91-Year-Old Record Holder and New Research Reshape Views on Aging Health

Flo Meiler stands in her Vermont home surrounded by the medals she has earned over three decades of competition. At 91, she holds two world records in track and field. She began competing at age 60 and has continued to race ever since. Meiler acknowledges the physical changes that come with age but remains active in the sport. “I’m sad that I can’t jump like I used to, but I really enjoy it,” she said.

While Meiler exemplifies physical endurance, other aspects of aging health are receiving new attention from medical professionals and researchers. A recent study released in October 2025 indicated that peanut allergy rates in children under 3 have dropped by roughly 43 percent over the last decade. This shift follows new studies suggesting that introducing peanut products to infants between 4 and 6 months of age can reduce the risk of developing an allergy. This approach contrasts with long-held medical advice that recommended avoiding peanut products for young children.

Medical experts on the podcast Aging Untold also addressed how health changes affect intimacy for older couples. Sam Cradduck, a gerontologist, stated that the first step is identifying what is behind a change in sexual activity. She emphasized that competence and consent are the primary considerations. Dr. Rhea Rogers, a board-certified physician, noted that many couples mistakenly treat intimacy and sexuality as interchangeable, when they are distinct concepts. For physical issues such as erectile dysfunction, Rogers said a doctor can often provide assistance.

The discussion also covered the role of clinical trials for older adults, a demographic frequently underrepresented in such studies. Dr. Rogers advised participants to first determine what a specific trial aims to answer. She noted that many view trials as a last resort, but a major benefit is early access to new treatments. “You get great access to tomorrow’s medicines today, devices, therapies and other things that will not be available to everybody else for years,” Rogers said. Aging expert Amy O’Rourke added that participants should understand they might receive a placebo during the study.

The program, provided for educational purposes, does not constitute medical advice. It encourages individuals to consult a licensed physician for personal health concerns. The broadcast highlights practical ways for couples to discuss sex after a diagnosis and questions to ask before joining a clinical trial.