Key programs for older adults who struggle with social isolation could be at risk from Trump's "big, beautiful bill"
For almost 20 years, Dorothy Williams has volunteered with the Senior Companion Program in New Orleans, Louisiana, warding off loneliness in the homes of elderly residents who live alone.
Without the company she provides Lars, Dorothy said his day-to-day life "would be kind of a slow pace."
Lars Williams told CBS News he isn't lonely, but the company sure is welcome.
"I like live people, you know? You need people around you," Lars Williams said.
According to a 2020 study from the National Academies of Science, Engineering and Medicine, social isolation significantly increases the risk of dementia, heart disease, depression, strokes and premature death.
States with the highest risk of social isolation among adults ages 65 and older are Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, New Mexico and New York, according to the United Health Foundation's America's Health Rankings.
In New York City, teenagers Elizabeth Gerber and Mabinty Dakeit spend their afternoons building bridges across generations as part of DOROT, a nonprofit companionship program connecting teens with older adults.
"It's so easy to, just like, scroll on your phone for hours and kind of not realize you might be in a room with a bunch of people, and yet you're not discussing anything," Gerber told CBS News.
"I realized that I actually have a lot of similar hobbies with them," Dakeit added.
Andrew MacPherson, founder and executive chair of the Foundation for Social Connection, warns that President Trump's recently passed "big, beautiful bill" could slash federal funding for social programs, jeopardizing vital companionship, meal delivery and health‐monitoring services for isolated older adults.
"It is concerning for how we're going to continue to support our seniors who are isolated and lonely in this country," MacPherson told CBS News.
MacPherson said his group's "goal is to protect that funding, and to protect those models that do deliver supportive services."
Elizabeth Blackwell, director of the Senior Companionship Program in New Orleans, said she worries she could lose almost $300,000 in federal funding under the new domestic policy spending and tax bill and be forced to shut the program down.
"Institutionalization will be overcrowded, so deaths will increase, it's not where we want to be as human beings," Blackwell said.
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Yahoo
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The best running shoes for overpronators, based on months of testing by a competitive runner
It can feel like you need a degree in podiatry when shopping for the right running shoes. If you overpronate — meaning, your foot rolls inward excessively when you run or walk — it's especially important to choose the right footwear. The best running shoes for overpronators can help lower your risk of injury, allowing you to stay focused on racking up the miles. Unfortunately, leaving overpronation unchecked can lead to a range of issues, including shin splints, plantar fasciitis and knee pain, Suzanne C. Fuchs, DPM, a podiatrist at Luxe Podiatry in Jupiter, Fla., tells Yahoo Life. After years of struggling with all of those conditions as a competitive long-distance runner, I discovered I'm an overpronator. Apparently, I'm not alone. While specific numbers vary from source to source, it's estimated that roughly 50% of runners overpronate to some degree, and this tendency increases with longer-duration running. This makes sense — the longer a person runs, the more fatigued their muscles are likely to become. This includes the small muscles of the feet and ankles that help support proper foot strike and form while running. However, it's important to note that pronation itself — a mild inward or outward rolling of the foot as you walk or run — is normal and isn't clearly associated with injuries. Where problems may arise is if the overpronation becomes excessive (which is a poorly defined term in the running community — it's not clear exactly what level of pronation qualifies as "excessive" and this likely varies from person to person), whether as a natural part of a runner's gait or due to the increased overpronation that tends to occur with longer runs. Luckily, whether you have mild or more pronounced overpronation, the right stability running shoes can help support your running hobby. 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The right footwear for overpronators supports the foot's arch to reduce excessive inward rolling and has stability features like firmer materials on the inside of the shoe to help guide the foot into a more neutral position, Fuchs explains. "Adequate cushioning also helps absorb impact forces, reducing strain on the lower body," she says. I was shocked at how much better my joints and feet felt when I started using sneakers that helped correct my foot's inward rolling, and I've been passionate about sharing that information with fellow runners ever since. While I've been a ride-or-die with the same pair of stability running shoes for years, a large selection of supportive options for overpronators has come out since then — and I was excited to test the latest models to see how new technology may affect my running experience. To help track down the best running shoes for overpronators, our team spoke with three podiatrists about the crucial factors to look for in these sneakers. We then researched the most popular stability shoes on the market, stacking their features up against those recommended by our team of podiatrists. Once we narrowed the field, I tested 12 different pairs of shoes designed for overpronators like me. Each was used for at least 50 miles on runs across a mix of roads and trails to get a good sense of how the shoes performed in real-world conditions over time. These are our favorites, based on expert input and testing. Table of contents Best overall running shoes for overpronators More running shoes we like for overpronators in 2025 Factors to consider when purchasing running shoes for overpronation How we chose Other stability shoes we tested FAQs Meet our experts Best overall running shoes for overpronators More running shoes we like for overpronators in 2025 Factors to consider when purchasing running shoes for overpronation There's a lot to keep in mind when choosing a shoe for overpronation. These are the big elements podiatrists flagged. Degree of overpronation: Not all overpronation is created equal. Overpronators can generally be divided into mild, moderate and severe categories. If you're not sure where you stand, it can be helpful to have a gait analysis done at a podiatrist's office or shoe store. Once you know what you're dealing with, you can make better-informed decisions about the type of shoe you need. Arch type: Arches are typically divided into low, neutral and high categories. The best way to tell your arch type is to do a "wet foot" test, where you step on pavement or a piece of paper with a wet foot, Graves says. If you have a neutral arch, you'll see some elevation in the middle of your foot (where the water doesn't convey onto the pavement or paper because there's a gap where your arch doesn't touch the ground). If you have a high arch, the footprint will look more like a comma, or possibly even a colon — you'll see a large gap where your arch doesn't touch the ground with a more narrow external mark. With a flat foot, you'll have more of a solid wet spot because your arch is low and makes contact with the pavement or paper. While you may need a special insole based on your arch type, "proper shoes provide the necessary support to maintain the foot's arch, reducing excessive inward rolling [for overpronators]," Fuchs says. Running terrain: Some shoes are designed to go across a range of surfaces, but others aren't. Keep your go-to running terrain in mind, whether it's the road, trails or treadmill, and pay close attention to the shoe's outsole. Road and treadmill shoes need less of a lug — the texture on the bottom of your shoe — while trail shoes require more to offer improved traction on a range of surfaces. Distance and frequency of runs: Many shoes work across a range of distances and run frequencies, but that's not always the case. If you're a distance runner, you'll likely prefer a stability shoe that's on the lighter side. If fast workouts are more your speed, something with more bounce (also known as responsiveness) is likely to be a good choice. Personal comfort and fit preferences: While there are a lot of fancy features you can get in a shoe, doctors stress the importance of a good fit and overall comfort. "When a shoe fits exactly as it should — in other words, conforms very nicely to the shape of your foot — then it will not only feel more comfortable, but provide the best support for you because your foot will not be moving around as much inside the shoe," Graves says. Budget: Stability shoes tend to be a little more expensive than your standard shoe. Most will cost $100 or more, but it's possible to find some flexibility in the price without sacrificing on shoe quality. How we chose To choose the best running shoes for overpronation, we first consulted with three podiatrists. Each provided advice on what to look for in stability shoes and why each feature matters. From there, we looked at the most popular and buzzy stability shoes on the market, narrowing the field based on the crucial elements laid out by our experts. I'm a former Division I cross-country and track athlete who still runs competitively. I'm also a product tester who consistently tests the latest footwear, giving me insight into what does and doesn't work during training. And, like many people, I'm an overpronator. I tested 12 different stability shoes, using each for at least 50 miles over a range of terrain. Based on all of those factors, we chose the top results. Other stability shoes we tested There were some shoes we tested that didn't make the final cut for a variety of reasons. Saucony Guide 18. This shoe is my current everyday shoe. It provides a nice, guided feel without an overwhelming level of correction. However, it may not deliver enough stability for people with higher levels of overpronation. Nike Pegasus Plus. Nike's Pegasus Plus offers a snug but breathable feel, thanks to the FlyKnit upper. It's also very lightweight, but the toe box is narrow. While that makes this a good choice for people with narrow feet, others may be uncomfortable in this shoe. Brooks Glycerin GTS 22. The Brooks Glycerin GTS 22 is comfortable, like the brand's Adrenaline GTS 24, which was our top overall pick. It has a sockliner around the ankle, although it doesn't actually touch the ankle to create a snug fit. The toe box is nice and roomy, and the shoe is highly breathable. Ultimately, the Adrenaline GTS 24 was just a little more comfortable and seemed like a better fit for overpronation than this model. Nike Air Zoom Pegasus 41. This shoe is a great everyday trainer, with an airy upper that makes it especially comfortable on hot days. The shoe's heel has a locked-in feel, and there's nice cushioning around the ankle. The shoe runs small, though — you'll want to size up. Nike Vomero 18. A highly cushioned shoe with a little bounce, Nike's Vomero 18 feels good underfoot. But the shoe fits especially snug around the ankle, and I developed irritation around the outer ankle that I didn't have with other shoes. That aside, the shoe is very comfortable and even fun to run in, thanks to that bounce. FAQs What is overpronation, and how does it affect running? Overpronation is something that can happen when you walk or run. "Overpronation occurs when a person's foot turns to the midline while walking," Lockwood says. "When it's extreme, this means it can look like you're walking on the inside of your ankle." Overpronation can throw off your gait, raising the risk of a range of injuries, including tendonitis and ankle, knee and foot pain, according to Graves. How can I tell if I overpronate? There are a few signs, says Graves. "When you're standing in a relaxed position, do your feet appear to be rolling inward? The back of your heels should be perpendicular to the ground. Are they tilted inward?" he asks. "Look at a pair of shoes that you've been wearing for a while — is the heel of the shoe tilted inward? Does the medial/inside of the shoe in the arch area appear to be bulging? Any of these can indicate overpronation." What's the difference between stability and motion control shoes? Stability shoes are designed for mild to moderate overpronators, Fuchs says. "Stability shoes provide a balance of cushioning and support, allowing for some natural motion while helping to correct alignment." Motion control shoes are designed for severe overpronators. "They are built with firmer materials and greater support to limit excessive foot movement and support proper alignment," Fuchs says. Can stability shoes help prevent running injuries? Yes, stability shoes can help prevent running injuries in people who overpronate, Graves says. "By reducing or slowing down the amount of overpronation, there will be less stress on the foot structures that tend to be most affected by overpronation." How often should I replace my running shoes? Everyone is different, but podiatrists generally recommend replacing your shoes between 300 and 500 miles. That's admittedly a wide range, which is why looking for additional signs like your midsole being compressed or you've worn down the outsole to the point that you can see the white part. Another clear indication is if you're developing new aches and pains, Graves says. Meet our experts Suzanne C. Fuchs, DPM, a podiatrist at Luxe Podiatry in Jupiter, Fla. Melissa Lockwood, DPM, a podiatrist at Heartland Foot and Ankle Associates in Bloomington, Ill. Richard H. Graves, DPM, a podiatrist at Sol Foot & Ankle Centers in Long Beach, Calif. Our health content is for informational purposes only and is not intended as professional medical advice. Consult a medical professional on questions about your health.
Yahoo
40 minutes ago
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5 Myths About Diabetes You Need to Stop Believing, According to Dietitians
Reviewed by Dietitian Katey Davidson, RD, CPTKey Points Many diabetes myths still exist and can lead to worse health outcomes. Diabetes is a complex chronic disease; it's not caused by eating too much sugar or carbs. Manage diabetes by eating a balanced diet, staying physically active and working with a diabetes with all we know about diabetes today, myths about the condition continue to spread. Unfortunately, these myths can make the condition harder to manage—fueling shame, stigma and, ultimately, poorer health outcomes. So let's clear things up. With insights from diabetes nutrition experts, we dive into the top five diabetes myths we wish people would finally let go of, and what you should be doing instead. Myth #1: Eating Sugar Causes Diabetes While sugar may have a bad reputation, it's not the primary cause of diabetes. In fact, type 1 diabetes and type 2 diabetes have completely different underlying causes. Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune disease in which the immune system attacks insulin-producing cells in the pancreas, leading to little or no insulin production. Type 2 diabetes, on the other hand, is more complicated. It typically stems from a combination of factors such as genetics, insulin resistance, body composition and lifestyle habits like diet and physical inactivity. 'Type 2 diabetes doesn't have a single cause, especially not sugar alone. Diets high in ultra-processed foods, which often contain added sugars, fats and refined carbs, have been linked to insulin resistance and glucose dysregulation,' says Ina Flores, M.S., RD, CDCES. Although eating too much added sugar can play a role in the development of type 2 diabetes, it's not a direct cause. 'It's not about one food or ingredient. It's about the overall dietary pattern and metabolic health,' Flores says. Myth #2: People with Diabetes Can't Eat Carbs A common misconception is that people with diabetes must avoid carbohydrates altogether. In reality, all carbs can fit in a diabetes-friendly diet—with the right guidance. Fiber-rich carbohydrates like legumes, whole grains, fruit and vegetables are especially good choices. They digest more slowly, support glycemic control and provide essential vitamins and minerals that are important for diabetes management. It's also important to consider what you're pairing with your carbs. 'Combining carbs with protein, fat or fiber—like pairing fruit with nuts or crackers with cheese—can help slow digestion and keep blood sugar steadier,' says Tamar Samuels, M.S., RD, CDN. Of course, some individuals may need to monitor their carbohydrate intake and avoid consuming too much in one sitting. Working closely with a registered dietitian or diabetes specialist can help you better understand how your blood sugar responds to different types and amounts of carbs. Myth #3: Being on Insulin Means You Failed Although some people can manage type 2 diabetes with lifestyle changes alone, this isn't possible for everyone. Diabetes is a chronic, progressive disease, which means your management plan can change over time. Insulin is the hormone that allows blood sugar to enter your cells, and in type 2 diabetes, the body's ability to produce it can decline—even with healthy habits. When there isn't enough insulin, blood sugar builds up and can cause damage throughout the body. Taking insulin can be a life-saving tool to keep your blood sugar levels balanced—and isn't a sign of failure. For people with type 1 diabetes, insulin is essential for survival, as their pancreas no longer produces it, regardless of lifestyle habits. 'Starting an insulin regimen isn't about giving up or failing, it's about giving your body what it needs,' says Flores. 'It's a powerful, life-saving therapy.' Myth #4: If You Have a Normal BMI, Diabetes Won't Affect You It's a common misconception that body mass index (BMI) is a reliable measure of overall health. In reality, BMI doesn't distinguish between muscle and fat or account for other contributing factors like genetics, ethnicity, environment, age and stress. For example, a person classified as 'obese' based on BMI may have a healthy body composition with higher muscle mass and lower fat mass, while someone with a 'normal' BMI may carry excess fat and have low muscle mass—putting them at greater risk for health issues. In fact, research suggests that central adiposity—fat stored around the abdomen—is a stronger predictor of diabetes risk than BMI. Still, even individuals with a lower or 'normal' BMI can develop type 2 diabetes. 'It would be wrong to assume those in the normal range BMI category are protected from developing type 2 diabetes. We need to acknowledge other risk factors of blood sugar dysregulation and insulin resistance to avoid missed diagnoses,' says Meredith Rofheart, M.S., RD, CDN. Myth #5: Diabetes Is Reversible While there isn't currently a cure for diabetes—though hopefully there will be one day—it is possible to reach remission, meaning you can manage your blood sugar levels without medication. 'Remission is possible for some people with type 2 diabetes, especially after significant weight loss and early intervention, but it's not a cure,' says Flores. 'Maintaining remission requires ongoing lifestyle changes, regular medical follow-up and support. Weight regain or declining beta cell function can lead to relapse, so long-term support is essential.' Although promising advancements are underway in the treatment of type 1 diabetes, it remains a nonreversible condition that requires ongoing medical management. Believe These Instead Despite the myths out there, there are many lifestyle habits that can help you effectively manage your diabetes. Balance Your Plate. Combine protein, healthy fats and fiber-rich carbs to stabilize blood sugar. Move More. Staying physically active can help better manage blood sugar levels. This includes activities like strength training, cardio, playing sports and going for walks. It's also important to reduce long sitting and sedentary time throughout the day. Monitor Your Portions. Being mindful of portion sizes can help you manage your carbohydrate and calorie intake. A helpful guideline is to fill half of your plate with nonstarchy vegetables, one quarter with complex carbohydrates, and the remaining quarter with lean protein. Get Screened Early. If you have a family history of diabetes or other risk factors, it's important to speak with your health care provider. Early detection can help you take steps to prevent or delay complications. Work with a Professional. A registered dietitian or certified diabetes care and education specialist (CDCES) can help personalize your plan that fits with your lifestyle and individual needs. Our Expert Take The myths around diabetes aren't just wrong—they're harmful. They can trap people in fear, shame and confusion—often delaying effective care. But here's the truth: diabetes management isn't about perfection or punishment. It's about meeting people where they are—understanding their barriers, helping them navigate the emotional challenges of the condition and equipping them with the knowledge and skills necessary for self-care. Whether you're trying to prevent, manage or simply understand diabetes better, replacing myths with facts can make all the difference. Read the original article on EATINGWELL
