Source article: https://nypost.com/2025/09/11/health/prescription-drugs-linked-to-rise-in-fall-related-deaths-for-seniors/

The provided article from the New York Post, originally published by Fox News, discusses a potential link between prescription drugs and a rise in fall-related deaths among seniors. It highlights how the risk of death after a fall has significantly increased in the U.S. over the last three decades, with some experts attributing this trend to "fall risk-increasing drugs" (FRIDs). The text explains that these medications, which include opioids and antidepressants, can cause side effects like drowsiness, dizziness, and impaired balance, thereby increasing the likelihood of falls. While studies suggest a correlation, the article notes that more research is needed to establish direct causation, and emphasizes the importance of patients discussing the risks and benefits of medication with their primary care physician.

Source article: https://www.foxnews.com/tech/how-safeguard-your-credit-score-retirement-fraud-identity-theft-rise-among-seniors

This Fox News article, "How to safeguard your credit score in retirement as fraud and identity theft rise among seniors," emphasizes the critical importance of credit protection for retirees, who are frequent targets of financial scams. The piece outlines five key steps for safeguarding one's credit and retirement savings. These steps include regular credit monitoring, placing fraud alerts, implementing a credit freeze, and actively removing personal data from online data brokers. The article also advises on recognizing warning signs of identity theft to ensure prompt action.

Article source: https://www.cidrap.umn.edu/respiratory-syncytial-virus-rsv/rsv-vaccine-older-adults-92-protective-against-poor-outcomes-real

The provided text, originating from the University of Minnesota's Center for Infectious Disease Research & Policy (CIDRAP), primarily offers an overview of a real-world study estimating the effectiveness of the RSVpreF (Abrysvo) vaccine in adults aged 60 and older.

The study found the vaccine to be 92% effective against severe outcomes like emergency department visits or hospitalizations for respiratory illness, with effectiveness rising to 95% in those aged 75 and older.

It notes that this level of protection is higher than other current respiratory vaccines and suggests continued evaluation is needed, especially with pending recommendations for younger adults; however, it also reports that the uptake of the vaccine has been low.

Additionally, the source includes a section on related infectious disease news and information about CIDRAP, including its underwriters and contact details.

Source article: https://stories.tamu.edu/news/2025/07/29/nature-inspired-virtual-reality-boosts-emotional-well-being-in-older-adults-living-with-dementia/

This source describes a pilot study conducted by Texas A&M University exploring the benefits of nature-inspired virtual reality for older adults with dementia. The study found that regular VR sessions featuring natural landscapes significantly improved participants' emotional well-being, increasing positive emotions and decreasing negative ones like anxiety and sadness. While highlighting the therapeutic potential of immersive technology, the research also identified usability challenges with the VR headsets and controllers, suggesting a need for more age-friendly designs. Ultimately, the study concludes that virtual reality offers a promising avenue for enhancing the quality of life for individuals facing cognitive impairments.

These sources collectively discuss the profound impact of lighting and environmental design on human health and safety, particularly for older adults and patients. They highlight how Evidence-Based Design in healthcare can improve patient outcomes by incorporating natural light and views, while also addressing the negative effects of poor design like noise and lack of natural light on stress and healing. Several sources emphasize the critical role of appropriate illumination in maintaining circadian rhythms, which are often disrupted in older individuals due to age-related eye changes and insufficient light exposure, leading to issues like insomnia, depression, and increased fall risk. Finally, the texts explore practical applications, such as using pathway lighting to enhance safety during nighttime navigation for older adults and advocating for improved lighting and environmental features for both patients and healthcare staff to combat burnout and promote overall well-being.

Sources include:

https://www.dochitect.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/Anderson2018_Article_BricksAndMoralsHospitalBuildin.pdf

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC2582340/

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9520131/

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fall_prevention

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Falls_in_older_adults

https://discoverycommons.com/senior-living-blog/how-poor-quality-lighting-affects-seniors-overall-health/

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3711022/

https://www.caregivercloud.com/article.aspx?articleid=94

https://content.luceco.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/LU_BRCDOC_EN_20210302NH_CareHomeBrochure_compressed.pdf

http://shimberg.ufl.edu/publications/Lighting.Effects.on.Older.Adults.Visual.and.Nonvisual.Performance.A.Systematic.Review.pdf

Source article: https://news.blueshieldca.com/2025/07/28/july-is-dry-eye-awareness-month-5-ways-to-protect-your-vision-as-you-age

This Blue Shield of California news release highlights July as Dry Eye Awareness Month, offering five key strategies for older adults to safeguard their vision as they age. It explains how to identify dry eye symptoms and suggests practical changes, such as using humidifiers and avoiding direct airflow, to alleviate discomfort. The release emphasizes the importance of sun protection for eye health and recommends a nutrient-rich diet to support retinal function and slow age-related decline. Finally, it stresses the critical role of annual comprehensive eye exams for early detection and management of serious eye conditions.

Aging in place is much more than just remodeling a home, it's about dignity. And that's what I love about this beautiful article by Jamie Gold.

The article highlights eight key principles from the ASID report, such as designing for autonomy, alleviating isolation, and prioritizing connectivity, all aimed at creating homes that support independence, health, and well-being as individuals age. These design considerations are presented as crucial for both enhancing quality of life and potentially increasing property value, with recommendations for engaging real estate and design professionals knowledgeable in this specialized area.

Source: https://www.forbes.com/sites/jamiegold/2025/08/05/industry-reveals-8-timely-new-home-design-principles-for-older-adults/

Source article: https://www.aarp.org/personal-technology/using-tech-to-stay-connected/

This source, "Our Kids Are Hyper-Connected and We Can Be Too," published by AARP, explores how technology can be a powerful tool for combating social isolation among adults aged 50 and above. The article highlights various methods, such as connecting through online communities and forums, using audio messages for more personal communication, engaging in multiplayer games, and utilizing video calls and watch parties to maintain social connections. It also emphasizes the importance of exercising caution and awareness regarding online scams to ensure safety while interacting digitally. The overall message underscores technology's potential to foster relationships and improve the well-being of older adults.