While the most common form of dementia among all age groups is Alzheimer’s disease, Frontotemporal Degeneration (FTD) is most common in those diagnosed before age 60 and can occur as early as age 21 and as late as age 80. FTD differs from other types of dementia in that memory loss is not a hallmark symptom. A group of related, heterogeneous disorders, initial symptoms bring progressive changes to personality, behavior, decision-making, communication or movement. In this podcast, the Association for Frontotemporal Degeneration will present signs and symptoms of FTD, emphasize the importance of early diagnosis and person-centered care, and highlight research opportunities as well as support resources for those living with FTD and their care partners.

Untreated mental health disorders at any age can have negative impacts, but particularly for older adults, it can lead to social isolation, placement in long-term care facilities, and even suicide. There are also a variety of factors that can impact an older adults’ emotional health such as major life transitions and loss of independence. Professionals in the aging sector play a vital role in helping older clients and families to recognize signs that an individual is in need of mental and emotional health support. Such professionals also help connect them to resources for evaluation and appropriate treatments. Listen to this podcast to learn more about mental and emotional health in later years and how to best support someone with mental health needs and their caregivers.

As professionals in the aging services sector, it is important to recognize the ethical issues that could arise when working with older adults. There are multiple areas in which ethical issues can emerge, including complex family dynamics, addressing end-of-life wishes, preserving dignity and respect, promoting independence, and keeping the individual safe. Various factors can make older adults vulnerable to abuse, neglect and ill intent. However, there are ethical principles that can guide us, and by better understanding these ethical issues, we can help to reduce the risk of harm, advocate for the older adult, and report issues to the proper authorities when necessary.

Listen to this podcast to learn more about the ethical considerations of working with older adults and the resources available to help support professionals and family caregivers.

The importance of proper nutrition for older adults cannot be understated. However, for some older adults, it can be hard to get motivated to cook nutritious meals, especially for those who live alone. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, about 28 percent (13.8 million) of community-dwelling older adults live alone, which could put them at risk for poor nutrition. Malnutrition can affect the mind, body, immune system and energy levels in ways older adults and family caregivers may not be aware of. Older adults who eat meals with others take in more nutrients and reap additional benefits like decreased loneliness. Listen to this podcast to learn how companionship is often the missing ingredient in a healthy diet for an older adult. 

Caregivers play a vital role in the lives of their older loved ones. Often these individuals gradually take on more care responsibilities over time and they become so focused on the daily tasks of caregiving, that they rarely have time to reflect on their role and how it has changed. For many, caregiving is a multi-year journey and one that can start to feel overwhelming. It is easy for caregivers to lose sight of their own needs and they can experience negative consequences as a result. Listen to this podcast to learn how regular reflection can help caregivers change their mindset and transform their caregiving experience.

Aging is a universal experience. Of those who reach age 65, 70 percent will require long-term care at some point. These services are often well-intentioned, but may fail to recognize the diversity of the population they serve. It is important for service providers to learn about the value of delivering culturally competent services to meet the needs of the diverse individuals that they serve. Listen to this podcast to learn more about the important components to consider when it comes to diversity and inclusion and hear from organizations who are making great strides in this arena.

Knowing the warning signs of Alzheimer’s disease is important for early detection and diagnosis. Family members often are the first to notice the signs, but may struggle on how to approach their loved one about scheduling an appointment with their doctor. Once they do broach the subject, they may be met with resistance or denial. If a diagnosis is received, the individual and their family may be at a loss for what do next and what to expect for their loved one’s care needs. As professionals, it is important to help older adults and their families navigate life after a dementia diagnosis by providing them with useful information and support. Listen to this podcast to learn more about what to do next after a dementia diagnosis, what changes to expect and how to best care for someone living with dementia.

Today, there are more options than ever before for older adults who need help living in their homes or for those who can no longer live alone safely. Gone are the days where an institutional-like nursing home was the only alternative. Family structures also have changed, with a smaller pool of family caregivers living in proximity to help their aging loved ones. The options for care can be overwhelming and confusing but with a little education, families can help their loved ones find a solution that best suits them and their situation. Listen to this podcast to discover the variety of options available to older adults in need of assistance, including resources for staying at home with help and alternative housing options.

The home care industry is rapidly growing, making home care work one of the fastest growing professions in the United States. According to PHI, between 2018 and 2028, home care will add nearly 1.1 million jobs, and according to the OECD, by 2040, 13.5 million new care workers will be needed globally. While this is a growing industry, there are challenges facing this workforce, which result in high turnover rates and other issues. Listen to this podcast to learn more about home care workforce issues and how companies are addressing them head on.

The brain is an important organ that often doesn’t get the attention it deserves. It is our body’s command center and as we age, we are at an increased risk for cognitive impairment. However, research is finding that there is much we can do proactively to keep our brain in shape as we age and reduce the risk of cognitive impairment later in life. Listen to learn more about proactive brain health.