Social Relationships & Health

A recent article published by the American Association on Aging outlines the research related to the impact of social connection on health, particularly as humans age. It reviewed the biological, psychological and social mechanisms in relationships that impact health over time. The research concludes that the social portion of the biopsychosocial model may be the next frontier for targeted interventions to improve health across the lifespan, with direct impact on the experience of aging.

VA Makes Strides in Integrative Health Programs 

Programs that support the concepts of integrative health and wellbeing are gaining traction at the Veterans Health Administration. According to Ben Kligler, MD, MPH, director of the Integrative Health Coordinating Center at the VA?s Office of Patient Centered Care and Cultural Transformation, this huge organization, with 140 centers treating six million patients annually, is seeing these programs make a difference for veterans. At the recent Congressional Integrative Health and Wellness Caucus in Washington, D.C., Kligler discussed the department?s efforts to move forward with programs that focus beyond drugs and surgery, inquiring what patients are living for and their health goals.

Green Leafy Vegetables Slow Cognitive Decline of Aging

US Medicine as a Game of Thrones
by John Weeks

Unleashing Your Brain?s Powerful Natural Pharmacy
by Glenn Sabin