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Ageing Research Reviews Sep 2022The current evidence on the association of leukocyte telomere length (LTL) with age-related structural and cognitive changes in the brain is mixed. Herein conforming to... (Meta-Analysis)
Meta-Analysis Review
The current evidence on the association of leukocyte telomere length (LTL) with age-related structural and cognitive changes in the brain is mixed. Herein conforming to PRISMA 2020 guidelines, we performed a systematic review and meta-analysis using data from 27 observational studies in non-demented individuals. We used effect size and p-value based meta-analysis methods considering marked heterogeneity among studies. We found that the longer LTL was associated with higher brain volume (β = 0.43, 95%CI: 0.36-0.50%, p = 0.008, N = 1102) and with higher global cognition (β = 0.01; 95%CI: 0.00-0.02, p = 0.03, N = 19609) by effect size based meta-analysis and with brain volume, hippocampal volume, global cognition, cognitive domains of attention/speed as well as executive functions by p-value based meta-analysis. No significant association of LTL with brain white matter hyperintensities was detected. Furthermore, the evidence strongly suggests a subgroup-specific canonical effect of telomeres, notably in older individuals and females. In conclusion, we provide meta-analytic evidence on the beneficial effect of telomeres on brain structure as well as cognition and advocate for a beneficial subgroup-specific effect that warrants further attention.
Topics: Aged; Aging; Brain; Cognition; Female; Humans; Leukocytes; Telomere; Telomere Shortening
PubMed: 35777725
DOI: 10.1016/j.arr.2022.101679 -
Research in Gerontological Nursing 2023Loneliness is prevalent in adults aged ≥65 years in the United States and is associated with functional decline. The purpose of the current review was to synthesize...
Loneliness is prevalent in adults aged ≥65 years in the United States and is associated with functional decline. The purpose of the current review was to synthesize evidence on the relationship between loneliness and functional decline using Roy's Adaptation Model as a theoretical framework. A comprehensive review of PubMed, Medline, and Embase databases was performed. Inclusion criteria were samples including adults primarily aged >60 years, peer-reviewed, published in the English language, and included a measure for loneliness and function. A total of 47 studies were analyzed. Most studies examined correlates, risk factors, and predictors of loneliness, rather than the relationship between loneliness and function. Evidence suggests there is bidirectionality in the relationship between loneliness and functional decline. Loneliness is associated with functional decline in aging via multiple possible pathways. Further studies are needed to determine causality and biological mechanisms underlying the relationship. [(4), 202-212.].
Topics: Humans; Loneliness; Aging; Risk Factors; Language
PubMed: 37159388
DOI: 10.3928/19404921-20230503-02 -
Ageing Research Reviews Nov 2022Modifications of RNA, collectively called the "epitranscriptome", might provide novel biomarkers and innovative targets for interventions in geroscience but are just... (Review)
Review
Modifications of RNA, collectively called the "epitranscriptome", might provide novel biomarkers and innovative targets for interventions in geroscience but are just beginning to be studied in the context of ageing and stress resistance. RNA modifications modulate gene expression by affecting translation initiation and speed, miRNA binding, RNA stability, and RNA degradation. Nonetheless, the precise underlying molecular mechanisms and physiological consequences of most alterations of the epitranscriptome are still only poorly understood. We here systematically review different types of modifications of rRNA, tRNA and mRNA, the methodology to analyze them, current challenges in the field, and human disease associations. Furthermore, we compiled evidence for a connection between individual enzymes, which install RNA modifications, and lifespan in yeast, worm and fly. We also included resistance to different stressors and competitive fitness as search criteria for genes potentially relevant to ageing. Promising candidates identified by this approach include RCM1/NSUN5, RRP8, and F33A8.4/ZCCHC4 that introduce base methylations in rRNA, the methyltransferases DNMT2 and TRM9/ALKBH8, as well as factors involved in the thiolation or A to I editing in tRNA, and finally the mA machinery for mRNA.
Topics: Aging; AlkB Homolog 8, tRNA Methyltransferase; Animals; Humans; Methyltransferases; MicroRNAs; RNA, Messenger; RNA, Ribosomal; RNA, Transfer; Saccharomyces cerevisiae
PubMed: 35908668
DOI: 10.1016/j.arr.2022.101700 -
Current HIV/AIDS Reports Feb 2021With the establishment of antiretroviral treatment (ART) programs in low- and middle-income countries, people with HIV (PWH) in Latin America and the Caribbean (LAC) are... (Review)
Review
PURPOSE OF REVIEW
With the establishment of antiretroviral treatment (ART) programs in low- and middle-income countries, people with HIV (PWH) in Latin America and the Caribbean (LAC) are living longer, subsequently developing chronic non-communicable diseases (NCDs). Few studies focus on the impact of aging among older LAC PWH. This systematic review aims to fill this information gap and understand the burden of aging with HIV in LAC. We identified peer-reviewed literature published in English, Spanish, or Portuguese from several databases to assess currently available evidence on the burden of aging with HIV in LAC and selected six common NCDs found in older PWH (cardiovascular disease [CVD], bone and musculoskeletal [MSK] disorders, cancer, renal disease, neurocognitive impairment [NCI], and depression).
RECENT FINDINGS
Of the 5942 publications reviewed, only 53 articles were found with populations 40 years and older or age-related findings (27 CVD, 13 NCI or depression, 6 MSK disorders, 4 renal disease, 3 cancer). Most (79%) publications were from Brazil with few longitudinal studies on aging with HIV. Prevalence of illnesses such as CVD, NCI, depression, or osteoporosis varied widely depending on the screening instrument utilized and geographic population surveyed. Age was a significant predictor of comorbidity in nearly all studies. Our results demonstrate the need for longitudinal studies and validated screening instruments appropriate for use among PWH in LAC. Understanding the mechanisms behind aging in HIV and the roles of sociocultural factors and genetic diversity specific to LAC is needed to appropriately manage chronic comorbidities as PWH age.
Topics: Aged; Aging; Brazil; Caribbean Region; HIV Infections; Humans; Latin America
PubMed: 33400168
DOI: 10.1007/s11904-020-00538-7 -
Molecular Medicine Reports May 2022The main aim of the present systematic review was to summarize the most frequently used telomerase regulators with an impact on aging and cancer that are referred to in...
The main aim of the present systematic review was to summarize the most frequently used telomerase regulators with an impact on aging and cancer that are referred to in and studies. For this purpose, a systematic review of the available literature on telomerase regulators referred to in articles from PubMed and Scopus libraries published from 2002 to 2021 and in accordance with PRISMA 2020 criteria, was conducted. Articles were included if they met the following criteria: They referred to telomerase modulators in aging and in cancer and were and/or studies, while studies that did not provide sufficient data or studies not written in English were excluded. In the present systematic review, 54 publications were included, of which 29 were full‑text published studies, 11 were full‑text reviews, 10 structure‑based design studies and 4 abstracts are reported in this review. Telomerase regulators were then categorized as synthetic direct telomerase inhibitors, synthetic indirect telomerase inhibitors, synthetic telomerase activators, natural direct telomerase activators, natural telomerase inhibitors and natural indirect telomerase activators, according to their origin and their activity. On the whole, as demonstrated herein, telomerase regulators appear to be promising treatment agents in various age‑related diseases. However, further and studies need to be performed in order to clarify the potentiality of telomerase as a therapeutic target.
Topics: Aging; Enzyme Inhibitors; Humans; Neoplasms; Telomerase; Telomere
PubMed: 35266017
DOI: 10.3892/mmr.2022.12674 -
Annali Di Igiene : Medicina Preventiva... 2023Aging is a complex and gradual biological process that represents the major risk factor with respect to the development of chronic degenerative diseases, often...
BACKGROUND
Aging is a complex and gradual biological process that represents the major risk factor with respect to the development of chronic degenerative diseases, often associated with disability. Diet and nu-trition, coupled with proper physical activity have a significant impact on the health status of the elderly with a decreased risk of disease being indicative of successful aging. Musculoskeletal conditions such as osteoporosis and sarcopenia are the most frequently reported disorders among the elderly community.
METHODS
This study presents a systematic review of the literature on the potential benefits of several nutra-ceuticals in promoting healthy aging and in reducing the risk of chronic diseases in elderly individuals.
RESULTS
Dietary components including vitamins (vitamin C, B vitamin and vitamin K) flavonoids (e.g., quercetin, anthocyanins, and isoflavones), minerals (e.g., magnesium, zinc and potassium) and other nutrients such phytoestrogens, amino acids, and omega-3 fatty acids help in slowing the aging process, which ultimately results in increased lifespan and longevity.
CONCLUSIONS
This paper highlights the key nutrients and phytochemicals of nutraceutical importance for the healthy aging of the elderly population. Although the scientific literature provides evidences of therapeutic effectiveness of nutraceuticals, more in-depth clinical investigations are needed.
Topics: Aged; Humans; Healthy Aging; Anthocyanins; Dietary Supplements; Vitamins; Diet; Vitamin K
PubMed: 36515582
DOI: 10.7416/ai.2022.2552 -
Medical Journal of the Islamic Republic... 2022A deeper understanding of the dimensions of preparation for aging at the personal level may provide new perspectives for healthy aging promotion policies. Therefore,... (Review)
Review
A deeper understanding of the dimensions of preparation for aging at the personal level may provide new perspectives for healthy aging promotion policies. Therefore, the present study was conducted to investigate the dimensions of preparation for old age and retirement. This was a systematic review. The search was performed in the following databases: PubMed, Embase, Scopus, Web of Science, PsycINFO, and Google Scholar up to June 2020. This search was done based on the following keywords: "prepare*", "preparation", "plan* ", "Aged", "Ageing", "Aging", "older people", "senior", "retirement", "older adults", and "elderly" through the AND/OR operators. In the preliminary search, 2032 papers were identified. After removing the duplicated articles and screening the title and abstract, the full text of 141 papers were investigated. Finally, 42 papers were eligible for inclusion in the systematic review. The results indicated that preparation for aging is propounded in the 6 dimensions: (1) health preparation; (2) psychological preparation; (3) financial preparation; (4) housing; (5) social preparation; and (6) active leisure. The findings of the present study indicated that planning for aging requires coverage of all dimensions of old age preparations to achieve healthy aging. The preparation planning should be performed before later life and during the young or middle-age years.
PubMed: 36128301
DOI: 10.47176/mjiri.36.81 -
Nutrients Jun 2023Anorexia of aging is a common problem in older adults. Depending on the setting, its prevalence varies from about 10% (among community-dwelling older adults) to over 30%... (Review)
Review
Anorexia of aging is a common problem in older adults. Depending on the setting, its prevalence varies from about 10% (among community-dwelling older adults) to over 30% in acute wards and nursing homes. The objective of this systematic review was to establish the prevalence of poor appetite in frail persons ≥60 years of age. We performed a literature search for studies where the prevalence of anorexia of aging among frail and pre-frail old adults was reported. 957 articles on this topic were identified. After eligibility assessment, three articles were included in the review. The studies included 4657 community-dwelling older adults. The weighted total prevalence of anorexia of aging in all the included studies was 11.3%. Among frail and pre-frail participants, loss of appetite was reported in 20.5% (weighted estimate). Overall, robust status was associated with a 63% lower probability of concomitant anorexia of ageing (OR 0.37, 95%CI 0.21-0.65, = 0.0005). Frailty or risk of frailty are associated with more prevalent anorexia of ageing. This has potential practical implications; however, more research, especially to elucidate the direction of the relation, is needed.
Topics: Humans; Aged; Aged, 80 and over; Frailty; Frail Elderly; Anorexia; Appetite; Aging; Geriatric Assessment
PubMed: 37447292
DOI: 10.3390/nu15132966 -
Nutrients Jul 2023Nutrition plays a key role in modulating the likelihood of healthy ageing. In the present study, we aimed to conduct a systematic review to assess the impact of... (Review)
Review
BACKGROUND
Nutrition plays a key role in modulating the likelihood of healthy ageing. In the present study, we aimed to conduct a systematic review to assess the impact of nutrition on healthy ageing in Asia.
METHODS
The systematic review was registered in the International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews database (CRD42023408936) and conducted based on the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines. The PubMed, Web of Science, and Embase databases were searched up to February 2023 without language restrictions. We included prospective cohort studies that evaluated the associations of intake of a single food or consumption of a single nutrient at midlife; adherence to various dietary patterns at midlife; and improved adherence to dietary patterns from mid- to late life with the likelihood of healthy ageing and its components.
RESULTS
Out of 16,373 records, we included 71 papers comprising 24 cohorts from Singapore, China, Japan, and Thailand. The healthy ageing components included cognitive function, physical function, and depression. The majority of studies supported the observation that the likelihood of healthy ageing and its components in late life was positively increased by a higher consumption of healthy foods, such as vegetables, fruits, fish, nuts, legumes, tea, milk, and dairy, at midlife, and also by greater adherence to dietary patterns with high diversity scores or high total antioxidant capacities. Furthermore, improved adherence to healthy dietary patterns from mid- to late life also increased the likelihood of healthy ageing in late life.
CONCLUSION
Consuming healthy foods and adhering to healthy dietary patterns at midlife can promote the likelihood of healthy ageing. Moreover, improving diet quality from mid- to late life can still be beneficial.
Topics: Animals; Healthy Aging; Prospective Studies; Nutritional Status; Diet; Vegetables; Thailand
PubMed: 37513571
DOI: 10.3390/nu15143153 -
Archives of Gerontology and Geriatrics Dec 2023Cognitive stimulation (CS) is a popular and cost-effective intervention, which applies different types of techniques focused on cognitive skills and can be administered... (Meta-Analysis)
Meta-Analysis Review
INTRODUCTION
Cognitive stimulation (CS) is a popular and cost-effective intervention, which applies different types of techniques focused on cognitive skills and can be administered by different professionals. CS can be defined as activities that involve cognitive processing usually conducted in a social context and often in a group. Therefore, CS can improve psychosocial functioning and quality of life (QoL), depression, anxiety and activities of daily living (ADLs) independent of the pharmacological treatment such as acetylcholinesterase inhibitors. The objective of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to evaluate the effects of CS on psychosocial outcomes in older adults (aged 65 years or over), with healthy cognitive ageing, mild cognitive impairment (MCI), and dementia.
METHODS
PubMed, Scopus and Web of Science databases were examined from inception to October 2021. A total of 1,997 studies were initially identified in these databases. After discarding studies that did not meet the inclusion criteria, 30 studies were finally included in the systematic review and the meta-analysis performed with robust variance estimator (RVE) due the inclusion of studies with repeated measurements. The quality assessment tools from the National Institutes of Health were used to evaluate the quality of the studies.
RESULTS
CS was significantly associated with a higher QoL in participants who received personalized/adapted CS (RVE = 0.11±0.19 [-0.76, 0.99], t(1.86) = 0.6, p = 0.61). .
CONCLUSION
Personalized/adapted CS seems to improve QoL in older adults.
Topics: Aged; Humans; Activities of Daily Living; Cognition; Cognitive Dysfunction; Quality of Life
PubMed: 37451002
DOI: 10.1016/j.archger.2023.105114