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November 29, 2012 By delaying the age at which people can join Medicare, the federal government could save millions of dollars. But if 65- and 66-year-olds have to find health insurance on the open market, states, employers and individuals of all ages will end up paying a lot more.

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On Morning EditionPlaylist

November 19, 2012 A massive research project in California is beginning to show how genes, health habits and the environment can interact to cause diseases. The new combination of genetic and health information is one of the most powerful research tools on earth, a researcher says.

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On All Things ConsideredPlaylist

October 17, 2012 Researchers say falls often happen when the elderly are not using a walker or wheelchair. Though 75 percent of patients in a recent study used one to get around, only 20 percent were using one when they fell.

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October 16, 2012 The home care workforce is one of the nation's fastest growing, yet its 2.5 million members — nearly all women — are also among the worst paid. With fears of a labor shortage as baby boomers age, there are efforts to make the job more attractive.

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On All Things ConsideredPlaylist

October 11, 2012 The federal government is providing more grants for nursing home background checks, but a federal investigation finds that a background check would likely flag some, but not all, of the aides who ultimately are disciplined.

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October 9, 2012 Counselor Judith Schwarz says that for terminally ill patients who are suffering, prolonging death can seem like a worse fate than death itself. Schwarz is a patient supporter with the nonprofit organization Compassion & Choices.

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On Fresh Air from WHYYPlaylist

October 8, 2012 Most elderly drivers give up the keys only when their child or grandchild intervenes. Social workers say it's important for family members to be aware and look for changes in their parents' driving behavior.

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On Morning EditionPlaylist

October 3, 2012 Ultraviolet light can burn your skin and raise the risk for skin cancer. New research has helped uncover how the rays can weaken skin's outer layer, compromising its ability to protect the body.

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September 28, 2012 Passionate advocates believe that squatting over the toilet is a more healthful position than sitting down on one. They say the posture can alleviate problems like hemorrhoids. One company is making stools to help people get closer to the squat.

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