Spending Time With Parents Can Extend Their Lifespan

Dec 20 2023

If it’s been a while since you’ve connected with your mom, a 2012 study suggests it’s time to invite her over for dinner because spending time with her may increase her life expectancy.

The study, involving 1,600 adults with an average age of 71, found that loneliness significantly contributes to the decline in the quality of life for older adults, impacting mental health and even increasing the risk of premature death.

Specifically, participants who reported loneliness had a higher mortality rate within six years compared to those with companionship, even after adjusting for health and socioeconomic status.

Another study from 2010 emphasized the importance of social ties in extending life, comparing their impact to weight loss for obese individuals and physical activity for sedentary ones. Loneliness has been identified as a substantial health risk, surpassing the dangers of smoking or obesity.

Spending time with loved ones, especially parents and grandparents, not only provides emotional benefits but also contributes to physical well-being. Laughter, often a result of such interactions, acts as a powerful antidote to declining health, boosting immunity, lowering blood pressure, and stimulating mental activity.

Grandparents who engage in childcare activities show a lower likelihood of developing Alzheimer’s and dementia. Ultimately, the bottom line is that investing time with elderly family members is a mutually beneficial endeavour, offering valuable wisdom, support in childcare, and fostering positive health outcomes for everyone involved.

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Zack Snyder Interested In Directing Fortnite Movie

Dec 20 2023

While promoting his latest Netflix film, “Rebel Moon,” director Zack Snyder expressed a keen interest in taking on the challenge of directing a movie adaptation of the popular game Fortnite.

Snyder, known for his enthusiasm for the battle royale shooter, responded with an emphatic “of course” when asked about the possibility of helming a live-action version of the Epic Games title.

In a recent interview, Snyder shared his fascination with the Fortnite universe, stating, “Look, Fortnite is an amazing world, and it is an amazing distraction for me.” He even revealed his attempt to have skins based on his film “Rebel Moon” incorporated into the free-to-play game.

Reflecting on the prospect of directing a live-action Fortnite movie, Snyder expressed a sense of openness, acknowledging the dynamic nature of the entertainment industry.

He remarked, “You definitely don’t know. You definitely can never say never. That’s my mantra in this business.” Snyder’s combination of filmmaking passion and Fortnite gaming showcases the evolving intersections between popular entertainment mediums.

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Gozo’s Magical Christmas Parade: A Symphony of Lights, Music & Joy!

Gozo's Magical Christmas Parade: A Symphony of Lights, Music, and Joy!

Dec 20 2023

Gozo is celebrating the holiday season with its annual Christmas Parade this Saturday at 8 PM in Victoria. This enchanting event promises a spectacle of festive wonder as over 250 children unite to create a dazzling display of colourful floats, harmonious music, and boundless holiday cheer.

Gozo’s Christmas Parade is more than just a procession; it’s a heartwarming tradition that captures the very essence of the season—spreading joy and togetherness. Families and friends are invited to gather along the streets of Victoria, where the air will be filled with the magical spirit of Christmas.

Adding an extra touch of glamour to the festivities, the parade will feature the sensational dancers from CENTRE STAGE DANCE ACADEMY. Their performances promise to be a highlight of the evening, infusing the event with the grace and energy of their artistry.

This Saturday at 8PM, don’t miss the chance to be part of Gozo’s Christmas magic. Come and experience the enchantment as the community comes together to celebrate the season, creating cherished memories for all who attend. It’s a night of joy, lights, and the infectious spirit of Christmas waiting to be shared in the heart of Victoria.

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EU Reaches New Agreement On Migration & Asylum

Dec 20 2023

MEPs and national governments have reached a landmark agreement on Wednesday to overhaul the European Union’s asylum and migration legislation. Negotiators from the Parliament and Council finalized five separate EU regulations that address the management of asylum and migration flows among member states, handling sudden migratory crises, dealing with arrivals at external borders, processing asylum claims, and identifying individuals arriving in the EU.

EP President Roberta Metsola described the agreement as a “historic day,” highlighting the importance of the Migration and Asylum Pact. The legislation provides a consistent framework across all member states, focusing on humane and fair treatment for those seeking protection, firmness with ineligible individuals, and strength against those exploiting the vulnerable.

The new regulations introduce mandatory solidarity for EU countries under migratory pressure, allowing member states to choose between relocating asylum applicants or making financial contributions. Criteria determining a member state’s responsibility for examining international protection applications (ex-Dublin rules) are also outlined.

To address sudden influxes, the crisis and force majeure regulation establishes mechanisms for solidarity and support for member states facing exceptional migration pressures. It covers the instrumentalization of migrants by third countries and allows temporary derogations from standard asylum procedures.

The screening regulation introduces pre-entry screening procedures for individuals not meeting EU entry conditions, emphasizing the consideration of children’s specific needs. The asylum procedures regulation establishes a common EU-wide process for granting and withdrawing international protection, with faster processing times.

Finally, the Eurodac reform enhances identification at EU borders by incorporating facial images and assessing potential security threats. Authorities gain the ability to record violent or unlawfully armed individuals. The comprehensive reform aims to create a unified, efficient, and protective approach to asylum and migration management in the EU.

#MaltaDaily