News

A Promising Future for Patients with Bleeding Disorders

March 19, 2020

By NCECE Staff

A bleeding disorder researcher in a lab holding test tubes with blood inside themA century ago, the expected lifespan for an individual with hemophilia was about 11 years. Today, hemophilia A and hemophilia B, as well as other genetic and acquired bleeding disorders, can be successfully managed thanks to advances in treatment. But new challenges have also arisen: older adults are living longer and the aging population continues to grow. The population of adults 65+ with hemophilia is likewise expected to grow significantly in the coming decade,¹ highlighting the need for clinicians trained to address the needs of older adults with bleeding disorders.... Read more about A Promising Future for Patients with Bleeding Disorders

Understanding Risk Factors Linked to Older Adult Heart Health

February 20, 2020

An older adult patient under the care of a young female doctorBy NCECE Staff

February is filled with heart-themed decorations for Valentine’s Day, but also provides the annual opportunity to focus on raising awareness around the prevalence and risk factors for heart disease through American Heart Month and the Go Red for Women movement on National Wear Red Day. 

According to the CDC, heart disease is the leading cause of death for men, women, and people of most racial and ethnic groups in the United States. Though, education about risk factors, prevention through diet and lifestyle changes, and signs and symptoms has improved the chances of survival of those living with heart disease.... Read more about Understanding Risk Factors Linked to Older Adult Heart Health

Aging Gracefully Through Change

February 20, 2020

By NCECE Staff

Three older adult friends laughing while sitting down at a tableAs we age, our worlds change: our bodies and physical limitations, our social environments, our families and friends, and even the words others use to describe us transform our identities. These changes can – and often do – take an emotional toll. “Not only the loss of a spouse or children, but also an older adult’s own loss in terms of physical health and functionality,” said McLean Hospital Senior Clinical Team Manager Joan Gillis. “Maybe they’re facing not being able to drive again or they can’t live at home any longer. Having to cross names off of a holiday list, where every year the list gets smaller.”... Read more about Aging Gracefully Through Change

Glaucoma Awareness Essential to Health of Aging Population

January 13, 2020

By NCECE Staff

A close-up of an older adult Asian male with glaucoma in his right eyeGlaucoma is often referred to as the “sneak thief of sight” because of the disease’s slow progression and minimal symptoms. Those at greatest risk for developing irreversible blindness from glaucoma may not be getting the regular eye exams that are critical for early detection. For Glaucoma Awareness Month, the Albert and Diane Kaneb Chair in Ophthalmology and Co-Director of Harvard Medical School's Glaucoma Center of Excellence, Dr. David S. Friedman shared his insight into this debilitating disease.... Read more about Glaucoma Awareness Essential to Health of Aging Population

Understanding Older Adult Patients Living with HIV/AIDS

December 16, 2019

By NCECE Staff

Two older adult men kindly embracing each other while sitting beside each otherWorld Aids Day ¹ is an occasion for sharing resources with patients and clinicians to increase HIV awareness and knowledge and endeavor to reduce harmful social stigmas. For Cassandra Pierre, M.D., MPH, an Assistant Professor at the Boston University School of Medicine and Medical Director of Public Health Programs at Boston Medical Center, mindfulness in her conversations with her older adult patients living with HIV/AIDS is fundamental beyond the annual December 1st observance... Read more about Understanding Older Adult Patients Living with HIV/AIDS

Diabetes Awareness: A Unique Approach for Older Adult Patients

November 21, 2019

By NCECE Staff

Female physician discussing diabetes with a patientNot all patients with diabetes are alike. With vast differences in the approach to the management of symptoms across the lifespan, Joslin Diabetes Geriatric Diabetes Program Director and NCECE Consultant Medha Munshi, M.D. discusses the unique and personal approach necessary for appropriate treatment of older adults with diabetes. In observance of Diabetes Awareness Month ¹ we explore their unique aspects.

... Read more about Diabetes Awareness: A Unique Approach for Older Adult Patients