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Summer is a great time to get outdoors, but extreme heat can be a source of concern for many older adults. It’s important to emphasize safety precautions and consider physical limitations when participating in outdoor activities as older adults. In this episode, I take a dive into outdoor activities for seniors, followed by tips on nutrition, hydration, and skin care for older adults who enjoy the summer outdoors.

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July is National Bereaved Parents Awareness Month, dedicated to a parent’s journey following the loss of a child. It is also a time to advocate for and raise awareness of one’s life after the loss of a child, or children. This episode takes a dive into the impact of bereavement on older adults and seniors who experience the loss of a child or children. Throughout this episode, I provide suggestions on what to say and what not to say to grieving parents, as well as strategies for older adults to better address their own needs related to aging and end-of-life care goals.  

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National Anti-Boredom Month is a great opportunity to explore new activities and interests, especially for older adults who may be more prone to boredom. Research shows that boredom, or lack of engagement in stimulating activities, can impact cognition, physical function, and mental health over time. As the old saying goes, “An idle mind is a devil’s workshop, and boredom is the devil’s delight.” Let’s take a look at each of these areas. This episode takes a dive into the impact of boredom on aging and older adults, as well as anti-boredom support strategies to maximize quality of life. I also provide ten options for activities that can support cognition, physical function, and mental health.  

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Language is an essential part of human communication, and it plays a crucial role in our daily lives. The prevalence of foreign languages in the United States has significant implications for health literacy levels among non-native English speakers. In bilingual individuals, regression to a primary language may be associated with development of cognitive impairment and increased risk for development of dementia.

July is #NationalForeignLanguageMonth.

This episode reviews the prevalence of foreign languages in our melting pot, its relevance to health literacy, and the role of dementias and brain injuries in language regression and/or reversal. It further dives into the many associated challenges for families and care partners, as well as where to seek support.

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As we celebrate Independence Day, it is important to remember the significance of independence for older adults. Maintaining independence is a crucial aspect of aging, and it is important to encourage seniors to participate in activities that promote their independence. In this week’s episode, I’m providing some fun activities for seniors to participate in during the holiday week, while also emphasizing the importance of maintaining independence. 

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Rachel, Sydney, and I are all occupational therapists with specialized focus on geriatric and dementia care in the home and community. This episode is a fireside chat amongst us, discussing the ins and outs of home and community options for dementia care. 

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Pride Month is an annual celebration that recognizes the LGBTQ+ community's accomplishments and advocates for equal rights and acceptance. Traditionally celebrated in June, Pride Month commemorates the Stonewall Uprising of 1969, a pivotal event in LGBTQ+ history. It serves as a time to celebrate the achievements and contributions of the LGBTQ+ community while promoting equality, acceptance, and visibility. While it is essential to celebrate progress, it is equally crucial to acknowledge the unique challenges faced by aging older adults who identify with Pride communities in the USA. This episode explores the intersectionality of aging and LGBTQ+ identity, highlighting the impact on healthy aging, healthcare disparities, and options for inclusive care.

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Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is a mental health condition that can affect people of all ages, including older adults. As we observe PTSD Awareness Month, it is crucial to shed light on how this condition manifests in the aging population, its impact on aging, and the necessary care and management strategies. In this episode, I am exploring the key aspects of PTSD in older adults, supported by data and research.

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Alzheimer's & Brain Awareness Month provides an excellent opportunity to shed light on the importance of cognitive health in aging adults. As our population continues to age, understanding the factors influencing cognitive decline and implementing strategies to maintain and manage brain health becomes increasingly crucial. In this episode, I’m taking a dive into Alzheimer’s & Brain Awareness Month, specifically cognitive health and aging.

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Speech Language Pathologists (aka Speech Therapists) evaluate or assess for any potential speech, language, cognition, or swallowing disorders. For the geriatric population, they may evaluate an individual in any of these areas, whether it be from general aging, or from a diagnosis of dementia, Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, stroke or other neurodegenerative and neurogenic disorders. Tune in to hear more from an established SLP on her journey and expertise in neurogenic conditions. 

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