Life’s 2nd Act: A journey into finding direction and purpose

Aging and the mind: understanding mental capacity, brain function and how it affects us!

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In this episode, I speak to Tim Farmer, an expert in mental capacity and brain function.

We discuss the importance of understanding mental capacity as we age and how it affects decision-making. Tim shares his journey and passion for helping vulnerable adults and improving assessments of mental capacity.

We explore the difference between mental capacity and brain function, the signs of cognitive decline, and ways to build resilience.

Tim also explains how to support aging parents and make decisions on their behalf. He emphasises the need to embrace the inevitable decline and take proactive steps to minimise its impact.

 

Takeaways

  • Mental capacity is a legal term that refers to decision-making abilities, while brain function is a biological concept that relates to how the brain works.
  • As we age, our brain function changes, and our decision-making processes evolve. It's important to be aware of cognitive decline and its signs, such as memory loss, decreased attention span, and increased confusion.
  • To maintain cognitive health, it's crucial to keep the brain active through activities like puzzles and to prioritise social connections for mental well-being.
  • When it comes to supporting aging parents, look out for signs of cognitive decline, such as memory loss and risky decision-making. Have open and supportive conversations, and consider legal protections like lasting power of attorney.
  • Embrace the inevitable decline and take proactive steps to minimize its impact, such as seeking professional advice and setting up legal protections early on.

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    Chapters

    00:00 - Introduction

    02:28 - Exploring Mental Capacity and Decision-Making

    06:43 - Differences Between Mental Capacity and Brain Function

    08:36 - Changes in Brain Function and Decision-Making as We Age

    15:20 - Signs of Cognitive Decline in Aging Parents

    18:45 - Supporting Aging Parents and Taking Proactive Measures

    24:01 - Prevalence of Dementia and Building Resilience in Life's Second Act

    27:24  - Strategies for Embracing Change and Making Personal Transformations

    31:44 - Tim's Journey and Looking Forward to the Future

    38:54 - Conclusion

     

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    https://www.timfarmer.co.uk/

     

    'Grandpa on a Skateboard' on Amazon: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Grandpa-Skateboard-practicalities-assessing-decisions-ebook/dp/B08JZ55WJB

     

    'Tim Farmer - The Assessor's Notebook' on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@theassessorsnotebook

     

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    Find out more about the show: www.lifes2ndact.com

    Find out more about Simon Burgess

     

    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lifes2ndact

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    Linktr.ee: https://linktr.ee/lifes2ndact?utm_source=linktree_profile_share<sid=e6404aa8-44c8-4530-a097-891dbf3faeea

     

    Life's 2nd Act is produced by www.sugarsnap.tv

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    Life’s 2nd Act: A journey into finding direction and purposeBy Simon Burgess