Runners May Age Slower

Despite our differences we do have at least one thing in common; our desire to age slower and remain active as we age. A new study found that runners live active lives longer and are half as likely to die early compared to non-runners. 

Dr. James Fries and his team of researchers followed 500 runners who were over the age of 50 for 20 years. During this period 34 percent of non-runners in a similar group died compared to 19 percent of runners. The researchers also found that the appearance of disabilities came, on average, 16 years later for those who ran. The runner group also exhibited fewer early deaths from cancer, neurological disease, and infections. They also prolonged the onset of cardiovascular diseases.   

The take away: It's possible to live longer and live well if you're willing to put in some miles and invest in sneakers. 

Don't Forget to Exercise

If you don't enjoy exercise the following post may not be good news; if you do enjoy a good sweat read on. Exercise may improve memory. Scientists at the University of Melbourne found that adults with mild memory problems may experience memory improvement by exercising. The scientists focused on a group of 138 volunteers over the age of 50. The people who participated in home-based exercise demonstrated modest cognitive improvement. The study suggests physical activity may delay or offset mental decline. 

 

(Originally reported by the BBC.)

A Stop to Aging

Living longer is one thing, but staying young is another. A  U.S. team of scientists may have found a way to keep us young as our bodies grow old. The research team has discovered genetic triggers that control a cell's ability to clean-up faulty proteins. When we are young the clean-up process happens more smoothly and efficiently but as we grow older the process of recycling worn out protein slows. This contributes to major organs failing and diseases associated with aging. The scientists were able to slow the aging process in older mice by triggering the systems within cells that do the clean up. After more research and studies scientists may be able to stimulate this process in humans and curb aging. 

(Originally reported by the BBC.) 

Seniors Have More Sex

Getting older just got better, especially if you hope to get laid. A recent Swedish study reported that the sex lives of seniors have improved over the last three decades. The study mirrors those done in the United States, which also indicate that seniors are having more and better sex.

The study tracked 1,500 seniors since 1970. The participants were 70 years 0ld at the time they were interviewed. Through these interviews researchers discovered that today's seniors are having more sex than their counterparts 30 years earlier. Today's seniors also have more positive attitudes toward sex. Both married and unmarried seniors have more sex.

With this news in mind retirement homes and assisted living facilities will have to start stocking condoms!

(Originally reported by The New York Times.)