Kevin Malutinok, an experienced airplane pilot and mechanic, has founded Strategic Air Services (SAS), a comprehensive aircraft management facility located at the Spirit of St. Louis Airport in Chesterfield. Opened in 2020 with Steven Tilley, SAS offers a private jet hangar complex with world-class amenities and security. Despite the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, the private aviation industry has thrived, with a significant increase in first-time airplane owners. SAS provides a range of services including aircraft maintenance, hangar storage, office space, concierge, and cleaning. Kevin also operates Magna Air Group for aircraft sales and consulting, and ICON Aviation Solutions for aircraft interior solutions.

The White Hare, a home design business in Cottleville, has been thriving under the mother-daughter team of Sarah Corrigan and Mary Kay Carapella since 2003. Known for exceptional customer service, the store offers a wide range of products from furniture to seasonal décor. Customers are encouraged to bring in pictures and measurements for personalized design assistance. The business has grown significantly over the years, now occupying a 13,000-square-foot space and maintaining a loyal customer base.

Hearth & Soul, founded by Susie Busch-Transou, offers a unique retail experience in Ladue, Missouri, with a home-like atmosphere featuring curated collections of modern and classic items. The store also hosts community events, supports local artists and nonprofits, and provides design services and a wedding registry. Susie's background includes a career at Anheuser-Busch and ownership of Tri-Eagle Sales. The store's philosophy emphasizes community connection and immediate gratification, with furniture available for same-day purchase.

Tanque Verde Ranch in Tucson, Arizona, offers a luxurious and historical Wild West experience with over 60,000 acres of desert. Owned by Cote Family Destinations, the ranch provides a variety of activities including horseback riding, mountain biking, and spa services. Guests can enjoy unique culinary experiences and stylish accommodations that blend Old West charm with modern amenities. The ranch has received numerous awards, including being named the top resort in the Southwest by Conde Nast Traveler in 2021.

Gio Modern Italian, owned by Gio and Jessica LaFata, celebrates a decade of success, attributing their achievements to community support and creative evolution. The restaurant, known for its modern Italian cuisine, award-winning happy hour, and popular brunch, recently underwent a remodel and rebranding. The LaFatas emphasize their gratitude to the community by incorporating customer feedback into their menu and offering seasonal specials. Signature items like the Apple Cider Sangria and Butternut Squash Pizza are highlighted as fan favorites.

Dianne Isbell, owner of HATS by DI-Anne, is a celebrated milliner whose unique designs have been featured in numerous fashion shows and prestigious events, including the Kentucky Derby Hat Museum. With a background in civil service and etiquette training, Dianne has built a successful business creating custom hats for clients, including celebrities and high-profile individuals. Her designs have gained popularity across the United States, and she continues to innovate in the fashion industry, particularly in the resurgence of vintage and custom hats.

The article highlights the creation and features of the 'No Shoes Beach House' in Navarre Beach, Florida, inspired by Kenny Chesney's song. Built by Randy and Tiffany Wild along with Jason and Jennifer Abernathy, the house is the largest rental home on the island and was ranked the number one rental by AirDNA in 2022. The home is designed for large groups and family gatherings, offering numerous amenities. The owners have also opened another vacation home, 'Blue Chair Beach House,' and are planning further expansions.

Tanque Verde Ranch in Tucson, Arizona, offers a luxurious all-inclusive resort experience with a rich 150-year history. Owned by Cote Family Destinations, the ranch provides a blend of Old West adventure and modern amenities, including horseback riding, hiking, and gourmet dining. Kelley Lamm and Gordon Montgomery highly praise the ranch for its diverse activities, exceptional service, and breathtaking desert landscape. The ranch has received numerous awards, including being named the top resort in the Southwest by Conde Nast Traveler.

Ashley and Archie Harmon have successfully expanded their craft beer business, Chillax Tap & Co., to a second location in St. Peters, Missouri. Despite initial challenges posed by the pandemic, the couple's creativity and dedication have made their establishments community favorites. The new location features a variety of craft beers, a partnership with Vails Brothers for food, and numerous entertainment options, including live music and games. Ashley Harmon, also known as the Boujee Beer Mom, has become a regional influencer and marketer for the business.

Walt Disney's formative years in Marceline, Missouri, profoundly influenced his creativity and the creation of Disney characters. His childhood experiences under the 'Dreaming Tree' on his family's farm inspired his imagination, leading to the conception of iconic characters and the design of Disneyland's Main Street USA. Despite moving away, Disney maintained a strong connection to Marceline, which is celebrated at the Walt Disney Hometown Museum. The museum, located in the town's old Santa Fe Railroad station, showcases Disney's life and his family's history. Marceline's significance to Disney's life is encapsulated in the town's motto, 'Where Walt found the Magic.'

Keiko Kono's research has discovered that damage to the cell membrane promotes cell aging, a finding that could help scientists develop ways to achieve healthy longevity. Previously, mechanical damage to the cell membrane was thought to lead to either recovery or death, but Kono's study revealed a third outcome: cellular senescence. The study used machine learning to identify senescent cells and explored the potential of drugs that target these cells for anti-cancer and anti-aging treatments. Kono's future research aims to prevent mechanical damage to cells, thereby reducing the production of senescent cells and extending healthy human life.

The article reviews the best hearing aids of 2024, highlighting top models from brands like Sennheiser, Audicus, Phonak, Sony, Oticon, Widex, Starkey, and Jabra. It provides detailed evaluations based on expert opinions, sound performance, and various features such as Bluetooth compatibility, battery life, and customization options. The article emphasizes the importance of choosing the right hearing aid based on individual needs, lifestyle, and budget, and offers insights into the benefits and considerations of different hearing aid types and technologies.

For nearly 250 years, scientists have sought a cancer vaccine, but traditional methods have faced significant challenges. Biobohemia, a biotech company, is pioneering a new approach using proteomics and antigenic essence technology to target cancer cells more effectively. This method focuses on the cell surface rather than internal components, potentially reducing side effects and autoimmune reactions. The COVID-19 pandemic has accelerated interest in mRNA-based vaccines, with companies like Pfizer, Moderna, and BioNTech exploring cancer treatments. Biobohemia's innovative techniques could revolutionize cancer vaccination, offering hope for more effective and universal treatments.

Monoclonal antibodies, synthetically produced proteins that target amyloid plaques in the brain, show promise in treating Alzheimer's disease. Alzheimer's, a leading cause of death among older adults, is characterized by the buildup of amyloid beta plaques and tau protein tangles, which damage neurons and impair cognitive function. Anti-amyloid monoclonal antibodies, such as Aducanumab developed by Biogen and Neurimmune, aim to prevent this buildup and potentially halt disease progression. The FDA is expected to decide on Aducanumab's approval by June 7. Other companies like Eli Lilly are also developing similar treatments. While these therapies offer hope, they come with challenges such as high costs and potential side effects.

Research led by Benjamin Chapman and Susan Lapham suggests that certain personality traits in adolescence, such as vigor, calmness, and maturity, may predict a lower risk of developing dementia by age 70. The study, published in JAMA Psychology, analyzed data from Project Talent, a large-scale study of high school students from 1960. Findings indicate that traits like high extraversion, low neuroticism, and high conscientiousness are associated with reduced dementia risk, particularly among those with higher socioeconomic status. The research highlights the potential long-term impact of early-life personality traits on dementia risk.

Sergey Young, a longevity expert, debunks myths about living to 150, discussing the future of medicine, food sustainability, and social paradigms. He predicts advancements in 3D bioprinting, personalized healthcare, and AI will extend lifespans and improve health. Food production will evolve to meet the needs of longer lifespans, with innovations like vertical farming and plant-based meats. Social structures will diversify, and the 50-plus population will continue contributing to the economy. Financial planning will adapt to longer lives, with strategies like Health Savings Accounts.

Medicare will now cover acupuncture for chronic low back pain, partly due to the opioid crisis. The CMS decision allows up to 12 sessions in 90 days, with an additional 8 sessions for those showing improvement. This move is part of the Trump Administration's strategy to expand pain treatment options and reduce opioid reliance. The decision was influenced by private payer policies and evidence supporting non-pharmacologic therapies. While acupuncture's effectiveness is debated, it is considered a low-risk option when performed by certified practitioners. The CMS aims to offer a range of treatment options to combat the opioid epidemic.

Ashley Tyrner's Farmbox Direct has partnered with Vibra Health to launch FarmboxRX, a program providing free fruit and vegetable boxes to Medicare Advantage members, initially focusing on seniors. The initiative aims to improve health outcomes by addressing food insecurity and promoting nutrition. The program, which started on January 1, targets 2,700 boxes per month in Pennsylvania and plans to expand nationally. The article highlights the potential of this innovative approach to healthcare and its positive impact on reducing healthcare costs and improving patient health.

The National Institute on Aging (NIA) is seeking volunteers for various Alzheimer's and dementia research studies across the United States. These studies, conducted at Alzheimer's Disease Research Centers (ADRCs), include drug trials, caregiver support programs, and brain stimulation research. The NIA highlights several key trials, such as the Alzheimer Prevention Trials (APT) Webstudy, the Memory Improvement Through Nicotine Dosing (MIND) study, and the Alzheimer's Disease Neuroimaging Initiative 3 (ADNI3). The article emphasizes the importance of volunteer participation in advancing research and provides information on how to get involved, while also noting the potential risks and benefits of participating in clinical trials.

Thanksgiving is a cherished American holiday rooted in historical traditions and personal family memories. The article recounts various personal anecdotes from different families, highlighting the unique ways they celebrate and the lasting memories they create. From historical origins to modern-day practices, the narrative underscores the importance of family, gratitude, and the diverse traditions that make Thanksgiving special for many Americans.

Caregiving is a universal issue affecting all age groups, with women disproportionately bearing the burden. A national survey by Caring Across Generations and The Women's Alzheimer's Movement reveals that Americans are unprepared for the financial and emotional costs of caregiving, particularly for Alzheimer's patients. The survey highlights bipartisan support for new public solutions to caregiving challenges, including federal programs for elder care, childcare, and paid family leave. The findings emphasize the need for political leaders to prioritize caregiving issues, as a significant portion of the population supports candidates who address these concerns.

Twenty-five older adults participated in a pioneering travel program to Belize, organized by Arizona State University (ASU) in partnership with the Peace Corps Association and Discover Corps. This initiative, part of the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (OLLI) at ASU, aims to combine learning with sharing life experiences. The program, dubbed 'OLLI Corps,' allows older adults to engage in meaningful activities such as teaching English and distributing health information. The success of this trip is expected to inspire similar programs nationwide, promoting positive aging and lifelong learning. The initiative underscores the importance of purpose in life, which research shows can lead to longer, healthier lives.

A University of Alabama cancer geneticist, Keshav Singh, is advancing anti-aging research to potentially end age-related hair loss, wrinkled skin, and reduced energy. His startup, Yuva Biosciences, aims to market products within five years, leveraging mitochondrial DNA research. Singh's team successfully reversed aging signs in mice by restoring mitochondrial function. Yuva plans to develop cosmeceuticals and repurpose FDA-approved drugs to enhance mitochondrial function. The company, supported by notable scientists and entrepreneurs, will operate from Innovation Depot in Birmingham, Alabama, and aims to significantly impact the anti-aging market.

Nihal Satyadev and members of The Youth Movement Against Alzheimer’s (YMAA) are advocating for Alzheimer's disease to become the nation's top health priority. They attended the 2019 National Alzheimer's Summit in Washington, D.C., and delivered a petition to lawmakers and presidential candidates, urging increased support for caregivers, funding for research, and policies to promote healthy aging. The YMAA emphasizes the potential economic impact of Alzheimer's on the U.S. healthcare system and highlights their grassroots efforts, including volunteer programs and legislative initiatives, to address the disease's challenges.

NervGen Pharma, based in Vancouver, is set to begin Phase 1 studies in early 2020 for a treatment targeting nerve damage and degenerative diseases, including Alzheimer’s disease. The company's technology, developed in collaboration with Dr. Jerry Silver from Case Western Reserve University, focuses on removing inhibitory effects of a protein called CSPG on the body's repair mechanisms. NervGen's lead candidate, NVG-291, aims to promote nerve regeneration and has shown promise in animal models. The treatment's potential for Alzheimer's is based on the presence of CSPG in disease plaques. With Alzheimer's affecting millions globally and lacking new effective treatments for over a decade, NervGen's approach represents a novel strategy in the field. The company plans to submit an Investigational New Drug application to the FDA and commence a Phase 2 multiple sclerosis clinical trial in early 2021.

The article discusses the impact of Daylight Saving Time on sleep and health, citing various studies and experts. It explains that despite the intention to save energy, the shift in time can disrupt sleep patterns and circadian rhythms, potentially leading to health issues such as heart attacks. The Better Sleep Council and other experts offer advice on adjusting to the time change, emphasizing the importance of sleep for overall health. The article also touches on the effects of sleep deprivation on society and the potential for seasonal affective disorder due to changes in sunlight exposure.

Research from Boston University School of Medicine and Harvard University indicates that higher levels of optimism are associated with longer life spans and a greater chance of living past age 85. The study, which analyzed data from the Nurses’ Health Study and the Veterans Affairs Normative Aging Study, found that optimism could extend life span by 11% to 15%. The findings suggest that optimism is a significant psychosocial resource for extending life span, regardless of socioeconomic status, health conditions, or behaviors. The study highlights the potential of optimism as a target for interventions promoting health and longevity.

The Milken Institute Center for the Future of Aging's report, 'Age-Forward Cities for 2030,' urges cities to prioritize aging populations in their policy agendas. The report highlights the demographic shift where older adults will outnumber younger people by 2030, emphasizing the need for age-inclusive urban planning, economic development, and healthcare. It calls for integrating aging into strategies for growth and sustainability, recognizing older adults as vital economic contributors. The report also outlines recommendations for mayors to foster age diversity in the workforce, create affordable housing solutions, and promote intergenerational engagement.

Determining the appropriate age to see a geriatrician is complex, as aging varies significantly among individuals. While the general medical consensus often considers 65 as the threshold for old age, many do not require geriatric care until 70 or older. Experts like Richard W. Besdine and Babatunde Olumide emphasize the importance of personalized care and the involvement of family in the treatment of older adults. Common geriatric issues include dementia, urinary incontinence, falls, frailty, sarcopenia, and delirium. Regular evaluations by specialists in geriatrics are recommended for those with multiple health issues or on numerous medications.

Researchers at Mayo Clinic in Jacksonville, Florida, are developing a vaccine that could prevent and stop the recurrence of breast and ovarian cancers, potentially available within eight years. The vaccine, which stimulates the immune system to attack cancer cells, is currently in early phases of research, with phase 3 trials expected in three years. The development is supported by a $13.3 million Department of Defense grant and involves collaboration with the National Breast Cancer Coalition. The research aims to combine vaccines with early detection and appropriate therapies to reduce cancer morbidity and recurrence.

Insilico Medicine, an AI-driven drug discovery company headquartered in Hong Kong, has secured $37 million in Series B funding from top venture capitalists, including Qiming Venture Partners and others. The company, led by CEO Alex Zhavoronkov, aims to revolutionize the pharmaceutical industry by using AI to accelerate drug discovery, particularly for cancer and age-related diseases. Insilico's innovative approach involves generative adversarial networks (GANs) to identify new protein targets and create novel molecules. The funding will help commercialize their technology and advance internal drug discovery programs. Experts like Dr. S. Jay Olshansky emphasize the significant potential of AI in transforming public health and extending healthy life expectancy.

The National Institutes of Health (NIH) is investing $20 million over five years to explore the potential of music therapy in treating neurological and other disorders. This initiative, part of the Sound Health partnership with the Kennedy Center and supported by the National Endowment for the Arts, aims to understand how music can ease symptoms of conditions like Parkinson's disease, stroke, and PTSD. The research will investigate music's impact on brain function, memory, and social development, with the goal of improving therapeutic interventions and enhancing brain health across various stages of life.

Heart failure costs the U.S. an estimated $30.7 billion annually and is projected to increase by 46% by 2030. Modern therapies offer hope, with significant improvements in heart function for many patients. Key strategies include the use of beta-blockers, ACE inhibitors, and other medical treatments. Dr. Mark Drazner from UT Southwestern Medical Center provides ten tips for improving heart function, emphasizing the importance of medical management, lifestyle changes, and seeking specialized care. The American Heart Association and World Health Organization provide critical data and classifications related to cardiovascular diseases.

Wigs have become a popular and accepted fashion accessory, driven by celebrity trends and a growing acceptance of altering one's appearance. The global wig market is projected to reach over $10 billion by 2023. High-profile figures like Beyoncé, Katy Perry, and Dolly Parton have contributed to this trend. The industry is also seeing increased demand from middle-aged women and those experiencing hair loss due to cancer or alopecia. Companies like Shevy Wigs are innovating with natural-looking, high-quality wigs. The societal shift towards embracing diversity and self-expression is empowering older women to use wigs without shame.

The United States, led by Harvard University, is the top producer of Alzheimer's research globally, according to a report by Elsevier. The report highlights a shift in research focus towards behavioral aspects of Alzheimer's, such as prevention and symptom alleviation. Despite the US's leading role, it collaborates less internationally compared to other countries. The report also notes a disparity between basic research and the development of new therapies, and calls for more research on the impact of Alzheimer's on women. The World Health Organization projects a significant increase in dementia cases worldwide, emphasizing the growing importance of Alzheimer's research.

A study led by Dr. Rong Zhang at the Institute for Exercise and Environmental Medicine in Dallas suggests that regular aerobic exercise may slow brain deterioration in individuals at high risk for Alzheimer's disease. The research, involving 70 participants, found that exercise reduced hippocampal atrophy in those with amyloid beta accumulation, a hallmark of Alzheimer's. While exercise did not prevent the spread of toxic amyloid plaques, it showed potential in slowing disease effects if started early. Despite the lack of proven treatments for Alzheimer's, lifestyle modifications like exercise are gaining attention. Pharmaceutical company Pfizer faced criticism for not developing Enbrel, an arthritis drug, for Alzheimer's due to patent concerns. Zhang's ongoing research aims to further explore exercise's role in combating dementia, with a national clinical trial involving over 600 older adults. The study highlights the importance of combining exercise with cardiovascular risk factor management to potentially reduce Alzheimer's incidence.

Aspirin, while not extending life or preventing major diseases in healthy older adults, still offers numerous benefits. Research suggests potential in treating Alzheimer's disease by reducing amyloid plaque in the brain. Aspirin's anti-inflammatory properties can aid in skincare, such as treating acne and reducing redness, and can also be used for hair care and removing stains from clothing. In gardening, it can act as a rooting agent and prevent fungal conditions. However, caution is advised, especially for those with asthma or allergies to aspirin.

The University of Texas Health San Antonio is urging grandparents to stay up to date on vaccinations to protect themselves and their families, especially young children. Vaccines such as Tdap, shingles, MMR, flu, and pneumonia are highlighted as crucial for older adults. The article discusses the importance of vaccinations in preventing the spread of diseases and provides statistical data on the prevalence of vaccine-preventable illnesses among older adults. Personal anecdotes from various individuals emphasize the significance of vaccinations for both personal and familial health.

Despite new guidelines from the American Heart Association and American College of Cardiology advising against it, millions of healthy older adults in the U.S. continue to take daily aspirin. The National Institutes of Health highlighted the ASPREE study, which found no significant benefits for healthy older adults taking aspirin and a possible increase in bleeding risk and early death. A study by Drs. Colin O’Brien, Stephen Juraschek, and Christina C. Wee at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center and Harvard University revealed that about 29 million people without cardiovascular disease take aspirin for prevention, with 6.6 million doing so without medical advice. Cardiologist Aaron Tang noted a shift in aspirin use from primary to secondary prevention. The AHA still recommends low-dose aspirin for those who have had a stroke or heart attack, while cautioning physicians to consider the risk of bleeding when prescribing aspirin to people without symptomatic cardiovascular disease.

Juvenescence, led by CEO Greg Bailey, is making significant strides in anti-aging research, aiming to extend human lifespans to 150 years. The company has raised $165 million to fund various longevity projects, including stem cell research and therapies for Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases. Despite skepticism and slow investor uptake, Bailey is optimistic about the rapid advancements in the field. Competitors like Life Biosciences and Rejuvenate Bio are also making progress, while partnerships with companies like Insilico Medicine and Calico further the research. Juvenescence-backed LyGenesis is developing a therapy to grow new livers using lymph nodes, potentially revolutionizing organ transplantation. The field of anti-aging research is poised for rapid growth, with expectations of significant breakthroughs in the near future.

Scientific research supports the notion that love and close relationships positively impact health, particularly in managing stress and blood pressure. A study by University of Arizona psychologists found that visualizing a significant other can lower blood pressure as effectively as having them physically present. The findings align with previous research indicating that high-quality romantic relationships are associated with better health outcomes. Harvard Medical School and other institutions have also reported similar benefits of marriage on cardiovascular health and longevity. The article includes personal anecdotes and emphasizes the potential for relational approaches to stress management.

The article explores the growing movement to normalize discussions about death through initiatives like Deathwives, Death Cafes, and the role of death doulas. Lauren Carroll and Erin Merelli of Deathwives aim to educate people on end-of-life options, including home funerals and the use of death doulas. The National Home Funeral Alliance provides legal guidance on home funerals, while the National Funeral Directors Association highlights the historical context of funeral practices. Environmentally-friendly burial options are gaining traction, and Death Cafes offer a space for open, philosophical discussions about death. The movement seeks to reduce the fear of death and promote a healthier relationship with it.

National Senior Citizens Day, proclaimed by Ronald Reagan in 1988, is increasingly relevant as the U.S. population ages. By 2035, 78 million Americans will be 65 or older, surpassing those under 18 for the first time. The U.S. Census Bureau projects significant demographic shifts, including an aging population and increased racial and ethnic diversity. The article highlights the contributions of senior citizens and suggests ways to honor them, emphasizing their role in society and the importance of recognizing their achievements.

Unbound, originally the Christian Foundation for Children, has assisted over 65,000 elderly individuals in developing nations through its Elder Program since its inception 35 years ago. The program connects adults over 60 living in poverty with sponsors in the U.S. to combat isolation and provide financial support. The organization has found that sponsored elders experience less loneliness, hunger, and health issues. Personal stories, like that of sponsor Tom Slattery and his sponsored elder Francesca from the Philippines, highlight the deep connections and mutual benefits of the program. Unbound's approach includes fostering inter-generational connections and empowering elders to continue dreaming and participating in community life.

The concept of 'death cleaning,' popularized by Margareta Magnusson's book, encourages individuals to declutter their homes and distribute belongings to loved ones before they die. This practice, rooted in Swedish tradition, aims to reduce the burden on family members after one's passing. Various individuals share their experiences and motivations for engaging in death cleaning, highlighting the emotional and practical benefits of this proactive approach. The article underscores the importance of sentimental value and the desire to see loved ones enjoy personal items while still alive.

Avocados, known for their creamy texture and health benefits, are celebrated on National Avocado Day. Despite their high cost, their popularity continues to rise in the U.S., with significant consumption and various health benefits, including lowering bad cholesterol and providing essential nutrients. Experts like Dr. Elroy Vojdani and Katherine Marengo highlight their benefits for diabetes and heart health. Companies like Chipotle and Model Meals promote avocados through popular campaigns and sustainable practices. However, rising prices and theft in Mexico indicate the high demand for this superfood.

Researchers at AC Immune report promising interim results from a clinical trial of an Alzheimer's vaccine, ACI-24, in individuals with Down syndrome. The vaccine, designed to stimulate the immune system to target beta-amyloid proteins, has shown safety and efficacy in preclinical data. The study highlights the unique genetic profile of people with Down syndrome, who are predisposed to Alzheimer's, as a critical factor in developing treatments that could benefit both Down syndrome and general populations. The research aims to address key challenges in Alzheimer's treatment, including early diagnosis and homogeneous testing groups. Collaborations with major pharmaceutical companies and ongoing clinical trials underscore the potential impact of this research.

The START program developed by University College London (UCL) has been shown to significantly improve the mental health of caregivers for Alzheimer's and dementia patients, with benefits lasting up to six years. The program, which combines therapy and coping strategies, has been found to reduce depression and anxiety among caregivers and is cost-effective. The Alzheimer's Society supports the program's wider implementation. In the U.S., similar support is provided by the National Family Caregiver Support Program under the Department of Health and Human Services.

The Alzheimer’s Foundation of America collaborated with crossword editors Will Shortz and Fred Piscop to create 'The Hardest Crossword' campaign, aiming to raise awareness about Alzheimer's disease. The puzzles, based on the lives of individuals with Alzheimer's, were published in major newspapers and were intentionally unsolvable to simulate the confusion experienced by those with the disease. The campaign reached over 50 million people, significantly increased traffic to AFA's website, and boosted calls to their helpline. Media outlets like The Atlantic, New York Times, Wall Street Journal, and New York Daily News supported the initiative, which also featured in Times Square.

A survey conducted by Comfort Keepers and Survey Monkey found that older Americans report higher levels of joy compared to younger individuals. The survey, which included over 5,300 respondents from all 50 states, revealed that joy increases with age, with those over 60 rating their joy at 7.2 out of 10. The survey also highlighted that family, sunshine, and relationships are significant contributors to joy. Comfort Keepers has established the National Day of Joy to encourage people to focus on activities that bring happiness. The Harvard Study of Adult Development supports the finding that close relationships are crucial for long-term happiness and health.

The National Institute on Aging is investigating why some older adults maintain cognitive abilities despite brain damage or Alzheimer's pathology, focusing on the concept of cognitive reserve. They are launching the STARRS project, a longitudinal study on rats, to explore cognitive resilience and reserve. The NIA seeks input from various stakeholders through a Request for Information and is organizing a workshop to discuss operational definitions and research collaboration strategies. The field examines the role of genetic, environmental, and life experience factors in cognitive decline and dementia resistance.

The article discusses a new report from the American Cancer Society and the National Cancer Institute, which predicts that the number of cancer survivors in the U.S. will exceed 22 million by 2030. It highlights the growing need for a holistic approach to post-cancer care, emphasizing the unique medical and psychosocial needs of survivors. Shannon Lokke Nelson, a cancer survivor, shares her personal experiences and advocates for universal healthcare and a more integrated, preventative approach to medicine. The report underscores the challenges in the current healthcare system and calls for evidence-based resources and guidelines to optimize care for cancer survivors.

Scientific evidence from the National Institutes of Health supports the long-held belief that avoiding ultra-processed foods can aid in weight loss and improve overall health. A study by the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases found that participants gained weight on a diet high in processed foods but lost weight on an unprocessed diet, despite both diets being nutritionally matched. The findings highlight the negative impact of processed foods on health, including increased calorie intake and obesity-related conditions. The National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute recommends a healthy eating plan emphasizing whole foods and portion control to combat obesity.

A survey by The Better Sleep Council found that retired adults and the Silent Generation are among the best sleepers in America, with boomers making up 36% of excellent sleepers. The report highlights a persona named Larry, a 70-something retiree who exemplifies ideal sleep habits. Tips for good sleep include avoiding caffeine and bedtime snacks, maintaining a bedtime routine without electronics, and living a stress-free life. Ellen Wermter, a spokesperson for the council, emphasizes the importance of less stress and good choices for senior sleep quality. The CDC links insufficient sleep with chronic diseases, and the council notes the hidden costs of sleep deprivation. Tuck.com dispels the misconception that seniors need less sleep and offers recommendations for better sleep, such as reducing stress, following a consistent sleep schedule, and avoiding electronics before bed. The article also mentions Michael Breus' work on chronotypes and the impact of sleep on overall happiness and productivity.

Michael W. Weiner, M.D., a professor at UCSF, urges people to join the Brain Health Registry (BHR) to accelerate Alzheimer's research. The BHR, a web-based observational study, collects data through biannual questionnaires and brain tests, aiming to identify cognitive decline and facilitate research. With over 62,000 participants, the BHR seeks to expand to 100,000, providing valuable data for various studies. The initiative is supported by multiple organizations, including the NIH and Alzheimer's Association. Weiner emphasizes the importance of diverse participation to enhance the research's impact and accelerate the discovery of treatments for brain diseases.

John Lehr, known for his role as GEICO's caveman, has evolved significantly since his initial appearance in the 2004 ad campaign. Lehr, who has been sober for over two decades, attributes his personal and professional growth to his sobriety. He has had a successful career in television, film, and theater, including roles in '10 Items or Less' and 'Quickdraw.' Lehr now speaks openly about his addiction and recovery, performing at fundraisers and sober communities. He continues to work on new projects, including a comedy on marijuana with Tommy Chong, and remains active in the entertainment industry through his production company, Howler Monkey Productions.

Exercise and a healthy diet are currently the only strategies with experimental support for staving off Alzheimer's disease, according to Dr. R. Scott Turner of Georgetown University Medical Center. Despite numerous failed clinical trials, Turner remains hopeful, emphasizing the importance of prevention and the need for more research volunteers. He highlights the modest benefits of FDA-approved drugs and ongoing studies aimed at understanding and combating Alzheimer's. Turner also supports lifestyle changes like exercise and the Mediterranean Diet as potential preventive measures.

Peter Lichtenberg, a psychology professor at Wayne State University, has dedicated his career to protecting older adults from financial exploitation, a growing issue as the elderly population holds significant wealth. Lichtenberg developed the Lichtenberg Financial Decision Screening Scale (LFDSS) to assess financial decision-making capabilities and detect exploitation. His research highlights the importance of tools to protect older adults, who are often targeted by scams due to cognitive decline. Financial institutions have reported significant losses due to elder financial exploitation, emphasizing the need for preventive measures and better assessment tools.

Michael Sitver, a University of Chicago student, founded Letterjoy, a service that sends reproductions of historical letters to subscribers. The service aims to provide a tangible, educational experience by delivering letters from notable figures like Thomas Jefferson and Albert Einstein. Sitver's initiative has gained popularity among various age groups, particularly older adults and history enthusiasts. The letters cover a wide range of American history topics and are sourced from prestigious archives and private collections. Sitver plans to continue growing his business after graduation, emphasizing the importance of learning from history.

The United States is experiencing a significant measles outbreak, with 626 confirmed cases in 22 states, the highest in five years. Dr. Kumar Dharmarajan, a geriatrician and chief scientific officer of Clover Health, reassures that seniors over 65 are likely immune due to natural infection before the vaccine or previous vaccinations. However, he advises older adults, especially those with chronic conditions or uncertain vaccination status, to confirm their immunity. The CDC reports ongoing outbreaks in several states, linked to international travelers from countries with large outbreaks like Israel, Ukraine, and the Philippines.

Researchers at Tel Aviv University have successfully 3D-printed the world's first vascularized engineered heart using a patient's own cells and biological materials. This breakthrough, published in Advanced Science, marks a significant advancement in regenerative medicine. The heart, though currently the size of a rabbit's heart, demonstrates the potential for future human applications. The research aims to address the shortage of heart donors and improve treatments for heart disease. The team plans to further develop the heart's functionality and test it in animal models, with hopes of eventual clinical application.

Researchers at the National Institutes of Health (NIH) have initiated the first-in-human clinical trial of a universal flu vaccine aimed at providing long-lasting protection against multiple influenza strains. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) continues to emphasize the importance of vaccinations for older adults, highlighting the risks of vaccine-preventable diseases. The trial, led by Dr. Grace Chen at the NIH Clinical Center, will assess the safety and immune response of the experimental vaccine H1ssF_3928. The article also underscores the necessity of various vaccines for adults, including those for shingles, pneumococcal disease, and hepatitis.

Researchers from the U.S. Department of Energy and several national labs are leveraging deep learning and mathematics to predict and prevent veteran suicides. The initiative, involving eight U.S. laboratories and multiple universities, aims to develop an AI tool to identify high-risk individuals and enable timely intervention. The project, part of a collaboration between the DOE and the VA, utilizes extensive EHR data and high-performance computing to analyze complex patterns associated with suicide risk. The research is expected to significantly impact suicide prevention efforts, particularly among veterans, by providing healthcare practitioners with predictive tools to prioritize resources and reach out to at-risk individuals.

Dementia affects over 50 million people globally, with costs exceeding $818 billion annually. Neuropsychologist Dr. John DenBoer, through his company Smart Brain Aging, offers brain-training programs like Brain U Clinic and Brain U Online to delay dementia onset and reduce its severity. These programs, supported by clinical trials with UCLA, show promising results in reducing cognitive decline. DenBoer emphasizes the importance of new and novel learning to maintain brain health and advocates for treating pre-dementia conditions proactively. The article underscores the potential of brain training in combating dementia and highlights the ongoing research in this field.

The documentary 'This is Dementia' will premiere on May 1 on Netflix and other platforms, offering a sensitive exploration of dementia's causes, misinformation, and personal experiences. Created by neuropsychologist Dr. John DenBoer, the film aims to educate and provide hope, featuring insights from DenBoer's professional and personal life, including his work with Smart Brain Aging and his grandmother's battle with dementia. The documentary also includes perspectives from celebrities like Robin Williams, Samuel L Jackson, Seth Rogen, and Hector Eliondo, emphasizing the widespread impact of dementia and the importance of accurate information and early detection.