Sleep Is Not a Luxury
Research shows it is critical to brain health, and one of the most powerful pillars of aging well. Read more about the importance of quality sleep and how to achieve it in our newsletter “Grey Matters.” And, please take our Sleep Poll (link embedded in newsletter)!
Grey Matters 2.27.26
Hello Friend,
Remember the phrase, “I’ll sleep when I’m dead”—also the title of a 1976 song by Warren Zevon? It captured a certain “live fast” ethos, where work (or play) routinely eclipsed rest. For a time, that mindset signaled ambition and edge.
Today, we know better. Sleep is not a luxury. It is a biological necessity—and one of the most powerful (and underrated) levers in aging well….
[Geritas content is for informational and educational purposes only. Our website is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.]
Can Worrying About Aging Cause Aging?
Anxiety around aging may not only be an emotional or psychological concern, but a physical and biological one as well. This is particularly true for women, who face significant societal pressure as it relates to appearance, along with concerns about reproductive health and fertility, according to research conducted by the NYU School of Global Public Health. Ironically, worrying about aging can cause aging. This paradox points to the need to deconstruct and dismantle aging bias and cultural attitudes. Read more about the study’s findings in SciTechDaily.
Coffee’s Perks Extend Beyond Boosting Energy
A rigorous study, conducted over the course of more than 40 years and including nearly 132,000 participants, found that coffee may reduce the risk of developing dementia. The fine print: the coffee (or tea) must be caffeinated and consumed in moderation, meaning two to three cups daily.
Redefining Old Age
As Time magazine suggested on the cover of its recent Longevity issue, we are in an era of a new old age. Lifespans have changed dramatically over the past several decades, and with that, newer generations of elders have emerged that are far more productive and active than past populations. Follow the link below to read more about the emerging trends and implications of the new old age.
What We’re Reading
In “Making the Best of What’s Left,” Judith Viorst, 94, offers her perspective and that of fellow “oldsters” on making meaning later in life. Viorst purposefully used the term “making meaning” rather than “finding meaning” as she believes we “…need to create our own personal reason for being.” Her most thoughtful advice? Connect with new people, ask for and offer help, and don’t collect hurt feelings.
Train Your Body—and Your Brain
According to a recent analysis of nearly 4,500 adults aged 60 and older, published in Frontiers in Aging Neuroscience, five types of exercise were shown to improve cognitive function. The activity categories included resistance training, aerobic exercise, high-intensity interval training, mind–body practices such as Tai Chi and yoga, and hybrid routines that combine multiple approaches. Among them, resistance training emerged as the most effective in supporting global brain health, including memory and attention. Notably, the study found that strength training delivered measurable cognitive benefits with just two 45–60 minute sessions per week over a three-month period.
Rethinking Careers in an Era of Longer Lifespans
The sixth annual Century Summit will be held February 17 & 18, 2026 at Stanford University and online (the virtual platform is free for all participants). This year’s program will focus on how to develop and support professionals across extended career journeys as we live longer and healthier lives. One key question to be addressed: How can we ensure that opportunity is not limited by age? Follow the link below to find out more.
Overmedicated in America
A WSJ analysis of Medicare data revealed that one in six seniors were prescribed eight or more medications simultaneously. Moreover, of the 46 million individuals 65+ enrolled in Medicare, nearly a half-million were taking 15+ prescriptions at the same time. And, many of the prescribed drugs are on a sanctioned list of medications considered potentially dangerous for older patients. Clearly, there are two issues of concern: 1. Seniors are likely overmedicated and 2. There’s a need for a regular and systematic review of prescriptions to determine possible contraindications and harmful outcomes.
Take the Longevity Quiz!
Experts at the Mayo Clinic developed the “Mini Eating Assessment Tool” to determine what comprises a healthy diet. Follow the link below to take the quiz and see if your food choices support wellness and longevity.
Dessert Doesn’t Hurt!
Join Dr. Ezekiel Emanuel, author of the newly released book, “Eat Your Ice Cream: Six Simple Rules for a Long and Healthy Life,” for an honest and refreshing discussion on what really matters for living better and longer. The conversation will take place, January 7th @ 7:30pm ET, in person at the 92nd Street Y, New York, and online. Follow the link below for more information and to register.
A Special Holiday Message
The holidays can heighten feelings of loneliness—for both younger and older members of our communities.
If someone comes to mind who may be on their own, a small gesture can mean a great deal—a thoughtful note, a simple call, an invitation to join you, or a practical offer of help. And, for something that’s sure to bring joy, you can also share the number for Peptoc (707.873.7862), a hotline featuring pre-recorded words of encouragement from students at West Side Elementary, a K–6 public school in Healdsburg, CA. It is truly uplifting.
Wishing you a warm and peaceful holiday season, and a bright new year ahead. With gratitude.
Grey Matters 12.17.25
Hello Friend,
December is here, and with it, the cusp of a new year. While many people feel compelled to draft resolutions, we’re taking a different approach and embracing the concept of misogi (pronounced mee-soh-gee). Originally a Shinto purification practice involving cold-water immersion, misogi has evolved into a modern challenge: a demanding physical or mental undertaking designed to push boundaries and reveal resilience. It is meant to be a personal and year-defining quest….
What We’re Watching
Season 2 of the comedy, “Man on the Inside,” starring Ted Danson as a septuagenarian private detective, is streaming now on Netflix. While investigating a blackmail scheme at a local college, Danson’s character falls for a teacher at the school played by his real-life spouse of three decades, Mary Steenburgen. Finding love later in life is just as exciting, sexy, awkward, and messy as it is at any age. Read the SF Chron’s review of the show at the link below.
Modern Misogi Ideas and Inspirations
Originally a Shinto purification ritual, the concept of misogi (pronounced mee-soh-gee) has evolved in modern times to mean an intense physical or mental challenge designed to test limits and inspire inner strength.
If you decide to pursue a misogi, here are some ideas to inspire your personal and year-defining quest.
Advice From a Super-Ager
What’s Lloyd Kahn’s secret to an active and fulfilling life at age 90? He says, “Moving is so necessary as you get older.” And, also, “admit when you’re wrong, get out of your comfort zone, and don’t focus on regrets.” Follow the link below to read more about Kahn and his adventurous approach to living.
The Hard Truths of Caring for an Aging Loved One
Michelle Cottle’s NYT opinion piece, “We Had No Idea What Was Coming: Caring for My Aging Father,” illuminates the challenges, complexities, and, sometimes, comical nature of caregiving, even if one has financial resources. Cottle also exposes the fragility and failure of our current healthcare system, exacerbated by the recent Medicaid cuts and immigration crackdown. Read the full piece at the link below.
Meet Davor Golub
A transplant to NYC by way of London, Davor is a teaching artist with a colorful background of moving fluidly between stage and classroom. And though he doesn’t own up to it in his bio, he’s a walking encyclopedia of show tunes and factoids for any musical that has hit the Broadway stage.
A Refreshing Take on the Experience of Aging
Sometimes getting old can be a pain–literally. But this beautiful essay recently published in The New York Times shows the other, less discussed, side of growing old. Read Roger Rosenblatt’s wise and touching piece that reflects on the beauty of maturing.