The New Old Age

Paula Span explores the unprecedented challenges posed by a rapidly aging population.

So Many Days Lost at the Doctor’s Office
Medical care can be wearying and time-consuming, especially for seniors. Researchers are beginning to quantify the burdens.
By Paula Span
For Older Unmarried Couples, Caregiving Obligations Can Be Murky
What should be expected of an intimate partner when a companion suffers a health crisis? Seniors and their families increasingly confront the question.
By Paula Span
The Cutting-Edge Hearing Aids That You May Already Own
Apple is preparing to turn its AirPods Pro 2 into easy-to-use aids for people with mild to moderate hearing loss.
By Paula Span
After Your Death, Who Takes Care of the Dog?
A pet trust designates a new guardian for companion animals and sets aside funds for their care. Better yet, it’s legally binding.
By Paula Span
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Three Medical Practices That Older Patients Should Question
Some treatments and procedures become routine despite lacking strong evidence to show that they’re beneficial. Recent studies have called a few into question.
By Paula Span
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Dialysis May Prolong Life for Older Patients. But Not by Much.
In one recent study, the challenging regimen added 77 days of life after three years. Often, kidney disease can be managed in other ways.
By Paula Span
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The Painkiller Used for Just About Anything
In huge numbers, older people are taking gabapentin for a variety of conditions, including itching, alcohol dependence and sciatica. “It’s crazy,” one expert said.
By Paula Span
When Elder Care Is All in the Stepfamily
Adult children are less likely to assist an aging stepparent, studies show. A growing “step gap” in senior care worries experts.
By Paula Span
Some Seniors Readily Step Back. Some Never Will.
Researchers are only beginning to understand why some people embrace retirement while others won’t even consider it.
By Paula Span
Your Brain Holds Secrets. Scientists Want to Find Them.
Many Americans plan to donate their organs for transplants or their bodies for medical science. Few realize that there’s a growing need for their brains, too.
By Paula Span