“As the U.S. population ages, the public health burden of depression is increasing,” writes Kara Zivin. “Once a person becomes depressed, even with successful treatment, the individual has a higher risk of relapse and recurrence. Investigating opportunities for prevention thus becomes vitally important.” Zivin summarizes recent research into strategies for preventing depression among older adults: Findings suggest that identifying a relatively small but high-risk population for targeted intervention may be the most effective way to reduce the burden of depression. Read More >>

During earthquakes, weather-related disasters and other catastrophes in the United States, older people of color are disproportionately affected, writes Robert E. Roush. As a result, emergency preparedness and response training for healthcare providers and administrators should focus specifically on how older people react differently than younger people in disasters and should address how to provide culturally and linguistically appropriate services. Building these concerns into broader disaster plans will help mitigate the effects of disasters on the well-being of vulnerable elders. Read More >>

Improvements in medical treatment and living conditions have dramatically increased the life expectancy of people with disabilities. But as more people are living longer with a disability, the need for programs that promote successful aging for elders with disability through health promotion and disease prevention has grown. Beth Marks and Jasmina Sisirak share innovative strategies for developing and implementing health promotion programs for people living with a disability. Read More >>

Baby boomers will be the largest generation of Americans to face Alzheimer’s. Unlike elders in the past, however, boomers can approach the disease heartened by the knowledge that a growing body of evidence suggests that people can make lifestyle choices both to protect their brains from normal aging-related decline and possibly to reduce their risk for Alzheimer’s. Kristy Klein summarizes choices such as improving diet and exercise and engaging in brain-stimulating activities which an Alzheimer’s Association’s campaign shares with boomers. Read More >>

“We’re starting out 2009 with a new administration in Washington, D.C. -- and with individuals, families, communities, companies and organizations facing severe economic challenges,” writes HAN Leadership Council cochair Rona Bartelstone. “Healthcare professionals working with older adults are certainly feeling the squeeze, as well. To promote positive change while weathering these tough times, we all will be looking to the innovative ideas, networking and support offered by HAN.” The upcoming Aging in America Conference is one key place to find this support. Read More >>