Shows
Beyond The Fountain Of YouthElevate Brainpower Through Simple Age-Friendly Steps with Melissa BatchelorWe all forget where we put our keys. But when memory changes start to interfere with your daily life, it's time to pay attention.. In this episode, I sit down with Melissa Batchelor, PhD, RN-BC, FNP-BC, FGSA, FAAN, a nationally recognized dementia care expert and founder of AgeWiseU. We tackle memory loss, dementia screening, hormone testing, and the true meaning of age-friendly living. Melissa shares how lifestyle factors—like exercise, sleep, social connections, and diet—can profoundly impact brain health and long-term vitality. She also outlines the importance of early detection and hol...2025-04-2919 min
This Is Getting Old: Moving Towards an Age-Friendly World Podcast with Dr. MELISSA BATCHELOREP: 190 - Practical Strategies to Future-Proof Your Life with Bradley Schurman, Author of SuperAgeAre you looking for practical strategies to navigate an ever-changing world as you age? In this episode, we dive deep with Bradley Schurman, demographic strategist and author of The Super Age. Bradley shares his expertise on how longevity and demographic change are reshaping the economy, businesses, and even our homes. With years of research on aging trends and their impact on society, Bradley offers actionable insights to help you future-proof your life. Whether you're preparing for new trends, seeking long-term success, or simply trying to stay ahead in an unpredictable world, this episode is full of tips you can't...2024-09-1050 min
This Is Getting Old: Moving Towards an Age-Friendly World Podcast with Dr. MELISSA BATCHELOREP185: Osteoporosis vs. Osteopenia: Understanding, Preventing, and Treating Bone Loss"Smoking or having more than two alcoholic drinks per day can contribute to bone loss." —Melissa Batchelor, PhD, RN, FNP, FGSA, FAAN WHAT IS OSTEOPENIA AND OSTEOPOROSIS? Losing height and bone density are serious health concerns that often go unnoticed until significant damage has occurred. With 40 to 50 million Americans living with osteopenia or osteoporosis, the impact of these conditions is widespread and profound. Height loss and weakened bones can lead to severe consequences, including fractures and reduced quality of life. In this e...2024-08-0623 min
This Is Getting Old: Moving Towards an Age-Friendly World Podcast with Dr. MELISSA BATCHELOREP184: Functional Cognitive Disorder vs Alzheimer’s: Key Differences Explained“Understanding and addressing Functional Cognitive Disorder (FCD) is an emerging field of science.” —Melissa Batchelor, PhD, RN, FNP, FGSA, FAAN It's usually a good idea to get an evaluation when experiencing issues with concentration, attention, or memory. Recognizing the differences between various cognitive disorders is crucial for appropriate management and care. LEARN ABOUT FUNCTIONAL COGNITIVE DISORDER (FCD) Functional cognitive disorder (FCD) is an emerging area in brain science. Unlike Alzheimer’s disease or a related dementia, FCD involves reported cognitive issues typically without the sensory or motor problems seen in dementia. ID...2024-07-3113 min
This Is Getting Old: Moving Towards an Age-Friendly World Podcast with Dr. MELISSA BATCHELOREP183: Aging Gracefully with a Healthy Gut Microbiome“The gut microbiome is believed to hold the key to healthy aging.” —Melissa Batchelor, PhD, RN, FNP, FGSA, FAAN The secret to aging well may lie within our gut. Scientists have discovered that maintaining gut health is crucial for overall well-being, including brain health. In this episode, we'll explore the gut microbiome, what it is, and how to keep yours thriving. WHAT IS THE GUT MICROBIOME? Think of your gut microbiome as a diverse garden of bacteria, fungi, protozoa, and other microbes in your digestive system. A healthy garden means a health...2024-07-2414 min
This Is Getting Old: Moving Towards an Age-Friendly World Podcast with Dr. MELISSA BATCHELOREP182: How Nursing Homes Put Profit Before Patients"Many nursing homes are owned by private equity firms that modify operations to maximize profits." —Melissa Batchelor, PhD, RN, FNP, FGSA, FAAN Nursing homes provide essential care for older adults who need more help than family and friends can give. During the COVID-19 pandemic, over 200,000 residents and staff died, exposing serious problems in these facilities. Recently, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) introduced new rules to improve nurse staffing for the 1.2 million older adults who call nursing homes "home" who are both short-stay residents needing rehabilitation and long...2024-07-1715 min
This Is Getting Old: Moving Towards an Age-Friendly World Podcast with Dr. MELISSA BATCHELOREP181: 5 Tips for Traveling with a Person Living with Dementia“Be prepared for agitation and anxiety; have snacks, water, and distractions ready” —Melissa Batchelor, PhD, RN, FNP, FGSA, FAAN Traveling with a loved one who has Alzheimer's disease can be challenging, but with the right preparation, it can also be a smooth and enjoyable experience. In this episode, I provide five essential tips to help make your journey more comfortable and less stressful. UTILIZE IN-FLIGHT ASSISTANCE PROGRAMS Just like booking for an unaccompanied minor, using an in-flight assistance program can provide valuable help from the curb, thr...2024-06-0604 min
This Is Getting Old: Moving Towards an Age-Friendly World Podcast with Dr. MELISSA BATCHELOREP180: May is Older Americans Month“Meaningful relationships and social connections are essential components of our overall health” —Melissa Batchelor, PhD, RN, FNP, FGSA, FAAN Many of us deeply value our connections to family, friends, and our wider community, understanding that these relationships are crucial for our mental and emotional health. Renowned athletes like Michael Phelps have emphasized the importance of these connections, highlighting how they support our overall well-being. Join me in this episode as we explore the significance of these bonds, in line with the celebration of the Older Americans Act and Older American...2024-05-2314 min
This Is Getting Old: Moving Towards an Age-Friendly World Podcast with Dr. MELISSA BATCHELOREP179: Housing Options for Older Adults"Just because it's a nursing home, doesn't mean they're doomed to be in there forever." —Melissa Batchelor, PhD, RN, FNP, FGSA, FAAN Many families face the difficult decision of choosing the right care setting for their aging loved ones. You may have promised never to place your loved one in a nursing home, yet sometimes a skilled nursing facility is the most appropriate setting for their care needs. Join us for this episode where we'll discuss the basics of housing and care options for older adults. I'll help you under...2024-05-1610 min
This Is Getting Old: Moving Towards an Age-Friendly World Podcast with Dr. MELISSA BATCHELOREP178: 10 Tips for Caregivers of People Living with Dementia“If you aren't taking care of yourself, you can't take care of anybody else.” —Melissa Batchelor, PhD, RN, FNP, FGSA, FAAN Caring for individuals living with dementia is a profound act of love and dedication, but it also comes with its unique set of challenges. Caregivers often find themselves facing a tough journey filled with uncertainty, frustration, and emotional strain. In this episode, we'll talk about ways to help caregivers, offering insights to reduce stress and prevent burnout. Tip 1: Ignoring symptoms won't make them disappear. Don't ignore signs of dementia...2024-04-3014 min
This Is Getting Old: Moving Towards an Age-Friendly World Podcast with Dr. MELISSA BATCHELOREP177: Why Women Have a Greater Risk of Alzheimer's Disease or Related Dementia“Women are more likely than men to have the mutated gene (APOE4) associated with Alzheimer's disease.” —Melissa Batchelor, PhD, RN, FNP, FGSA, FAAN Alzheimer's disease is a complex neurodegenerative condition with various risk factors. Women face a higher risk due to multiple contributing factors. In this episode, we explore some of the reasons that women may have a higher risk for developing dementia in their lifetime. THE IMPACT OF MENOPAUSE ON ALZHEIMER'S RISK Alzheimer's disease is a condition that presents a distinct challenge for women. In fact, a...2024-04-1910 min
This Is Getting Old: Moving Towards an Age-Friendly World Podcast with Dr. MELISSA BATCHELOREP176: State of Alzheimer's Disease Research“As a nurse, I'm all about lifestyle strategies and preventing Alzheimer’s from even happening to us” —Melissa Batchelor, PhD, RN, FNP, FGSA, FAAN Alzheimer's disease poses a significant threat to individuals and societies worldwide due to its devastating impact on cognitive function and quality of life. Although a cure has not been found, ongoing research gives hope for better treatments to ease symptoms, slow down the disease, and make life better for people with Alzheimer's. THE STATE OF ALZHEIMER'S DISEASE RESEARCH Alzheimer's disease, a top 10 lead...2024-04-0911 min
This Is Getting Old: Moving Towards an Age-Friendly World Podcast with Dr. MELISSA BATCHELOREP 175: What is Lewy Body Dementia?“Once diagnosed with Lewy body dementia, on average, individuals tend to live 5 to 8 years” —Melissa Batchelor, PhD, RN, FNP, FGSA, FAAN Lewy body dementia (LBD) is often misunderstood, misdiagnosed, or overlooked, yet it affects millions worldwide. Join me as I explain one of the complicated types of dementia. In this week’s episode, we’ll explore Lewy body dementia, understand its symptoms, causes, stages, and how it can be treated. WHAT IS LEWY BODY DEMENTIA? Lewy Body Dementia (LBD) is characterized by abnormal protein deposits in the brain...2024-04-0214 min
This Is Getting Old: Moving Towards an Age-Friendly World Podcast with Dr. MELISSA BATCHELOREP 174: What is Parkinson's Disease Dementia?“Symptoms of Parkinson's disease are gradual and they're very subtle.” —Melissa Batchelor, PhD, RN, FNP, FGSA, FAAN What is Parkinson's disease dementia? How does it manifest differently from other forms of dementia? Join me in this insightful episode where we answer these questions and discuss more of its symptoms and available medication. WHAT IS PARKINSON’S DISEASE? Parkinson’s Disease is a progressive disorder affecting individuals over 50, characterized by motor issues such as muscle stiffness, tremors, and balance problems. As it advances, cognitive issues known as Parkinson's disease deme...2024-03-2609 min
This Is Getting Old: Moving Towards an Age-Friendly World Podcast with Dr. MELISSA BATCHELOREP 173: What to Expect When Moving into Assisted Living“Understanding the unique needs of each resident requires a holistic approach that goes beyond medical care.” —Melissa Batchelor, PhD, RN, FNP, FGSA, FAAN In this episode, Melissa Batchelor and Rebecca Adelman explore the crucial topic of managing expectations in assisted living. Drawing from their extensive experience, they shed light on the five key domains that significantly impact residents and their families in assisted living facilities. DOMAIN 1: COMMUNICATION We discuss the importance of clear, transparent communication between residents, families, and the caregiving team. From daily routines to healthcare updates...2024-03-1955 min
This Is Getting Old: Moving Towards an Age-Friendly World Podcast with Dr. MELISSA BATCHELOREP172: What is Frontotemporal Dementia?All dementias don't look the same; they don't show up the same way that Alzheimer's disease does. —Melissa Batchelor, PhD, RN, FNP, FGSA, FAAN Listen to today's episode where I talk about frontotemporal dementia (FTD), a rare kind of dementia. I'll walk you through how FTD is different from Alzheimer's disease and share insights into why seeking medical care is crucial if any of these symptoms are interrupting your life or the life of a loved one. People with frontotemporal dementia tend to have clusters of symptom types that occu...2024-03-1211 min
This Is Getting Old: Moving Towards an Age-Friendly World Podcast with Dr. MELISSA BATCHELOREP 171: What is Vascular Dementia?WHAT IS VASCULAR DEMENTIA? Vascular dementia is a type of dementia linked to issues with blood flow to the brain. It ranks as the second most common type of dementia, occurring in about 15 to 30% of all dementia cases. In this episode, we explore its symptoms, risk factors, and the unique challenges it carries. SYMPTOMS AND RISK FACTORS Symptoms of vascular dementia can manifest suddenly or gradually over time. Individuals may experience cognitive problems, including poor memory, language difficulties (aphasia), coordination issues (apraxia), and problems recognizing things or people (agnosia). Unlike other dementias, vascular...2024-03-0510 min
This Is Getting Old: Moving Towards an Age-Friendly World Podcast with Dr. MELISSA BATCHELOREP170: Dementia 101The challenges caused by dementia can affect your ability to function in your daily life. —Melissa Batchelor, PhD, RN, FNP, FGSA, FAAN What are the different types of dementia and how to differentiate them? Dementia is a group of symptoms that affect memory, language, problem-solving, and thinking skills, impacting your daily life. Tune in to today’s episode where I’ll explain in detail what dementia is, discuss common types, and share insights on how to recognize them and access the FREE handout that you can downl...2024-02-2715 min
This Is Getting Old: Moving Towards an Age-Friendly World Podcast with Dr. MELISSA BATCHELOREP169: Dressing Your Age with Cyndy PorterWhen someone insists that you should “dress your age,” it's inherently an ageist remark. —Melissa Batchelor, PhD, RN, FNP, FGSA, FAAN What does it mean to be told that you need to “dress your age”? At its core, being told to “dress your age” is an ageist statement. Has anyone ever said something along these lines to you? Or maybe you restrict yourself by saying that you’re “too old” or “too young” to wear a certain style of clothing or shoes? Or have a certain hairstyle? Or how you wear your makeup...2024-02-2027 min
This Is Getting Old: Moving Towards an Age-Friendly World Podcast with Dr. MELISSA BATCHELOREP168: How Does Alzheimer’s Disease and Dementia Progress?The speed at which dementia progresses varies a lot from person to person. —Melissa Batchelor, PhD, RN, FNP, FGSA, FAAN How does Alzheimer’s disease and dementia progress? The speed at which dementia progresses varies a lot from person to person based on a lot of factors. Tune in to today’s episode where I’ll talk you through the progression of dementia through the different stages and access two free resources that you can download: One on the 10 Warning Signs of Alzheimer’s disease and a Checklist...2024-02-1314 min
This Is Getting Old: Moving Towards an Age-Friendly World Podcast with Dr. MELISSA BATCHELOREP167: How is Alzheimer’s Disease and Dementia Diagnosed?There is no single test that can determine if you have Alzheimer's disease, dementia, or a blend of both. —Melissa Batchelor, PhD, RN, FNP, FGSA, FAAN Have you ever wondered why it takes so long to get to a diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease or another type of dementia? The good news is that it should take a bit of time – because it is a diagnosis of exclusion – meaning any other issues have to be ruled out. So it’s a little more complicated than a single test can tell us. 2024-02-0618 min
This Is Getting Old: Moving Towards an Age-Friendly World Podcast with Dr. MELISSA BATCHELOREP166: Improving Memory by Avoiding These 7 DrugsBe especially cautious with anticholinergics if you are concerned about your memory, diagnosed with mild cognitive impairment or dementia, or want to reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s. —Melissa Batchelor, PhD, RN, FNP, FGSA, FAAN Anticholinergics are medications that block acetylcholine, a crucial neurotransmitter in the body. This blocking leads to lower brain function and can cause drowsiness. While some people take these drugs for their sedative effects, these drugs can be problematic for someone who has a vulnerable brain – meaning a person already experiencing memory problems. Research links anticholi...2024-01-3007 min
This Is Getting Old: Moving Towards an Age-Friendly World Podcast with Dr. MELISSA BATCHELOREP165: 10 Tips for Preparing for a Primary Care Medical VisitCaring for someone with Alzheimer's disease requires careful planning and consideration, especially when it comes to medical appointments. —Melissa Batchelor, PhD, RN, FNP, FGSA, FAAN Caring for someone with Alzheimer's disease requires careful planning and consideration, especially when it comes to medical appointments. Even helping an aging parent with medical visits can be challenging with so many different health record portals and not all systems or providers talk to one another. In this week’s episode, I’m sharing 10 Tips for Preparing for a Primary Care Medical Visit. 2024-01-2314 min
This Is Getting Old: Moving Towards an Age-Friendly World Podcast with Dr. MELISSA BATCHELOREP 164: Warning Signs of Alzheimer's DiseaseWatch out for warning signs of Alzheimer's when talking to someone you love or even your own self. —Melissa Batchelor, PhD, RN, FNP, FGSA, FAAN Are you or a loved one worried about memory issues? If you answer yes to 1 or more of these warning signs, please make an appointment with your local provider to get your memory checked out. It's a good idea to keep a journal about any symptoms you are seeing with dates and descriptions of events. Many of these memory signs could be due t...2024-01-1613 min
This Is Getting Old: Moving Towards an Age-Friendly World Podcast with Dr. MELISSA BATCHELOREP163: Difference between Alzheimer's Disease and ForgetfulnessWhile forgetfulness is normal, be wary of the warning signs of Alzheimer's and dementia. —Melissa Batchelor, PhD, RN, FNP, FGSA, FAAN Let’s dive into this week’s episode where I’ll be talking about the Difference between Alzheimer’s Disease and Forgetfulness. Forgetfulness happens during those moments when you can't find your phone or you forget what you were going to say. It's totally normal and happens to everyone. Dementia, on the other hand, is a bigger deal. It doesn't go away. It affects how your brain works and makes it hard to remember thi...2024-01-0905 min
This Is Getting Old: Moving Towards an Age-Friendly World Podcast with Dr. MELISSA BATCHELOREP162: Professional Use of Social Media: Interview with Dr. Carole KeimHoning in your message is such a valuable communication skill set. —Melissa Batchelor, PhD, RN, FNP, FGSA, FAAN As a board-certified pediatrician, author, podcaster and social media maven, Dr. Carole Keim has seamlessly transitioned from meeting clients in clinics to connecting with them in non-traditional ways. Dr. Keim has been providing reliable medical advice to new and anxious parents all around the world in formats that are accessible from anywhere, meets new parents where they are, and offers just-in-time learning – particularly during the first few years of childhood. 2024-01-0230 min
This Is Getting Old: Moving Towards an Age-Friendly World Podcast with Dr. MELISSA BATCHELOREP161: Pitching to the Media: The Basics for Healthcare Professionals We need a better way to translate studies and science into something the public can understand. —Melissa Batchelor, PhD, RN, FNP, FGSA, FAAN As a profession, nursing has struggled to effectively engage with the media, resulting in significant underrepresentation in most news stories. The primary experts sought out for healthcare stories are physicians, but nurses often aren’t proactive about engaging with the media either. Around 20 years ago, the Woodhull study examined nurses presence in the news and found that nurses were featured only 4% of the time. Fast forward to today, and our...2023-12-2630 min
This Is Getting Old: Moving Towards an Age-Friendly World Podcast with Dr. MELISSA BATCHELOREP160: Alzheimer’s Care: Why You Need a Care Team and How To Build OneAs a caregiver, seeking help is a strength and not a weakness. —Melissa Batchelor, PhD, RN, FNP, FGSA, FAAN When it comes to being a caregiver to a person living with Alzheimer’s disease, it takes a village. Caregiving can be challenging, but you don’t have to do it alone. Join me for this week’s episode where I’m talking about Join me for this week’s episode where I’m talking about why and how to build a care team. Stay tuned to the end and I’ll share a free...2023-12-1907 min
Living Ageless and BoldMind Matters: How A Better Headspace Can Help Us Navigate AgingCurrently serving as an Associate Professor and the Director of the Center for Aging, Health and Humanities at George Washington University, RN Melissa Batchelor, PhD has dedicated her career to researching age-related issues, such as dementia and Alzheimer's, and how we can provide better care for those battling these diseases as a society and a family.In her return to the podcast, Melissa offers her insights on personal aging, how we can get the most out of our later years, and early signs of Alzheimer's to look for with our loved ones. She also shares fascinating information...2023-12-1336 min
This Is Getting Old: Moving Towards an Age-Friendly World Podcast with Dr. MELISSA BATCHELOREP159: Brain Health: The Power of Psychological Flexibility with Dr. Carrie JohanssonPeople experience the benefits of aging gracefully when they hold onto positive beliefs and manage 'stinking thinking.' —Melissa Batchelor, PhD, RN, FNP, FGSA, FAAN Did you know that anxiety and depression are two major mental health problems affecting older adults today, according to the World Health Organization? What's even more intriguing is how they often go hand in hand, making their impact even more overwhelming. It's only natural for us to wish these feelings away and strive for a happier state of mind all the time. ...2023-12-1226 min
This Is Getting Old: Moving Towards an Age-Friendly World Podcast with Dr. MELISSA BATCHELOR5 Tips for Managing Medications in Alzheimer’s DiseaseManaging medications in Alzheimer's care is a task that requires a delicate blend of organization and empathy. —Melissa Batchelor, PhD, RN, FNP, FGSA, FAAN Staying on top of medications when caring for a person living with Alzheimer’s disease can be very challenging for caregivers - from getting organized, making sure medications are taken each time, to dealing with the person refusing to take their medications at all. In this week’s episode, I share five tips to help caregivers navigate medication management. Stay tuned to the end to get your...2023-12-0510 min
This Is Getting Old: Moving Towards an Age-Friendly World Podcast with Dr. MELISSA BATCHELORHow To Call 911 For Someone Living In Another StateEmergency numbers are the kind of thing you may not fully appreciate until you need them. —Melissa Batchelor, PhD, RN, FNP, FGSA, FAAN Would you know how to contact 911 for a loved one who lives in a different state? Many people assume that if you call 911 in your local area that they would be able to connect you to the municipality that your loved one lives in – but that’s not always the case. Join me for this week’s episode where Rebecca Murphy from Ma...2023-11-2820 min
This Is Getting Old: Moving Towards an Age-Friendly World Podcast with Dr. MELISSA BATCHELORWhat to Know During Peri-Menopause with Dr. Amanda TracyImprove your perimenopausal symptoms while protecting your brain as well. —Melissa Batchelor, PhD, RN, FNP, FGSA, FAAN Are you in your early 40’s or 50’s and wondering if you are going through perimenopause? If so, check out this episode with Dr. Amanda Tracy as she shares what you need to know during perimenopause and some practical strategies for managing this rite of passage! ▶️ What to Know During Perimenopause with Dr. Amanda Tracy ✔️How it all started Dr. Amanda's pers...2023-11-2129 min
This Is Getting Old: Moving Towards an Age-Friendly World Podcast with Dr. MELISSA BATCHELOREP155: Brain Health Tips: BRIGHT MINDS with Barbara Gustavson | Preventing Alzheimer’s DiseaseWhen you have positive beliefs about aging, there's a protective effect above and beyond what your genetics say. —Melissa Batchelor, PhD, RN, FNP, FGSA, FAAN While our brains undergo changes as we age, it's important to note that these do not necessarily mean we are normally bound to have Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia. So, let's come together for this week's episode and learn from Barbara Gustavson, a passionate advocate for mental and brain health as we talk about risk factors and practical strategies to keep your brain wor...2023-11-1443 min
This Is Getting Old: Moving Towards an Age-Friendly World Podcast with Dr. MELISSA BATCHELOREP154: This Chair Rocks: A Manifesto Against AgeismNegative beliefs about aging decrease your lifespan by an average of seven and a half years. —Melissa Batchelor, PhD, RN, FNP, FGSA, FAAN From childhood on, we are barraged with messages that to grow older is a sad thing – that it means decline, decay, and illness. Society is also full of ageist myths and beliefs that impact our health and well-being. Join me for today's episode, where I talk to Ashton Applewhite about how these stereotypes impact our brains and bodies. We hope you'll join our crusade to change the way you see...2023-11-0730 min
This Is Getting Old: Moving Towards an Age-Friendly World Podcast with Dr. MELISSA BATCHELOREP153: 4 Warning Signs of Breast Cancer and How to Do a Self-Breast ExamNo matter where you live or who you are, breast cancer could affect your life. —Melissa Batchelor, PhD, RN, FNP, FGSA, FAAN For nearly 4 decades now, October has been recognized as Breast Cancer Awareness Month. No matter where you live or who you are, breast cancer could affect your life. Understanding what’s normal for you and recognizing the warning signs of breast cancer are the best things you can know about and look for each month by doing your monthly self-breast exams. ▶️ 4...2023-10-3106 min
This Is Getting Old: Moving Towards an Age-Friendly World Podcast with Dr. MELISSA BATCHELOREP152: Food, Eating, and Alzheimer’s Disease with Haylie PomroyBeing a lifelong learner in pursuit of true health and wellness is part of being age-friendly. —Melissa Batchelor, PhD, RN, FNP, FGSA, FAAN When it comes to managing chronic illness and even preventing it – the key lies in the power of nutrition. The impact of WHAT WE EAT and WHEN WE EAT determines the level of inflammation our bodies are dealing with everyday. Inflammation in the body means inflammation in the brain. Today, we have the pleasure of sitting down with Haylie Pomroy, the Owner, Founder...2023-10-2444 min
Fast Metabolism Matters with Haylie PomroyEpisode 79: How Nutrition Impacts The Aging Process with Dr. Melissa BatchelorJoin Haylie Pomroy and Dr. Melissa Batchelor, a seasoned expert on aging in The George Washington University School of Nursing, as they sit down for a profound and enlightening discussion about the complex world of aging, exploring the effects and mechanisms of nutritional habits that impact our bodies as we get older. They also tackle practical advice for caregivers and medical practitioners in handling the eating habits and incorporating nutrient-dense foods into the diets of people in advanced years and with conditions such as Alzheimer’s disease. Learn from them as we navigate the natur...2023-10-2437 minFast Metabolism Matters with Haylie PomroyEpisode 79: How Nutrition Impacts The Aging Process with Dr. Melissa BatchelorJoin Haylie Pomroy and Dr. Melissa Batchelor, a seasoned expert on aging in The George Washington University School of Nursing, as they sit down for a profound and enlightening discussion about the complex world of aging, exploring the effects and mechanisms of nutritional habits that impact our bodies as we get older. They also tackle practical advice for caregivers and medical practitioners in handling the eating habits and incorporating nutrient-dense foods into the diets of people in advanced years and with conditions such as Alzheimer’s disease. Learn from them as we navigate the natur...2023-10-2437 min
This Is Getting Old: Moving Towards an Age-Friendly World Podcast with Dr. MELISSA BATCHELOREP151: Nurse Practitioner School: What Do Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioners Do?There is a huge national need for psychiatric service providers to help all ages, from children to older adults. —Melissa Batchelor, PhD, RN, FNP, FGSA, FAAN As a family nurse practitioner, my passion has always been in the field of geropsychology - a specialty that utilizes psychological knowledge and methods to understand and assist older individuals and their families in maintaining well-being, conquering challenges, and reaching their highest potential during later stages of life. This specialty is integral to our clinical practice, both in nursing homes and assisted living facilities. No...2023-10-1730 min
This Is Getting Old: Moving Towards an Age-Friendly World Podcast with Dr. MELISSA BATCHELOREP150: Review of the OasisSpace Upright Walker: 5 Things to KnowThere is limited study on any type of walker in clinical trials. Do your own research and make sure you or your loved ones can use it safely. —Melissa Batchelor, PhD, RN, FNP, FGSA, FAAN Are you thinking about getting a walker and not sure what you need to know before buying one? In looking into walkers in general, I discovered that a limited amount of research has been done on any type of walker in clinical trials. This is where you need to listen because the experts still say we need...2023-10-1017 min
This Is Getting Old: Moving Towards an Age-Friendly World Podcast with Dr. MELISSA BATCHELOREP148: Managing Distressful Behaviors in DementiaThank you for listening to this episode on Decoding Distressful Behaviors! Please enjoy this free download and feel free to check out the rest of my website while you are here! https://melissabphd.com/decoding-distressful-behaviors/ As caregivers, notice underlying causes that trigger behavioral changes in persons with Alzheimer’s. —Melissa Batchelor, PhD, RN, FNP, FGSA, FAAN It is important to understand that Alzheimer’s disease and other dementia impact a person’s ability to communicate with us using words and language; so their behavior becomes increasingly more important to pay attention to. Most be...2023-09-2007 min
This Is Getting Old: Moving Towards an Age-Friendly World Podcast with Dr. MELISSA BATCHELOREP147: Alzheimer’s Disease - 10 Warning Signs of Caregiver Stress“Caring for a person living with Alzheimer’s disease can be very rewarding AND very stressful.” —Melissa Batchelor, PhD, RN, FNP, FGSA, FAAN 11 million Americans are caring for a family member or friend living with Alzheimer’s disease and nearly 60% report feeling more emotional or physical stress from being a caregiver. This stress can take its toll and increase your risk for health problems from a weaker immune system, high blood pressure or heart disease, poor sleep, and impact your own memory and thinking. Caring for a person living with Alzheimer’s disease can b...2023-09-1507 min
This Is Getting Old: Moving Towards an Age-Friendly World Podcast with Dr. MELISSA BATCHELOREP146: Change Never Gets Old! (New Website Launch for MelissaBPhD.com) “I’m excited to announce NEW changes to my website and NEW ways we can work together.” —Melissa Batchelor, PhD, RN, FNP, FGSA, FAAN Change never gets old…but websites do! Check out my new website at MelissaBPhD.com to learn more about the new services I am offering, how to advertise or sponsor an episode, and more! Since starting this podcast three years ago, 𝘛𝘩𝘪𝘴 𝘐𝘴 𝘎𝘦𝘵𝘵𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘖𝘭𝘥: 𝘔𝘰𝘷𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘛𝘰𝘸𝘢𝘳𝘥𝘴 𝘈𝘯 𝘈𝘨𝘦-𝘍𝘳𝘪𝘦𝘯𝘥𝘭𝘺 𝘞𝘰𝘳𝘭𝘥 reached a top 10% global ranking within the first 18 months – but we have more to do to increase the reach of the podcast! The YouTube channel, which began with just five subscribers, rose to 26,000 subscribers, and this achievement has come about in just...2023-09-0508 min
This Is Getting Old: Moving Towards an Age-Friendly World Podcast with Dr. MELISSA BATCHELOREP145: Creating a Dementia-Proof Home "Making the home age- and dementia-friendly can make a difference and positively impact a person's independence and overall well-being." —Melissa Batchelor, PhD, RN, FNP, FGSA, FA Did you know that making simple changes to a home can help people with dementia stay calm and thrive? Just as we childproof our homes, creating a dementia-friendly environment can make a real difference. Welcome back to "This is Getting Old: Moving Towards an Age-Friendly World." I'm Dr Melissa Batchelor, a nurse/nurse practitioner. If you enjoy the podc...2023-08-3015 min
This Is Getting Old: Moving Towards an Age-Friendly World Podcast with Dr. MELISSA BATCHELOREP144: 4 Tips For Good Care At Home After An Alzheimer's Disease Diagnosis"Dementia is a medical condition; it's not an identity." —Melissa Batchelor, PhD, RN, FNP, FGSA, FA Healthcare professionals have a responsibility to provide honest and clear information about the diagnosis of dementia particularly. About the person's current state and provide anticipatory guidance about what areas of loss and decline can be expected. But a diagnosis like this impacts everyone in the family. So how to you handle the next few weeks and months as you all make this transition will be important for getting off to a good start. This week, I...2023-08-2508 min
Living Ageless and BoldDementia Prevention: What You Can Do to Keep Your Brain Healthy with Melissa BatchelorWe've learned about forming healthy habits for physical wellness, now let’s talk about how to keep your brain sharp as you age. A lot of people think genetics are the main contributing factor in cognitive decline, but lifestyle is far more important. Dementia and Alzheimers expert Melissa Batchelor tells us about how diet, movement, water, and sleep can affect brain function.Melissa Batchelor is the director of George Washington University’s Center for Aging, Health and Humanities. As a board-certified nurse with a PhD in geriatrics, she’s passionate about preventing Alzheimer’s disease and other...2023-08-2335 min
This Is Getting Old: Moving Towards an Age-Friendly World Podcast with Dr. MELISSA BATCHELOREP143: Mobility Scooters “Motor scooters really can't make a major difference in the life of an older adult who might not otherwise be able to leave their home without one. This impacts their independence and as I found out, it actually impacts their care partners as well.” —Melissa Batchelor, PhD, RN, FNP, FGSA, FAAN Imagine not being able to leave your home and go out with your family and friends due to debilitating back pain. Walking just 15 feet becomes a challenge, and you rely on a cane or rolling walker for shorter distances. How do you cope with basic activities like shopping or going...2023-07-2111 min
This Is Getting Old: Moving Towards an Age-Friendly World Podcast with Dr. MELISSA BATCHELOREP142: Six Exercises To Reduce the Risk Of Falling “Falling is the number one leading cause of fractures in the United States, and they're the second leading cause of unintentional injury and death globally.” — Melissa Batchelor, PhD, RN, FNP, FGSA, FAAN In 2022, in the United States, of the top 5 leading causes of death, 3 are chronic conditions – 1. heart disease, 2. cancer, and 5. respiratory disease – coming in at #3 is COVID-19, but #4 may surprise you. It’s accidents and unintentional injuries (and just in case you’re wondering, Alzheimer’s disease is in the #6 spot right now) As people age, the risk of falls and fall-related injuries increase. In fact, 1 in 4 Americans over the age of 65 fa...2023-07-0408 min
This Is Getting Old: Moving Towards an Age-Friendly World Podcast with Dr. MELISSA BATCHELOREP131: Part II: Ketones, Diet, & Beyond: Lifestyle, Healthy Brain Aging, & Alzheimer’s with Mary T. Newport, M.D.Taking proactive steps towards leading this kind of life could help reduce one’s risk for developing dementia in their later years. Join us for an enlightening episode of This Is Getting Old: Moving Towards An Age-Friendly World, where renowned medical expert Dr. Mary T. Newport will share her wisdom on how you can keep your brain young and active! With tips ranging from diet changes to lifestyle adjustments, she'll explain all the ways that Ketones, Diet & Lifestyle can help prevent Alzheimer’s Disease. Don't miss this chance to join in our quest towar...2023-03-2816 min
This Is Getting Old: Moving Towards an Age-Friendly World Podcast with Dr. MELISSA BATCHELOREP128: Nurse Innovation: Robotics with Pamela Cacchione, PhD, RN, FAANAs the World Health Organization (WHO) reveals, people aged 60 and over will make a massive impact in just 35 years - from only 12% to 22%. With so many countries having to face up to this colossal shift in their health services' longevity planning, they are turning tech-savvy. From AI robots that can interact more like humans than ever before, populations globally may find themselves facing far fewer issues associated with aging as healthcare gets smarter too! Prepare to get all the tech-know about Nurse Innovation, Robotics style! We've got Pamela Cacchione, PhD., RN., FAAN, with us on T...2023-02-0737 min
This Is Getting Old: Moving Towards an Age-Friendly World Podcast with Dr. MELISSA BATCHELOREP127: Nurse Innovation: Heart Failure Socks with Pamela Cacchione, PhD, RN, FAANHeart failure affects 86 million Americans and by the time many people living with heart failure realize they're in trouble, it's often too late— their symptoms are at a dangerous severe level for hospitalization. But thankfully, nurses are working with engineers to develop the technology to change this narrative; providing tools that enable those affected or their loved ones to recognize red flags before things become critical. Get ready to put your best foot forward! Today on This Is Getting Old: Moving Towards an Age-Friendly World, we're taking our knowledge up a notch with Pamela Cacchione, PhD...2023-02-0218 min
This Is Getting Old: Moving Towards an Age-Friendly World Podcast with Dr. MELISSA BATCHELOREP126: Nurse Innovation: NICHE with Mattia Gilmartin PhD, RNAmerica is getting older, and as people age, their bodies change. They're likely to have multiple chronic illnesses, and when they come into hospital care—that can be a vulnerable time. Considering that almost 60% of hospital beds are occupied by adults aged 65 and over, receiving specialized geriatric care in the healthcare system is critical. Learn with us today on This Is Getting Old as we explore how to make the world more age-friendly. Mattia Gilmartin, PhD, RN, is joining us. She will share her insights into NICHE—an incredible program that equips nurses and caregivers with...2023-01-2523 min
This Is Getting Old: Moving Towards an Age-Friendly World Podcast with Dr. MELISSA BATCHELOREP124: Financial Caregiving Series: Talking to Adult Children—What They Need to Know with Cameron HuddlestonAs we age, we may need help managing our finances for a myriad of reasons – including cognitive decline. How to start that conversation with an adult child may be challenging for both parties, but it’s a critical conversation to have to prevent costly errors or even losses along the way. Ready to tackle the difficult conversations about money with your adult children? This episode of This Is Getting Old: Moving Towards An Age-Friendly World will help smooth out any wrinkles in those talks, thanks to Cameron Huddleston's sage advice. Get ready for an enlightening chat - and...2023-01-1019 min
This Is Getting Old: Moving Towards an Age-Friendly World Podcast with Dr. MELISSA BATCHELOREP120: Aging Parents During Holiday Visits: 4 Things to CheckFor adult children who do not live close to their aging parents, the holidays can be a good time to visit to make sure things are good as they seem. In addition to staying connected throughout the year by phone or Zoom calls, a personal visit may give you more information that things are ok – or confirm any suspicions you may have had that there is truly a problem. Many of these suspicions may be around whether or not your parent – or parents – are becoming more forgetful or if they are becoming more frail and unable to keep up...2022-11-2205 min
Amplify NursingAmplify Nursing: Twitter Spaces Event: Promoting Civic Engagement in NursingOn this special live Twitter Spaces event, Amplify Nursing podcast hosts Marion Leary and Dr. Angela DiDonato as they talk with Dr. Hernandez and Dr. Batchelor about the critical need for nurses to be more civically engaged. There has never been a more critical time for nurses to be civically engaged because when nurses are engaged, we have safer, healthier, and more equitable communities.Follow us on Twitter at PennNursing and by using the hashtag: #PennNursingInnovationAlison Hernandez PhD, RN is a former 2019-2020 Health and Aging Policy Fellow turned hill staffer. You can listen to Dr. Hern...2022-09-0153 min
This Is Getting Old: Moving Towards an Age-Friendly World Podcast with Dr. MELISSA BATCHELOREP108: Emotions, Memory, and Alzheimer's DiseaseYou may recall that Maya Angelou said something along the lines of “people will forget what you say, they will forget what you did, but they will never forget how you made them feel”. Well, there’s a reason for that and that’s what I’m going to talk about today. We can all use the concept of emotional memories to make new memories or to recall old ones. We can create moments that last a lifetime around positive feelings and boost our overall mental health – and if you are a caregiver for a person living with Alzheim...2022-06-1405 min
This Is Getting Old: Moving Towards an Age-Friendly World Podcast with Dr. MELISSA BATCHELOREP96: The Legislative Process with Alison Hernandez, PhD, RNThe legislative process is how a bill is enacted into federal law. Aside from knowing the political structure and complying with various regional and local regulations, advocates whose overarching goal is a new or revised policy should be well versed in how a bill can become law and the specific procedural rules that apply to the process. Significant issues may arise if advocates fail to implement a specific procedural norm, causing the lobbying effort to delay or be terminated. Learn the basics of the U.S. legislative process from someone who knows every nook and...2022-02-0123 min
This Is Getting Old: Moving Towards an Age-Friendly World Podcast with Dr. MELISSA BATCHELORHow to Communicate with Policymakers with Alison Hernandez, PhD, RNIt's easy to overlook that many of the policies we see and hear in the news aren't entirely decided by the policymakers we see every day. The actual power that initiates innovative ideas into action rests behind the spotlight, with purpose-driven civil servants and professionals. Despite the many political, logistical, and psychological obstacles these decision-makers encounter, foundations, charities, social sector organizations, and professionals—including nurses— can influence their thinking and impact policy. Thus, nurses, healthcare professionals and advocates must understand how to communicate with policymakers to contribute successfully to policymaking processes. Hear f...2022-01-3137 min
That's Healthful33. Melissa B. Ph.D. Part 2: Types of Dementia & Tips to Minimize the EffectsPart 2 – On this episode of That’s Healthful, my guest is Dr. Melissa Batchelor with George Washington University. Dr. Batchelor is a tenured associate professor the Director for the Center for Aging, Health & Humanities at George Washington University. Dr. Batchelor is the host of a podcast, “This is Getting Old – Moving Towards an Age-Friendly World”. This episode is part two of two and we discuss dementia and the different types of dementia including the most common – Alzheimer’s Disease. Dr. Batchelor shares the assessment skills and tools needed to come to a diagnosis, and that some are not diagnosed unti...2022-01-1422 minThat's Healthful32. Melissa B. PhD from GWU and podcast "This is Getting Old: Moving Towards an Age Friendly World"On this episode of That’s Healthful, my guest is Dr. Melissa Batchelor with George Washington University. Dr. Batchelor is a tenured associate professor the Director for the Center for Aging, Health & Humanities at George Washington University. Dr. Batchelor is the host of a podcast, “This is Getting Old – Moving Towards an Age-Friendly World”. This episode is part one and we discuss what the Center for Aging, Health & Humanities does, how the podcast “This Is Getting Old – Moving Towards an Age-Friendly World” focus on what’s age-friendly is friendly for everyone, and how social media play an important role in our live...2022-01-0725 min
This Is Getting Old: Moving Towards an Age-Friendly World Podcast with Dr. MELISSA BATCHELORHow to Age Well: The Power Positive AgingHow do you feel about becoming older? Do you see it as a rite of passage or a dreaded occurrence that you must endure? As we become older, "health" means more than simply being free of illnesses. Every older person may achieve "positive aging," also known as "healthy aging," if they strive to make better alternatives to improve their life in the long run. Dr. David Lereah, PhD, is one of the few who fully grasps this concept. Thus, don’t miss another life-changing episode of This Is Getting Old: Moving Towards An Age-Friendly World wi...2021-10-1226 min
This Is Getting Old: Moving Towards an Age-Friendly World Podcast with Dr. MELISSA BATCHELORNew Drug for Alzheimer's DiseaseNew Drug for Alzheimer's Disease "Don't let yourself be sucked in by all of the publicity and marketing about the new drug for Alzheimer's. Think about whether it's got any benefit, the side effects— which can be very severe, and think about where that money otherwise would go." Howard Gleckman, Senior Fellow, Consultant, and Editor, TaxVox Blog ________________________________________________ Aducanumab (brand name AduhelmTM) received expedited approval from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) on June 7, 2021, making it the first Alzheimer's disease drug approved after 18 years. Since then, the FDA has...2021-09-0135 min
This Is Getting Old: Moving Towards an Age-Friendly World Podcast with Dr. MELISSA BATCHELORAging: Words Matter - Part 1 with Patricia D'Antonio, BSPharm, MS, MBA, BCGPWords are powerful. They influence how we think, behave and approach things. They can produce labels, misunderstandings, misrepresentations and change our perceptions in profound and meaningful ways. In this episode of This Is Getting Old: Moving Towards an Age-Friendly World showcases GSA's work on Reframing Aging. Tune in as our guest —Patricia D'Antonio, BSPharm, MS, MBA, BCGP—offers us ways to reframe our language when talking about and thinking about aging. Part One of 'Aging: Words Matter Part 1.' What Is The Reframing Aging Initiative? Reframing Aging is a social change endeavor designed to improve the p...2021-08-1723 min
This Is Getting Old: Moving Towards an Age-Friendly World Podcast with Dr. MELISSA BATCHELOR5 Tips for Becoming an Age-Friendly Business: RestaurantsAre businesses in your city going the age-friendly path? If they are not, they make up the many companies worldwide that are missing out on this crucial initiative that supports and benefits senior consumers. In this episode, I provide essential yet often forgotten things that businesses should include in their spaces to accommodate the needs and ensure the continued patronage of older adults. It makes common sense that the more comfortable an establishment is for older people, it will also be comfortable for others. An age-friendly business means it's friendly for EVERYONE. -Melissa Batchelor...2021-08-0303 min
This Is Getting Old: Moving Towards an Age-Friendly World Podcast with Dr. MELISSA BATCHELORAgeism In The Workplace with Randi ZuckerbergAge is just a number. But in the workplace, your age can have a negative impact - maybe you were passed over for that promotion because your boss thinks you’re “too young”. Or maybe you feel that you weren’t hired for a position because the organization implied you were “too old”. Either way - this is ageism and we need to be more aware of it so we can address it. In data released by the Bureau of Labor Statistics, it is predicted that by the year 2024, workers aging 55 and older will represent 25 percent of the United States workf...2021-07-2709 min
This Is Getting Old: Moving Towards an Age-Friendly World Podcast with Dr. MELISSA BATCHELORAlzheimer's Disease and MarriageThat moment comes in the life of married couples when the other half may begin to experience memory issues. Typically, this will change the dynamics of the marriage itself because the person who's experiencing Alzheimer's or dementia will not function in the way they used to. In this episode of This is Getting Old podcast, listen if you are struggling to handle a spouse or a senior loved one repeating themselves a lot, or maybe they're stuck on a specific story that they're telling. Key points covered in this episode: ✔️...2021-07-2003 min
This Is Getting Old: Moving Towards an Age-Friendly World Podcast with Dr. MELISSA BATCHELORTransportation Options for Older Adults: NV RidesTransportation Options for Older Adults: NV Rides with Jennifer Kanarek "One of the best ways to get people interested in caring for older adults is to have a positive experience—NV Rides volunteer driving program does just that." -Melissa Batchelor, PhD, RN, FNP-BC, FGSA, FAAN ______________________________________________ When you're young and you got your driver's license, driving yourself from place to place was an entirely new level of independence. Losing the ability to drive as we grow older can happen for a lot of different reasons (and is not a normal part of aging), but us...2021-07-1325 min
This Is Getting Old: Moving Towards an Age-Friendly World Podcast with Dr. MELISSA BATCHELORNursing Homes During COVID with Kenya Beard, EdD, AGACNP-BC, CNE, ANEF, FAANNursing Homes During COVID "There are published checklists for how to determine the quality of care a facility can deliver. But most of that's gone out the window because COVID has changed everything." -Melissa Batchelor, PhD, RN, FNP-BC, FGSA, FAAN ____________________________________________________________________ As of February 2021, 35% of COVID-19 deaths in the United States have occurred among the nursing home population - and these deaths include residents and staff. For over a year now, family caregivers, volunteers, and/ or paid companions have not been allowed to enter nursing homes. The pandemic highlighted many pr...2021-05-1822 min
This Is Getting Old: Moving Towards an Age-Friendly World Podcast with Dr. MELISSA BATCHELORAge-Friendly Ecosystems with Terry Fulmer, PhD, RN, FAANAge-Friendly Ecosystems "It's a blessing to be an older adult." -Melissa Batchelor, PhD, RN, FNP-BC, FGSA, FAAN For decades, advocates have called for communities, neighborhoods, and organizations like hospitals to become more "age-friendly." Although the idea of an age-friendly society has been promoted both locally and internationally, adoption remains more aspirational than an organized practice. In this week's episode of This Is Getting Old, Dr. Terry Fulmer and Amy Berman walk us through an overview of what it means to have created an Age-Friendly Ecosystem. Part One of 'The Age-friendly Ecosystems'....2021-04-2717 min
This Is Getting Old: Moving Towards an Age-Friendly World Podcast with Dr. MELISSA BATCHELORAge-Friendly UniversitiesAge-Friendly Universities Colleges and universities are preparing future leaders, who will interact with older adults; yet we don't give them the essential skill set for interacting with that population and how to tailor to their needs -Melissa Batchelor, PhD, RN, FNP-BC, FGSA, FAAN ______________________________________________ Higher education in the United States has historically centered on delivering programs for younger people. By 2025, students aged 25 years old and above will make up 42% of the United States' college and university student populations. Evidence has established that universities can not only significantly impact older adults' later-life advancement, bu...2021-04-1338 min
This Is Getting Old: Moving Towards an Age-Friendly World Podcast with Dr. MELISSA BATCHELORRethinking Nursing Homes and Care of Older AdultsRethinking Nursing Homes and Care of Older Adults "Communities should create solutions that aren't just involving geriatricians of the world or the geriatric nurses and social workers. It's going to take everybody pulling together." -Melissa Batchelor, PhD, RN, FNP-BC, FGSA, FAAN ____________________________________________________________________ "Grow old along with me. The best is yet to be. The last of life for which the first was made." In 1864, as Robert Browning wrote those words, growing old was not regarded the same as it is today. Before nursing homes and assisted living facilities, older adults aged at h...2021-04-0644 min
This Is Getting Old: Moving Towards an Age-Friendly World Podcast with Dr. MELISSA BATCHELORIntegrative Medicine and Healthy AgingIntegrative Medicine and Healthy Aging "People can stay healthy when their head, heart, and spirit are aligned."-Melissa Batchelor, PhD, RN, FNP-BC, FGSA, FAAN Polypharmacy is a significant concern in geriatric treatment, presenting a chance of adverse effects and medication reactions. Although older adults under the age of 60 take 2–3 prescription medicines every day, those above 80 consume over 4–5 prescriptions per day. With that, many older adults in the United States are shifting to integrative medicine to boost their Quality of Life (QOL) significantly. The shift is a result of health issues and as a supp...2021-03-2335 min
GSA Momentum DiscussionsUnderstanding COPD in Older AdultsDr. Melissa Batchelor speaks with Dr. Barbara Yawn about her journey to becoming Chief Clinical Officer of the COPD Foundation. Dr. Yawn shares the misconceptions about COPD in older adults and challenges that lead to underdiagnosis. She discusses treatment options – both pharmacologic and nonpharmacologic – and the importance of an interdisciplinary team in treating COPD.
Guest: Barbara Yawn, MD
Chief Clinical Officer, COPD Foundation
Host: Melissa Batchelor, PhD, RN-BC, FNP-BC, FGSA, FAAN
Director of the Center for Aging and Health and Humanities and Associate Professor at George Washington University School of Nursing
For...2021-03-1630 min
This Is Getting Old: Moving Towards an Age-Friendly World Podcast with Dr. MELISSA BATCHELORHow to Manage Anger and Aggression in Alzheimer's Disease?How to Manage Anger and Aggression in Alzheimer's Disease? “When older adults are acting badly, that is a sign of an unmet need.”-Melissa Batchelor, PhD, RN, FNP-BC, FGSA, FAAN Older adults with Alzheimer's disease can get angry or be aggressive. These types of behaviors, when associated with Alzheimer's disease, can be a challenge for care providers and family members alike. These behaviors should not be overlooked and should be taken into consideration of the context in which the behaviors occur to try to find a solution. Join me for this episode of This Is...2021-03-0909 min
This Is Getting Old: Moving Towards an Age-Friendly World Podcast with Dr. MELISSA BATCHELORThe 5Cs Framework of the Age-Friendly Public Health SystemsThe 5Cs Framework of the Age-Friendly Public Health Systems "TFAH wanted to provide an opportunity to explore and expand public health's role in aging. Our goal is that state and local public health departments across the country become age-friendly public health systems. This means they recognize aging as a core public health issue and then leverage all their skills and capacity to dive in and improve older adults' health and well-being." -Megan Wolfe, JD (03:08-03:35) Americans are living longer and more productive lives than ever before and we’re going to see a rise in both the number and proportion of...2021-03-0212 min
This Is Getting Old: Moving Towards an Age-Friendly World Podcast with Dr. MELISSA BATCHELORHelping a Person With Alzheimer's Disease to EatHelping a Person With Alzheimer's Disease to Eat "Handfeeding is recommended over tube feeding in Alzheimer's disease. The handfeeding techniques offer an additional sensorimotor cue." -Melissa Batchelor, PhD, RN, FNP-BC, FGSA, FAAN In the late stages of Alzheimer's disease, it's not unusual for older adults to have trouble eating. Before the end of life, 85% of people living with Alzheimer’s disease will have trouble eating. There are many reasons for this, but many stem from the sensory changes that happen with the disease such as changes with smell, taste, vision, and hearing. Other contri...2021-02-2309 min
This Is Getting Old: Moving Towards an Age-Friendly World Podcast with Dr. MELISSA BATCHELORThe 4M's Framework: MENTATION with Tahira I. Lodhi MDThe 4M's Framework: MENTATION with Tahira I. Lodhi MD "Mentation is about preventing, identifying, treating, and appropriately managing the 3Ds in geriatrics: dementia, delirium, and depression."-Melissa Batchelor, PhD, RN, FNP-BC, FGSA, FAAN “She’s just not right today”. When referring to an older adult, this simple phrase should be a signal to family and formal caregivers alike to begin to find out why. If a child “wasn’t right” one day, no one would ignore it - and we cannot ignore it in an older adult. An altered mental state is a broad te...2021-02-1625 min
This Is Getting Old: Moving Towards an Age-Friendly World Podcast with Dr. MELISSA BATCHELORThe 4M's Framework: MOBILITY with Tahira I. Lodhi MDThe 4M's Framework: MOBILITY with Tahira I. Lodhi MD "MOBILITY is a critical aspect of the 4M's framework because you have to safely move every day to maintain your function - in order to do WHAT MATTERS."-Melissa Batchelor, PhD, RN, FNP-BC, FGSA, FAAN Strength and mobility are vital facets of life, but they are often taken for granted. When you experience a mobility restriction, that’s when people become more mindful of its value. For older adults, mobility issues are strongly linked to falls, social isolation, feelings of loneliness, stress, chronic disease, we...2021-02-0918 min
This Is Getting Old: Moving Towards an Age-Friendly World Podcast with Dr. MELISSA BATCHELORThe 4M's Framework: WHAT MATTERS with Tahira I. Lodhi MDThe 4M's Framework: WHAT MATTERS with Tahira I. Lodhi MD "WHAT MATTERS means knowing what's important to an older adult, so that we can align care to specific health outcomes and the care preferences that are including but not limited to end of life care and across all care settings." -Melissa Batchelor, PhD, RN, FNP-BC, FGSA, FAAN Everyone involved in healthcare has their hands full most of the time—especially with COVID-19. Health care providers in an Age-Friendly Health System should ask older adults WHAT MATTERS to them - regardless of the care setting. Today...2021-02-0217 min
This Is Getting Old: Moving Towards an Age-Friendly World Podcast with Dr. MELISSA BATCHELORThe 4M's Framework: MEDICATIONThe 4M's Framework: MEDICATION with Ayo Bankole PhD, RN and Tahira I. Lodhi MD "Do the Brown Bag with your pharmacist too; because there are drug-drug interactions, drug-food interactions, and drug-supplement interactions to be aware of. Make sure that you're very clear about everything you are taking" — Melissa Batchelor, PhD, RN, FNP-BC, FGSA, FAAN _________________________________________________________________________________________________ We all hear about the increasing rates of health care services and how costly prescription medications can be, especially for older adults. But these costs can grow higher...2021-01-2624 min
This Is Getting Old: Moving Towards an Age-Friendly World Podcast with Dr. MELISSA BATCHELORGetting Organized: Managing Your To-Do ListGetting Organized: Managing Your To-Do List "Make one year, three year, and five-year goals." — Melissa Batchelor, Ph.D, RN, FNP, FAAN The New Year is almost upon us; this means it’s time to start out new and fresh and make some New Year's resolutions. One resolution that many people make is to get organized - to minimize the chaos in their work lives. In this episode, I’ll walk you through how I think about time and how you could apply it to managing your master, weekly, and daily to-do lists (all while making it fun)! 2020-12-2907 min
This Is Getting Old: Moving Towards an Age-Friendly World Podcast with Dr. MELISSA BATCHELORHow to Manage Repetitive Behaviors in Alzheimer's DiseaseHow to Manage Repetitive Behaviors in Alzheimer's Disease “Look for a reason behind the repetition.”— Melissa Batchelor, PhD, RN, FNP, FAAN Are you wondering why a person with dementia develops repetitive behaviors like asking you the same question, telling you the same story, or doing the same thing over and over again? Knowledge is power. In this episode, I’ll walk you through brain development, what’s lost and retained in Alzhiemer’s disease, and help you problem-solve how to manage repetitive behaviors in a person with dementia using the C3P Problem-Solving Framework to explain....2020-12-2213 min
This Is Getting Old: Moving Towards an Age-Friendly World Podcast with Dr. MELISSA BATCHELORRole of Place in Healthy Aging With Ryan FrederickRole of Place in Healthy Aging with Ryan Frederick “This pandemic has been a great reminder that place matters a lot.”— Ryan Frederick, CEO of SmartLiving 360 Have you ever wondered why the long-term care housing industry segregated itself when there's so much benefit to having intergenerational housing? Have you ever thought about our older loved ones living in a better community to make their aging experience more comfortable? Here are the important points covered in this episode: Ryan's focus on the intersection of place, including housing, and healthy aging. How SmartLiving 360, a strategy...2020-12-0821 min
This Is Getting Old: Moving Towards an Age-Friendly World Podcast with Dr. MELISSA BATCHELORTen Tips for Preventing Alzheimer's DiseaseTen Tips for Preventing Alzheimer's Disease “Your biggest risk factors are your lifestyle choices.” — Melissa Batchelor, PhD, RN, FNP, FAAN Alzheimer's disease is the sixth leading cause of death for people over the age of sixty-five. We can't slow it down once you are diagnosed, and we haven't cured it. Therefore, there have been no survivors of anyone ever diagnosed with Alzheimer's until we have a major medical breakthrough. In this week's episode, you'll learn about the top ten tips for preventing Alzheimer's Disease Part One of ‘Ten Tips for Preventing Alzheimer's Disease’ While...2020-11-2413 min
This Is Getting Old: Moving Towards an Age-Friendly World Podcast with Dr. MELISSA BATCHELORPolicy Lessons from COVID with Lieke van Heumen, PhD & Samantha Koehler, MSW, MPHPolicy Lessons from COVID “Nursing home residents need access to technology to speak to their loved ones.”— Lieke van Heumen, PhD 2019-2020 Health and Aging Policy Fellow Responding to COVID-10 required the Aging Services Network to become even more creative in responding to the constraints the pandemic put on service delivery. They now feel much more prepared to deal with the challenges that a pandemic brings. Even if there are new lockdowns, they can use the experiences 2020 required to continue to serve seniors. In this week’s episode, we are joined by Lieke van Heume...2020-11-1038 min
This Is Getting Old: Moving Towards an Age-Friendly World Podcast with Dr. MELISSA BATCHELORSenate Special Committee on Aging: An Interview with Senator Bob CaseyUnited States Senate Special Committee on Aging: An Interview with Senator Bob Casey One of the most substantial contributions that I've made to policy development amid the COVID-19 crisis is two bills focused on seniors and people with disabilities." — Senator Bob Casey (D-PA) Minority Leader, U.S. Senate Special Committee on Aging Policy is the key to making positive changes in our communities. We need policies that secure the health and economic well-being of older adults and people with disabilities. In this week’s episode, we are joined by Senator Bob Casey (D-PA), Rankin...2020-11-0313 min
This Is Getting Old: Moving Towards an Age-Friendly World Podcast with Dr. MELISSA BATCHELORVoting with Alzheimer's DiseaseVoting with Alzheimer's Disease “Just because you have a cognitive impairment doesn't automatically disqualify your right to vote.”— Melissa Batchelor, PhD, RN, FNP, FAAN (01:44-01:49) Should a person with Alzheimer’s disease be allowed to vote? The majority of people living with Alzheimer's disease live at home with family or have friends who help provide care. These family and friends may need to help the person living with dementia to vote, so in this week’s episode, we will review some things to think about when helping someone to vote. Part One of ‘Voti...2020-10-2009 min
This Is Getting Old: Moving Towards an Age-Friendly World Podcast with Dr. MELISSA BATCHELORNursing Homes and Families During COVIDNursing Homes and Families During COVID “If the nursing home would allow one advocate, one compassionate care person, and let them visit their family members, that would be very helpful to them.”— Nettie Batchelor Skilled nursing homes are currently facing unique challenges with coronavirus. Previously, we talked about the role of social workers in nursing homes and mental health. In this week's episode, we're going to have a heart-to-heart conversation with my Mom, Nettie Batchelor. We're going to share her story about the impact of the visitation restrictions she’s faced with my grandmother, Grandma Trudie...2020-10-1325 min
This Is Getting Old: Moving Towards an Age-Friendly World Podcast with Dr. MELISSA BATCHELORThe Role of Social Workers in Nursing HomesThe Role of Social Workers in Nursing Homes “The social isolation caused by COVID-19 requires an expansive workforce considering not all nursing homes have trained social workers.”— Lynn Friss Feinberg, MSW Nursing homes and COVID-19 are today's hot topics. With mounting cases of COVID-19, nursing homes have faced many challenges, especially with providing social services. On top of helping older adults adjust to their new life in a supportive care setting and advocating for their rights and needs, social workers are faced with ethical dilemmas, stress, and fears for resident safety. What can we do about i...2020-09-2922 min
This Is Getting Old: Moving Towards an Age-Friendly World Podcast with Dr. MELISSA BATCHELORSenior Nutrition (HAPF SERIES) with Marie Gualtieri, PhDSenior Nutrition (HAPF SERIES) with Marie Gualtieri, PhD and Liz Albertine “For older adults in 2018, which is the most recent data that we have, approximately 5.3 million Americans, 60 and older, were food insecure.”— Marie Gualtieri, PhD (03:47-03:58) COVID-19 has elevated a lot of issues that impact older adults. So, we're going to dig into the details of the impact of aging and food insecurity. In this week's episode, I'm joined by Health and Aging Policy Fellow, Marie Gualtieri, PhD and her Discussant, Liz Albertine, Legislative Director for Representative Rosa L. DeLauro (D-CT-03). Part One of ‘Se...2020-09-1517 min
This Is Getting Old: Moving Towards an Age-Friendly World Podcast with Dr. MELISSA BATCHELORElder Care: Past and Future with Joanne Lynn, MD, MA, MS and Carrie Graham, PhD, MGSElder Care: Past and Future with Joanne Lynn, MD, MA, MS and Carrie Graham, PhD, MGS “There needs to be a community anchor in managing eldercare.”— Joanne Lynn, MD, MS, MA (03:21-03:25) Is it right, ethical, or moral that we have put 1.3 million Americans in solitary confinement for the past six months because of COVID-19? Would we tolerate this for college students? Young adults? Children? Not likely. But we have done this to 1.3 million nursing residents in this country. Why isn’t anyone asking these residents and their families what matters to them? In this...2020-09-0134 min
This Is Getting Old: Moving Towards an Age-Friendly World Podcast with Dr. MELISSA BATCHELORRWJF Health Policy Fellows: An Interview with Reginald Tucker-SeelyHealthcare careers are rewarding and fulfilling because people get to partner with communities to find ways to solve health-related problems. In this week’s episode, let’s get to know my guest, Reginald Tucker-Seeley, MA, ScM, ScD, and see how he’s making a difference in health disparities and health equity. Part One of ‘RWJF Health Policy Fellows: An Interview with Reginald Tucker-Seely’ Reginald Tucker-Seeley, MA, ScM, ScD, is the inaugural holder of the Edward L. Schneider Chair in Gerontology and assistant professor at the USC Leonard Davis School of Gerontology. He manages the Tucker-Seeley Research La...2020-08-2535 min
This Is Getting Old: Moving Towards an Age-Friendly World Podcast with Dr. MELISSA BATCHELOR2020: Year of the Nurse an Interview with Tracey L Yap, PhD, RN, WCC, CNE, FGSA, FAANAs part of the 2020: YEAR OF THE NURSE series, we are highlighting the work of Tracey L Yap, PhD, RN, WCC, CNE, FGSA, FAAN. Dr. Yap is an Associate Professor at Duke University School of Nursing and a Senior Fellow in the Duke University Center for the Study of Aging and Human Development. In 2019 she was the recipient of the Presidential Early Career Award for Scientists and Engineers (PECASE). The PECASE is the highest honor bestowed by the United States Government to outstanding scientists and engineers who are beginning their independent research careers and who show exceptional p...2020-08-1821 min
This Is Getting Old: Moving Towards an Age-Friendly World Podcast with Dr. MELISSA BATCHELOR2020: Year of the Nurse an Interview with Ellen Kurtzman2020: Year of the Nurse an Interview with Ellen Kurtzman “When you're ready for something, life opens the door for you.” — Melissa Batchelor, PhD, RN, FNP, FAAN (09:29-09:35) Ellen T. Kurtzman, PhD, MPH, RN, FAAN, is a health services researcher and a tenured associate professor of nursing with secondary appointments in the university’s Milken Institute School of Public Health and Trachtenberg School of Public Policy & Public Administration. In this week’s episode, let’s get to know her more. Part One of ‘2020: Year of the Nurse an Interview with Ellen Kurtzman’ Dr. Kurtzman teac...2020-08-1136 min
This Is Getting Old: Moving Towards an Age-Friendly World Podcast with Dr. MELISSA BATCHELOR2020: Year of the Nurse an Interview With Ashley Darcy-Mahoney2020: Year of the Nurse - An Interview with Ashley Darcy-Mahoney “Most people think of nurses only doing bedside care in hospitals. They're in long term care, school health, home care, the policy arena, and many more places.”— Melissa Batchelor, PhD, RN, FNP, FAAN (20:58-21:10) Nurses play a very significant role, both locally and globally. Most people still think of nurses only doing bedside care in hospitals, but nurses are in-home health care, school health care, the policy arena, and many other places. In this week’s episode: You’ll discover the broad ra...2020-08-0428 min
This Is Getting Old: Moving Towards an Age-Friendly World Podcast with Dr. MELISSA BATCHELOREP21: Three Tips For Managing Being Sick At HomeThree Tips For Managing Being Sick At Home “You need a system for documenting what medication you're taking and when you're taking it.”— Melissa Batchelor, PhD, RN, FNP, FAAN (00:36-00:42) Are you feeling under the weather lately? No matter how busy life gets, it's crucial to know what steps you need to take good care of yourself. In this week's episode, you'll learn about: Three tips to manage your illness at home, whether it's COVID-19 or not. Part One of ‘Three Tips For Managing Being Sick At Home’ Tip #1: Write Thing...2020-07-2810 min
This Is Getting Old: Moving Towards an Age-Friendly World Podcast with Dr. MELISSA BATCHELOR3 Things to Know if You Get Sick During COVID3 Things to Know if You Get Sick During COVID “If you have a fever, don't jump to the conclusion that you have COVID.”— Melissa Batchelor, PhD, RN, FNP, FAAN (16:53-16:58) With more and more cases of COVID being diagnosed every day, our healthcare systems are adapting by using more telehealth and virtual office visits for primary care, and you can go get a COVID test on your own if you have any symptoms that are related to COVID - such as a fever, chills, and/or muscle aches. But there are some potential pitfalls and perils...2020-07-1419 min
This Is Getting Old: Moving Towards an Age-Friendly World Podcast with Dr. MELISSA BATCHELORHow Is Alzheimer's DiagnosedHow Is Alzheimer's Diagnosed “Highlight the patterns you've seen for the evaluation of the medical history.”— Melissa Batchelor, PhD, RN, FNP, FAAN (05:32-05:44) It can take years to be definitively diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease or related dementia. Getting to that diagnosis is not as easy as you think, because there are many symptoms of other illnesses that can look like Alzheimer's disease but actually aren't. If you see a provider and they tell you and/or your loved one in one 15-minute visit that you have Alzheimer’s disease ~ get a second opinion. This disease takes mu...2020-07-0717 min
Video Marketing For Business PodcastHow Healthcare Professionals Are Using Video for Awareness with Melissa Batchelor, PhD, RN, FNP, FGSA, FAAN How Healthcare Professionals Are Using Video for Awareness In this week’s episode, Tamara Thompson talks about how healthcare professionals are using video for awareness, together with her special guest, Melissa Batchelor, PhD, RN, FNP, FGSA, FAAN. Melissa Batchelor earned her Master of Science in Nursing as a Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) from the University of North Carolina Wilmington (UNCW) School of Nursing (SON) in 2000. She enjoyed working with the complex medical needs older adults experienced more than any other population, so after graduation, she started working with a geriatric practice in Wilmington, No...2020-04-1427 min