News for the Ages by Rethinking Aging Club

We discussed the impact of aging on the senses, focusing on taste and touch. Ray Gordon highlighted that taste changes in middle age due to reduced taste buds and olfactory receptors, suggesting hydration and nutrient-rich diets for taste and smell, as well as physical therapy to improve the performance of proprioception receptors in one’s feet. 

Host Linda Sherman referenced Victoria Villa in Davie Florida which provides places to walk outside on their property. She visited there often to get her Dad outside before he passed at 91.

Benjamin Surmi emphasized the importance of family involvement in healthcare decisions for senior living residents, noting that physical therapy and wellness programs can significantly enhance quality of life. 

Elizabeth Magallon Fleury shared insights on moving to 55+ communities, stressing considerations of downsizing, social engagement, and financial planning. The discussion also touched on the challenges of integrating technology for older adults.

Presented by Ray Gordon, Architect, Urban Planner, Futurist and Former Pratt Institute Grad School Professor
AARP Magazine Spring Health Special How Middle Age Changes our Ability to See, Hear, Taste, Smell and Touch by Nicole Pajer
Apple Access: https://apple.news/ApOF9NJeBSyKgTkjiLGF1tw
Ray presented in three parts. Today's part 3 is taste and touch.

Discussing walking in grass, Linda referred to Victoria Villa and Linda's Dad. Scroll down towards bottom of the memoriam photos for multiple shots of Howard with Linda at Victoria Villa and with Paty Renda (who joined us for our 5-25-23 fitness show). Linda hired Paty to come in and provide Howard with regular stretch and strength movement guidance sessions.

Presented by Benjamin Surmi, Koelsch Communities
Forbes 7-21-25 AI Smart Home Reality Check by Dr. Joe Coughlin
https://www.forbes.com/sites/josephcoughlin/2025/07/21/ai-is-reimagining-retirement-but-whos-plugging-it-in/

Presented by Elizabeth Magallon Fleury, CAPS, Life's Encore Planning
AARP 7-9-25 Seven Questions to Ask Before Moving to a 55+ Community by Matt Swenson
https://www.aarp.org/home-living/is-over-55-community-right-for-you.html

We referred to the News for the Ages by Rethinking Aging Club podcast on 7-1-25 where we spoke about Joe Coughlin’s 6-23-25 article about considering weather when choosing a place to retire.

Articles are listed in the order they were presented and discussed.

Discussion hosted by: Linda Sherman and Ray Gordon 

BoomerTechTalk.com episode page

7-22-25 LinkedIn Show Post

Nickie’s Tune written and performed by Richard Sherman

Ellen Khalifa presented a CNN article on technology use lowering dementia risk, noting a 42% reduction in cognitive impairment from tech use. 

Benjamin Surmi reported on two articles on a well publicized senior living fire in Massachusetts, leading to a discussion of the importance of considering city resources and emergency services when choosing a senior living community.

Elizabeth Magallon Fleury reviewed a US News article on reverse mortgages, detailing pros like tax-free income and flexibility, and cons such as reduced home equity and potential foreclosure. 

Our three co-hosts Debbie Howard, Ray Gordon and Linda Sherman contributed to the discussion.

Presented by Ellen Khalifa, Habits Coach for Healthspan and Wellspan
CNN 4-14-25 Technology Use May Lower Dementia Risk by Kristen Rogers
https://www.cnn.com/2025/04/14/health/technology-use-lowers-dementia-risk-wellness
CNN has kindly paid for you to have access to A meta-analysis of technology use and cognitive aging by Jared F. Benge (University of Texas) and Michael K. Skullin (Baylor University) - 18 page study on Nature.com published 4-14-25. This study is the basis of their article. 

Presented by Benjamin Surmi, Koelsch Communities
Fall River tragedy sparks nationwide review of eldercare emergency protocols
Rolling Out 7-14-25 Senior Living Facility Fire by Miriam Musa
https://rollingout.com/2025/07/14/senior-living-facility-fire-terrifying/
Benjamin Surmi’s second article about the fire
7-15-25 Fire Rescue by Luis Fieldman
https://www.firerescue1.com/fire-service-staffing/union-lives-wouldve-been-saved-at-fatal-mass-assisted-living-fire-with-more-staffing

We referred to News for the Ages by Rethinking Aging Club podcast 7-1-25  with Joe Coughlin’s 6-23-25 Forbes article on considering weather when choosing a place to retire 

Presented by Elizabeth Magallon Fleury, CAPS, Life's Encore Planning
US News & World Report 6-17-25 Reverse Mortgage Pros and Cons: A Balanced View by Jessica Merritt
https://money.usnews.com/loans/mortgages/reverse-mortgage-pros-and-cons

Debbie Howard's summary of this show.

Articles are listed in the order they were presented and discussed.

Discussion hosted by: Linda Sherman, Ray Gordon and Debbie Howard

BoomerTechTalk.com episode page

7-15-25 LinkedIn Show Post

Nickie’s Tune written and performed by Richard Sherman

June is National Alzheimers and Brain Awareness Month. Maude’s Ventures seed funding for early-stage dementia related innovation projects application deadline is July 7. This year includes a section for teenage applicants. 

Benjamin Surmi shared an article about a NASA-themed senior living community in Houston, highlighting the importance of theming around shared values. 

Debbie Howard discussed an LA Times article on the high cost of in-home elder care, noting that $18,000 per month is unaffordable for many. 

Ellen Khalifa presented an article by Joseph Coughlin on the impact of extreme weather on retirement planning, emphasizing the need to consider climate resilience. Architect and Urban Planner Ray Gordon offered extensive commentary here.

The discussion also touched on the challenges of public policy in addressing aging needs and the potential of community-based solutions.

Presented by Benjamin Surmi, Koelsch Communities
Houston Chronicle 6-25-25 NASA themed Senior Living by Elissa Jorgensen
Apple access: https://apple.news/AaH_XvSHqQ--2HbFcC-yCuA

Presented by Debbie Howard, Aging Matters International
LA Times 6-21-25 The Monthly Tab for Her In-home Elder Care: $18,000. She can cover it, but how many others can? by Steve Lopez
Addressing the crippling cost of elder care is a global challenge, and the U.S. is 'behind the curve.'
Apple access: https://apple.news/AyU774Hs0QxylsG34JdVO-w
Paul Irving’s LinkedIn post of the article

Bradley Cooper’s Caregiving Documentary that features Paul Irving from the Milken Institute

Benjamin mentions Live Well Home Lending for bridge loans to allow people time to sell their homes to move into assisted living

Presented by Ellen Khalifa, Habits Coach for Healthspan and Wellspan
Forbes 6-23-25 Retirement Choices and Weather by Dr. Joe Coughlin
https://www.forbes.com/sites/josephcoughlin/2025/06/23/whats-your-retirement-forecast-heat-hurricanes-and-wildfires-ahead/

Joe Coughlin is Founder and Director of the Massachusetts Institute of Technology AgeLab

Linda mentions our Earth Day podcast 4-21-22 that included author Carole Douglis on the importance of clean air for aging.

Debbie Howard Summary

Articles are listed in the order they were presented and discussed.

Discussion hosted by: Linda Sherman, Ray Gordon and Debbie Howard

BoomerTechTalk.com episode page with additional resources from our discussion.

7-1-25 LinkedIn Show Post

Nickie’s Tune written and performed by Richard Sherman

Elizabeth Magallon Fleury highlighted a New York Times article by Mark Miller, noting the rising demand for long-term care due to an aging population and a shortage of workers, exacerbated by low wages and immigration policies. The article emphasized the misconception that Medicare covers long-term care and suggested planning for care costs. 

Debbie Howard introduced a PBS documentary by Bradley Cooper on the national care crisis, highlighting the critical role of family caregivers. 

Ellen Khalifa presented a Goldman Sachs report on global aging, noting the positive economic impact of increased life expectancy and extended working lives.

Presented by Elizabeth Magallon Fleury, CAPS, Life's Encore Planning
New York Times 5-24-25 Long Term Care by Mark Miller
https://www.nytimes.com/2025/05/24/business/retirement-long-term-care.html

20% of retirees will require no long-term care support, 20% are likely to experience a severe need. 25% will have low and 37% will have moderate needs. Totals to 102%

Presented by Debbie Howard, Aging Matters International
Next Avenue 6-20-25 Caregiving Documentary Examines National Care Crisis
Bradley Cooper's experience helping his father inspired his role as executive producer of PBS film premiering June 24 by Amy Nelson Sander
https://www.nextavenue.org/pbs-caregiving-documentary/

For Apple users it may be easier to go the link on the online showing of this excellent PBS documentary and use "AirPlay" to watch it on your TV. It should play in perfect 4K for you.
https://www.pbs.org/show/caregiving/

Presented by Ellen Khalifa, Habits Coach for Healthspan and Wellspan
Goldman Sachs report 5-20-25 The Path to 2075 — The Positive Story of Global Aging.
https://www.gspublishing.com/content/research/en/reports/2025/05/20/2d3fe290-10b1-44be-8d0e-77b8d303928f.html

Debbie Howard's summary of this show.

Articles are listed in the order they were presented and discussed.

Discussion hosted by: Linda Sherman, Ray Gordon and Debbie Howard

BoomerTechTalk.com episode page

6-24-25 LinkedIn Show Post

Nickie’s Tune written and performed by Richard Sherman

Ellen Khalifa highlighted a Women's Health article on bone health, emphasizing the importance of early prevention and the rising rates of osteoporosis among younger generations. 

Dr. Zalan Alam discussed a BBC article on using "poo pills" to treat antibiotic-resistant infections, noting the potential of gut microbiome therapy. 

Debbie Howard shared an NPR article on caregiving, stressing the emotional toll and the importance of support groups and self-care. 

Presented by Ellen Khalifa, Habits Coach for Healthspan and Wellspan
Womens Health Magazine May 2025 Bone Health is Now a Gen Z and Millennial Longevity Hack by Haley Weiss
Apple News Plus Access to this article.
Related article May 1, 2024:
https://niemagazine.com/bone-and-joint-health-for-gen-z-and-millennials/

Presented by Dr. Zalan Alam MBBS, FRCGP GP partner and Clinical Director IMC
BBC June 7 Uk Doctors Trialling 'poo Pills' to Flush out Dangerous Superbugs
https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/clyge290l4xo

Presented by Debbie Howard, Aging Matters International
NPR 4-1-25 Caregiving Can Test You, Body and Soul. It Can Also Unlock a New Sense of Self by Kat McGowan
https://www.npr.org/2025/04/01/nx-s1-5336314/caregiver-caregiving-identity-family-support-burnout
Daughterhood - is a free support group

Debbie Howard's summary of this show.

Articles are listed in the order they were presented and discussed.

Discussion hosted by: Linda Sherman, Ray Gordon and Debbie Howard

BoomerTechTalk.com episode page

6-17-25 LinkedIn Show Post

Nickie’s Tune written and performed by Richard Sherman

This episode explored the cultural shift in Hollywood's portrayal of aging women, highlighting the success of actresses like Demi Moore and the need for businesses to support older female talent.

The discussion also covered the evolving concept of retirement, emphasizing the importance of flexibility and continuous engagement. Statistics from the Employer Benefit Research Institute showed 75% of workers plan to work in retirement, with 29% already doing so. The discussion included practical tips for financial advisors, employers, and older workers to navigate "unretirement".

Presented by Elizabeth Magallon Fleury, CAPS, Life's Encore Planning
Fast Company 2-27-25 What Businesses Can Learn about Supporting Aging Women from the Cultural Shift in Hollywood by Asima Ahmad
https://www.fastcompany.com/91284210/midlife-women-are-in-the-spotlight

We discussed:
Linda’s Streaming Recommendations for 2025 with a section for “Actors of a Certain Age”

Particularly Nonnas film: with Susan Sarandon (1946), Talia Shire (1946), Brenda Vaccaro (1939), Lorraine Bracco (1954) - Netflix from 5-8-25. Sweet true story also starring Vince Vaughn and Linda Cardellini (Dead to Me).

Presented by Ellen Khalifa, Habits Coach for Healthspan and Wellspan
Marketwatch 5-7-25 Retirement May Need a Rebranding by Jessica Hall
https://www.morningstar.com/news/marketwatch/20250507176/retirement-is-nonsense-why-retirement-may-need-a-rebranding

Presented by Debbie Howard, Aging Matters International
Marketwatch 5-29-25 How to Retire by Richard Eisenberg
https://www.marketwatch.com/story/how-to-afford-retirement-in-america-keep-working-859ec8c0

Ellen Khalifa mentioned the Ikigai Venn Diagram

Debbie Howard's summary of this show.

Articles are listed in the order they were presented and discussed.

Discussion hosted by: Linda Sherman, Ray Gordon and Debbie Howard

BoomerTechTalk.com episode page

6-3-25 LinkedIn Show Post

Nickie’s Tune written and performed by Richard Sherman

Debbie Howard highlighted an article emphasizing the importance of caregiving benefits, noting that 75% of employees are caregivers and flexible work options can reduce turnover by 25%. Ray Gordon's article on vision changes due to presbyopia and aging mentioned that over 50% of people over 57 have vision impairment, and regular eye exams are crucial. Ellen Khalifa's article on hip exercises stressed the importance of hip abductor strength for balance and mobility, reducing knee pain and preventing falls. The discussion also touched on the benefits of flexible work schedules and the impact of UV exposure on eye health.

Presented by Debbie Howard, Aging Matters International
Benefit News 1-22-25 Caregiving Benefits Employees Need at Every Stage by Lee Hafner
https://www.benefitnews.com/news/the-caregiving-benefits-employees-need-at-every-stage

Ray Gordon shared that when he worked for the NYC Dept of Ports of Terminals they implemented a very effective “prime time” so that everyone had to be in the office 10am to 2pm.

We talked about work flexibility on this Nurse Shortage Crisis show 11-17-22.
All of the speakers: Benjamin Surmi, Director Koelsch Communities; Carol Fujiyoshi MD chief of staff, Wilcox Hospital, Noah Cusz representing Kavala and Bradley Schurman, the demographics expert, mentioned flexibility.

Presented by Ray Gordon, Architect, Urban Planner, Futurist and Former Pratt Institute Grad School Professor
AARP Magazine Spring Health Special See Me, Hear Me, Feel Me by Nicole Pajer
Apple Access: https://apple.news/ApOF9NJeBSyKgTkjiLGF1tw 
Ray is presenting in three parts - today is vision.

Presented by Ellen Khalifa, Habits Coach for Healthspan and Wellspan
AARP 3-13-25 Hip Exercises
https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/members-only-access/info-2025/hip-exercises.html
Apple News Plus access: https://apple.news/AU9AsqX5RTOqW_lORHA8Ztw

Debbie Howard's summary of this show.

Articles are listed in the order they were presented and discussed.

Discussion hosted by: Linda Sherman, Ray Gordon and Debbie Howard

BoomerTechTalk.com episode page

5-27-25 LinkedIn Show Post

Nickie’s Tune written and performed by Richard Sherman

May is National Speech-Language-Hearing Month, Mental Health Month, Older Americans Month and Osteoporosis Awareness and Prevention Month.

Elizabeth Magallon Fleury shared insights from geriatricians on aging as they themselves are now aging, emphasizing the importance of adaptability and finding meaningful projects. 

Ray Gordon presented the first of a three-part AARP article. This part focused on hearing health, highlighting age-related hearing loss, the benefits of hearing aids, and preventive measures. 

Ellen Khalifa discussed a CNN article on 17 risk factors for dementia, depression, and stroke, stressing lifestyle changes like managing blood pressure, quitting smoking, and improving physical activity.

Presented by Elizabeth Magallon Fleury, CAPS, Life's Encore Planning
Washington Post 4-26-25 Aging Geriatricians Advice by Amanda Erickson
https://www.washingtonpost.com/wellness/2025/04/26/aging-geriatricians-advice-hobbies-empathy/

Presented by Ray Gordon, Architect, Urban Planner, Futurist and Former Pratt Institute Grad School Professor
AARP Magazine Spring Health Special See Me, Hear Me, Feel Me by Nicole Pajer
https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/members-only-access/info-2025/how-hearing-changes-with-age.html
Apple Access: https://apple.news/ApOF9NJeBSyKgTkjiLGF1tw 
Ray is presenting in three parts - today is hearing

As an AARP member, you qualify for a free annual hearing assessment. Use your AARP login to register at nationalhearingtest.org.

Comments from Kevin Filsom AKA “Plutos.dev co moderator” 

Thursday May 22 is our Rethinking Aging Club Podcast Hearing Innovations show

Presented by Ellen Khalifa, Habits Coach for Healthspan and Wellspan
CNN 4-4-25 17 Risk Factors for Dementia, Depression and Stroke by Kristen Rogers
https://www.cnn.com/2025/04/04/health/dementia-depression-stroke-17-risk-factors-wellness

Debbie Howard's summary of this show.

Articles are listed in the order they were presented and discussed.

Discussion hosted by: Linda Sherman, Ray Gordon and Debbie Howard

BoomerTechTalk.com episode page

5-20-25 LinkedIn Show Post

Nickie’s Tune written and performed by Richard Sherman

We discussed the importance of osteoporosis awareness and prevention, highlighting a Women's Health article on using weighted vests for bone health. Note that May is osteoporosis awareness month. Ellen Khalifa emphasized starting with low weights (less than 5% body weight) and progressing gradually. Ray Gordon commented extensively on weighted exercising and proper use of weighted vests.

May is also Older Adults Month. We discussed a new PBS documentary called “Aging in America”, which marks the 50th anniversary of Dr. Robert Butler's book "Why Survive?" The documentary examines progress and challenges, including the low number of geriatricians (7,400) compared to pediatricians (60,000). The discussion underscored the need for better support and resources for older adults. 

Presented by Ellen Khalifa, Habits Coach for Healthspan and Wellspan
Womens Health Magazine 1-2-25 How to Use a Weighted Vest for Osteoporosis by Dr. Rachel Tavel DPT
https://www.womenshealthmag.com/fitness/a63260413/wearing-weighted-vest-for-osteoporosis/

It includes Michael Jaasma as an expert. The author works for Wellen which is part of Jaasma’s company Osteoboost Health but it is still a good article for Osteoporosis Month.
We mentioned that core strengthening helps support one’s back - so planking is good for preventing osteoporosis.

Rethinking Aging Club Bone Health Podcast with Osteoboost Health 10-17-24
Speakers included Michael Jaasma co-Founder and Chief Science Officer of Osteoboost Health and Priya Patel, founder of Wellen. Wellen is now part of Osteoboost Health formerly Bone Health Technologies. 
Osteoboost Health is an AgeTech Collaborative from AARP (ATC) portfolio company
The Osteoboost product was recognized by Oprah Daily on May 7, 2025.
Linda Sherman tried Osteoboost at the ATC Summit May 7 2025 with the CEO Laura Yecies. Debbie Howard tried Osteoboost at Mary Furlong’s Longevity Venture Summit June 2024. Ellen Khalifa tried Osteoboost at the ISO Symposium in May 2025.

Presented by Debbie Howard, Aging Matters International
Next Avenue 5-1-25 New PBS Documentary Takes a Tough Look at Aging in America by Richard Eisenberg
https://www.nextavenue.org/new-pbs-documentary-aging-in-america/
https://www.aarp.org/entertainment/movies-for-grownups/aging-in-america-pbs-documentary/

Debbie Howard’s summary of this show.

Articles are listed in the order they were presented and discussed.

Discussion hosted by: Linda Sherman, Ray Gordon and Debbie Howard

BoomerTechTalk.com episode page

5-13-25 LinkedIn Show Post

Nickie’s Tune written and performed by Richard Sherman

Elizabeth Magallon Fleury shared an article on LA residents affected by wildfires, emphasizing the challenges of rebuilding at retirement age and the importance of insurance reviews. Ray Gordon discussed a BBC Science Focus article on a new protein discovery that could lead to Parkinson's treatments. Debbie Howard highlighted a World Economic Forum article on the growing importance of older workers, stressing the need for lifelong learning and flexible work options. Linda Sherman concluded with streaming TV recommendations featuring actors of a certain age in select film and series dropping in 2025.

Presented by Elizabeth Magallon Fleury, CAPS, Life's Encore Planning
NYTimes 4-19-25 For L.A. Residents Whose Homes Burned, Aging Complicates What Comes Next by Constance Sommer
https://www.nytimes.com/2025/04/19/business/la-fires-retirement-insurance-california.html

Presented by Ray Gordon, Architect, Urban Planner, Futurist and Former Pratt Institute Grad School Professor
BBC Focus Magazine 3-13-25 A Newly Discovered Protein Could Be the Key to Developing a Treatment for Parkinson's by Hatty Willmoth
https://www.sciencefocus.com/news/parkinsons-mystery-pink1-mitochondria

Presented by Debbie Howard, Aging Matters International
World Economic Forum 2-17-25 Older Adults Are Driving Workforce Innovation in a Digital Economy. Here's How by Lawrence Kosick
https://www.weforum.org/stories/2025/02/older-adults-workforce-innovation-digital-economy/

Debbie mentioned these related WeForum pieces:
https://www.weforum.org/publications/the-future-of-jobs-report-2025/ https://www.weforum.org/stories/2023/09/how-organizations-can-embrace-older-workers-amid-an-ageing-workforce//

Presented by Linda Sherman, Miracle of the Sea
Streaming Film and TV Series Corner - with Actors of a Certain Age
https://streamingtvrecommendations.com/2025-streaming-highlights/
(You can store and access this site as TVReview.co. Some save on the home page of their phone.)

Debbie Howard’s summary of this show.

Articles are listed in the order they were presented and discussed.

Discussion hosted by:  Linda Sherman, Ray Gordon and Debbie Howard

BoomerTechTalk.com episode page includes the Streaming Film and TV series listing with actor names and birth years.

4-29-25 LinkedIn Show Post

Nickie’s Tune written and performed by Richard Sherman