over half—51.5%—showed no symptoms and were deemed not frail. Over the course of the study, 8,900 people went on to develop dementia. The rates varied noticeably by frailty status: 4.6% among the frail group, 2.2% among the pre-frail, and 1.3% among those with no frailty symptoms.

When the researchers accounted for other factors that influence dementia risk, such as age, education level, and physical activity, they found striking differences. Those classified as frail were nearly three times more likely to develop dementia than those without any symptoms. Pre-frailty also carried a significant risk, with affected individuals showing a 50% higher likelihood of developing dementia compared to their non-frail peers. Genetic factors added further weight: people who were frail and also carried dementia-related genes faced nearly four times the risk of dementia compared with those who had neither frailty nor genetic predisposition.

Notably, the data suggested that frailty may play a causal role rather than being a by-product of dementia. The researchers examined brain imaging and biological markers, discovering that frail participants were more likely to show structural brain changes linked to dementia. “These biomarkers may be the mechanism that connects frailty to dementia,” noted Bo. At the same time, the reverse relationship appeared weak, with evidence showing dementia did not significantly increase the likelihood of becoming frail.

The study highlights the importance of recognising and addressing frailty as a potential avenue for dementia prevention. Early identification of frailty, along with interventions that promote physical activity, adequate nutrition, and muscle strength, serves a dual purpose: protecting physical function and safeguarding brain health. The authors acknowledge some limitations, particularly that four of the five frailty symptoms were self-reported and could be subject to inaccuracies. Nevertheless, the findings lend significant weight to the growing body of evidence that maintaining physical resilience is essential for cognitive well-being in later life.

More information: Yacong Bo et al, Association of Frailty With Dementia and the Mediating Role of Brain Structure and Immunometabolic Signatures, Neurology. DOI: 10.1212/WNL.0000000000214199

Journal information: Neurology Provided by American Academy of Neurology

Loneliness remains disproportionately high for working-age adults with disabilities, new study finds

Leave a Reply

Working-age adults with disabilities experience far greater levels of loneliness than their peers without disabilities, according to a new study from researchers at Brown University’s School of Public Health and the Warren Alpert Medical School. The findings reveal that nearly one in three adults with disabilities between the ages of 18 and 64 reported persistent feelings of loneliness in a national survey, where participants were asked how often they felt a lack of companionship, left out, or isolated. Alarmingly, around two-thirds of respondents indicated that they frequently experienced severe loneliness, a burden that cut across all types of disability.

The study highlights an often-overlooked public health challenge. While loneliness is widely recognised as a risk factor for illness and premature mortality, there has been limited research examining how it affects people with disabilities, particularly those under the age of 65. The authors suggest that structural and social barriers, which restrict disabled people’s full participation in employment, community life and daily activities, likely intensify their susceptibility to loneliness. These constraints, they argue, may create conditions where isolation becomes not just a personal struggle but a systemic issue with profound health implications.

“Loneliness is known to be a risk factor for morbidity and mortality, but there is sparse research about loneliness among people with disabilities, especially in the age group of adults younger than 65,” said Melissa A. Clark, professor of health services, policy and practice, and director of the Survey, Qualitative and Applied Data (SQuAD) Research Core. “Our study calls attention to the need for further research focused on working-age adults with disabilities, both to characterise the factors driving their exceptionally high loneliness burden and to mitigate downstream health consequences.”

The study, published in Annals of Internal Medicine, analysed survey data from more than 3,800 working-age adults with disabilities who took part in the National Survey on Health and Disability. In one survey wave conducted between October 2019 and January 2020, 65% of respondents reported severe loneliness; in a second wave between October 2023 and February 2024, that number rose to 68%. The specific measures also revealed stark patterns: in the first and second waves, respectively, 30% and 33% reported often lacking companionship, 29% and 37% frequently felt left out, and 34% and 40% felt isolated.

These rates are dramatically higher than those observed in the broader population. Data from a nationally representative survey of more than 20,000 U.S. adults without disabilities found that only 8% reported frequently feeling left out or isolated, and just 10% said they often felt alone. Maggie Salinger, co-author of the study and assistant professor of medicine, explained: “We think people with disabilities may be predisposed to loneliness, since disability is a byproduct of social and structural barriers that restrict people’s access to full societal participation. We are worried that a disproportionately high degree of loneliness could compound the array of health disparities already known to affect people with disabilities.”

The authors conclude that addressing loneliness must be a priority within wider efforts to improve health equity for people with disabilities. Their findings suggest that public health strategies to tackle loneliness need to be not only broad in scope but also carefully adapted to reflect the diverse needs of people with different disability types. As Clark noted, “The loneliness crisis is already on public health officials’ radars. This study shows them how important it is to design loneliness interventions that are both accessible and tailored to people with varied disability types.”

More information: Maggie Salinger et al, Disproportionate Loneliness Burden Demonstrated in Two National Samples of Working-Age Adults With Varied Disability Types, Annals of Internal Medicine. DOI: 10.7326/ANNALS-25-00928

Journal information: Annals of Internal Medicine Provided by Brown University

Study finds retirement’s mental health boost not equally experienced

Leave a Reply

Retirement has long been imagined as a time of freedom and rest, but new research suggests the psychological benefits of leaving work are far from universal. A study led by the University of Edinburgh has found that the impact of retirement on mental wellbeing is shaped by factors such as income, job type, marital status, and the age at which people retire. While most individuals do experience a lift in mental health after stepping away from work, some groups face a far more uneven journey.

The analysis, which drew on surveys from 1,583 Dutch participants collected between 2007 and 2023, tracked people’s mental health across three phases: the years leading up to retirement, the transition itself, and the years afterwards. Using the Mental Health Inventory, which measures psychological wellbeing alongside symptoms of anxiety and depression, the researchers assessed changes across an average retirement age of 66 to 67. The findings reveal that not only does retirement affect individuals differently, but its benefits may also fade with time.

Low-income retirees reported the poorest outcomes overall. Although their mental health improved when they first left work, these gains were short-lived, with many experiencing a decline around two and a half years into retirement. People on average incomes saw more substantial improvements in wellbeing before retirement and modest gains afterwards, though those in physically demanding jobs consistently fared worse than their peers. High-income earners showed little change in their mental health before leaving work but experienced a sharp boost once they retired; however, those who prolonged their careers experienced slower improvements, suggesting that delayed retirement may blunt its mental health benefits.

Beyond income and occupation, social and demographic factors played a significant role. Women, unmarried individuals, and those on low incomes at the point of retirement all reported substantially lower mental health scores compared with other groups. These disparities highlight how retirement is intertwined with broader social inequalities, influencing the extent to which people can enjoy later life.

The study is among the first to evaluate retirement as a process rather than a single moment, offering insights into how wellbeing evolves. Following people across a span of more than a decade highlights the complex interplay between financial security, job conditions, personal circumstances, and the timing of retirement. Importantly, it shows that mental health trajectories can diverge sharply depending on the resources and resilience individuals bring with them into this new stage of life.

Researchers argue that these findings carry important implications for policymakers. Targeted interventions help address the risks faced by vulnerable groups, particularly those with low incomes or high job demands, who are less likely to experience lasting benefits from retirement. As populations continue to age and debates over raising retirement ages intensify, understanding these differences will be crucial in ensuring that the rewards of retirement are more evenly shared.

More information: Xuefei Li et al, Mental health trajectories surrounding retirement: A longitudinal perspective, SSM – Mental Health. DOI: 10.1016/j.ssmmh.2025.100470

Journal information: SSM – Mental Health Provided by University of Edinburgh

FAU study finds lifestyle changes can slow cognitive decline

Leave a Reply

An estimated 7.2 million Americans over the age of 65 are currently living with Alzheimer’s disease (AD). By 2060, that figure is projected to rise to nearly 13.8 million. These stark numbers reflect more than just demographic ageing; they signal a public health emergency that calls for urgent, proactive responses. While advancing age is the strongest predictor of cognitive decline, research has shown that losing cognitive function is not an unavoidable part of the ageing process.

As the prevalence of Alzheimer’s and related dementias grows at an alarming pace, researchers from Florida Atlantic University’s Charles E. Schmidt College of Medicine argue that prevention strategies must move beyond reliance on pharmacological treatments. In a recent commentary published in The American Journal of Medicine, authors call on clinicians, policymakers, and public health leaders to embrace lifestyle-based interventions as an underutilised yet powerful means of reducing the burden of cognitive decline, both in the United States and globally.

Charles H. Hennekens, M.D., co-author of the commentary and the First Sir Richard Doll Professor of Medicine and Preventive Medicine, highlighted the urgency of this approach: “While deaths from cardiovascular disease have declined since 2000, deaths from Alzheimer’s disease have surged by more than 140%. At the same time, it is estimated that as much as 45% of dementia risk may be linked to modifiable lifestyle and environmental factors.” His point underscores how small but widespread behavioural changes could have profound effects on population health.

The commentary stresses that lifestyle factors—such as physical inactivity, poor diet, obesity, alcohol use, hypertension, diabetes, depression, and social or intellectual isolation—play a pivotal role in determining dementia risk. The authors note that the very same therapeutic lifestyle changes already proven to reduce cardiovascular disease, cancer and other chronic illnesses may also improve brain health, and that when multiple risks are targeted simultaneously, their combined impact can be substantial.

Robust scientific evidence supports this view. The researchers highlight the POINTER trial, the first large-scale U.S.-based randomised study to evaluate lifestyle changes in older adults at elevated risk of cognitive decline. Participants who engaged in a structured programme—incorporating regular exercise, a hybrid Mediterranean–DASH diet, cognitive training, and social engagement—showed clinically meaningful improvements in global cognition over two years. Gains were particularly evident in executive functions, including memory, attention, and decision-making.

These findings closely align with the results from the Finnish FINGER trial, which also demonstrated that multidomain lifestyle interventions can improve cognitive outcomes in at-risk populations. Together, the two studies provide compelling evidence that the same strategies known to protect the heart and reduce cancer risk may also preserve brain function. According to Hennekens, these results suggest that lifestyle changes can be a “transformative” tool for brain health.

The biological mechanisms underpinning these benefits are increasingly well understood. Exercise stimulates the release of brain-derived neurotrophic factor, which promotes hippocampal growth, while also enhancing blood flow and reducing inflammation. Healthy dietary patterns lower oxidative stress and improve insulin sensitivity, while quitting smoking helps preserve the structural integrity of the brain. Regular social interaction and cognitive activity enhance neuroplasticity, thereby building resilience against cognitive decline. These mechanisms provide a clear scientific rationale for why lifestyle interventions can be so effective.

Finally, the implications for policy, health systems and society are profound. Pharmacological treatments for dementia are costly, often offer modest benefits, and may cause side effects ranging from headaches to serious complications. In contrast, lifestyle interventions are low-risk, cost-effective and broadly beneficial. Modelling studies suggest that reducing key risk factors by even 10% to 20% each decade could cut the burden of cognitive decline by up to 15%. With the societal cost of dementia care already exceeding $400 billion annually in the United States alone, the researchers argue that investing in preventive, lifestyle-focused strategies represents one of the most powerful tools available to mitigate the personal and economic toll of cognitive decline.

More information: John Dunn et al, Prospects for Clinicians to Reduce Cognitive Decline in Elderly Patients, The American Journal of Medicine. DOI: 10.1016/j.amjmed.2025.08.042

Journal information: The American Journal of Medicine Provided by Florida Atlantic University

Brain shunts deliver major benefits for older adults with hydrocephalus, UCalgary researchers report

Leave a Reply

When Jill Knaus arrived at the Adult Hydrocephalus Program at the University of Calgary, she was desperate for answers. Once active and independent, she suddenly needed a cane or walker to move about safely. Her gait had become unsteady, her balance unreliable, and her quality of life had deteriorated. “I wasn’t walking anymore, not properly. I wore through five pairs of shoes because my feet were dragging when I tried to step,” she recalls. “I couldn’t go for daily walks with my dog, Lucy.”

Worried about falling, Knaus reluctantly made the difficult decision to move into an assisted living facility. At 79, she felt the move had come far too soon, but she wanted the reassurance that someone would be nearby if she needed help. Her experience mirrors that of many older adults who unknowingly live with idiopathic Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus (iNPH), a brain condition often mistaken for normal ageing.

Dr Mark Hamilton, Director of the Calgary Adult Hydrocephalus Program at the Cumming School of Medicine, explains that iNPH occurs when cerebrospinal fluid builds up in the brain’s ventricles. The condition causes problems with walking and balance, cognitive decline, and bladder difficulties. Unlike other forms of hydrocephalus, which may be caused by trauma or bleeding, iNPH has no known cause. It affects about 1.5 per cent of people in their late sixties and nearly 8 per cent of those in their mid-eighties. Left untreated, it can strip away independence, increase the risk of falls, and lead to severe disability or premature death.

For years, uncertainty surrounded treatment. Many neurologists and neurosurgeons questioned whether shunt surgery—a procedure in which a small tube diverts excess fluid from the brain—was truly effective. A groundbreaking international trial has now put an end to that debate. Published in the New England Journal of Medicine, the double-blind, randomised, placebo-controlled study found that patients who received an active shunt experienced remarkable improvements in walking speed and balance after just three months. The results were so compelling that the trial was halted early.

“Completing this randomised clinical trial was necessary because many specialists were unsure whether shunts could effectively treat iNPH, which meant patients were often denied diagnosis and care,” says Hamilton, who is also a neurosurgeon at the Foothills Medical Centre and one of the study’s principal investigators. “Now, there is no doubt. Shunt surgery for iNPH improves mobility, reduces falls, and restores independence. It is both safe and effective.” Conducted at 17 centres in Canada, the United States, and Sweden, the trial showed that 80 per cent of the 49 participants with open shunts had significant clinical improvements. At the same time, those in the placebo group saw little or no change.

Although she was not part of the study, Knaus underwent shunt surgery in 2024 and has felt the benefits first-hand. “I’m walking my dog again up to four times a day without the use of a cane or walker. I’ve lost 20 pounds,” she says. “I feel much younger and happier. I’ve got my life back.”

More information: Mark Hamilton et al, A Randomized Trial of Shunting for Idiopathic Normal-Pressure Hydrocephalus, New England Journal of Medicine. DOI: 10.1056/NEJMoa2503109

Journal information: New England Journal of Medicine Provided by University of Calgary

Bone health at risk from microplastics

Leave a Reply

The global reliance on plastic has reached staggering proportions, with more than 400 million tonnes produced annually. This immense volume has left an indelible mark on the planet’s ecosystems, contaminating not only beaches and rivers but also the remotest regions of the ocean, where traces of plastic have been detected as deep as 11,000 metres. Beyond the visible scars on landscapes and waterways, plastic production is also a significant contributor to climate change. Current estimates suggest that the manufacturing of plastic alone releases around 1.8 billion tonnes of greenhouse gases into the atmosphere each year, compounding environmental crises. At the same time, a growing body of scientific evidence indicates the pervasive impact of plastics on human health, suggesting that exposure is far more intimate and insidious than previously imagined.

Every day life exposes people to countless invisible particles that detach from common household items, such as curtains, furniture, textiles, and packaging. These microplastic fragments do not simply vanish; instead, they circulate in the air, dissolve into drinking water, adhere to food surfaces, and settle into dust, making them easily inhaled, ingested, or absorbed through the skin. Researchers have detected microplastics in some of the most sensitive areas of the human body, including blood, the brain, the placenta, breast milk, and, more recently, within bone tissue. These discoveries underscore the fact that plastic is not only an environmental pollutant but also a potential internal contaminant, capable of infiltrating human physiology in ways that are still being uncovered.

A recent review published in Osteoporosis International, linked to a project funded by FAPESP, examined 62 scientific studies to assess the relationship between microplastics and bone health. The review highlighted mounting evidence that plastic particles compromise skeletal integrity through multiple mechanisms. One of the most striking findings concerns their effect on bone marrow stem cells. Microplastics appear to stimulate the overproduction of osteoclasts—large, multinucleated cells that degrade bone tissue in a process called resorption. This disruption in cellular balance has significant implications for maintaining healthy bone density and strength.

Rodrigo Bueno de Oliveira, coordinator of the Laboratory for Mineral and Bone Studies in Nephrology (LEMON) at the Faculty of Medical Sciences of the State University of Campinas (FCM-UNICAMP), explains that the risks cannot be dismissed. “In vitro studies with bone tissue cells have shown that microplastics impair cell viability, accelerate ageing, and interfere with differentiation, in addition to triggering inflammatory responses,” he notes. These findings underscore the notion that microplastics, although tiny, have the capacity to disrupt essential cellular processes and promote tissue decline prematurely.

Animal research adds another dimension to this concern. Oliveira points to studies in which accelerated osteoclast senescence—driven by the presence of microplastics—has undermined bone microarchitecture, leading to dysplasia. Such changes are not merely structural curiosities; they manifest in weaker bones, greater susceptibility to deformities, and in severe cases, pathological fractures. In one particularly troubling outcome, exposure to microplastics appeared to halt skeletal growth altogether in laboratory animals. Although the exact ways in which these particles compromise bone mechanics remain under investigation, there is an increasing consensus that their presence in the bloodstream and marrow can profoundly disturb bone metabolism.

These findings have spurred Oliveira’s team to embark on a new research project designed to test in practice what current theory strongly suggests: a link between microplastic exposure and the exacerbation of metabolic bone diseases. Using animal models, the group aims to investigate the impact of microplastics on the strength of femurs in rodents, to establish a clear relationship between exposure and compromised skeletal integrity. Such investigations take on particular urgency given the rising global burden of osteoporosis. According to the International Osteoporosis Foundation, fractures related to the disease are projected to increase by 32% by 2050, mainly driven by the world’s ageing population.

As Oliveira stresses, improving bone health is a fundamental priority in healthcare. Strategies such as exercise, balanced nutrition, and pharmacological treatments already play a well-documented role in preventing fractures and maintaining mobility. Yet, while osteometabolic diseases have long been the focus of medical research, the environmental dimension—specifically the influence of microplastics—remains a glaring gap in scientific understanding. “Our goal,” Oliveira explains, “is to generate evidence that highlights microplastics as a potentially controllable environmental factor in the growing burden of bone fractures. If we can demonstrate a direct link, it could transform how we think about prevention and public health policy.”

More information: Rodrigo Bueno de Oliveira et al, Effects of microplastics on the bones: a comprehensive review, Osteoporosis International. DOI: 10.1007/s00198-025-07580-4

Journal information: Osteoporosis International Provided by Fundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo

Groundbreaking research shows seniors can bounce back to wellness

Leave a Reply

A new Canadian study is delivering a hopeful message to older adults and those who care for them: it is never too late to recover. Researchers at the University of Toronto have found that almost one in four adults aged 60 or older, who began a national study reporting poor well-being due to health problems, pain, low mood, or social isolation, were able to achieve optimal well-being within just three years. This remarkable rebound challenges conventional assumptions about ageing and offers fresh insight into resilience later in life.

Lead author Mabel Ho, a recent doctoral graduate from the University of Toronto’s Factor-Inwentash Faculty of Social Work (FIFSW) and the Institute for Life Course and Aging, emphasised the practical importance of the findings. “This isn’t just a story of resilience—it’s a roadmap for how we can help more older adults recover and thrive,” she said. “Our results highlight the powerful role that lifestyle choices and psychosocial supports can play in shaping healthy ageing trajectories.”

For the study, “optimal well-being” was defined as more than the absence of illness. Participants had to be free from severe physical, cognitive, mental, or emotional problems that interfered with daily life, while also reporting strong physical health, happiness, mental wellness, and life satisfaction. Notably, the study focused only on those who began in suboptimal health, allowing the researchers to examine the extent of improvement over time.

The findings revealed that certain factors significantly increased the likelihood of recovery. Participants who reported strong psychological and emotional wellness at the outset were more than five times as likely to achieve optimal well-being as those struggling with poor psychological health. Other characteristics associated with recovery included maintaining a healthy body weight, exercising regularly, avoiding insomnia, refraining from smoking, and participating in social activities. Together, these findings show the importance of both physical and social health in promoting recovery.

“It’s incredibly encouraging to see that with the right supports and lifestyle, many older adults can reclaim full health, happiness, and independence—even after serious challenges,” said Ho. Senior author Esme Fuller-Thomson, Director of the Institute for Life Course and Aging and Professor at the FIFSW, added: “Too often, the focus in ageing research and geriatric practice is on decline and disability. Our findings disrupt that narrative. Older adults can and do bounce back—and we need to build systems that support recovery.”

Published this week in PLOS One, the study analysed data from 8,332 respondents who were aged 60 and older at the time of follow-up. For Ho, the implications extend beyond statistics: “We want this study to reshape how society views ageing. With the right resources and supports, older adults don’t just endure after experiencing poor health or well-being—they thrive.”

More information: Mabel Ho, Esme Fuller-Thomson, Reclaiming wellness: Key factors in restoring optimal well-being in the Canadian Longitudinal Study on Aging, PLOS One. DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0329800

Journal information: PLOS One Provided by University of Toronto

Scientists Uncover Protein That Ages the Brain, Along with a Way to Stop It

Leave a Reply

Ageing is notoriously unkind to the hippocampus, the region of the brain that underpins our ability to learn, store memories, and recall past experiences. Over time, this critical structure begins to weaken, leading to forgetfulness and cognitive decline, which are often associated with the ageing process. Now, researchers at UC San Francisco believe they have uncovered one of the central drivers of this process. In a study recently published in Nature Aging, the team identified a single protein that seems to accelerate the brain’s decline — and, remarkably, showed that reducing it can restore youthful function in aged mice.

The discovery emerged from a careful analysis of the genes and proteins expressed in the hippocampus across the lifespan of mice. Amidst the thousands of potential candidates, the scientists found just one that consistently differed between young and old animals: a protein known as FTL1. In older mice, levels of FTL1 were markedly higher, and this increase coincided with a noticeable reduction in the number of synaptic connections between hippocampal neurons. Behaviourally, these animals also demonstrated poorer performance in tasks designed to measure learning and memory, suggesting that the elevated FTL1 was more than a bystander — it was actively shaping how the brain functioned.

The researchers then tested this link directly by manipulating FTL1 levels. When they artificially elevated FTL1 in young mice, the consequences were swift and dramatic: the animals’ brains began to exhibit the same cellular deterioration observed in their elderly counterparts, and their behaviour shifted accordingly. In laboratory dishes, neurons engineered to overproduce FTL1 sprouted only rudimentary, single-armed neurites rather than the complex branching structures that typically allow cells to form robust networks. These findings strongly suggested that excessive FTL1 undermines the brain’s ability to build and maintain the connections that underpin memory and learning.

Perhaps the most exciting results, however, came from the opposite experiment. When FTL1 levels were reduced in the hippocampus of old mice, their brains appeared to revert to a younger state. The animals regained synaptic density, their neurons formed healthier networks, and they performed much better on memory tests. “It is truly a reversal of impairments,” said Saul Villeda, PhD, associate director of the UCSF Bakar Aging Research Institute and senior author of the study. “It’s much more than merely delaying or preventing symptoms.” Further experiments revealed another damaging effect of FTL1: in older brains, it slowed cellular metabolism. But when scientists treated the hippocampal cells with a compound that stimulates metabolism, they were able to block these harmful consequences.

For Villeda and his team, the findings point toward a new frontier in the biology of ageing. Suppose therapies can be developed to limit the effects of FTL1 in the human brain. In that case, it may one day preserve memory and learning well into old age, or even restore these abilities after decline has begun. “We’re seeing more opportunities to alleviate the worst consequences of old age,” Villeda explained. “It’s a hopeful time to be working on the biology of ageing.” While the research is still in its early stages, the notion that a single protein could be targeted to reverse age-related impairments offers a powerful sense of optimism about what the future of neuroscience might hold.

More information: Laura Remesal et al, Targeting iron-associated protein Ftl1 in the brain of old mice improves age-related cognitive impairment, Nature Aging. DOI: 10.1038/s43587-025-00940-z

Journal information: Nature Aging Provided by University of California – San Francisco

Lost Bearings: How Errors in the Brain’s Compass Heighten Dementia Risk

Leave a Reply

Researchers at the German Centre for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE) have discovered that people at higher risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease may struggle with spatial orientation, even when their memory seems normal in standard tests. In a study of just over 100 older adults, participants were asked to find their position in a virtual environment. Those who reported subjective cognitive decline (SCD)—a condition where individuals feel their memory is worsening despite normal test results—performed worse in orientation tasks compared with healthy controls. These findings, published in Science Advances, point towards new methods that may detect the earliest changes linked to Alzheimer’s.

Subjective cognitive decline has become an essential focus in dementia research. Although conventional memory and thinking tests do not show impairment, people with SCD often go on to develop Alzheimer’s dementia later in life. Professor Thomas Wolbers, who led the study in Magdeburg, explained that SCD may represent a preclinical stage of Alzheimer’s. Because the entorhinal cortex—the brain region housing our “internal compass”—is one of the first areas affected by the disease, researchers believe spatial orientation tasks may provide a more sensitive way of spotting early warning signs.

To test this theory, scientists designed a novel experiment in virtual reality. Participants aged between 55 and 89 walked in real space while wearing VR headsets that displayed a featureless digital plain. With no visual landmarks, they had to rely entirely on their brain’s navigation system, a process called “path integration.” In each trial, they followed a moving ball along a curved path, then were asked to point back to their starting position and align themselves with their original direction. Each person completed around 70 trials, producing a large dataset of orientation performance.

The results showed that, while ageing in general led to more errors, individuals with SCD performed consistently worse than those without it. Importantly, their difficulties could not be explained by walking speed or posture; instead, the errors were linked to cognitive processing. Mathematical modelling of the data revealed that people with SCD had particular problems keeping track of their previous positions in memory—a “memory leak” that disrupted their ability to stay oriented. Researchers suspect this is tied to dysfunction in the entorhinal cortex.

This brain region contains specialised “grid cells” that act like a coordinate system, storing a sequence of past positions and allowing us to keep track of where we are. If these cells are disrupted, as often happens in the early stages of Alzheimer’s, the ability to integrate paths becomes impaired. The DZNE team believe that testing for such subtle navigation errors could be a valuable new tool for early detection. Unlike conventional memory tests, orientation tasks may be sensitive to brain changes long before dementia symptoms appear.

Looking ahead, the researchers plan to refine their virtual reality test so it can be used in clinical trials and routine medical practice. For example, path integration could provide an additional measure when assessing the impact of experimental Alzheimer’s drugs, offering a more detailed picture of how treatments affect the brain. In the future, these methods may be combined with biomarkers from blood or spinal fluid to create highly accurate early diagnostic tools. Ultimately, the hope is that identifying Alzheimer’s at its earliest stage will open the door to more effective interventions and better outcomes for patients.

More information: Thomas Wolbers et al, Path integration impairments reveal early cognitive changes in subjective cognitive decline, Science Advances. DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.adw6404

Journal information: Science Advances Provided by DZNE – German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases

Fresh insights reveal how dietary cues influence the biology of ageing

Leave a Reply

Diet is not merely a source of fuel for the body; it also delivers molecular signals that can either slow or hasten the pace of biological ageing, according to a new perspective published in npj Aging (Nature Portfolio). The authors emphasise that biological age—a marker of functional health—often diverges significantly from chronological age. With carefully chosen nutritional and lifestyle interventions, it may be possible to redirect this trajectory towards healthier, more resilient ageing.

“Nutrition is one of the most powerful levers we have to influence the rate of biological ageing and to strengthen our defences against chronic disease,” explains Professor Carsten Carlberg of the University of Eastern Finland. “The aim is to move beyond generic dietary advice and towards personalised strategies that can demonstrably shift biological age.”

Drawing on recent research, the article argues that daily choices around diet, physical activity, sleep, and social connection can effectively “bend the ageing curve.” Individuals who age optimally sustain a biological age younger than their chronological age, while unhealthy lifestyles accelerate decline and raise the risk of disease. Food, the authors note, contains thousands of bioactive compounds that act as molecular messengers. Although many of these are already recognised, a vast “nutrition dark matter” remains—over 139,000 largely uncharacterised compounds that may hold untapped potential for modulating critical ageing pathways.

Tracking biological age has become feasible through the use of ageing clocks—computational models based on biomarkers such as epigenetic signatures, proteomic patterns, or the composition of the microbiome. The article reviews different clocks and their relevance for healthy ageing research. For instance, risk-predictive tools like GrimAge provide valuable insight into interventions that might slow biological decline, offering a pathway for monitoring dietary and lifestyle strategies.

Despite advances in molecular science, the authors stress that whole dietary patterns remain the most effective foundation for longevity. Plant-rich diets such as the Mediterranean, AHEI, and DASH models have consistently been linked with improved odds of healthy ageing, including the preservation of cognitive, physical, and psychological function well into later life. Central to these benefits is the gut microbiome, which is profoundly shaped by diet and, in turn, influences inflammation, circadian rhythms, and immune resilience. This makes the microbiome a critical target for precision nutritional strategies. “Think of this as precision geroprevention,” says Carlberg. “With robust biomarkers and supportive policies, we can help people make daily food choices that keep their biological age consistently below their chronological age.”

The authors conclude with a call to action. As global populations age, preventive approaches are becoming ever more urgent. To translate scientific progress into public health impact, they highlight the need for three key steps: first, the validation and standardisation of ageing biomarkers; second, comprehensive mapping of food-derived bioactives and their molecular targets; and third, the creation of partnerships across sectors to embed precision nutrition into clinical care, community practice, and health policy. They also point to initiatives such as the Biomarkers of Aging Consortium and the EIT Food Healthy Ageing Think & Do Tank, which are driving forward the translation of laboratory discoveries into practical solutions for healthier, longer lives.

More information: Carsten Carlberg et al, Modulating biological aging with food-derived signals: a systems and precision nutrition perspective, npj Aging. DOI: 10.1038/s41514-025-00266-5

Journal information: npj Aging Provided by University of Eastern Finland

Outdoor workouts surpass the benefits of exercising in cities or gyms

Leave a Reply

A growing body of evidence suggests that where we exercise matters just as much as how we exercise. A recent study from the University of Copenhagen, in collaboration with the University of Verona, has revealed that walking in natural settings produces superior health benefits compared with identical activity carried out in city streets or indoor gyms. These findings not only enhance our understanding of how the environment influences physical activity but also offer valuable insights for improving public health and urban planning.

The research team asked twenty-five young men to take part in a controlled experiment, where each was required to walk at a brisk but consistent pace across three distinct environments: a natural area, an urban route, and an indoor fitness centre. Following each walk, participants’ moods, stress levels, and physical exertion were measured. The results highlighted striking differences. Walking in green surroundings led to more relaxed states, reduced cortisol levels, greater enjoyment, and lower fatigue, while city and indoor walks were far less effective in producing these outcomes.

Associate Professor Stefano De Dominicis, from the Department of Nutrition, Exercise and Sports at the University of Copenhagen, explained that the participants consistently felt more positive and less stressed after time in nature. This effect was not only visible in their self-reported experiences but also confirmed through physiological data. The study stands out because it is among the first to combine both subjective and objective measures to compare natural, urban, and indoor exercise environments.

The mental health benefits of exercising in green spaces were particularly striking. Participants rated natural environments as the most restorative and uplifting, reporting higher levels of joy, satisfaction, and optimism. Conversely, negative emotions such as boredom, irritation, and anxiety were significantly reduced in nature. Interestingly, feelings of boredom actually increased during indoor exercise, while they decreased in natural settings. The sense of calm reported was also greatest outdoors and weakest indoors, reinforcing the idea that nature supports psychological recovery in ways that artificial environments cannot.

These findings reflect a more profound evolutionary truth. As De Dominicis points out, humans evolved in natural environments, and our brains remain finely attuned to them. It is therefore unsurprising that time in nature continues to provide such profound benefits. What makes this study particularly compelling, however, is the participants’ expressed desire to repeat the activity. They were far more motivated to walk again when the exercise took place outdoors, suggesting that nature not only boosts mood in the short term but also sustains long-term commitment to physical activity.

Physiological measures supported these observations. Heart rates dropped more rapidly following outdoor walks, and heart rate variability—a measure of how well the body engages its parasympathetic “rest and recover” system—was 20 to 30 per cent higher compared with indoor exercise. These results demonstrate that nature helps the body return to balance more efficiently, further underscoring the restorative power of green environments. Although gyms and indoor activities provide valuable benefits, particularly through social interaction and accessibility, the evidence suggests that even occasional shifts outdoors can make a meaningful difference.

From a practical perspective, the researchers recommend incorporating nature into exercise routines at least once a week. Replacing just one indoor session with thirty minutes of brisk walking in a park, forest, or along the coast could significantly reduce stress levels, improve mood, and encourage more consistent engagement in physical activity. For those struggling to establish regular exercise habits, outdoor environments may provide the extra motivation needed to begin and maintain healthier routines.

Finally, the study highlights broader implications for public health and urban design. By showing that participants’ subjective experiences are backed up by physiological evidence, the research emphasises the importance of green spaces not only for recreation but also as tools for health promotion. Municipalities and health professionals could therefore consider prioritising parks, trails, and accessible natural spaces as part of strategies to tackle issues such as obesity, stress, and mental illness. In a world increasingly defined by urbanisation, these findings remind us that nature is not a luxury but a vital component of human health and well-being.

More information: Luca Laezza et al, Evaluating the benefits of green exercise: A randomized controlled trial in natural and built environments assessed for their restorative properties, Psychology of Sport and Exercise. DOI: 10.1016/j.psychsport.2025.102883

Journal information: Psychology of Sport and Exercise Provided by University of Copenhagen

Why meal timing matters for healthy ageing and longevity

Leave a Reply

As people grow older, both the type and quantity of food they eat often change. Yet one dimension of eating behaviour—when meals are consumed—remains less well understood. A new study led by researchers at Mass General Brigham has shed light on this question, revealing that meal timing gradually shifts with age and that these changes may carry significant implications for health and survival. The findings, published in Communications Medicine, suggest that specific patterns of eating are linked to increased risk of illness and even earlier death.

The research team, led by Hassan Dashti, PhD, RD, a nutrition scientist and circadian biologist at Massachusetts General Hospital, discovered that monitoring mealtime habits, particularly breakfast timing, may provide an accessible marker of overall health in older adults. “Our research suggests that changes in when older adults eat, especially the timing of breakfast, could serve as an easy-to-monitor marker of their overall health status,” said Dashti. “Patients and clinicians can possibly use shifts in mealtime routines as an early warning sign to look into underlying physical and mental health issues. Encouraging consistency in meal schedules could also be an important part of strategies to promote healthy ageing and longevity.”

Dashti and colleagues—including senior author Altug Didikoglu, MSc, PhD, of the Izmir Institute of Technology—set out to determine whether evolving patterns of meal timing might signal, or even shape, health outcomes later in life. Drawing on data from 2,945 community-dwelling adults in the UK, aged 42 to 94 and followed for more than two decades, the researchers tracked both eating behaviours and health status. They found that, with advancing age, people tend to eat breakfast and dinner at progressively later hours, while also reducing the overall length of their daily eating window.

The timing of breakfast, in particular, proved to be revealing. Later breakfasts were consistently associated with poorer health outcomes, including depression, fatigue, sleep disturbances and oral health problems. Difficulty preparing meals was also linked with delayed eating. Most strikingly, individuals who shifted their breakfast later into the day faced a higher risk of death during the follow-up period. Genetic predisposition also played a role: those with traits associated with being “night owls” tended to adopt later mealtime schedules.

Until now, little was known about how meal timing evolves in later life or how such shifts relate to long-term health. According to Dashti, these results fill a significant gap. “Our findings help show that later meal timing, especially delayed breakfast, is tied to both health challenges and increased mortality risk in older adults. These results add new meaning to the saying that ‘breakfast is the most important meal of the day,’ particularly for older individuals.”

The implications are especially timely, given the growing interest in time-restricted eating and intermittent fasting. While these approaches have shown promise in younger populations, the study suggests that shifting meals to later in the day may have very different consequences for older adults. In other words, dietary strategies cannot be applied uniformly across age groups: the health effects of when we eat appear to change as we age, highlighting the need for age-specific recommendations around meal timing.

More information: Hassan Dashti et al, Meal timing trajectories in older adults and their associations with morbidity, genetic profiles, and mortality, Communications Medicine. DOI: 10.1038/s43856-025-01035-x

Journal information: Communications Medicine Provided by Mass General Brigham