#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 discrimination on the basis of age. 

Here’s a look inside my interview with Ashton Applewhite:

• [03:53] Ashton Applewhite and I discuss age, aging, and ageism. We explore the question: does ageism only affect older adults?
• [10:29] Learn how Ashton became so passionate about ageism and combating ageism.
• [13:59] This Chair Rocks: A Manifesto Against Ageism is being released in paperback this month (August 2020). The process of naming this book was an exercise in anti-ageism.
• [19:23] In her book, Ashton uses the terms olders and youngers. Here Ashton describes how these terms might actually be easier to identify with than "seniors" and "older adults".
• [21:50] "Becoming an old person in training means ditching preconceptions looking at and listening carefully to the olders around us, and reenvisioning our place among them." Learn more about what it means to become and old person in training.
• [26:46] The U-curve of happiness shows that we are happiest as children and as older adults.  Taking time to learn about the U-curve of happiness will leave a smile on your face.
• [32:02] Ashton reveals her end of life conversation with her children and shares tools for having end of life conversations.
• [37:18] Intimacy and sexuality are important at every age and regardless of ability. Learn what makes people sexy.
• [49:05] Ashton shares her favorite ways to occupy age and confront ageism.

Click here to listen

Check out the show notes here!


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#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 in geriatric medicine started very early.
• [13:33] Unfortunately, there are many health disparities that disproportionately affect African Americans. Dr. Williams discusses some of these disparities and shares what is contributing to these disparities. 
• [22:31] To scientists researching topics in minority communities, Dr. Williams asks important questions, like: "Do clinicians and researchers have a commitment to the community? Are they going to actually engage with the community in a sustained manner? Or do they simply get what they want and then leave?"Listen to Dr. Williams' recommendations for minority research.
• [24:37] Learn about one community's efforts to systematize COVID response and testing
• [27:34]  Dr. Williams shares her recommendations for older adults surrounding COVID-19.
• [33:29] Senior care communities have been disproportionately impacted by the Coronavirus pandemic, ranging from high rates of COVID in some communities to high rate of isolation in others. Dr. Williams shares tips for senior care communities.
• [37:52] Dr. Williams describes her personal experience of overcoming COVID and shares an important message.

Click here to listen!

Help older adults stay mentally well during COVID-19. Download the FREE COVID-19 WELLNESS GUIDE for Older Adults!

Check out the show notes here!


Rate and Review Psychology of Aging Podcast with Dr. Regina Koepp

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#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] Learn what to do if you notice memory problems in your older loved one.

At the end of this episode, you'll have a better understanding of what dementia is, and what to do if you're concerned about memory problems in someone you love.


Worried your older loved one may have memory loss? Download the Ultimate Memory Loss Guide here

Check out the show notes here!


Rate and Review Psychology of Aging Podcast with Dr. Regina Koepp

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#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're noticing. This helps ease a worried mind. 
• [05:42] Benefit #2: The second benefit of early detection of a dementia disorder is that it allows the person with dementia to make decisions early on about what they want their future to look like.
• [06:31] Benefit #3: Better access to medical and mental health care. This is important because the earlier in the dementia process you start medications, the better.
• [07:58] Benefit #4: Early detection has been shown to not only improve quality of life like we just talked about, but increases the chance that that person with dementia will live longer.
• [09:15] Benefit #5: Early detection is correlated with lower rates of institutionalization later in the illness process later in the dementia. Saving you money and heartache.
• [10:00] Benefit #6: Gives family members and caregivers time to adjust and come to terms with the diagnosis and all the care needs to come.
• [11:46] Benefit #7: The seventh benefit of early detection of dementia disorders is that it reduces the risk of you, the caregiver, developing anxiety and depression.
• [12:40] BONUS Benefit: A bonus benefit is that early detection helps you to understand the caregiving landscape and all of the resources that you're going to need to provide care for your loved one with dementia.

By the end of this episode, you'll know why early diagnosis of dementia is important and how early diagnosis of dementia helps people living with dementia and their family


Worried your older loved one may have memory loss? Download the Ultimate Memory Loss Guide here

Check out the show notes here!


Rate and Review Psychology of Aging Podcast with Dr. Regina Koepp

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#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 events occurring at the same time.
• [05:40] Next Step #3: Share your concerns in a gentle and loving way. Let your loved one know that you're concerned about them. It can help to gently share some of the specific examples of what you've been observing (from Steps 1and 2).
• [07:19] Next Step #4: Encourage your loved one to see their primary care doctor
• [10:52] Next Step #5: when you're at the doctor and if you're older loved one allows you to be in the room with them, don't jump in and talk over your older loved one. Instead be respectful. Listen to the podcast to learn more about why this is so important.
• [13:07] BONUS Tips: Learn what to do if your older loved one is refusing to see their doctor and you're very very concerned about them.

By the end of this episode, you'll know exactly the steps to take if you're concerned about memory loss in your older loved one and when to help them seek medical care.


Worried your older loved one may have memory loss? Download the Ultimate Memory Loss Guide 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 others by rating and reviewing my show. Reviews let others- just like you- care for the older adults in their lives.

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#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 includes more than just memory changes, it can include this second warning sign-Challenges in planning or problem solving
• [05:18] Memory Loss Warning Sign #3: Are you noticing your loved one struggle with tasks that used to be easy for them? Like doing laundry or making dinner? These are examples of the third warning sign- Difficulty completing familiar tasks at home, at work or at leisure.
• [06:01] Memory Loss Warning Sign #4: Confusion with time and place is a hallmark symptom of dementia and may be showing up with early signs of memory loss. 
• [07:03] Memory Loss Warning Sign #5: This one may surprise you. Trouble understanding visual images and spatial relationships is sometimes an early sign of a dementia disorder like Alzheimer's Disease. 
• [07:20] Memory Loss Warning Sign #6: Changes in communication, like speaking and writing can be an early memory loss warning sign.
• [10:28] Memory Loss Warning Sign #7: Misplacing things and losing the ability to retrace your steps is another warning sign that could result in your loved one accusing you or others of stealing from them. 
• [11:33] Memory Loss Warning Sign #8: We're all entitled to making an unhealthy decision from time to time, but when this unhealthy decision is made from poor judgement and this is happening over and over, this can be concerning for memory loss or serious cognitive disorders. 
• [12:49] Memory Loss Warning Sign #9: Withdrawal from work and activities could be a sign some changes are happening in the brain. On the other hand, this could be a sign of a treatable mental health condition. Either way, you'll want to encourage your loved one to see their medical provider. 
• [14:24] Memory Loss Warning Sign #10: changes in mood and personality can also be a sign of concerning changes in the brain, or a mental health condition. 

Worried your older loved one may have memory loss? Download the Ultimate Memory Loss Guide here

Check out the show notes here!


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#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 our medical or mental health concerns. Do you know what your older loved one's preferences actually are? The fourth strategy will help. 
• [12:00] You may not like this fifth strategy, but it may be just what your older loved one needs to come around. 
• [13:53] There are some acute medical situations that cannot wait for your older loved one to schedule an appointment with their doctor. Learn more here.
  
  

By the end of this episode, you'll have strategies for communicating more effectively with your older loved one, increasing the chance they'll go to the doctor, and making your relationship even stronger.

Worried your older loved one may have memory loss? Download the Ultimate Memory Loss Guide 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 others by rating and reviewing my show. Reviews let others- just like you- care for the older adults in their lives.

It's simple:
1. Just click here
2. Scroll down to "Ratings and Reviews" 
3. Tap or click "Write a Review"

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#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 future for all LGBT people.

Here’s a look inside my interview with Dr. Tim Johnston:

• [04:32] Dr. Johnston talks about LGTBQ caregivers and what may be contributing to LGTBQ caregivers having higher rates of isolation while providing care.
• [06:35] When caring for a loved one with dementia, transgender caregivers may experience their loved one with dementia not recognizing them.Dr. Johnston reveals some heart-tugging examples of this and other examples.
• [08:02] Dr. Johnston and I discuss the relationship woundsthat may have existed in the relationship between the LGTBQ caregiver and their loved one and how the caregiver can maintain boundaries and a sense of self and personal integrity during the caregiving journey. 
• [12:11] Dr. Johnston shares tips for what LGTBQ caregivers can do to manage stress and promote wellness for themselves.
• [14:48] Discover the must have LGTBQ caregiving resource guides recommended by Dr. Johnston. 
• [17:38] Dr. Johnston shares how LGTBQ caregivers can find supportive and affirming caregiving communities. 
• [20:01] Family may not mean the same thing to you as it does to me. Dr. Johnston shares the importance of broadening our definition of family, especially when it comes to LGTBQ older adults and LGTBQ caregivers.
• [22:42] Professionals working with older adults and caregivers can create environments that are welcoming to LGTBQ folks. Dr. Johnston shares how.
  
  

By the end of this episode, you'll have a deeper understanding of the unique needs of LGBTQ caregivers, what LGTBQ caregivers can do to enhance their physical and mental wellness and reduce their risk of isolation, and what health professionals and allies can do to to create affirming places for older LGTBQ caregivers.

Check out the show notes here!

Rate and Review Psychology of Aging Podcast with Dr. Regina Koepp

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#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 conversation which ensures a fulfilling future for all LGBT people.

Here’s a look inside my interview with Dr. Tim Johnston:

• [04:44] Dr. Johnston shares about the important work that he and SAGE are doing to serve and advocate for LGTBQ older adults.
• [10:33] Older LGTBQ adults spent many years of their life in a cultural and political context that was very hostile to LGBT people and staying in the closet or remaining private about their identity was often a matter of survival. Learn about how these experiences have affect older LGTBQ as they age.
• [12:55] If you're a professional, learn what you can do to create a space that is affirming for older LGTBQ adults.
• [16:33] Dr. Johnston shares tips for what to do an say when an older LGTBQ individual reveals their identity to you. 
• [17:10] Discover generational differences between the use of some of the LGTBQ terms. 
• [23:55] Dr. Johnston reveals the unique needs of older LGBTQ folks who are living with dementia and how care communities can provide affirming and validating care. 
• [28:00] Older LGTBQ adults possess many resiliency factors that need to be highlighted and validated. We explore a few of those here.
• [30:02] COVID is disproportionately affecting older adults. Learn some of the ways that COVID is affecting LGTBQ seniors specifically. 
• [32:41] There's a lot that older LGBTQ folks can do to enhance their own physical and mental health as they age. Dr. Johnston shares several tips.
• [39:50] Allies, friends, and family!You have an important role in promoting the health and wellness of older LGBTQ folks. Learn what you can do here!

By the end of this episode, you'll have a deeper understanding of the unique needs of LGBTQ older adults, what LGTBQ seniors can do to enhance their physical and mental wellness, and what health providers and allies can do to to create affirming places for older LGTBQ folks. 

Check out the show notes here!

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#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. Dotson discusses health disparities related to dementia and African Americans and what contributes to these disparities, including medical problems, genetics, and cultural barriers. 
• [07:07] Early detection in dementia and treatment, especially early in the illness process is essential to equitable care, Dr. Dotson shares why. 
• [09:57] Dr. Dotson shares tips for African American families on how to get the best care for dementia in light of mistreatment and mistrust in the health care system. 
• [15:56] The dementia diagnosis process is discussed and Dr. Dotson describes the benefits of seeing a Neurologist AND a Neuropsychologist for a comprehensive assessment to help determine a dementia disorder.
• [18:57] The dementia journey is long, Dr. Dotson shares recommendations for maintaining equitable health care along the course of dementia. 
• [24:00] There are steps that we can take to reduce our risk for dementia and protect our brains as we age. Learn what you can do. 

By the end of this episode, you'll understand the biological, genetic, and social factors that increase the risk for dementia in African Americans, have a roadmap for getting your loved one the best, most equitable and comprehensive health care, and have strategies for keeping your own brain healthy!

Download the free Dementia 101 Guide

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 others by rating and reviewing my show. Reviews let others- just like you- care for the older adults in their lives.

It's simple:
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2. Scroll down to "Ratings and Reviews" 
3. Tap or click "Write a Review"

I read them all. Thank you so much! 

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PROFESSIONALS: Grab your free guide to working with older adults here


Attention Social Workers, Therapists, Counselors, Psychologists, Aging Life Care Experts... Click here to get Continuing Education Credits