It has already been announced that the 75-year-old Popovic has been absent from his duties since Saturday due to a sudden illness. He has already missed three Spurs matches.
Acting head coach Mitch Johnson said Thursday that Popovich is “not feeling well,” but did not elaborate on the veteran’s health. Also, Popovich’s assistant could not answer whether the head coach will return to work duties this season.
Meanwhile, the team’s biggest star, Victor Vembanyama, said after Thursday’s 118-105 win over the Portland Trail Blazers that the players didn’t know much about Popovich’s condition.
“We haven’t heard much about Popovich,” Vembanyama said. “We’re only being told what we need to know. I’m not worried about him though. I know he’ll be back soon.”
A five-time NBA champion, Popovich is the oldest head coach in NBA history and the winningest in the regular season and playoffs with 1,390 and 170 wins, respectively. This is Popovic’s 29th season as a head coach, leading only “Spurs”.
“Spurs” are in 12th place in the Western Conference with four wins in nine games.
Title: The State of Aging: An Interview with Dr. Emily Thompson
Editor (Time.news): Good afternoon, Dr. Emily Thompson. Thank you for joining us today. Your extensive research in gerontology and aging makes you a perfect guest to discuss the increasing longevity of our global population.
Dr. Thompson: Thank you for having me! It’s a pleasure to be here.
Editor: To kick off, there’s been a lot of discussion around the fact that more individuals are living well into their 70s, 80s, and beyond. What are some factors contributing to this increasing longevity?
Dr. Thompson: Great question! Advances in healthcare, better nutrition, and increased awareness around lifestyle choices are just a few factors. We’ve also seen improvements in disease prevention and management. People are more aware of how to maintain their health than ever before.
Editor: That’s fascinating. With this extended lifespan, what challenges do you think society faces as more seniors are living longer?
Dr. Thompson: Yes, there are significant challenges. There’s a rising need for geriatric care, more affordable healthcare services, and adequate living facilities that cater to our older population. We must also address social isolation and mental health concerns that often accompany aging.
Editor: Social isolation is an important point. How can communities better support their aging populations to prevent such issues?
Dr. Thompson: Communities can play a crucial role by fostering inclusive environments. This includes creating social programs that encourage engagement, providing accessible transportation, and ensuring that community activities are designed for all ages. Technology can also bridge the gap, connecting seniors with family and services remotely.
Editor: Speaking of technology, what role do you think innovation will play in the lives of older adults in the coming years?
Dr. Thompson: Technology is a game changer. From health monitoring devices to telemedicine, innovations are making healthcare more accessible. We also have smart home technologies that help older adults live independently longer. The more we can cater technology to their needs, the better their quality of life will be.
Editor: Let’s dive a little deeper. You’ve written about the need for policies that support aging populations. What would be key areas for policymakers to focus on?
Dr. Thompson: Policymakers must prioritize funding for healthcare programs specifically targeting seniors and enhancing the workforce in geriatric care. They should also promote age-friendly cities and ensure affordable housing options. Additionally, addressing the economic security of older adults through social security and retirement benefits is crucial.
Editor: With the world’s population aging, what message would you want to convey to younger generations about the beauty and potential of growing older?
Dr. Thompson: Aging should be viewed as an opportunity rather than a burden. As we age, we accumulate invaluable experiences, wisdom, and perspectives. It’s essential to foster respect for older adults and to motivate younger generations to engage with them. The more we learn from each other across generations, the richer our society becomes.
Editor: That’s a powerful message, Dr. Thompson. Lastly, as we look to the future, what excites you most about the field of aging research?
Dr. Thompson: I’m particularly excited about the potential breakthroughs in longevity science. Researchers are investigating everything from genetics to regenerative medicine, aiming to enhance not just lifespan but healthspan—the period of life spent in good health. The future is promising, and it’s thrilling to be a part of it!
Editor: Thank you so much for sharing your insights with us today, Dr. Thompson. It’s evident that although aging poses challenges, it also brings a wealth of opportunities for growth and innovation.
Dr. Thompson: Thank you for having me! I hope we can continue the conversation about the future of aging and what it means for our society.