Roughly 21% of older adults in the U.S. experience some form of abuse, according to recent research. Within Virginia, the state’s adult protective services verified nearly 13,000 cases of elder abuse in 2022. Older adults also face threats to housing, access to care and support services; a January 2025 count by homeless services nonprofit Homeward revealed 40% of Richmond’s unhoused population are over 55 years old. 

Two organizations within Virginia Commonwealth University, its department of...

Original Home of Gibson Guitars
As the birthplace of well-known brands Gibson Guitars, Checker Taxi Cabs and Bell’s Brewery, Kalamazoo is no stranger to making a name for itself. Set in Southwestern Michigan, Kalamazoo is a vibrant community with a laidback lifestyle that allows its 72,873 residents to live at their own pace. Surrounded by natural wonders, the city has access to some of the most scenic parks, trails and lakes for hiking, kayaking and fishing. The city’s forward movement creates a culture that contributes to the all-around well-being of its citizens.

Newly restored homes and a rich cultural history
Adjacent to the Faubourg Marigny, New Orleans’ 7th Ward is a vibrant, historic area in the process of significant change. Jermaine Bossier, Big Chief of the 7th Ward Creole Hunters and half of the musical duo the 79rs Gang, says the increase in Airbnb-style rentals has accelerated the shrinking of Creole culture in the 7th Ward. “What you don’t have much of is the old mom-and-pop ballrooms,” Bossier says, referencin...

Natural splendor as a muse
Joshua Tree is a cultural and natural wonder as distinctive as the eponymous tree variety that populates the community. Initially the site of extensive mining operations, the town has become one part artistic community, one part national park and one part tourist destination. “Joshua Tree has one hundred percent contributed to my style,” says artist and owner of Rando De Colores, Patrick Hasson. “There’s something about this place and th...

VCU Health Pauley Heart Center expert shares insights on the effect high blood pressure can have on COVID-19.

The VCU Health Pauley Heart Center is building on its relationships throughout Richmond to provide free blood pressure screenings to community members.

Sangeeta Shah, M.D., FACC, FASE, has dedicated her career to reshaping the treatment of congenital heart defects from birth throughout adulthood.