Psychology of Aging with Dr. Regina Koepp
Dr. Regina Koepp
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The Psychology of Aging podcast is your go-to resource for mental health and aging. Join clinical psychologist, Dr. Regina Koepp, each week as she shares expert insights surrounding mental health and aging, dementia, caregiving, and end of life. Each episode contains evidence-based information and resources to help you deepen your understanding of aging and take caring for older adults to a whole new level. Join us for Season 2 in January 2022!
Available episodes
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Oldest first
1 day ago
Differentiating Delirium, Dementia, Depression and Psychosis in Medically Vulnerable Older Adults
#S2 Ep 05
The prevalence of delirium is highest among older adults who are medically hospitalized. In fact, 33% of general medical patients who are 70 and older have delirium.
It’s imperative that mental health professionals have a keen understanding of delirium and how to distinguish it from look-alike conditions. This continuing education course will:
* provide an overview of delirium and the various forms delirium can take
* discuss cognitive screenings used in medical settings
* illustrate how to distinguish delirium from dementia, depression, and psychosis among medically vulnerable adults
*Link to the show notes page here**
Get access to the BONUS Video when you **subscribe to the CEU podcast *
Attention Social Workers, Psychologists, Therapists, Aging Life Care Experts: Click here to learn more about earning CEUs for listening to this podcast.
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Jun 15, 2022
How To Be an Ally To Transgender Older Adults with Loree Cook-Daniels
#S2 E4- Service providers, including mental health professionals, may be called upon to support a transgender (“trans”) older adult. Supporting trans older adults has much in common with supporting non-trans older adults. This presentation includes general reminders --- like listen rather than give advice, empower rather than “do”, and be open to learning. It also goes into many of the areas in which trans people differ from their non-trans peers, and advises allies on how they can best support the trans older adult in each arena.
In this CEU podcast episode, you'll discover:
* 3 ways that professionals and helpers can be an ally to transgender older adults
* What the terms paradox means
* Differences between people who transitioned in their younger years versus people who transitioned in their older years.
Today's guest, Loree Cook-Daniels, has been working on both LGBT and aging issues since 1974. She founded the Transgender Aging Network in 1998, and in 2000 became the Policy and Program Director for FORGE, a 26-year-old national transgender and SOFFA (Significant Others, Friends, Family, and Allies) and was a founding partner in the National Resource Center on LGBT Aging and remains its primary transgender expert.
Click here to access the show notes of this episode and to get all the resources discussed in this episode.
Attention Social Workers, Psychologists, Therapists, Aging Life Care Experts: Click here to learn more about earning CEUs for listening to this podcast.
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Jun 1, 2022
Brief Effective Pain Management for Older Adults with Beth Darnall, PhD
#S2 E3 - With the majority of people living with chronic pain being older adults, it's critical that there are affordable, accessible, AND effective pain management programs to help older adults manage chronic pain.
In this episode, Dr. Beth Darnall, Associate Professor at Stanford University School of Medicine, Department of Anesthesiology, Perioperative, and Pain Medicine, and creator of Empowered ReliefTM shares:
* why people with chronic pain may not be getting the holistic care they need.
* the benefits of a 2 hour skills-based course, compared to traditional models of psychotherapy, like 8-10 sessions of CBT
* how a single-session online pain management class has been applied to older adults for pain and symptom management.
Link to the show notes of this episode here
Attention Social Workers, Psychologists, Therapists, Aging Life Care Experts: Click here to learn more about earning CEUs for listening to this podcast.
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May 17, 2022
Diabetes and Depression: What To Know and What To Do with Mary de Groot, PhD
#S2 E2 - Diabetes affects more than 34.1 million people in the U.S. The prevalence of diabetes significantly increasing as we age with 29.2% of older Americans living with diabetes. If that is not enough, depression is 2 times more likely in people with diabetes than the general population. In this continuing education podcast course, you will learn:
* The prevalence and impact of co-existing depression and diabetes,
* Tools for assessing depression in the context of diabetes
* Effective treatment modalities for co-existing depression and diabetes.
Link to the show notes of this episode here
Attention Social Workers, Psychologists, Therapists, Aging Life Care Experts: Click here to learn more about earning CEUs for listening to this podcast.
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May 4, 2022
How Our Beliefs About Aging Impact Health and Well-being with Becca Levy, PhD
#S2 E1 - Ageism, which is bias and discrimination based on age has profoundly harmful effects on our mental and physical health as we age. In this podcast CEU episode, preeminent ageism researcher, Becca Levy, PhD will:
* Define the Stereotype Embodiment Theory
* List cultural differences related to age beliefs
* Discuss how our beliefs about aging impact our physical and mental health as we age
* Apply a model for challenging ageist stereotypes
Link to the show notes of this episode here
Attention Social Workers, Psychologists, Therapists, Aging Life Care Experts: Click here to learn more about earning CEUs for listening to this podcast.
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Oct 7, 2021
Assisted Living for Deaf Seniors
#080- The stories of deaf older adults and their families need to be shared and heard.
For the past couple of years, I have been following and sharing the story of MJ Grant and her experience with caring for her mom, Carmen, who is deaf and living with dementia. A couple of months ago, MJ made the painful decision to move Carmen into a Memory Care community and shares the painful experience of moving her mother into a community with no fluent ASL signers.
Watch the 7 min video in which MJ shares the dilemma she faced when making the decision to move her mother into assisted living and the painful experience of witnessing countless inequities deaf people face.
*Click here* to visit the show notes page for all the resources mentioned in today's episode:
*Older Adult / Family?* Download the Memory Loss & Mental Health Guide
*Professional?* Grab the Mental Health Professional’s Guide to Working with Older Adults
*Help others find this show* b*y subscribing and leaving a review wherever you listen to the podcast, or **here on i-tunes.
*
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Sep 28, 2021
What Is It Like To Live With Dementia? Chrissy Thelker Shares Her Story
#079 - Chrissy Thelker was 55 years old when she had her first stroke and was subsequently diagnosed with Vascular Dementia. In today's interview, Chrissy shares her experience of living with dementia and her journey to finding purpose and hope.
With more and more people living with dementia, it's imperative that we gain perspective and understanding of the lived experience of people living with dementia and the importance of advocacy, peer support, and building a purpose-filled life living with dementia.
In this episode, Chrissy Thelker shows us how.
*Click here* to visit the show notes page for all the resources mentioned in today's episode:
*Older Adult / Family?* Download the Memory Loss & Mental Health Guide
*Professional?* Grab the Mental Health Professional’s Guide to Working with Older Adults
*Help others find this show* b*y subscribing and leaving a review wherever you listen to the podcast, or **here on i-tunes.
*
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Sep 21, 2021
Dementia Health Disparities Affecting African Americans
#078- Dementia is one of the most important, but often overlooked, health care issues related to older African Americans.
In fact, research shows that African Americans are *two to three times* *more likely* to develop a dementia disorder (compared to European Americans) and at the same time are *less likely* to be diagnosed early in the disease process and provided with adequate treatment.
The burning question is "WHY?!!"
Luckily there are experts, like Dr. Vonetta Dotson, Neuropsychologist, who can help us understand why this is happening and what we can do about it.
In this week's interview, Dr. Dotson shares biological, genetic, and social factors that increase the risk for dementia. She also shares what you can do to ensure that your loved ones are getting the best, most equitable and comprehensive health care. AND, she shares tips for keeping your own brain healthy!
*Click here* to visit the show notes page for all the resources mentioned in today's episode:
*Older Adult / Family?* Download the Memory Loss & Mental Health Guide
*Professional?* Grab the Mental Health Professional’s Guide to Working with Older Adults
*Help others find this show* b*y subscribing and leaving a review wherever you listen to the podcast, or **here on i-tunes.
*
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Sep 15, 2021
Tips to Help You Age in Place with Alzheimers & Dementia
#077- There’s a common misconception that when somebody is diagnosed with dementia, they lose their independence and can no longer live alone. While down the road in the illness course of dementia, this may be true, there is A LOT that a person with dementia CAN DO to remain living independently and safely in their home.
This episode is a must listen if you or someone you know is newly diagnosed with dementia and looking for what to do next.
In today’s episode, I share 5 key strategies for helping adults living with dementia age in place for as long as possible
*
**Click here* to visit the show notes page for all the resources mentioned in today's episode:
*Older Adult / Family?* Download the Memory Loss & Mental Health Guide
*Professional?* Grab the Mental Health Professional’s Guide to Working with Older Adults
*Help others find this show* b*y subscribing and leaving a review wherever you listen to the podcast, or **here on i-tunes.
*
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Sep 8, 2021
Benefits of Early Detection of Alzheimers & Dementia
#076 - Early diagnosis of Alzheimer's or dementia can pave the road to better care. In this episode, you'll learn why early diagnosis of dementia is important and how early diagnosis of dementia helps older adults and their families.
*
**Click here* to visit the show notes page for all the resources mentioned in today's episode:
*Older Adult / Family?* Download the Memory Loss & Mental Health Guide
*Professional?* Grab the Mental Health Professional’s Guide to Working with Older Adults
*Help others find this show* b*y subscribing and leaving a review wherever you listen to the podcast, or **here on i-tunes.
*
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Sep 8, 2021
10 Must Know Dementia Warning Signs
#075- Do you know the 10 dementia warning signs? Getting clear about these 10 Must Know Dementia and Memory Loss Warning Signs will help you get needed care for seniors. In this episode, you'll learn the difference between what is typical with aging and what symptoms may require further evaluation.
*
**Click here* to visit the show notes page for all the resources mentioned in today's episode:
*Older Adult / Family?* Download the Memory Loss & Mental Health Guide
*Professional?* Grab the Mental Health Professional’s Guide to Working with Older Adults
*Help others find this show* b*y subscribing and leaving a review wherever you listen to the podcast, or **here on i-tunes.
*
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Aug 31, 2021
Attitudes About Sexuality & Aging with Maggie Syme, PhD, MPH
#074 - Our attitudes about sexuality & aging may influence an older adults' sexual health.
In an effort to help mental health, senior care, and health care providers reflect on our own values and attitudes, I interview sexual health and aging expert, Dr. Maggie Syme.
In this interview Dr. Maggie Syme and I discuss:
* What it means to be a sexual citizen
* Attitudes about sexuality and aging
* Current research on intimacy and aging
* Benefits of sexuality and intimacy in older adulthood
* Dementia and sexual expression
* What sexual liberation looks like for older adults
Maggie L. Syme, PhD, MPH is currently a Project Director at Hebrew SeniorLife Marcus Institute for Aging. Her research has focused on sexual health and wellness in later life, specifically on issues related to sexual consent and ageism. Prior to her current Project Director role, Dr. Syme was an Associate Professor and Associate Director of Research at Kansas State University Center on Aging.
*
**Click…
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Aug 24, 2021
Mental Health & Substance Abuse Recovery for Seniors
#073- The field of peer support has grown in many mental health and substance abuse treatment systems. Peer Support Specialists draw upon their own life experiences, like mental health and substance use concerns, distress, poverty, and oppression, on the one hand, and experiences of recovery and resilience, on the other.¹
They use their lived experience to help build connections to others with similar shared experiences and treatment.
The fact that peer specialists share many similar experiences with the clients they serve means that they are able to understand clients in a way that is real and empathetic enabling meaningful connections.¹
Today, I interview Jim Klasen, Certified Older Adult Certified Peer Specialist, who shares his personal experiences with mental health and substance use recovery and ways in which he is using his lived experience to help others:
*Here's a peek into the episode with Jim Klasen:*
* Jim shares about his own history of mental health and substance…
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Aug 17, 2021
Risks and Benefits of Aducanumab for Alzheimer's Disease
Aducanumab has been a hot topic in the field of dementia and Alzheimer's disease. Aducanumab, also known as Aduhelm, is a new Alzheimer's drug for people with Alzheimer's disease in their early stages with mild cognitive impairment. With so many questions, it helps to have answers from experts like Dr. Jason Karlawish, Neurologist and Co-Director of the Penn Memory Center.
In this episode, Dr. Karlawish and I discucss:
* Reasons that Dr. Karlawish is a "reluctant prescriber" of Aducanumab
* The risks and benefits of Aducanumab for Alzheimer's Disease
* How the FDA made the decision to approve Aducanumab for use
* The answer to the question: "is some hope is better than no hope?" (related to the use of Aducanumab for Alzheimers.)
* The effects of the COVID-19 virus on brain health (i.e., risk for dementia)
* The difference between FDA approval for Aducanumab versus COVID-19 vaccine
*
**Click here* to visit the show notes page for all the resources mentioned in today's epi…
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Aug 10, 2021
After Stroke Depression & Recovery with Angie Burke
#071 - Angie Burke was a Registered Nurse and worked for 26 years at a hospital in her community, specializing in palliative care, until On September 23, 2013, she suffered a large stroke and was eventually diagnosed with epilepsy.
Following an episode of depression, Angie became more determined than ever began exercising daily, and eventually became an amateur bodybuilder. In May of 2017 she competed in her first amateur bodybuilding show.
In today's episode, Angie shares her journey of stroke, depression, and going from "stroke victim" to "stroke survivor".
Depression after stroke affects approximately one third of stroke survivors at any one time after stroke. Thankfully, there is help for people living with depression following stroke.
In this interview, stroke survivor, Angie Burke and I discuss:
* The unseen challenges that come with having a stroke- like grief related to loss of identity, ability, career, and the way things were.
* After stroke depression and psychia…
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Jul 21, 2021
Helping Care for Aging Parents & Becoming a Family Caregiver
#070 - If you're just starting out with helping care for aging parents, you might be feeling overwhelmed and unsure of how to help. Not only are you flooded with loads of new information about medical conditions, you’re also experiencing complex family dynamics and your own messy feelings to manage in the midst of it all. Today's episode will help to guide you in the common yet difficult experience of becoming a family caregiver.
*In this episode, you'll learn:*
* How to prepare for the caregiver's journey
* How to strengthen your relationship with your aging parent before you become a caregiver
* One of the most challenging role transitions older adults and new caregivers face
* What is (what I call) the Ambiguous Caregiver?
* Tips for navigating binds and dilemmas with aging parents
* Where to look for answers about your aging parent's condition
*
Click here* to visit the show notes page for all the resources mentioned in today's episode:
*Professional?* Grab the Me…
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Jul 13, 2021
Addressing Ageism with Humor & Civility with Steven Petrow
#069-I have to admit, as a Geropsychologist who strives toward anti-ageism, when I set out to read Steven Petrow’s new book, STUPID THINGS I WON’T DO WHEN I GET OLD, I was skeptical. I judged the book by its title and doubted that it would match my mission of anti-ageism, but boy was I wrong. Steven Petrow’s new book is a warm and witty journey through aging and the valuable lessons learned along the way.
In this podcast episode, Steven and I dive deep into his book and explore:
* Steven’s journey with aging
* The important role of intergenerational relationships
* The courage to discuss mental health concerns like depression and suicide
* Finding balance and resilience
* End of life love letters
* How to respond when someone makes an ageist “gaffe”
At the end of this episode, you’ll have more tools for stopping age shaming so that you can enjoy the ride with balance and grace.
*
Click here* to visit the show notes page to learn more.
*Professional?* Grab…
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Jul 6, 2021
Legal Justice for Seniors: Ending Elder Abuse & Exploitation with Page Ulrey
#068 - Elder abuse and exploitation have a significant impact on older adults who experience it, including an increased risk for death, worsening of chronic illness, increased likelihood of hospitalization and placement in a nursing home, as well as increased rates of depression, anxiety, among other consequences.
Legal justice can, at times, be helpful to restoring a sense of personal security and reclaiming dignity for the survivor of the abuse.
In this interview, Page Ulrey, Senior Deputy Prosecuting Attorney for the King County Prosecutor’s Office, is on the podcast discussing:
* The impact of elder abuse on older adults
* Barriers to reporting elder abuse cases
* Recommendations to improving elder abuse reporting system
* Common elder abuse cases
* Recommendations for mandated reporters
* Recommendations for loved one's concerned about an older adult
We each have a role in preventing and ending elder abuse. Thank you for being here and doing your part.
*
**Click…
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Jun 29, 2021
Preventing Financial Elder Abuse & Exploitation with Dr. Peter Lichtenberg
#067- One out of every 20 older adults in the U.S. is a victim of financial exploitation, losing an average of $80,000 to $186,000 (olderadultnestegg.com). The vast majority of elder financial abuse cases are most likely to be somebody the older adult knows: family members (54%), 31% care workers, and 13% partners (Jackson, 2016).
Banks and money service businesses reported a 400% increase in suspicious activity from 2013-2017. The vast majority of this suspicious activity involved people over 60 (olderadultnestegg.com).
Today's guest, Dr. Peter Lichtenberg, is a national expert in preventing financial abuse and exploitation and reducing its impact on older adults.
In this interview, Dr. Lichtenberg reviews:
* Examples of elder financial exploitation to help raise awareness
* What increases risk for financial vulnerability
* Resources to help older adults, caregivers, and professionals prevent elder financial exploitation
* The SAFE Program: Successful Aging through Financi…
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Jun 22, 2021
Elder Financial Abuse by Family Members: Schottenstein Family Story
#066 - At 93 years old, Beverley Schottenstein filed financial abuse charges against two of her grandsons, Evan Schottenstein and Avi Schottenstein, and JP Morgan. A ruling in February 2021, found the two grandsons and JP Morgan liable for abusing their fiduciary duty and making fraudulent misrepresentations. They also found the bank and Evan Schottenstein liable for elder abuse. It ordered JP Morgan and the grandsons to pay Beverley $19 million between them.
In this episode, I interview Cathy Schottenstein Pattap, one of Beverly Schottenstein's granddaughters who took Beverly's concerns seriously and testified on her behalf.
Here's what you'll discover in this episode:
* The Schottenstein family history of hard work, wealth, and the American dream.
* 95 year old, Beverley Schottenstein's betrayal by her son, Bobby, and grandsons Evan and Avi, and the court case that found them and JP Morgan guilty of elder financial abuse.
* Ways in which ageism and sexism played a role in Be…
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Jun 15, 2021
Elder Abuse and Elder Abuse Reporting Resources
#065- As senior care professionals, mental health providers, and family caregivers, it's essential that we raise awareness and increase our knowledge around elder abuse, self-neglect, and resources for reporting suspicions of elder abuse.
*In this episode, you'll learn: *
* The answer to "what is elder abuse?" Including financial, physical, and emotional.
* The difference between elder abuse and neglect?
* Why it's important to be mindful self-neglect among older adults
* Resources for reporting elder abuse.
*Click here* to visit the show notes page to learn more.
*Are you a licensed therapist, psychiatrist, or neuropsychologist who specializes with older adults? *Join me in building the ONLY geriatric mental health provider directory in the nation. For a limited time, you can claim your profile here for FREE with the code: fullaccesspass
*For Families: *Click here to download the Mental Health & Memory Loss Guide
*Help others find this show* b*y subscribing and leaving a…
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Jun 8, 2021
[REPOST] Affirming Care for Transgender Older Adults with Loree Cook-Daniels
#064 - In honor of PRIDE, I am reposting an interview with Loree Cook-Daniels, founder of the Transgender Aging Network. In this interview, Loree shares important insights, tools, and resources for working with Transgender older adults and their partners.
*About Loree Cook-Daniels*
Loree Cook-Daniels has been working on both LGBT and aging issues since 1974. In the ‘90s she was a primary staff person for the National Center on Elder Abuse. She founded the Transgender Aging Network in 1998, and in 2000 became the Policy and Program Director for FORGE, a 26-year-old national transgender and SOFFA (Significant Others, Friends, Family, and Allies) organization that specializes in transgender aging and victims of violence. Formerly a contributing editor for the Victimization of the Elderly and Disabled, she has also authored numerous book chapters, articles and tip sheets on LGBT and trans aging issues. FORGE’s Transgender Aging Network was a founding partner in the National Resource…
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Jun 8, 2021
[REPOST] Enhancing Care for LGTBQ Seniors with SAGE’s Tim Johnston, PhD
#063 - In honor of PRIDE, I am reposting an interview with Dr. Tim Johnston, Senior Director of National Projects at SAGE. In this interview, Dr. Tim Johnston shares important insights about LGTBQ Seniors and provides resources for LGTB Older Adults.
*About Tim Johnston, PhD:
*Dr. Tim Johnston, the Senior Director of National Projects at SAGE. In this role, Dr. Johnston oversees the SAGECare cultural competency training program, and national partnerships with other advocacy organizations. Dr. Johnston is the author of Welcoming LGBT Residents: A Practical Guide for Senior Living Staff, which is the first comprehensive book on how to create a positive and safer experience for LGBT older adults in senior living settings.
Click here to visit the show notes page to learn more.
*For families: *Click here to download the Mental Health & Memory Loss Guide
*For professionals: *Are you a licensed therapist, psychiatrist, or neuropsychologist who specializes with older adults?* *Claim your p…
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Jun 1, 2021
Family Legacy of Dementia Caregiving with MJ Grant
#062- The stories of people living with dementia and their families need to be told, heard, and valued.
I'm honored to share the life of, MJ Grant, as she describes the legacy of caregiving in her family, her transition to becoming a caregiver, and the isolation many Deaf people living with dementia experience.
*Here's what you'll discover in this beautiful interview: *
* [06:26] MJ talks about the viral "Dementia Can Be Beautiful" video that has had more than 2.5 million views.
* [14:22] How MJ's mom's dreams of travel and enjoyment in retirement were thwarted by caregiving for her mom (MJ's grandmother) who had Alzheimer's.
* [18:23] Through the eyes of herself as a little girl, growing up, MJ experienced her mom as being dedicated to her and her sister and as a "survivor" working in a factory with not many people to talk with as a deaf person.
* [23:03] Becoming a caregiver seems to come so naturally to MJ, but she describes her experience coming to terms with it, "I neve…
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May 25, 2021
How Growing Up in Poverty Inspired My Career in Mental Health and Aging
Today, I launch the Center for Mental Health and Aging website. As I unveil this exciting website and resource hub, I realize that despite pouring so much of myself into this website, you don’t know much about me.
So, today as I celebrate the launch of the Center for Mental Health and Aging, I’m sharing a little bit more about myself, and some of the very personal experiences in my own life that have led me to creating the Center for Mental Health and Aging.
Here’s a peek inside the episode:
* [01:39] I share about my experience being raised by a single mom with no dad.
* [02:40] Learn how school and a local food bank shaped my view of the world.
* [06:27] Stigma and shame about poverty and mental illness resulted in secrecy and hiding my true self.
* [08:49] I did therapy with an older adult who abandoned his children and worked in therapy to process remorse, grief, and loss. As I was helping him, I found healing in my own experience of being abandoned by my “bio da…
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May 18, 2021
Addressing Suicide Among Older Adults with Yeates Conwell, MD
#060- Suicide is heart breaking and tragic. Today's guest, Yeates Conwell, MD, geriatric psychiatrist and leading expert on suicide among older adults is on the podcast to guide us in understanding late life suicide and how we can help older adults who may be suicidal.
With older white men over 85 having the highest rates of suicide, more than any other age group, it's essential that we have tools for addressing and preventing elderly suicide.
*Here's what we'll cover in this episode:*
* Statistics about older adults and suicide?
* Why do older white men have the highest rates of suicide?
* Among older adults, what is suicidal behavior mainly associated with?
* How to help older adults who may be suicidal?
*Here's a peek inside the episode:*
* [05:19] Late life suicide is trend all around the world. Dr. Conwell sheds light on statistics about older adults and suicide.
* [09:59] Learn what may be contributing to older white men having the highest rate of suicide.
* [1…
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May 11, 2021
How Does Ageism & Age Discrimination Affect Older Adults' Health
#059- In 2020, researchers found that ageism cost the US $63 billion dollars in one year and resulted in 17.04 million cases of 8 of the most expensive health and mental health conditions, including heart disease, dementia, cancer, diabetes, mental health conditions, among others.
In this episode, you'll learn about ageism, how age discrimination affects the physical and mental health of older adults, and what you can do to combat ageism.
* [02:03] What is ageism and why is it so harmful.
* [06:53] Discover the difference between structural ageism and individual ageism.
* [08:51] How does ageism affect older adults' physical health?
* [10:48]How does ageism affect the mental health of older adults?
* [13:22] Learn 3 strategies for combatting ageism.
Click here to visit the show notes page to learn more.
Click here to listen to the podcast
*Are you a licensed therapist, psychiatrist, or neuropsychologist who specializes with older adults? *Download this free guide and be t…
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May 4, 2021
Anxiety in Elderly Adults: Causes, Symptoms, Treatments
#058- Anxiety is NOT normal with aging and can be effectively treated. Unfortunately, anxiety in the elderly often goes undetected and untreated largely due to the false belief that with age it’s normal to have a mental health problem.
*Good news: Anxiety is highly treatable in older adults!*
*Here's what you'll learn in this episode:*
* [03:11] What is anxiety?
* [05:10] What are the different types of anxiety disorder older adults experience?
* [05:40] Signs and symptoms of anxiety in the elderly?
* [06:55] How common are anxiety disorders among older adults?
* [07:51] What is the most common anxiety disorder among older adults?
* [08:34] What causes anxiety in older adults?
* [10:40] Anxiety and depression commonly go together
* [11:38] What happens when anxiety goes untreated in older adults?
* [12:31] Anxiety in elderly, treatment that works.
* [14:25] How to talk with older adults about getting mental health care
* Anxiety is highly treatable in older ad…
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Apr 27, 2021
The Mental Health Crisis Facing Older Adults & Their Families
#057- There's a mental health crisis facing older adults in their families. About 1 in 4 older adults experiences a mental health condition, including depression, anxiety, dementia, substance use and more, yet 67% of them struggle to get adequate mental health care, resulting in worse medical and mental health outcomes, like suicide. Herein lies the crisis.
In this podcast episode, I discuss the mental health crisis older adults and their families are facing and I share a big announcement about what I aim to do about it.
*Here's what you'll learn in this episode:*
* [03:33] What are the rates of mental health conditions among older adults?
* [05:02] What happens when mental health conditions go untreated in older adults?
* [07:16] What makes older adult mental health is a health care problem?
* [09:19] 5 ways to improve access to mental health care for older adults
* [13:07] A family faces mental health concerns at the end of life
* [15:49] What are the benefits of menta…
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Apr 20, 2021
Cancer Caregiver Support & Bereavement Groups with Ronni Levine, LMFT
#056 - Cancer affects individuals, families, and communities. According to the National Cancer Institute, in 2020, an estimated 1,806,590 new cases of cancer were diagnosed in the United States and approximately 39.5% of men and women will be diagnosed with cancer at some point during their lifetimes.
The American Cancer Society conducted an 8 year study published in 2013 and found that on average cancer caregivers spent about 8 hours per day providing care. They also stated that caregivers need a *strong support system,* explaining that having a system of support helps to weather the storms common with cancer, like a loved one’s recurrence of cancer or death from cancer.
In this Psychology of Aging podcast episode, Ronni Levine, LMFT, facilitator of cancer caregiving support groups and cancer bereavement groups for the Cancer Foundation for New Mexico, discusses the benefits of cancer caregiver support and shares tips for getting your strong system of support in place.
*Here's a…
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Apr 13, 2021
Facts About Aging and Alcohol: Signs of Alcohol Abuse in Older Adults & How to Help
#055 - Many older adults decide to stop drinking as they get older (YAY!)
There's an ageist idea circling around society, however, that suggests that "older adults can't change". This idea is not only false, it's incredibly harmful to older adults who may just believe this erroneous statement and never get the help they need.
Some researchers and mental health and aging groups talk about the *invisibility of alcohol use among older adults*, explaining that even though the number of older adults with alcohol problems is on the rise, alcohol use disorders are too often unrecognized and untreated. Some reasons for this have to do with symptoms of problematic drinking often masquerading as other health conditions in older adults like diabetes, dementia, and depression.
To complicate matters, many older adults don't seek professional help for what they often consider a "private matter" and many family members and friends of older adults with alcohol problems at some point stop trying to…
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Apr 6, 2021
Living and Aging Well with HIV: The Need for Better Mental Health Care with Mark Brennan-Ing, PhD
#054- More than half of the people in the US living with HIV are 50 years old and older. With the use of antiretroviral medications, people who were diagnosed with HIV decades ago have been able to live well into older adulthood. This is great news.
Sadly, stigma due to age, sexual orientation, gender identity, and HIV status contributes to poor mental health and physical health.
In this interview, Dr. Mark Brennan-Ing, Director of Research and Evaluation at the Brookdale Center for Healthy Aging at Hunter College, the City University of New York, is on the Psychology of Aging podcast sharing important information about:
* [05:15] HIV among people aged 50 and over is on the rise in the US and the world. Learn more about the aging of the HIV epidemic.
* [07:41] How is antiretroviral therapy helping people to live longer?
* [14:08] What is Pre-exposure prophylaxis (or PrEP)? Does it really work?
* [20:48] What are the social, cultural, and medical reasons that adults 55 and ol…
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Mar 30, 2021
Older Adults Caring for Adult Children with Autism with Lois Shingler
#053 - Over 75% of adults with developmental disabilities live at home with family. There is a growing population of aging caregivers of adults with developmental disabilities, in part due to increased lifespan and extensive waiting lists for residential services (The Arc Autism Now).
In honor of World Autism Day on 4/2/21, today's podcast episode focuses on older adults who are caring for adult children with autism or other Intellectual or Developmental Disabilities (IDDs).
In this interview, Lois Shingler, an attorney and co-founder of Peter and Paul’s Place shares her experience of being 70 years old while caring for Paul, her 45 year old son with Autism. She also provides several tips for other aging parents caring for their adult children with IDDs. Here's a peek inside the episode:
* [10:45] Lois describes her experience of entering older adulthood while caring for Paul, her 45 year old son with Autism
* [17:53] Learn what you need to plan for if you're an older adult ca…
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Mar 23, 2021
When Aging Parents Need Help: Family Caregiving Roles & Impacts with Dr. Sara Qualls
#052 - When older adults begin to experience physical or mental health changes, like with dementia disorders, for example, it can be difficult to know the steps to take when aging parents need help. It can be especially difficult for family caregivers to know how to balance autonomy and independence with concerns for risk and safety.
In this episode, Dr. Sara Qualls, clinical geropsychologist and Kraemer Family Professor of Aging Studies at the University of Colorado at Colorado Springs (UCCS), will discuss common role transitions in older families, offer tips for balancing safety and autonomy, and provide tips on having tough conversations with aging loved ones with dignity and respect.
*Here's a peak into my interview with Dr. Qualls:*
* [10:04] What are some of the common role transitions in older families?
* [13:34] Worried about your aging parent's safety or capacity to make decisions? Steps to take when your aging parent needs help.
* [20:11] Feeling guilty about caregiv…
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Mar 16, 2021
The 12 Best Brain Health Recommendations to Reduce Risk for Dementia
#051 - Researchers have been investigating brain health recommendations that help to reduce our risk for cognitive decline in older adulthood. Many of the tips that I'm going to share today are really about how to live your healthiest life and achieve optimal physical health, brain health, and mental health in older adulthood.
You may already be doing many of these recommendations. As you listen to this episode, take notes and make a list. Put a check mark by items that you are currently doing and a star next to the items that you need to be doing more of to achieve optimal health. At the end of the episode, give yourself some praise for what you're already doing, then choose one of the starred items to focus on to optimize your brain health and mental health.
Let's dive in to the 12 evidence-based brain health recommendations to reduce your risk for cognitive decline and dementia and promote mental well being:
*Here's a peak into the episode
*
* [02:55] Brain Health Recommendati…
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Mar 8, 2021
The Positive Effects of Nature on Brain Health and Mental Health with Dr. Paula Hartman-Stein
#050 - According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the average American spends only 7% of their entire life outdoors.
Our guest today, Dr. Paula Hartman-Stein, geropsychologist and author, discusses the importance of *Vitamin N for Nature* by sharing current research about the importance of incorporating nature into our daily lives and provides actionable strategies you can use to reduce "nature-deficit disorder" by incorporating nature into your daily life, even if you cannot leave your home.
*Here's a peak into my interview with Dr. Paula Hartman-Stein:
*
* [02:47] From growing up a *coal miner's daughter to writing over 150 articles on aging*, today's guest will inspire you with her biography.
* [08:16] There's a little known but very important vitamin - *Vitamin N for Nature*. Learn more about Vitamin N for "Nature" here.
* [16:49] Simply being in nature or* forest bathing, or Shinrin-yoku,* as they call it in Japan, benefits the brain.
* [18:57] *Human-anima…
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Mar 2, 2021
Mild Cognitive Impairment Vs. Dementia Vs. Alzheimer's
#049 - In today's interview, Dr. Jason Karlawish, Neurologist and Co-Director of the Penn Memory Center is on the podcast answering some of your burning dementia questions, like:
* What is mild cognitive impairment?
* Describe the difference between Mild Cognitive Impairment Vs. Dementia Vs. Alzheimers.
* What are the best tips for staving off dementia when you have mild cognitive impairment?
* What are the pros and cons of an early diagnosis of a dementia disorder, like Alzheimer's Disease?
Dr. Karlawish and I go deep in our discussion of how we as a society value human life, and talk about:
* Why dementia should be seen as a disability that deserves accommodations
* Why we need to stop using harmful metaphors (e.g., "zombie, "vegetable") of people living with dementia.
Click here to visit the show notes page to learn more.
Click here to listen to the podcast
FREE GUIDES
* Download the Memory Loss Guide here
* Download the Caring for Aging Parents Checklist here.…
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Feb 23, 2021
Tips for Better Communication in Dementia Care: 3 Caregiving Traps to Avoid with Dr. Natali Edmonds
#048- In today's interview, Dr. Natali Edmonds, Geropsychologist and founder of Dementia Careblazers, talks about how to improve communication in dementia care by sharing:
* 3 caregiving communication traps to avoid and what to do instead
* A very important message she wants all dementia caregivers to hear.
The tips in this episode will not only help you improve your communication with a person with dementia, they'll improve your connection with them as well.
*Here’s a sneak peek at what you’ll learn from my interview with Dr. Natali Edmonds
*
* [09:26] Learn how *dementia changes communication *between a dementia caregiver and a person living with dementia.
* [09:40] *Caregiving Trap #1: Don't Argue.* Dr. Natali shares why arguing with a person with dementia leads to more problems and what to try instead.
* [19:00] *Caregiving Trap #2: Avoid Reasoning.* Instead of reasoning and trying to get your loved one to see your point of view or "reality" try to join your loved…
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Feb 16, 2021
Living with Dementia: Finding Purpose and Hope with Christine Thelker
#047 - Chrissy Thelker was 55 years old when she had her first stroke and was subsequently diagnosed with Vascular Dementia. In today's interview, Chrissy shares her experience of living with dementia and her journey to finding purpose and hope.
With more and more people living with dementia, it's imperative that we gain perspective and understanding of the lived experience of people living with dementia and the importance of advocacy, peer support, and building a purpose-filled life living with dementia.
In this episode, Chrissy Thelker shows us how.
Click here to visit the show notes page to learn more.
Click here to listen to the podcast
FREE GUIDES
* Download the Memory Loss Guide here
* Download the Caring for Aging Parents Checklist here.
JOIN ME:
* Have a question you'd like me to answer on the podcast? Submit your question here
* Join the Caring for Aging Parents Facebook Community here
*Interested in working with me? *
* For Families: Click here
* For Prof…
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Feb 13, 2021
Elderly Parent Calling Multiple Times a Day? 5 Expert Tips
#046 - In this Caregiving Bonus episode, I answer the following question from a listener:
My 85 year old dad is calling me multiple times a day. It’s interrupting my time at work. Sometimes he needs something. Sometimes, he just wants to check in. He has someone assisting him, but he’s always calling me. Can you address how to handle an elderly parent who is calling me all day long.
Thank you,
Theresa in Atlanta
The 5 expert strategies I share in this brief episode will help you and your parent work together as a team to manage what can be a stressful and challenging situation.
These strategies are will help whether you're a long distance caregiver or caring for your loved one in your own home. These caregiving tips and hacks will help you be less frustrated and have a more loving relationship with your elderly parent.
Click here to visit the show notes page to learn more.
Click here to listen to the podcast
FREE GUIDES
* Download the Caring for Aging Parents Checklist he…
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Feb 9, 2021
Dementia Education for African American Families with Dr. Fayron Epps
#045-Dementia is one of the most important, but often overlooked, health care issues related to older African Americans.
Research shows that African Americans are *two to three times* *more likely* to develop a dementia disorder (compared to European Americans) and at the same time are *less likely* to be diagnosed early in the disease process and provided with adequate treatment.
Today's guest, Dr. Fayron Epps, Nurse Scientist and Assistant Professor at Emory University, Nell Hodgson Woodruff School of Nursing, is focused on changing this by improving access to resources and awareness of Alzheimer’s Disease and related dementias in African American and faith communities by conducting research and providing education.
*Here’s a sneak peek at what you’ll learn from my interview with Dr. Fayron Epps:*
* [08:24] Dementia education is essential to caring for loved one's with dementia. Dr. Epps describes the *importance of education and resources about dementia*, in particular,…
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Feb 2, 2021
Lower Caregiver Stress with Proven Resilience Strategies
#044- We have a narrative in society that says that caregivers have more depression and stress, spend their caregiving years suffering, only to lead to premature death. Our guest today shares a more balanced and factual narrative about caregivers.
Yes, many caregivers do indeed have increased rates of stress and depression. Research shows, however, that caregivers are remarkably resilient and actually DO NOT have a reduced lifespan as a result of caregiving.
Our guest today, Dr. William Haley, Professor of Aging Studies, reveals how caregiving actually affects caregivers and shares several resilience strategies you can use (starting today) to bolster your resilience and lower your stress. *Listen until the end for all the great tips and strategies.*
Here's a peak inside my interview with Dr. William Haley:
* [04:02] Dr. Haley shares his story: Where he's from and what inspired him to study aging and caregiving.
* [8:23] Learn about a stress and coping model tailored just for ca…
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Jan 26, 2021
Managing Caregiver Guilt and Shame about Moving Aging Parent to Assisted Living
#043 - Have you helped your loved one move to a senior living or assisted living community? Do you find that in the midst of experiencing relief that your loved one is being cared for and is safe, you also have intense feelings of guilt and shame?
You're not alone. Many caregivers struggle with guilt and shame after moving older loved ones into a senior living community. Perhaps you feel that you've let your older loved one down, like you're not being a dutiful spouse, daughter, or son. This can lead to emotional distress and discontent.
To help you navigate the emotionally turbulent waters of caregiver guilt and shame, I've prepared 5 strategies for helping you to move through guilt and shame when helping your older loved one adjust to senior living. Listen now.
Click here to listen to the podcast
Download the Caring for Aging Parents Checklist here.
Click here to visit the show notes page to learn more.
*
Help others find this show and get tools for caregiving: *
* My missio…
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Jan 19, 2021
How to Start a Senior Living Discussion with Aging Parents
#042- There may come a time in caring for your older loved one, when you're faced with the dreaded conversation of moving into a senior living or assisted living community. The expert tips in this episode will help you start this conversation without pushing your older loved one away.
Today's episode will share:
* 6 Strategies for setting yourself up for success with the senior living discussion
* Examples of how to start the conversation
* How to go about finding senior housing or assisted living communities
* How to take care of yourself through it all.
Click here to listen to the podcast
Download the Caring for Aging Parents Checklist here.
Click here to visit the show notes page to learn more.
*
Join the movement to de-stigmatize mental health for older adults: *
* With the *Psychology of Aging podcast*, my mission is to de-stigmatize mental health for older adults, to improve access to mental health care for older adults, and to create a space that is inclusive of…
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Jan 12, 2021
Expert Tips for Finding Senior Living with a Mental Health Condition - with Candy Cohn
#041 - When he was in his late 80s, Candy Cohn's father unintentionally stopped taking medication for a long-standing bipolar disorder and experienced a significant mental health crisis requiring hospitalization and intensive treatment. It was following this episode that Candy knew that she needed to help her older parents find a senior living community that would provide more continuity and medication management and offer opportunities for a better quality of life than they were getting at home. But, where to start?
In today's episode, I interview, Candy Cohn, a Certified Senior Advisor, who help families find senior living and has developed a specialty for helping people living with mental health concerns find senior housing, starting with her own dad.
Here's a peak inside my interview with Candy Cohn:
* [04:46] Candy describes *different types of senior living communities*, from independent living to assisted living to memory care.
* [20:48] Learn why it can be helpful to wor…
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Jan 5, 2021
Older Adults and Resilience During the COVID-19 Pandemic: 5 Proven Strategies
#040 - When we think of older adults during COVID, images of older adults living in long-term care communities sheltering in place with hands pressed against windows trying to connect with loved ones circle in our heads.
2020 was a year of incredible hardship and pain for many people and especially for many older adults and their families. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) tells us that since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, *older adults have the greatest risk of requiring hospitalization or dying* if they’re diagnosed with COVID-19. This has been one of the most heartbreaking fall outs of the pandemic.
All of this is true, and yet, its only part of the story when it comes to older adults and COVID. Research over the past year has shown that older adults have been, by and large, psychologically resilient during the pandemic.
In this episode, You’ll learn:
* the state of mental health of older adults during COVID-19 compared to adults of younger ages…
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Dec 22, 2020
Dementia Communication Tips with Alzheimer's Poetry Project's Gary Glazner
#039 - Dementia is a devastating illness that often robs families of the opportunity to connect and experience joy. Because of this, it's essential that we find a way to share connecting moments, enjoy one another, and see a little piece of the person eclipsed by the shadow of this devastating illness.
And, I have just the person to help us with this!
In this week's episode, I interview *Gary Glazner, *the founder and Executive Director of the *Alzheimer’s Poetry Project. *In this interview, Gary generously shares with us strategies facilitating communication and connection with our loved ones with dementia and even shares about his own experience bringing poetry to his mom at the end of her life.
*Here’s a sneak peek at what you’ll learn from my interview with Gary Glazner:
*
* [04:06] Gary talks about using poetry with his mom in her final month of life. The good, the bad, and the hummingbird feeder.
* [06:45] Relationships with our aging parents are not always easy. G…
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Dec 15, 2020
Real Talk about Hospice & Palliative Care with Lauren Marcewicz, MD
#038 - Have you ever had the experience of meeting up with a dear friend for coffee or talking with your trusted therapist, and all of a sudden, you stumble into a conversation that's a little scary and emotional? Maybe you hesitate for a minute and ask yourself if you're gonna take the risk and really "go there".
I don't know about you, but when I find myself in these situations with a person I trust, and I make the choice to dive in, I end up learning a lot about myself and having an even closer relationship with the person I'm talking with.
I'm going to ask you to "go there" with me today as I interview Dr. Lauren Marcewicz, Palliative Care Physician. In this interview with Dr. Marcewicz, we have a real conversation about hospice, palliative care, family dynamics, and so much more.
Here's a peak inside my interview with Dr. Lauren Marcewicz:
[04:49] Dr. Marcewicz shares what drew her to end of life care.
[08:45] Learn one of Dr. Marcewicz most memorable end of life experiences…
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Dec 8, 2020
How to Talk About End of Life Wishes - with Patty Webster, The Conversation Project
#037- Have you had an end of life conversation with a loved one? What feelings came up for when you read this? Fear? Sadness? Longing? Remorse?
Naturally, when we experience these feelings, we often want to run from them, rather than toward them.
But, did you know that when we actually pursue end of life conversations with our loved ones, it actually does more good than harm.
Research shows that end-of-life conversations lead to improved mental health and better-quality of life for both patients and caregivers. Here's how:
* The person dying reports relief and less distress after talking with their loved ones about end of life wishes
* When there is a meaningful conversation about end-of-life choices, survivors report feeling less guilt and less depression and having an easier process of grieving.
Now that you know end of life conversations can be helpful, in this podcast episode, I interview *Patty Webster, lead of community engagement for The Conversation Project*, a public…
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Dec 1, 2020
HIV, Mental Health, and Older Adults: Must Know Statistics
#036- In honor of world AIDS day on 12/1, I am devoting today’s episode to HIV and aging. And, yes. HIV is an important topic when it comes to aging. An estimated 1.2 million people in the United States had HIV at the end of 2018.
*More than half of the adults living in the US with HIV are 50 years old and older.*
With the use of antiretroviral medications, people who were diagnosed with HIV decades ago have been able to live well into older adulthood.
*1 out of 6 people who are newly diagnosed with HIV are 50 and older
In today's episode, I share:*
* Must know facts specifically about older adults and HIV
* Statistics about HIV and aging
* Mental health concerns related to mental health, HIV, and aging
* What you can do to help.
*Click to the show notes page, here. *
Interested in working with me? *Learn more here**
Join the movement to de-stigmatize mental health for older adults:
*
* With the *Psychology of Aging podcast*, my mission is to de-stigmatize mental h…
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Nov 23, 2020
Caregiving During COVID: 5 Self-Care Strategies for Caregivers
#035- November is National Caregiver Month, but I really think this entire year should be dedicated to caregivers for all that they have been through during COVID.
In today’s episode, I share statistics about the toll of caregiving during COVID and 5 self-care strategies for caregivers during COVID.
Family caregivers during COVID are more stressed and overwhelmed than ever before and here are some reasons why:
* Approximately 61% of caregivers are employed while caregiving. Of these caregivers, 60% work 40 or more hours a week and another 15% work 30-39 hours per week.
* Caregiving resources during COVID have been limited. Many resources that caregivers rely on like senior centers and adult day programs have been (and remain closed) for several months.
* Caregivers may not be comfortable with home health aides coming into the home for fear of exposure to COVID, so have cancelled home health aide assistance, and as a result are providing many of the more challenging tasks, li…
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Nov 17, 2020
Affirming Care for Transgender Older Adults with Loree Cook-Daniels
#034- Transgender Awareness Week (November 13-19) is a week when transgender people and their allies (like me!), take action to bring attention to the transgender community by educating the public.
Transgender folks have heartbreaking rates of suicidal ideation and attempts. According to a 2019 study, suicidal ideation averaged 46.55% and attempts averaged 27.19%. Suicide rates were highest among non-White folks and those who had lower levels of education, reminding us of the phenomenon that people who hold multiple minority identities experience higher rates of risk and harm (known as double and triple jeopardy, etc).
There are many factors that increase the risk for suicide and mental health concerns among transgender folks, including: trauma, discrimination, minority stress, rejection from family, and exclusion from society.
This is why I'm devoting today's episode to deepening our understanding of the unique mental health needs of transgender seniors. Each of us have an importan…
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Nov 10, 2020
Support Veterans With Loving Conversations. Expert Tips from a Former VA Psychologist
#033- Close to half of today’s Veterans are 65 and older.
If you're caring for an aging Veteran, you may have many questions but not know where to start. Once you do get started, you might not know HOW TO ACTUALLY HAVE a conversation with your loved one about their military service.
Maybe you're afraid of saying the wrong thing, pushing too hard, or maybe you're afraid that starting this conversation will open pandora's box of memories.
For more than 10 years, I worked with older Veterans and their families in VA medical and mental health clinics and I have witnessed many families struggle to have conversations about the older Veteran's military experiences.
So, on this Veteran's Day, I want to give the gift of a healthy conversation and connection between you and your older Veterans by sharing expert tips on talking with older veterans about their military experiences.
*Work with me! Discover training and education programs for mental health and senior care providers*
*Click h…
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Nov 3, 2020
Exercise Program For Seniors: How to Strengthen Body and Mind with Vivo's Eric Levitan
#032- Exercise is essential for healthy aging. Having a consistent exercise routine helps to reduce risk of mental health conditions, improves cognitive function and helps our bodies to function optimally.
Knowing the "right" exercise for older adults is key. In today's episode, I interview Eric Levitan, founder and CEO of Vivo, a digital fitness company focused on strength training for older adults. And Surprise! Also joining us in today's interview is Eric's 79 year old dad, Michael Levitan, who's a college professor and has been exercising with Vivo for the past several months, and noticing remarkable changes.
Sharing programs like Vivo gives me comfort in knowing that there are safe and health based resources out there to help older adults and caregivers weather the storm of COVID and become stronger and healthier while doing it. And that's what this podcast and my resources are all about- making sure you have the resources you need to make it through some of the hardest times in…
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Oct 27, 2020
Art & Alzheimer's: Dementia Awareness Through Visual Storytelling with Gina Martin
#031 - In 2006, Gina Martin's mother, Diane, was diagnosed with early onset Alzheimer's Disease and died 5 years later. In a tragic yet poetic twist of fate, her father died 3 months later on his birthday of a "broken heart".
To honor her parents and raise awareness about dementia, Gina created the Bob and Diane Fund, which grants a $5,000 award each November to an artist depicting the dementia journey through the lens of photography.
*Here’s a sneak peek at what you’ll learn from my interview with Gina Martin:
*
* [05:31] Gina Martin shares about the inspiration for creating the Bob and Diane Fund
* [11:11] Each November, the Bob and Diane Fund offers a $5,000 grant to a photographer telling a visual story of dementia. Gina describes the selection process and the esteemed group of judges.
* [18:28] Visual stories of dementia are touching and compelling. Gina shares a little background on each of the past grantees (see photos below).
* [23:17] Gina describes a photo…
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Oct 20, 2020
FAQs about Dementia and Voting with Jennifer Mathis of The Bazelon Center for Mental Health Law
#030- Can people with dementia vote?
A few weeks ago, I received an email from a listener:
*"Hello, Dr. Regina, I work in an assisted living facility. As the election approaches, family members of residents on memory care units have asked to have residents vote. Residents on this unit are here because they're unable to make informed decisions and don't have a grasp on reality. Also, the particular resident shows no interest in wanting to vote. It's the family that essentially wants to cast a vote for the individual, which seems unethical to me. I've tried reaching out to professional groups for some guidance to no avail. Do you have any thoughts regarding this topic?*
Older adults tend to vote more often and more consistently than other age groups. According to a US News Report, in 2018, 64% of adults age 65 and older voted in the November 2018 election, the best turnout of any age group. With this said, 10% of older adults, however, will experience a cognitive disorder, including a…
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Oct 13, 2020
Tips for Living Independently and Safely with Alzheimer's & Dementia
#029 - There's a common misconception that when somebody is diagnosed with dementia, they lose their independence and can no longer live alone. While down the road in the illness course of dementia, this may be true, there is A LOT that a person with dementia CAN DO to remain living independently and safely in their home. *
*
This episode is a must listen if you or someone you know is newly diagnosed with dementia and looking for what to do next.
In today's episode, I share...
*5 key strategies for helping adults living with dementia remain independent and living safely in their home for as long as possible*
Here's a peak inside the episode:
* [07:20] *Strategy #1:* Simplify your daily tasks, establish a routine, and create strategies for managing your money, medications, driving, etc.
* [14:41] *Strategy #2*: Make sure you and your home are safe. I share many strategies and resources for keeping your home safe for you to live in and resources for helping you if you begin to g…
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Oct 6, 2020
How to Reduce the Risk of Dementia and Alzheimer's Disease - Interview with Dr. Vonetta Dotson
#028 - Caregivers often approach me with the question: "my parent had dementia, does that mean I'll get it too?"
Today on the podcast, our favorite Neuropsychologist, Dr. Vonetta Dotson, is back to talk with us about genetic risk for dementia and reminds us that even if you have an increased risk for developing dementia, there's a lot that you can do to prevent it. Listen all the way through and you’ll learn several easy to use strategies you can start using today to reduce your risk of developing dementia.
*Here’s a sneak peek at what you’ll learn from my interview with Dr. Vonetta Dotson
*
* [04:55] Dr. Dotson talks about the *benefits of neuropsychological assessment* even if you don't currently have a dementia disorder
* [06:06] Ever wonder *who is the most genetically at risk for developing dementia?* Dr. Dotson answers this question.
* [08:47] Have you had the thought: *"**maybe I should get genetic testing to reveal my chances of developing dementia?" *Dr. Dotson…
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Sep 29, 2020
Aging & Sexuality: Benefits & Barriers of Sex Among Seniors
#027 - How well do you know your own assumptions, biases, and values when it comes to aging and sexuality? Have you taken much time to think about this?
Let's take some time right now. After all, if you're not currently an older adult, I'm sure you aspire to become one and desire a healthy and happy life. And, If you're anything like most older adults, sex and sexuality will be a part of your older adulthood. So why not take a little time to learn about your future self?
In this episode I *talk about aging and sexuality*. I *dispel the myth that sexuality is not important as we age*, and discuss the *benefits of sexuality and intimacy among seniors* as well as some of the *barriers that impede sexual expression among older adults.*
Here's a peak inside the episode:
* [1:17] How well do you know *your own assumptions, biases, and values when it comes to aging and sexuality?* What comes to mind when I say “older adults and sex”? Gain clarity about your own thoughts about aging…
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Sep 22, 2020
Is Cannabis Use Safe for Older Adults? Interview with Dr. Peter Grinspoon
#026 - Cannabis use, marijuana, and medical marijuana is becoming more and more acceptable and popular among older adults.
In fact, millions of people are finding it useful for chronic pain, insomnia, anxiety, PTSD, fibromyalgia, colitis, and a wide variety of medical conditions. This is not, however, without controversy or side effects.
I've even heard dementia caregivers giving CBD to their loved ones living with dementia to help manage insomnia and agitation.
Admittedly, I am naive when it comes to cannabis use for any age group, and especially for older adults. Not to mention cannabis use with dementia disorders.
For answers to some of my burning questions and to help deepen our understanding of cannabis use in older adults, I invited Dr. Peter Grinspoon on the podcast to share with us the pros and cons of cannabis use in older adults, the risks and benefits, and even cannabis use with older adults with dementia.
*About Dr. Peter Grinspoon
*Peter Grinspoon, M.D. is a primary c…
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Sep 15, 2020
Psychological Assessment and Therapy with Older Adults: What to Expect in a First Session
#025 - Older adults continue to experience mental health concerns as they age. Studies show that when older adults do engage in mental health care, the vast majority of the time they get better.
Here's the tragedy: older adults do not readily pursue mental health care when they need it and as a result are left to suffer needlessly, and sadly have the highest rates of suicide.
My hope is that this episode will demystify the process of going to therapy and build a bridge from suffering to healing.
If we can help older adults who are struggling with depression, anxiety, insomnia, grief, compounded loss, trauma, medical problems - you choose, get to that first therapy session, they're one step closer to feeling better and living a more peaceful life.
Today's episode focuses on what a first therapy session may look like if you're an older adult with a mental health concern, a memory concern, or a family concern.
Here's a peak inside the episode:
* [01:37] Making the decision to *sch…
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Sep 8, 2020
Older Adults and Suicide: What You Can Do to Help
#024 - In honor Suicide Prevention Week, I'm devoting today's podcast episode to older adults and suicide. More specifically, what puts older adults at risk of suicide and how you can help.
You may be surprised to hear that older White men over 85 are at the greatest risk and have the highest rates of suicide - more than any other age group.
But, here’s the thing, older adults are too often left out of conversations when it comes to simple things like assessing for depression, assessing for suicide, and then connecting older adults to the appropriate mental health care. As a result, most older adults with mental health concerns are treated in primary care settings, rather than mental health settings.
Here's where you come in.
In today's episode, *I share facts about older adults and suicide, including what increases risk for suicide in older adults, and several strategies for helping older adults at risk for suicide
*
Here's a peak inside the episode:
* [02:03] Older White me…
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Aug 25, 2020
When Caregivers Have Chronic Medical Illness of Their Own - with Dr. Kandi Schmidt
#023 - What if the caregiver has chronic and life threatening illnesses of their own? How does this change the caregiving dynamic?
To help answer this question, I invited my dear friend, Dr. Kandi Schmidt on the podcast to share her wisdom about this complex situation of caring for an older loved one when you yourself have a chronic or life threatening illness.
Dr. Kandi Schmidt is the Director of Transplant Behavioral Health at Emory University School of Medicine and an Assistant Professor in the Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences at the Emory University School of Medicine.
Here's a peak inside my interview with Dr. Kandi Schmidt:
* [05:48] Imagine having a *life threatening illness *so severe that you need an organ transplant. As a result, for most of your life you were cared for by your parent, and then, in a twist of fate, you find yourself in the role of caring for your aging parent...but *due to your own chronic illness you can't give back *all that your loved…
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Aug 18, 2020
5 Facts You Should Know about Dementia Caregiving
#022 - I hear from caregivers pretty regularly that "nobody really understands how hard caring for a loved one with dementia is!"
So, I decided to share some facts about dementia caregivers in the hopes that it will provide some understanding and support for the dementia caregiver's journey!
If you're caring for somebody with dementia, I see you and I value what you're doing. Please, please, please take care of yourself because we know that depression and anxiety and stress and strain will not only affect your, your sense of self and well-being, it will affect your health. I share some resources for self-care. So, listen until the end!
*Want to learn more about dementia?* Download the free Dementia 101 Guide here
Here's a peak inside the episode:
* [01:35] *Fact #1: *48% of all caregivers (of any condition) provide care for a loved one with dementia.* *
* [02:13] *Fact #2: *The majority of people living with dementia live with a family member (not in an Assisted Living or Nur…
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Aug 10, 2020
Combat Ageism and Become an Older Person in Training - with Ashton Applewhite
#021 - Since COVID started, I have received several emails from people who care about older adults expressing concern for them. Like, a college professor who reached out to me to express concern that her father, who is a physician, made the decision to leave retirement to return to work in a medical clinic during COVID. She shared with me that she was appalled and went so far as to call his medical practice and complain.
There have been countless ageist expressions since the coronavirus started. And the problem with ageism, even well-meaning ageism, is that it has the effect of harming older adults rather than helping them. Thankfully there are activists and thought leaders, like Ashton Applewhite.
*Ashton Applewhite* is the author of This Chair Rocks: A Manifesto Against Ageism and an internationally recognized expert on ageism. She speaks widely at venues that have included the TED Mainstage and the United Nations, and is a leading spokesperson for a movement to mobilize against d…
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Aug 4, 2020
COVID-19 Health Disparities among African American and Latinx Seniors - with Dr. Monique Williams
#020 - With COVID rates on the rise, and African American and Latinx folks 2-3 times more likely to have COVID than White Americans, I wanted to bring an expert on the podcast today to share a little bit about why there is this health disparity and what we can do to reduce this disparity, protect ourselves, our families, and strengthen our community in the midst of COVID.
Before we get started, I want to acknowledge that COVID is lasting longer than many of us anticipated. If you're an older adult, or caring for an older adult during COVID, download the free COVID-19 Wellness Guide for Older Adults. It'll help you weather this storm.
Here’s a look inside my interview with Dr. Monique Williams:
* [05:04] Dr. Williams describes her *person-centered approach* to practicing medicine in outpatient primary care with older adults.
* [09:55] For most of us, our life's passion is not realized until after Kindergarten, but this was not the case for Dr. Williams. Dr. Williams' interest i…
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Jul 28, 2020
Is Dementia a Normal Part of Aging?
#019 - Have you ever thought: "Of course they have dementia, they're old, right?" or "We all get dementia at some point, don't we?"
These statements about older adults make the assumption that with aging comes serious cognitive problems, like dementia! But, these ideas are actually not supported by science and in fact, are a myth.
In today’s episode, I answer the question...
*Is Dementia a Normal Part of Aging?
*
Here's a peak in side the episode:
* [02:28] If dementia is not a normal part of aging, *what exactly is dementia?
*
* [05:00] *Dementia is an umbrella term. *Underneath the umbrella are a variety of dementia disorders, like Alzheimer's disease and many others. *
*
* [08:12] In the early stages,* **dementia can be hard to diagnose.** *Learn more about how dementia gets diagnosed here.*
*
* [09:37] Now that you know that dementia is not a normal part of aging.* How common are dementia disorders?** *Here are some recent dementia statistics.*
*
* [10:25] Lear…
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Jul 21, 2020
7 Benefits of Early Diagnosis of Dementia
#018 - Witnessing memory problems in your loved one can be really scary. You may wonder what's causing the memory problems and you might find yourself fearing the worst.
In today's episode, I set the record straight about the benefits to early detection of dementia disorders. There's actually a lot that we can do to make your life and your loved ones life with dementia easier- early detection helps.
I do want to share that while there are many benefits to early detection of dementia, there is indeed a downside to knowing that you or your loved one has a dementia disorder. There's uncertainty, fear, and grief that happens when we're diagnosed with a serious , chronic, and terminal illness that can last for years. And that's what dementia is. It's painful and unfair.
Even with this said, there are more upsides than downsides to early detection of dementia, and here they are:
* [04:38] *Benefit #1: *Early detection of a dementia disorder, provides an explanation for the changes you'…
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Jul 14, 2020
Noticing Signs of Memory Loss? 5 Next Steps
#017 - Last week, I talked about the 10 "must know" memory loss warning signs. If you missed that episode, listen to this one, then go back and watch that one. Today I'm going to share the 5 steps to take if you're worried that your loved one has memory loss.
Please know that memory loss and memory problems that get in the way of daily life are NOT a normal part of aging. So, please take your concerns seriously by learning more about the 10 must know memory loss warning signs and which steps to take when you're concerned.
Here's a peak inside the episode:
* [02:17] *Next Step #1: *Write down your observations of memory loss incidents. Download the 10 must know memory loss warning signs checklist that I include in my memory loss guide and use it to help you keep track of your observations.
* [04:09] *Next Step #2: *The second step if you're noticing signs of memory loss, is to pay attention to the timeline. Write down when you noticed these changes starting and any stressful even…
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Jul 7, 2020
Know the 10 Memory Loss Warning Signs
#016 - In today's episode of the Psychology of Aging Podcast, I share *10 Memory Loss Warning Signs* to let you know that you might want to start the conversation with your loved one about memory loss and make an appointment with their doctor for further evaluation.
Let me start by saying that there are common changes in the brain that come with age and growing older. And then there are changes with the brain that are not common and are more concerning.
I'll discuss the difference between *normal changes in the brain that happen with age* versus when to be *concerned about memory loss*. I'll also review the *10 memory loss warning signs* to be looking out for with the older adults in your life.
Check out how this episode plays out…
* [02:41] *Memory Loss Warning Sign #1: *Memory Loss is the first warning sign. Here, I give examples of what sorts of things are normal to forget as we grow older and when to be concerned.
* [04:39] *Memory Loss Warning Sign #2: *Memory loss inclu…
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Jun 30, 2020
Older Adult Refusing To Go To the Doctor? Try These 5 Expert Tips
#015 - You care about your older loved one so much and for some reason, they're just not listening to you and your pleas for them to go to the doctor. You try and you try, but nothing you say is convincing your older loved one that whatever is going on in their body is worth checking out.
In today's episode of the Psychology of Aging Podcast, I share 5 strategies for helping your older loved one to go to the doctor when they're refusing.
Here's a peak inside the episode:
* [03:05] If your older loved one is refusing to go to the doctor and you're really worried, you may find yourself being demanding or pushy. If so, *consider changing how you approach your older loved one. *
* [04:32] Taking the time to *see where your older loved one is coming from *may help to reveal some important health care issues.
* [07:27] The third strategy might actually be a win:win and *expand your older loved one's care network.*
* [09:32] We all have preferences for whom we wish to talk about ou…
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Jun 23, 2020
The Unique Needs of LGTBQ Caregivers - with SAGE's Tim Johnston, PhD
#014 - If you're a caregiver, you know that caregiving can be rewarding and incredibly challenging, all at the same time. If you're an LGBTQ caregiver, you'll have some unique challenges that straight caregivers don't typically have. Some of these being that LGTBQ Caregivers experience more isolation while caregiving and have poorer mental and physical health in the long run.
Here's the good news... we can improve this. This episode will share many resources and tips for helping LGTBQ caregivers live their best lives in the midst of caregiving.
I want you to have the most up to date information on LGTBQ caregivers, so today, we go straight to the source and interview Dr. Tim Johnston, Senior Director of National Projects at SAGE.
SAGE (Services and Advocacy for GLBT Elders) is a national advocacy and services organization that's been looking out for LGBT elders since 1978. SAGE builds welcoming communities and keeps LGBT issues in the national conversation which ensures a fulfilling…
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Jun 16, 2020
Enhancing Care for LGTBQ Seniors - with SAGE's Tim Johnston, PhD
#013 - Get ready for the confetti because it's Pride!!
How do Pride and the Psychology of Aging fit together? Well, let me tell you, there are an estimated more than 3 million LGBTQ folks over 50 living in the US. This number is expected to more than double to 7 million by 2030.
Today, I am delighted to interview Dr. Tim Johnston, the Senior Director of National Projects at SAGE. In this role, Dr. Johnston oversees the SAGECare cultural competency training program, and national partnerships with other advocacy organizations. Dr. Johnston is the author of Welcoming LGBT Residents: A Practical Guide for Senior Living Staff, which is the first comprehensive book on how to create a positive and safer experience for LGBT older adults in senior living settings. And today, he's going to share his expertise with us.
SAGE is a national advocacy and services organization that's been looking out for LGBT elders since 1978. SAGE builds welcoming communities and keeps LGBT issues in the national…
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Jun 9, 2020
Dementia Rates Highest for African Americans: Tips for Equitable Care - with Dr. Vonetta Dotson
#012 - Dementia is one of the most important, but often overlooked, health care issues related to older African Americans.
In fact, research shows that African Americans are *two to three times* *more likely* to develop a dementia disorder (compared to European Americans) and at the same time are *less likely* to be diagnosed early in the disease process and provided with adequate treatment.
The burning question is "WHY?!!"
Luckily there are experts, like Dr. Vonetta Dotson, Neuropsychologist, who can help us understand why this is happening and what we can do about it.
In this week's interview, Dr. Dotson shares biological, genetic, and social factors that increase the risk for dementia. She also shares what you can do to ensure that your loved ones are getting the best, most equitable and comprehensive health care. AND, she shares tips for keeping your own brain healthy!
*Here’s a sneak peek at what you’ll learn from my interview with Dr. Vonetta Dotson
*
* [01:28] Dr. D…
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Jun 2, 2020
Why I Do Antiracist Work & Why You Should, Too
#011 - My heart is heavy this week with all that has been highlighted related to racial injustice and the murders of Ahmaud Arbery, George Floyd, Breonna Taylor…. and the millions of other lives over the centuries taken by racist acts.
This week, I talk about why I do antiracist work and why you should, too.
Racism is associated with depression, anxiety, insomnia, and other serious, post-traumatic stress disorder and substance use disorders. The stress caused by racism can contribute to the development of cardiovascular and other physical diseases, including dementia.
Here's a peak inside the episode:
* I share surprising statistics on disparities in health and health care due to racism. If the* **statistics on disparities related to maternal mortality rates for African American women *don't compel you to be anti-racist, you may need to check your pulse.
* There is a* mental health toll to having experienced racism as an African American person. *Learn more about this toll he…
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May 26, 2020
The Best Treatment for Sleep Problems in Elderly Adults - with Dr. Daniel Wachtel
#010 - You may be surprised to hear that the best sleep aid for older adults with insomnia is not a medication. It's a type of psychotherapy, called CBT-I for Insomnia, or Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia (CBT-I).
Insomnia is one of the most common sleep disorders experienced by older adults. Insomnia essentially means that a person has trouble falling or staying asleep, or experiences non-restorative sleep. This, of course, can lead to issues during the day like cognitive problems and mood and emotional issues.
Did you know that as many as 50% of older adults complain about difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep? And in fact, older adults (people 65 and older) are more likely to experience insomnia than younger or middle aged adults.
But here's the thing... *Sleep problems in elderly adults are treatable*. In as little as one to ten (1-10 sessions) of CBT-I, older adults sleep better!
Today's guest, Dr. Daniel Wachtel is a Clinical Psychologist and Geropsychologist.…
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May 19, 2020
Expert Tips for Helping Suicidal Older Adults
#009 - Suicide is an important topic when it comes to older adults. Here's why.
White men over 85 have the highest rate of suicide in the country (more than any other age group). Does this come as a surprise to you?
It's also important to know that suicide attempts in older adults are more likely to result in death than younger adults due to the following reasons:
* Older adults plan more carefully and use more lethal means
* Older adults are less likely to be discovered and rescued
* Less likely to recover from a failed attempt
And here's where you come in!
In today's episode, *I share exactly what to say and do to help the older adults in your life who may be suicidal*.
A quick but important disclaimer as we get started:
I will be talking about suicide and suicide prevention and in doing this I'm going to be sharing a story that was published in the New York times in December 2019. I know that suicide is a very sensitive topic and so if this topic is triggering for you o…
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May 12, 2020
Depression in Older Adults: What to Know and How to Help
#008 - I recently received a letter from a listener:
"Dear Dr. Koepp, My mom has recently become depressed. She's 94 and lives alone. She has seen her internist and is on 10mg of Lexapro. My family and I aren’t sure what we should be doing (if anything). Where should we go from here?"
In today's episode of the Psychology of Aging Podcast, I talk about older adults and depression. I share what you need to know and how you can help.
And here's why this is so important.
Depression is the most prevalent mental health condition among older adults.
Unfortunately, depression in late life often goes undetected and untreated largely due to the false belief that with age comes depression.
Here's a peak inside the episode:
* [03:46] Many families don't know where to start when it comes to their older loved ones and depression. I share *where to begin when you notice signs of depression*.
* [06:04] Depression is not a normal part of aging. So, it's really important to know the *signs…
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May 5, 2020
Love After Loss: The Courage to Find Love After Widowhood
#007 - Have you ever wondered what it’s like to be married for more than 50 years, become a widow, then have the courage to put yourself out there and find love again?
Well today is a very special day because I get to introduce you to Steve and Marie. A new couple who found love after loss in their late 70s. In today’s episode Steve and Marie share their love story and open up about their journey from grieving to finding love again.
Here’s a look inside my interview with Steve and Marie:
* [03:52] After meeting Marie at the Elk's Club, 3 years earlier, Steve got the courage to ask Marie out for a cup of coffee. *Their love story starts here*.
* [06:15] Steve and Marie share the *reactions of friends and family* when they learned of Steve and Marie's romance.
* [07:43] *Mature love is different from young love;* Steve and Marie share what it's like to find love at this stage of life.
* [09:21] Each widowed after 50 or more years of marriage, Steve and Marie open up abou…
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Apr 28, 2020
Grief and Loss During COVID (Part 2): Forced to Grieve Without a Funeral
#006 - Lauren Dykovitz was sitting vigil by her mom's bedside while she was on hospice with end stage Alzheimer's Disease during COVID. Lauren would imagine people lining up out the door at her mom's funeral and her biggest fear was that her mom would die during COVID and wouldn't get the funeral she and her family had dreamed of - she was right.
I've created this two-part series on grief to give public affirmation and acknowledgement that there are many of you out there who are grieving. Today's podcast is my way of honoring you and your loved ones. And to make sure that nobody is alone with grief and bereavement during COVID.
In today's podcast to help us understand grief during COVID, I have the privilege of interviewing Lauren Dykovitz. If you've been following me for a while, you'll remember that I interviewed Lauren for my Caring for Aging Parents Show on January 15, 2020. Lauren's mom sadly passed away at the beginning of April due to complications of Alzheimer's disease, duri…
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Apr 21, 2020
Grief and Loss During COVID (Part 1): Anticipatory Grief and Ambiguous Loss
#005 - Last week I shared many examples of older adults living in long-term care communities whose families are not able to visit them in person. You probably know older adults who have been admitted to the hospital since the Coronavirus Pandemic and aren't allowed to have family by their side to comfort them and advocate for them.
This experience is incredibly upsetting and unsettling for families... because in times of pain and suffering and fear and loss and illness, it's healthy to reach to others for closeness. In fact, being physically close with our loved ones when we are sick actually provides comfort and helps us to heal.
This is a cruel irony indeed. On one hand, physical comfort is healing and protective and on the other hand, physical closeness can cause us harm (e.g., COVID-19). Social distancing when our loved ones are sick, has taken away one of our healthiest coping and soothing strategies.
As if illness was not hard enough, now there's separation to contend with as…
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Apr 14, 2020
Older Adults, Families, and Senior Care Communities Working Together During COVID-19
#004 - We’ve all heard stories of older adults on lock down in their long-term care community.
As a Psychologist who specializes with older adults and families, and who provides a lot of education and training to long-term care communities, I have the unique opportunity to see into the inner world of the older adult living in a long-term care community, the concerned family member, and the long-term care community and it's staff as well.
In this episode, I explore the *common emotional experiences* during COVID-19 of older adults, their families, and the senior care communities they live in. And, I’ll offer recommendations for helping each group to *improve their quality of life* and *strengthen their relationships to one another* during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Here’s a look at what I talk about in this episode…
* [07:43] Even without COVID-19, *moving into a senior care community* is an adjustment for even the healthiest of families and older adults. I talk a little bit a…
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Mar 28, 2020
The Psychology Behind Retired Doctors and Nurses Returning To Work During COVID-19
#003 - Do you know any older adults who are refusing to maintain their social distance?
Let me give you an example. Have you seen the article of the Italian doctors who returned to work after retirement to assist the Italian healthcare system only to become seriously ill or die themselves as a result of the Coronavirus?
A listener actually recently emailed me to say that she's really worried about her own parent who recently returned from retirement to assist with their medical clinic... and this clinic doesn't even treat Coronavirus! This listener was distraught! She felt powerless over her older parent's decision.
I wanted to spend some time on this podcast talking a little bit about the psychological underpinnings of why older adults might refuse to maintain social distance and work instead.
In this episode, I share *two psychological theories* to explain why older adults may put themselves at risk by working rather than remain socially distant, including:
>> Sebastian Junger's…
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Mar 26, 2020
Mental Wellness Tips for Older Adults During COVID-19
#002- With social distancing in full effect, older adults are encouraged to maintain their distance from others. But this can have a major impact on your quality of life.
It's essential that during the COVID-19 pandemic that older adults stay physically safe and mentally well. Research shows that older adults who engage in meaningful and productive activities live longer, experience a better mood, and maintain a sense of purpose in their life.
To promote wellness for older adults, I have created a wellness guide to help older adults stay physically safe and mentally well during the COVID-19 Pandemic.
Tune in and learn 10 strategies to help older adults maintain wellness in the midst of the Coronavirus epidemic.
Download your free COVID-19 Wellness Guide for Older Adults here!
Check out the show notes here!
Rate and Review Psychology of Aging Podcast with Dr. Regina Koepp
If you're on Apple Podcasts, help me help more people by rating and reviewing my show. Reviews let others- ju…
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Mar 23, 2020
Welcome to the Psychology of Aging!
#001 - The Psychology of Aging Podcast answers common questions about aging, like:
>> What does a normal aging process look like?
>> Why are family relationships in older adulthood so complicated?
>> Do older adults still have sex?
>> Why is driving such a big deal to older adults?
>> When should older adults retire?
>> What does optimal health and wellness look like in older adulthood?
I even talk about the painful side of aging and address challenges that families face with illness, dementia, caregiving, and even end of life.
Like I say in my therapy groups: "No topic is off topic, we just have to have a healthy way of talking about it"
I'm Dr. Regina Koepp, I'm a Board Certified Clinical Psychologist and I specialize with older adults and families. I'm an Assistant Professor at a major medical school in Atlanta, and I work as a Clinical Psychologist at the in a busy medical center in Atlanta, GA, where I provide individual, couples, and family therapy for older adults and their…
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