This week’s #fridayfive presents five new studies examining pain, low wages and dementia support.

• The social lives of the elderly mirror how they grow older: Small changes in the social lives of older people are early red flags showing that their thought processes and brain functioning could be on the decline. A US study of 3,310 people aged 62-90 found that important changes were noted in the social lives of people who have signs of early cognitive decline. Their social networks are smaller, more interconnected, and contain a higher proportion of relatives (65% for the normal group versus 73% for the dementia group). https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2016/05/160502131411.htm Source: Science Daily / Springer
• Social clubs fill gap in dementia support: Community-based social groups could play a crucial role in empowering people with early-onset dementia, according to new research. The research focused on an independently run program known as Paul’s Club, which offers social and recreational activities three days a week out of a hotel in downtown Vancouver. Members range in age from mid-40s to late 60s. https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2016/05/160503072244.htm Source: Science Daily / University of British Columbia
• Experimental Alzheimer’s drug reverses genetic changes thought to spur the disease: When given to old rats, the drug, which is known to affect signaling by the neurotransmitter glutamate, reversed many age-related changes that occur in a brain region key to learning and memory. The drug also produced effects opposing those seen in the brains of Alzheimer’s patients. https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2016/05/160503131508.htm Source: Science Daily / Rockefeller University
• Are low wages an occupational health hazard? Low wages should be recognized as an occupational health threat, according to a new editorial. The authors believe that low wages should be considered among the psychosocial factors — such as long work hours and high job strain — identified as occupational risks to health. https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2016/05/160503153029.htm Source: Science Daily / Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine
• Does pain hurt more when you’re older? Study shows pain causes older adults to develop more inflammation over time. When older relatives complain about their pains, show a little empathy, because new research suggests that as we age, we may all become more sensitive to pain. A small, preliminary study has suggested for the first time that inflammation may occur more quickly and at a higher magnitude — and stays around longer — when older adults experience pain versus when younger adults experience pain. https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2016/05/160504140806.htm Source: Science Daily / University of Florida