One in 4 adults aged 65 and older fall each year. Not only that, but falls are the leading cause of injury death in this age group, with 800,000 patients being hospitalized each year. The most common culprits are head injuries and hip fractures, making for a scary situation.

Why do seniors fall?

1. Comorbidities: This means another disease or medical condition is present. If you have diabetes, for example, you may get numbness (neuropathy) in your feet. Weakness due to a stroke is another common cause.

2. Medications: Taking medications can come with side effects like dizziness, low blood pressure, drowsiness and more. Blood thinners also worsen injuries.

3. Sensory / physical changes: Worsening hearing, vision, balance, and strength can cause falls.

Four ways to prevent falls include:

1. Exercise regularly to improve your quality of life, strength and more.

2. Have your healthcare provider review your medications and be aware of any potential side effects.

3. Check your vision. Macular degeneration and other vision changes can increase fall risk.

4. Make your home safer.

Number 4 is especially important, and even small changes can make a huge difference. Most falls happen at night, so make sure pathways are clear to the bathroom. Remove any area rugs, and be sure to make your bathroom safe. Install grab bars or skid-resistant strips, or even put down a rubber mat. Avoid storage in a high cabinet, and keep kitchen items within easy reach. Also be aware of any pets getting underfoot - it's easy to trip over animals.

Fall risk is a huge reason why people move to senior living. Safety is key! Stay aware of the risk factors and how to make your home safe for years to come.

Topics discussed:

1. Fall prevention
2. Statistics on senior falls
3. 4 ways to prevent falls
4. Medication side effects
5. Reasons for increased fall risk
6. Bathroom safety for seniors

Takeaways from this episode:

1. If an older adult has 2 or more health problems, it may cause a 30% increase in fall risk.
2. Fear of falling can actually increase your risk! Seniors may limit their activities because of a fear of falling, which then reduces their mobility and physical fitness.
3. Most falls happen at night on the way to the bathroom, so be sure to plug in a nightlight, install grab bars and keep your path clear.
4. Keep everything within easy reach. If you need to get something out of a cabinet, use a wide-base, sturdy step stool.
5. Sit down while getting dressed. Many seniors fall due to worsening balance.

Resources mentioned in this episode:

How to Senior proof a home: https://www.loriwilliams-seniorservices.com/aging-in-style-podcast/episode/218ae64a/046-how-to-senior-proof-a-home-on-a-budget

Fall prevention tips: https://www.loriwilliams-seniorservices.com/aging-in-style-podcast/episode/35adf41e/105-replay-a-conversation-about-fall-prevention

How do I create my passion project?

Imagine waking up to an email from your dream organization saying they’d like to collaborate.

Or receiving messages on a weekly basis from your community saying how an episode of your podcast changed their life.

Finally, imagine getting recognized on the street for what you love to do!

Senior Living Expert Lori Williams has accomplished all of the above with her podcast, Aging in Style. Her producer, Ana Xavier of The Podcast Space, joins her to discuss the journey of starting this podcast back in April 2020!

Much has changed since then, from navigating the pandemic to personal setbacks, with Lori’s husband suffering a stroke on Christmas Day in 2022. Along the way, they had to adapt to new circumstances and find ways to release content in a sustainable way. Sometimes it’s a raw, emotional recording on the phone. Other times there’s a fun plan to chat about the Golden Girls.

It would have been easy to throw in the towel, but some fateful collaborations (like with the Alzheimer’s Association) and a desire to document her journey with her husband’s stroke has kept her going. The goal always remains the same: provide education and guidance to those who are aging or caring for those who are. And especially nowadays, she can relate what many of her clients and help them avoid the obstacles she has faced with her husband's stroke care.

Learn more about the people behind this relatable, educational resource.   

Topics discussed:

- Perseverance

- Committing to goals

- Podcast strategy

- Topics for seniors

- Pursuing your passion project

- Inspirational seniors

Takeaways from this episode:

· It takes time to build good things and reap the benefits of your work.

· Lori has years of experience helping others. Not only has she seen everything, she has also walked in many of her clients’ shoes – and shares tips prevent them from going through the same obstacles.

· When life presents setbacks, find ways to work around them – never give up!

Join our fun during our Golden Girls special episode. Get inspired by listening to Doug's story, and learn more about how seniors are still skydiving, and cycling from Alaska to Panama.

Subscribe to Ana's Podcast, The Podcast Space, and check out her resources for podcasters.

To suggest a topic, be a guest or to support the podcast, please email [email protected]

For more senior resources and to sign up to the newsletter, please visit:

https://www.facebook.com/LoriWilliamsSeniorServices/

https://www.instagram.com/theloriwilliams/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/theloriwilliams/

https://loriwilliams-seniorservices.com/aging-in-style-podcast/

“Does Medicare cover assisted living?” is a common question Lori Williams gets as a senior living professional. Since Medicare functions as health insurance and doesn’t cover senior living, she welcomes an expert back to the show to share what it does cover.

You’ll get a simple overview of the Medicare puzzle from June Kim, a community relations specialist with BlueCross BlueShield of Texas. With Medicare enrollment October 15 through December 7, it’s a great time to learn - though it’s always helpful to understand what you’re getting into! She’ll answer common questions like:

·What is Medicare Part A, B, C and D?

· What’s a Medicare supplement? What about Medicare Advantage?

· I’m still employed - should I enroll in Medicare?

· How much does it cost?

· Where do I enroll?

If you need to learn the basics of Medicare or just need a refresher, this is a great place to start. Plus, you’ll also be aware of what changes are coming.

Takeaways from this episode:

-Enroll for Medicare Part A (hospital insurance) once you turn 65 - even if you’re still employed. You’ve already paid into it, so it’s free.

-Only enroll in Part B when you’re fully retired because your employer may already offer health insurance coverage.

-You can’t be on Medicare Part A and B (traditional Medicare) without a drug plan - Part D.

-Medicare covers 80% of the costs, and you’ll have to pay the last 20% out of pocket unless you have Medicare Supplement insurance.

-Medicare Part C is an “all in one” plan run by private insurance companies. You wouldn’t get Part A, B or D if you already have Medicare Advantage, nor could you get a supplement.

-You must be reasonably healthy to qualify for a Medicare supplement, and costs vary according to lifestyle. The older you get, the more expensive it is.

-Medicare Part C is like an HMO health insurance plan; whereas Medicare A and B are like a PPO.

- If you have Medicare Part A, B and D, and supplement insurance, you can use your Medicare in all 50 states - any doctor and any hospital that takes Medicare, with little to no out-of-pocket expenses.

-Choosing the plan for you comes down to many factors, including network and resources. What’s most important is that you understand the plan you choose.

12. Medicare 101

https://www.loriwilliams-seniorservices.com/aging-in-style-podcast/episode/794eb1c8/012-medicare-101

For more information about plans and the brochure mentioned in this episode, please visit: 

www.Thinkbluetx.com

https://static.wixstatic.com/media/2c62c2_5fdf7b18b96d45639040f7972bf54fc8~mv2.jpeg

https://static.wixstatic.com/media/2c62c2_ea7e019a7a9a4becae1d3bbbe025e9a2~mv2.jpeg

To contact June Kim:

[email protected]

214-783- 7901

For more detailed and up-to-date information, please go to:

www.medicare.gov  

Or call at 1-800-633-4227; available 24/7

And for social security:

www.ssa.gov

To suggest a topic, be a guest or to support the podcast please email [email protected] 

For more senior resources and to sign up to the newsletter please visit:

https://www.facebook.com/LoriWilliamsSeniorServices/

https://www.instagram.com/theloriwilliams/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/theloriwilliams/

https://loriwilliams-seniorservices.com/aging-in-style-podcast/

So, you decided your loved one needs a caregiver…what’s next? Where do you find one? How do you choose the right fit?

Lori Williams is not only a senior living expert with 17 years of experience in the industry, but she is also a caregiver for her husband who had a stroke. She has the perspective of helping others find the right resources while navigating this reality for her own family.  

With this unique position, she has gathered 7 tips for choosing a caregiver:

1. Understand the needs of your loved one. Do they have dementia? Find someone with relevant experience. Which tasks do you need help with? Also, figure out if you need someone only a few hours a week, or a few hours each day.

2. Know your finances. If you don’t have Medicare, you may be paying out of pocket. Consider what you can reasonably afford. Read your long-term care policy or contact your agent to make sure you understand financial limitations.

3. Involve your family. Make sure everyone’s on board with a caregiver. Communicate with them if you’ve been the caregiver up to this point and you’re burning out.

4. Decide on an agency vs. a private caregiver. Ask around at your church or in your social groups for recommendations. There are also franchises, but those tend to be pricier than local options and may require a minimum amount of time per day or week.

5. Ask others about their experience. Look at online reviews and see what people are saying about certain agencies.

6. Interview the candidate. Find a fit for your needs – and consider personality too! This could be someone that spends a lot of time with your family. Do you have a dog? Make sure they’re okay with dogs.

7. Communicate with your loved one and have a plan. It may be hard for your loved one to accept they need a caregiver. Present your plan and tell them it’s for their safety and your own well-being as well.

Topics discussed:

- Hiring a caregiver / home care

- Caregiver considerations

- Long-term care provisions

- Home care agencies

- Private caregivers

- Home care reviews

- Caregiver rates

Takeaways from this episode:

- Know if your loved ones have a pension, what their expenses are, and anything else that can impact your plan for hiring a caregiver.

- Consider reverse-mortgaging your home to access more funds.

- If your loved one is a veteran, there are different VA programs such as aid and attendance. Some agencies even have a contract with the VA to cover home care.  

- Big-name home care franchises tend to be more expensive, depending on your state, and can be $30-35 per hour. A private caregiver averages $25 an hour.

- Home care may require a minimum amount of time with you – for example, 4 hours a day, 12 hours a week.

- Have a plan in place before telling your loved one about home help coming in. Stand firm if adding help to your life is something you need to feel safe.

Resources mentioned in this episode:

Caregiver Burnout? These 6 Realistic Tips will help you support caregivers better:

https://www.loriwilliams-seniorservices.com/aging-in-style-podcast/episode/3ea79d8f/155-caregiver-burnout-these-6-realistic-tips-will-help-you-support-caregivers-better

Reverse mortages: https://www.loriwilliams-seniorservices.com/aging-in-style-podcast/episode/496a46e6/137-reverse-mortgages-explained

How to Pay for Senior Living: https://www.loriwilliams-seniorservices.com/aging-in-style-podcast/episode/251098f0/115-how-to-pay-for-senior-living

When talking to other caregivers, Senior Living Expert Lori Williams found a striking similarity: Many felt ill-equipped after their loved one was discharged from rehab. After her husband suffered a stroke on Christmas Day in 2022, she learned firsthand what many of her clients experience each day.

Once he was released from rehab, Lori was given her husband’s medicine, told to install grab bars in the shower for safety, add a shower chair and was sent on her way. Her well-intentioned friends also advised her to make time for herself and to exercise. Easier said than done! When a loved one’s needs are significant, caregivers become overwhelmed and burnt out. Meeting their own needs feels less urgent and maybe even impossible.

The reality? Lori (and many caregivers) need a different type of support: realistic solutions for protecting their energy.

Here are her 6 tips for caregivers having a tough time:

1. Make sure they have knowledge of helpful resources to ease their burden. Examples include meal delivery service, tele-health visits, medication delivery and more.

2. Establish a routine. This helps you stay on target and keep you organized. This is especially important when administering medication is involved.

3. Get dependable help. Whether that’s a family member or a professional, it can better help caregivers tend to their own needs (and those of their other family members).

4. Find respite in an overnight (or longer) break. Maybe your loved one has a respite stay with an assisted living facility so you can get a full night’s rest. Maybe you take a weekend off while your other loved ones pitch in.

5. Work out a flexible plan with your employer. They may allow you to work from home or offer employee assistance.

6. Rely on your friends and family. Maybe it’s for venting or reinforcements, but you can’t do this alone. Let them be there for you.  

Topics discussed:

1. Caregiver burnout
2. How to support caregivers
3. Caregiver resources
4. Social Security Disability
5. Respite
6. Employee assistance
7. Professional caregivers

Takeaways from this episode:

- Burnout can look like many things. Maybe you’re exhausted, scatterbrained, stressed, or crying more than usual. This is a sign to find support.

- Allsup is a service that can help people get Social Security Disability (SSDI). When people file on their own, it can take years for approval. Using a service like this tends to have a higher success rate.

- Know your own limits. There’s no shame in hiring help, especially if it promotes safety for your loved one.

- There are many resources for the time-pressed caregiver: meal delivery, medication delivery, tele-health, home health and more.

Get your copy of my book Surrounded by Love: One Family's Journey Through Stroke Recovery:

https://amzn.to/3Y41CxA

Front Porch Pantry - healthy meals delivered to your door:

https://frontporchpantry.com/

Allsup - Expert Social Security Disability (SSDI) Help

https://www.allsup.com/

10 Strategies to combat caregiver stress from the Alzheimer's Association

https://www.loriwilliams-seniorservices.com/aging-in-style-podcast/episode/b3435120/149-replay-10-strategies-to-combat-caregiver-stress-from-the-alzheimers-association

The silent struggle of caregivers and tips to best support them

https://www.loriwilliams-seniorservices.com/aging-in-style-podcast/episode/3305a7b8/147-the-silent-struggle-of-caregivers-and-tips-to-best-support-them

144. Grieving someone who's still alive, and 3 tips to better manage it

https://www.loriwilliams-seniorservices.com/aging-in-style-podcast/episode/1f480aae/144-grieving-someone-whos-still-alive-and-3-tips-to-better-manage-it

Things to consider when a life-changing illness or accident change your life

https://www.loriwilliams-seniorservices.com/aging-in-style-podcast/episode/2c050e6a/129-things-to-consider-when-a-life-changing-illness-or-accident-changes-life-as-you-know-it

For more senior resources and to sign up to the newsletter, please visit:

https://www.facebook.com/LoriWilliamsSeniorServices/

https://www.instagram.com/theloriwilliams/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/theloriwilliams/

https://loriwilliams-seniorservices.com/aging-in-style-podcast/

Mentioned in this episode:

Surrounded by Love

You can find my book, "Surrounded by Love: One Family’s Journey Through Stroke Recovery," on Amazon. It is available as a Kindle, hardcover, paperback, and also on Audible. More details can be found on my website:

Many people have reservations about transitioning into senior living apartments, often due to misconceptions or fears about the unknown. However, when explored closely, it becomes evident that active senior living communities offer a multitude of benefits that can truly enrich the golden years of life.

In this episode of Aging in Style, we had the opportunity to chat with Karen Weatherford, who is a youthful 76-year-old and treasured member of the Lori Williams - Senior Services team! Karen shares her personal journey and experiences in her active aging senior apartment.

The New Chapter: An Active, Vibrant Community

One of the most impactful benefits of moving to a senior living apartment is the opportunity to become part of a vibrant and active community. Karen's experience at her senior apartment paints a picture of an enriching social environment. She participates in committee meetings, organizes events, and welcomes new residents. Karen also emphasized the pet-friendly culture of her community, with amenities like dog parks and pet washes, that cater to the needs of pet-loving seniors. Humorous anecdotes of pool float races, potluck events, and the general atmosphere of camaraderie all contribute to the social tapestry of active aging communities. These experiences underline the sense of community and connection, which can significantly contribute to the quality of life and emotional well-being of seniors.

Facing Challenges and Embracing Change

Karen's journey also touched on the challenges she faced while downsizing her possessions and moving into her new home. Yet, her story offers valuable insights for others considering a similar move. It underscores the importance of viewing the move as an opportunity to declutter life, both physically and emotionally, and embracing the chance to form a new family within the senior community. Moreover, Karen candidly discussed surviving on a tight budget and maintaining an active social life. Her wisdom shone through as she emphasized the importance of seeking help when needed and highlighted that it's never too late to make a change and find happiness.

Topics covered:

• Senior Apartments
• Properties for Active 55+ Seniors
• Senior Housing Tips
• Housing for Divorced and Widow Seniors

Takeaways from this episode:

• In an era where the perception of aging is undergoing a transformation, Karen's story serves as a powerful testament to the possibilities that senior living apartments offer.
• Senior apartments provide a supportive environment that encourages active aging, but they also offer an opportunity to redefine the golden years.
• Moving soon? It's important to plan and communicate with family members about future expectations and wishes, thereby easing potential future transitions.

Senior Living 101:

https://www.loriwilliams-seniorservices.com/aging-in-style-podcast/episode/2dd082bc/053-replay-senior-housing-101

Tips on Touring Senior Communities:

https://www.loriwilliams-seniorservices.com/aging-in-style-podcast/episode/7925ffcd/026-tips-on-touring-senior-communities

What is 'rightsizing' for seniors:

https://www.loriwilliams-seniorservices.com/aging-in-style-podcast/episode/78b68278/002-stop-downsizing-start-rightsizing-with-realtor-tricia-spurrier

To suggest a topic, be a guest or to support the podcast, please email [email protected]

For more senior resources and to sign up to the newsletter, please visit:

https://www.facebook.com/LoriWilliamsSeniorServices/

https://www.instagram.com/theloriwilliams/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/theloriwilliams/

https://loriwilliams-seniorservices.com/aging-in-style-podcast/

I promised my parents they'd stay home and would never go into another home, but now things have changed. What do I do?

You’re not alone – many people make that promise to their loved ones, and we want to do right by them. But it’s difficult to keep a promise when you become educated about the subject and didn't have all the facts when making that promise. Everyone’s safety is most important. If your loved one had a severe stroke or suffers from dementia, these absolutely require additional help. Plus, if you’re working full time or a parent of young children, it’s a difficult and complicated situation to take on. It’s too easy to give each responsibility only a fraction of the energy it deserves when you’re burdened with so many.

Keep in mind, the stereotypes of nursing homes aren’t always true – there are many types of senior living. Assisted living can provide additional help with bathing, dressing and meals, and you can find a nice community nearby to meet your specific needs. Many senior living professionals also have a passion and calling for the role, so your loved one is often in good hands and closely monitored.

Be sure to do your research about what’s available and the type of assistance your loved one needs. Remember, the promise is less important than safety and welfare of your loved one, and it’s okay to do what’s best for everyone involved – including yourself!

Topics discussed:

-Nursing homes

-Assisted living

-Senior living options

-Accessibility at home

-Transitioning from caregiving to assisted living

-Multi-generational living

Takeaways from this episode:

-Consider your health as the caregiver and the health of your loved one. Then consider everyone’s quality of life, and ask yourself if they’re safe and getting the best possible care.

-Find out what’s happening with your loved one and the type of care they need. Then get educated about available options for providing that assistance.

-Explore the available senior living options in the area and which can meet your loved one’s specific needs.

-The average house is not set up for someone with a wheelchair. Doors aren’t wide enough, bathrooms may not be accessible, etc. This adds complexity to the prospect of at-home care.

-Ultimately it’s not about the promise you made, it’s about the welfare of everyone involved.

Resources mentioned in this episode:

Tips on Touring senior communities:

https://www.loriwilliams-seniorservices.com/aging-in-style-podcast/episode/7925ffcd/026-tips-on-touring-senior-communities

To suggest a topic, be a guest or to support the podcast, please email [email protected]

For more senior resources and to sign up to the newsletter, please visit:

https://www.facebook.com/LoriWilliamsSeniorServices/

https://www.instagram.com/theloriwilliams/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/theloriwilliams/

https://loriwilliams-seniorservices.com/aging-in-style-podcast/

Caregiving from the male perspective explained

When Bill Cohen was caring for his mother with Alzheimer’s in the mid-2000s, 1 out of every 5 caregivers were men. Now, it’s closer to 1 in 3, and more and more men are stepping into that role.

Bill learned many valuable tips and tricks while caregiving, and today he gives back as a caregiver support leader and owner of Cohen Caregiving Support Consultants. He’s also a speaker and volunteer with the Alzheimer's Association.

He joins Senior Living Expert Lori Williams to discuss his story and provide the perspective of a male caregiver. His mother lost her home during Hurricane Katrina, which revealed much of her cognitive state at the time – and shook him out of his denial. While caring for her, he learned the importance of self-care, seeking a supportive ear, and being unafraid to ask for help. These learnings guide his work today, as he encourages men to do the same and be unafraid to show vulnerability.

Drawing from his experience, he also discusses common pitfalls he sees, particularly with men, and the importance of a healthy lifestyle. He stresses it's important to be aware of the signs and symptoms of Alzheimer’s, and once it happens, learning how to effectively manage the situation (especially in times of emotional crisis). It’s also important to note that support can take many forms: Asking for a cup of coffee, delegating yard work, or speaking with a professional are just a few.

Topics discussed:

- Dementia / Alzheimer’s disease

- Caregiving and Alzheimer’s

- Caregiving support tips

- The importance of self-care

- Male caregivers

- Dementia prevention

- Healthy lifestyle

Takeaways from this episode:

- Signs that something may be amiss with your loved one: mood swings, agitation, confusion, paranoia, not taking care of the house, not taking care of finances, and no longer having competence where they once did (e.g. cooking or taking care of finances).

- Symptoms often begin much earlier, making early recognition vital.

- Trauma can exacerbate Alzheimer’s. This is what happened with Bill’s mother after Hurricane Katrina.

- Male caregivers often fall into the trap of thinking it’s their task, their role - and they tend to not seek help, believing, “I can handle all of this.”

- Men may find value in support groups. They’re open to all ages and all genders, and can provide empathy and understanding.

- For caregivers over age 70, roughly two-thirds pass away before the person they’re caring for. That’s why it’s critical to make self-care a priority.

- Evidence shows your environment, as well as behavioral and lifestyle choices, can increase Alzheimer’s risk. The earlier we practice these or get in a safer, healthier environment, the better.

Resources mentioned in this episode:

Contact Bill Cohen, CSA, read his blog and resources:

https://cohencaregivingsupport.com/

For more resources on Alzheimer's Disease and Dementia, please watch:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DL8p4S4vGHU&list=PLVZbhdaCRjAa7sVwLWuZcyP36GxbpDAjH

To suggest a topic, be a guest or to support the podcast, please email [email protected]

For more senior resources and to sign up to the newsletter, please visit:

https://www.facebook.com/LoriWilliamsSeniorServices/

https://www.instagram.com/theloriwilliams/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/theloriwilliams/

https://loriwilliams-seniorservices.com/aging-in-style-podcast/

What are Residential Senior Care homes, what type of care do they provide, and who would be a good fit as a resident?

In this episode of Aging in Style with Lori Williams, Lori sits down with Jennifer Davis, founder of Davis Family Elder Care to discuss all aspect of this type of senior housing, and what inspired her to open her own residential care home.

The passion to work with seniors runs deep in Jennifer's family, as both her and her husband's grandparents suffered from dementia later in life and required senior care. That inspired the couple to adapt a multifamily home into a fully-accessible senior facility.

In this interview, Jennifer explains the differences and similarities between assisted living and residential care homes, how they inspire seniors to find new a purpose, and how their residents are thriving and picking up new skills! Take a listen as Jennifer shares inspirational resident stories of growth, independence and companionship.

Topics discussed:

-Residential Care homes

-Dementia-Dementia and Alzheimer's disease

-Finding purpose and self-worth as a senior

-Sense of belonging in a new environment

-Differences between dementia care and assisted living care

-Who qualifies for Residential Care homes

-Residential Care homes are equipped for dementia care and assisted care.

-Davis Family Elder Care work on seniors' sense or self-worth and purpose by not taking away chores and daily tasks that seniors used to do while living at their previous home.

-Family style meals inspire a family feel and a sense of continuation as they transition to this elderly care facility.

-More than just bingo and karaoke, Jennifer is harnessing the power of technology to keep seniors active and moving during the Covid-19 pandemic.

-Residential Care Homes can provide a high level of care for their residents - including dementia care, mobility (1-2 person transfers), incontinence care and more. They can also bring in services for wound care, Physical Therapy, Occupational Therapy, Hospice, etc.

Resources mentioned in this episode:

To learn more about Davis Family Elder Care, please visit:

https://davisfamilyeldercare.com

https://www.facebook.com/DavisFamilyEC

If you wish to suggest a topic, become a guest or want to support the podcast, please email [email protected] or reach out to Lori via:

https://www.facebook.com/LoriWilliamsSeniorServices

https://www.instagram.com/theloriwilliams

https://www.linkedin.com/in/theloriwilliams

https://loriwilliams-seniorservices.com/aging-in-style-podcast

If you have a stroke or a traumatic brain injury, you might find yourself visiting a speech-language pathologist. Depending on your injury, this professional helps with different areas of cognition and executive functioning, like decision-making and problem-solving skills. Together you’ll work to restore communication – and become as independent as possible in the meantime.

Francine Waskavitz is a speech-language pathologist (SLP) and integrative health and nutrition coach (IHNC) with a passion for helping seniors maximize their cognitive health. By raising awareness on the importance of a holistic lifestyle, she encourages seniors to take early action to support their mind and overall health. In her own life, she learned about the power of food to heal and nourish - even alleviating and preventing Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI) that could lead to dementia.

During her one-on-one coaching with patients, she also uses the Memory Wellness Wheel™. This breaks memory resilience into 8 elements. In her therapy, she goes through it one by one and works on helping you improve where necessary. This practice, along with lifestyle changes, have helped patients see incredible improvement.

Together with Senior Living Expert Lori Williams, she discusses:

- What speech therapy is

- Research on the relationship between aging, memory, health, and speech

- The importance of lifestyle in preventing / overcoming cognitive decline

- Signs of Mild Cognitive Impairment

- Steps to take if you notice your memory / cognitive health declining

And more.

Whether you’re working to improve your memory or prevent dementia / Mild Cognitive Impairment, lifestyle is key. The right diet can help, along with staying mentally active and getting proper sleep.

Topics discussed:

- Speech therapy

- The role of a speech-language pathologist

- Nutrition and lifestyle

- Stroke / traumatic brain injury recovery

- Mild Cognitive Impairment and dementia

- Inflammation and disease

- Improving memory

Takeaways from this episode:

- Speech therapy is covered under Medicare as long as it's medically necessary. A change in medical status would also qualify somebody to have speech therapy services.

- As Dr. Mark Hyman said: “Your genes load the gun, but your lifestyle pulls the trigger.” While your genes play a role in your health outcomes, your habits and lifestyle impact it the most.

- It’s critical to mention cognitive changes to your doctor. Forgetfulness is not a natural part of aging, so take note when it happens and how often.

- Masking and denial are early signs of cognitive change. However, once you speak with a professional about it, it may become easier to manage.

- Along with seeing your doctor, start with managing nutrition, sleep, and stress to help battle mental fog. Typically, within a few weeks, it will make all the difference.

- Inflammation is the root of disease. Look at your numbers, such as blood pressure, and try to incorporate omega-3s (salmon, chia, walnuts, etc.) in your diet.

Resources discussed:

Schedule a free 30-minute consultation with Francine Waskavitz:

https://www.francinewaskavitz.com/

Take your Memory Wellness Wheel™ assessment

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075. How brain fitness slows down dementia and Alzheimer's disease

https://www.loriwilliams-seniorservices.com/aging-in-style-podcast/episode/3a1051ca/075-how-brain-fitness-slows-down-dementia-and-alzheimers-disease

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