Shows
Mental Health + Aging with Dr. Regina Koepp#132 - Stop Projecting: What Midlife Gets Wrong About Older AdulthoodA few days ago, I was interviewed for NPR’s Here & Now, and the host asked me about my “aging journey.” I felt a little flustered—not because it was a bad question, but because I’m 50. And when people ask me about aging, my mind goes straight to older adulthood: 65, 75, 85, 95 and beyond. So my answer didn’t land the way I wanted it to. I left the interview thinking, I wish I’d said that differently. What I wish I’d said in the moment is this: when I talk about aging, I’m usually talking abo...
2026-01-1405 minMental Health + Aging with Dr. Regina Koepp#124- Chronic Pain and Depression: Breaking the Cycle with Mental Health CareChronic pain increases the risk for depression and suicide. The connection between chronic pain and depression is stronger—and more dangerous—than most professionals realize. In this powerful episode, Dr. Regina Koepp sits down with pain psychology expert, Dr. Jennifer Steiner, to uncover the complex and bidirectional relationship between chronic pain, depression, and suicide risk. What You’ll Learn in This Episode:Why people living with chronic pain are twice as likely to experience suicidal thoughts and behaviorsThe true drivers of suicide risk in chronic pain—not...
2025-06-1713 minMental Health + Aging with Dr. Regina Koepp#113-Types of Ageism in Mental Health Care: Hidden Biases Harm ClientsHave you ever thought, “Older adults are just set in their ways” or “Therapy isn’t effective for older clients”? If so, this episode is for you. Today, we tackle the hidden biases that even seasoned mental health professionals may hold toward older adults.You’ll learn:What ageism is and how it manifests in mental health care.The impact of structural and individual ageism on mental and physical health.Research-backed insights, including Dr. Becca Levy’s groundbreaking work on the Stereotype Embodiment Theory.How ageism and ableism intersect to create barriers for older adults. We also explore...
2025-01-2922 minHarvesting Happiness PodcastsAging Boomers Pursuing Lust, Love, and Relationships with Dr Regina Koepp PsyDWith increasing divorce rates among older adults, many are rediscovering their sexuality and seeking new romantic and sexual experiences. Sex can offer comfort, joy, and a renewed sense of
intimacy, regardless of age. It is time to acknowledge the diverse sexual experiences of older adults. Why is this important aspect of aging so often overlooked in our conversations?*This conversation includes mature content that may not be suitable for all audiences.For revealing insights on how aging boomers are pursuing lust, love, and relationships, Harvesting Happiness Podcast Host Lisa Cypers Kamen speaks with clinical psychologist...
2025-01-1600 minHarvesting HappinessAging Boomers Pursuing Lust, Love, and Relationships with Dr Regina Koepp PsyDWith increasing divorce rates among older adults, many are rediscovering their sexuality and seeking new romantic and sexual experiences. Sex can offer comfort, joy, and a renewed sense of
intimacy, regardless of age. It is time to acknowledge the diverse sexual experiences of older adults. Why is this important aspect of aging so often overlooked in our conversations?*This conversation includes mature content that may not be suitable for all audiences.For revealing insights on how aging boomers are pursuing lust, love, and relationships, Harvesting Happiness Podcast Host Lisa Cypers Kamen speaks with clinical psychologist...
2025-01-1636 min
Harvesting HappinessAging Boomers Pursuing Lust, Love, and Relationships with Dr Regina Koepp PsyDWith increasing divorce rates among older adults, many are rediscovering their sexuality and seeking new romantic and sexual experiences. Sex can offer comfort, joy, and a renewed sense of intimacy, regardless of age. It is time to acknowledge the diverse sexual experiences of older adults. Why is this important aspect of aging so often overlooked in our conversations?*This conversation includes mature content that may not be suitable for all audiences.For revealing insights on how aging boomers are pursuing lust, love, and relationships, Harvesting Happiness Podcast Host Lisa Cypers Kamen speaks with clinical psychologist, clinical...
2025-01-1636 minMental Health + Aging with Dr. Regina Koepp#111- Supporting Older Adults After Disasters: A Guide to Psychological RecoveryImagine being 85 or 95 years old, surviving a natural disaster like wildfires, hurricanes, or earthquakes, and facing the immense challenge of grieving your losses while navigating emotional and psychological recovery. Older adults often show remarkable resilience, but unique challenges like chronic health conditions, isolation, and cognitive vulnerabilities can complicate the recovery process.In this episode, I discuss how to support older adults following disasters, highlighting common reactions, risk factors, and effective strategies for fostering psychological recovery.Key TakeawaysCommon Reactions: Emotional, cognitive, physical, and behavioral responses older adults may e...
2025-01-1530 minMental Health + Aging with Dr. Regina Koepp#110- What NY Times Got Wrong About ADHD and Older AdultsThere was a misleading headline from The New York Times recently that claimed ADHD diagnoses are surging among "older Americans." In this episode, I set the record straight by clarifying who qualifies as an "older adult" (65+), highlighting why mental health needs for older adults are so often overlooked, and explaining how systemic issues like ageism, stigma, and misdiagnosis perpetuate these gaps.What You’ll Learn in This Episode:Why ADHD diagnoses are underreported among adults 65+ despite growing rates in younger age groups.The critical role of ageism in excluding older adults from clinical trials an...
2024-12-1210 minMental Health + Aging with Dr. Regina Koepp#105- How to Talk with Older Adults About Mental Health ProblemsAre you noticing signs of depression or anxiety in your older loved ones or clients and wondering how to approach the topic? This video is your essential guide to navigating these sensitive conversations with compassion and effectiveness. Learn from Dr. Regina Koepp, a geropsychologist, as she shares expert tips on:Starting the Conversation: Discover how to empathize and validate their feelings to create a supportive dialogue.Dispelling Myths: Uncover common misconceptions about aging and mental health, and how to address them.Handling Resistance: Find out how to manage situations when the conversation doesn’t...
2024-05-2906 minMental Health + Aging with Dr. Regina Koepp#104- 5 Life Lessons I've Learned from 20 years of Working with Older AdultsIn this touching episode, I share invaluable wisdom garnered from two decades of working intimately with older adults. Through personal anecdotes and professional experiences, I share five transformative life lessons that challenge and inspire. You'll embark on a journey exploring: the fleeting nature of life and the importance of embracing every moment, the profound impact of human connection, the relentless pursuit of meaning and purpose, the eternal presence of love, and the never-ending potential for personal growth and transformation at any age.These stories not only provide a deeper understanding of aging but also off...
2024-02-0912 minHarvesting HappinessSex-pectations: Getting It On At Any Age with Dr. Regina Koepp*This conversation includes mature content that may not be suitable for all audiences.
It is a common misconception that older adults are no longer interested in or capable of having sex. But sexual activity is a primary drive that offers connection and intimacy to those of any age. Sex can offer older adults comfort and enhance well-being, so why isn’t everyone talking about it?To discover how to shift our sex-pectations and enjoy this important aspect of the human experience, Harvesting Happiness Podcast Host Lisa Cypers Kamen speaks with the founder of the Center for Me...
2023-09-2837 minHarvesting Happiness PodcastsSex-pectations: Getting It On At Any Age with Dr. Regina Koepp*This conversation includes mature content that may not be suitable for all audiences.
It is a common misconception that older adults are no longer interested in or capable of having sex. But sexual activity is a primary drive that offers connection and intimacy to those of any age. Sex can offer older adults comfort and enhance well-being, so why isn’t everyone talking about it?To discover how to shift our sex-pectations and enjoy this important aspect of the human experience, Harvesting Happiness Podcast Host Lisa Cypers Kamen speaks with the founder of the Center for Me...
2023-09-2800 minHarvesting HappinessSex-pectations: Getting It On At Any Age with Dr. Regina Koepp*This conversation includes mature content that may not be suitable for all audiences. It is a common misconception that older adults are no longer interested in or capable of having sex. But sexual activity is a primary drive that offers connection and intimacy to those of any age. Sex can offer older adults comfort and enhance well-being, so why isn’t everyone talking about it?To discover how to shift our sex-pectations and enjoy this important aspect of the human experience, Harvesting Happiness Podcast Host Lisa Cypers Kamen speaks with the founder of the Center for Me...
2023-09-2837 min
Harvesting Happiness Talk RadioSex-pectations: Getting It On At Any Age with Dr. Regina Koepp*This conversation includes mature content that may not be suitable for all audiences.
It is a common misconception that older adults are no longer interested in or capable of having sex. But sexual activity is a primary drive that offers connection and intimacy to those of any age. Sex can offer older adults comfort and enhance well-being, so why isn’t everyone talking about it? To discover how to shift our sex-pectations and enjoy this important aspect of the human experience, Harvesting Happiness Podcast Host Lisa Cypers Kamen speaks with the founder of the Center for Mental Health & Aging, Dr. Re...
2023-09-2737 min
Navigating the World with Your Aging Loved OneBreaking the Stigma: Empowering Sexuality and Aging with Dr. Regina Koepp, Board-Certified Clinical Psychologist, Founder of the Center for Mental Health & Aging, and Lead Medical Psychologist at University of Vermont Medical CenterThere is a common misconception that older adults are no longer interested in or capable of having sex. Studies show that more than 50% of men and 30% of women among 1000 adults surveyed aged 65-80 are sexually active. The vast majority of older adults in a relationship report being satisfied with their sexual life. Research also indicates that older adults want to discuss their sexual health and how to optimize their sexual functioning. My guest today is Dr. Regina Koepp, a board-certified clinical psychologist and founder of the Center for Mental Health & Aging. She is also the...
2023-05-0148 minMental Health + Aging with Dr. Regina Koepp#093- Elder Abuse is Still Underreported: Must Know Tips for Mandated Reporters with Page UlreyCEU Episode. Elder abuse is underreportedElder abuse and exploitation have a significant impact on older adults who experience it, including an increased risk for death, worsening of chronic illness, increased likelihood of hospitalization and placement in a nursing home, as well as increased rates of depression, anxiety, among other consequences.In this 60min continuing education podcast episode, you’ll discover:The impact of elder abuse on older adultsBarriers to reporting elder abuseRecommendations for mandated reportersIn this episode, Dr. Regina Koepp interviews Page Ulrey, Senior Deputy Prosecuting Attorney for the King County Pr...
2022-10-251h 01Mental Health + Aging with Dr. Regina Koepp#080- Assisted Living for Deaf SeniorsThe stories of deaf older adults and their families need to be shared and heard.For the past couple of years, I have been following and sharing the story of MJ Grant and her experience with caring for her mom, Carmen, who is deaf and living with dementia. A couple of months ago, MJ made the painful decision to move Carmen into a Memory Care community and shares the painful experience of moving her mother into a community with no fluent ASL signers.Watch the 7 min video in which MJ shares the dilemma she faced...
2021-10-0705 minMental Health + Aging with Dr. Regina Koepp#079- What Is It Like To Live With Dementia? Chrissy Thelker Shares Her StoryChrissy Thelker was 55 years old when she had her first stroke and was subsequently diagnosed with Vascular Dementia. In today's interview, Chrissy shares her experience of living with dementia and her journey to finding purpose and hope. With more and more people living with dementia, it's imperative that we gain perspective and understanding of the lived experience of people living with dementia and the importance of advocacy, peer support, and building a purpose-filled life living with dementia.In this episode, Chrissy Thelker shows us how. Click here to visit the show not...
2021-09-2858 min
Caregiver Wellness Podcast For Alzheimer's And Other Dementias#23- Navigating Transitions in Dementia with Regina KoeppCaregivers when first learning of diagnosis- don’t even know to define themselves as caregivers yet! Each stage of dementia is different. How do you prepare yourself as a caregiver - start to finish to transition within each stage gracefully? Join us to find out.
Regina Koepp, PsyD, ABPP
Clinical Geropsychologist
Founder & Director, Center for Mental Health & Aging
Dr. Regina Koepp is a clinical geropsychologist, and founder and director of the Center for Mental Health & Aging: the “go to” place online for mental health and aging. Dr...
2021-09-2454 minMental Health + Aging with Dr. Regina Koepp#078- Dementia Health Disparities Affecting African AmericansDementia is one of the most important, but often overlooked, health care issues related to older African Americans. In fact, research shows that African Americans are two to three times more likely to develop a dementia disorder (compared to European Americans) and at the same time are less likely to be diagnosed early in the disease process and provided with adequate treatment. The burning question is "WHY?!!" Luckily there are experts, like Dr. Vonetta Dotson, Neuropsychologist, who can help us understand why this is happening and what we...
2021-09-2230 minMental Health + Aging with Dr. Regina Koepp#077- Tips to Help You Age in Place with Alzheimers & DementiaThere’s a common misconception that when somebody is diagnosed with dementia, they lose their independence and can no longer live alone. While down the road in the illness course of dementia, this may be true, there is A LOT that a person with dementia CAN DO to remain living independently and safely in their home.This episode is a must listen if you or someone you know is newly diagnosed with dementia and looking for what to do next.In today’s episode, I share 5 key strategies for helping adults living with dementia age in p...
2021-09-1528 minMental Health + Aging with Dr. Regina Koepp#076- Benefits of Early Detection of Alzheimers & DementiaEarly diagnosis of Alzheimer's or dementia can pave the road to better care. In this episode, you'll learn why early diagnosis of dementia is important and how early diagnosis of dementia helps older adults and their families. Click here to visit the show notes page for all the resources mentioned in today's episode:Older Adult / Family? Download the Memory Loss & Mental Health GuideProfessional? Grab the Mental Health Professional’s Guide to Working with Older AdultsHelp others find this show...
2021-09-0817 minMental Health + Aging with Dr. Regina Koepp#075- 10 Must Know Dementia Warning SignsDo you know the 10 dementia warning signs? Getting clear about these 10 Must Know Dementia and Memory Loss Warning Signs will help you get needed care for seniors. In this episode, you'll learn the difference between what is typical with aging and what symptoms may require further evaluation. Click here to visit the show notes page for all the resources mentioned in today's episode:Older Adult / Family? Download the Memory Loss & Mental Health GuideProfessional? Grab the Mental Health Professional’s Guide to Working with Old...
2021-09-0820 minMental Health + Aging with Dr. Regina Koepp#074- Attitudes About Sexuality & Aging with Maggie Syme, PhD, MPHOur attitudes about sexuality & aging may influence an older adults' sexual health.In an effort to help mental health, senior care, and health care providers reflect on our own values and attitudes, I interview sexual health and aging expert, Dr. Maggie Syme.In this interview Dr. Maggie Syme and I discuss:What it means to be a sexual citizenAttitudes about sexuality and agingCurrent research on intimacy and agingBenefits of sexuality and intimacy in older adulthoodDementia and sexual expressionWhat sexual liberation looks like for older adultsMaggie L. Syme, PhD, MPH is currently...
2021-08-3159 minMental Health + Aging with Dr. Regina Koepp#073- Mental Health & Substance Abuse Recovery for SeniorsThe field of peer support has grown in many mental health and substance abuse treatment systems. Peer Support Specialists draw upon their own life experiences, like mental health and substance use concerns, distress, poverty, and oppression, on the one hand, and experiences of recovery and resilience, on the other.¹ They use their lived experience to help build connections to others with similar shared experiences and treatment.The fact that peer specialists share many similar experiences with the clients they serve means that they are able to understand clients in a way that is real and em...
2021-08-241h 03Mental Health + Aging with Dr. Regina Koepp#072- Risks and Benefits of Aducanumab for Alzheimer's DiseaseAducanumab has been a hot topic in the field of dementia and Alzheimer's disease. Aducanumab, also known as Aduhelm, is a new Alzheimer's drug for people with Alzheimer's disease in their early stages with mild cognitive impairment. With so many questions, it helps to have answers from experts like Dr. Jason Karlawish, Neurologist and Co-Director of the Penn Memory Center.In this episode, Dr. Karlawish and I discucss:Reasons that Dr. Karlawish is a "reluctant prescriber" of AducanumabThe risks and benefits of Aducanumab for Alzheimer's DiseaseHow the FDA made the decision to approve Aducanumab for useThe...
2021-08-1734 minMental Health + Aging with Dr. Regina Koepp#071- After Stroke Depression & Recovery with Angie BurkeAngie Burke was a Registered Nurse and worked for 26 years at a hospital in her community, specializing in palliative care, until On September 23, 2013, she suffered a large stroke and was eventually diagnosed with epilepsy.Following an episode of depression, Angie became more determined than ever began exercising daily, and eventually became an amateur bodybuilder. In May of 2017 she competed in her first amateur bodybuilding show.In today's episode, Angie shares her journey of stroke, depression, and going from "stroke victim" to "stroke survivor".Depression after stroke affects approximately one third of stroke survivors at...
2021-08-1038 minMental Health + Aging with Dr. Regina Koepp#070- Helping Care for Aging Parents & Becoming a Family CaregiverIf you're just starting out with helping care for aging parents, you might be feeling overwhelmed and unsure of how to help. Not only are you flooded with loads of new information about medical conditions, you’re also experiencing complex family dynamics and your own messy feelings to manage in the midst of it all. Today's episode will help to guide you in the common yet difficult experience of becoming a family caregiver.In this episode, you'll learn:How to prepare for the caregiver's journeyHow to strengthen your relationship with your aging par...
2021-07-2120 min
The BizChix Podcast: Female Entrepreneurs | Women Small Business | Biz Chix480: When You Suddenly Become a Caregiver with Dr. Regina KoeppDr. Regina Koepp is a clinical psychologist and gerontologist, founder and director of the Center for Mental Health & Aging and is also the host of the Psychology of Aging Podcast. Regina is passionate about mental health and aging, and also helping caretakers of aging parents get the resources they need to have a healthy family dynamic. In this episode, Regina and I talk about how you can prepare for and cope with suddenly becoming the caretaker of your elderly parents, including how to set boundaries and how to have difficult conversations. Listen in as she u...
2021-07-1546 minThe BizChix Podcast: Female Entrepreneurs | Women Small Business | Biz Chix480: When You Suddenly Become a Caregiver with Dr. Regina KoeppDr. Regina Koepp is a clinical psychologist and gerontologist, founder and director of the Center for Mental Health & Aging and is also the host of the Psychology of Aging Podcast. Regina is passionate about mental health and aging, and also helping caretakers of aging parents get the resources they need to have a healthy family dynamic. In this episode, Regina and I talk about how you can prepare for and cope with suddenly becoming the caretaker of your elderly parents, including how to set boundaries and how to have difficult conversations. Listen in as she u...
2021-07-1546 minMental Health + Aging with Dr. Regina Koepp#069- Addressing Ageism with Humor & Civility with Steven PetrowI have to admit, as a Geropsychologist who strives toward anti-ageism, when I set out to read Steven Petrow’s new book, STUPID THINGS I WON’T DO WHEN I GET OLD, I was skeptical. I judged the book by its title and doubted that it would match my mission of anti-ageism, but boy was I wrong. Steven Petrow’s new book is a warm and witty journey through aging and the valuable lessons learned along the way.In this podcast episode, Steven and I dive deep into his book and explore:Steven’s journey with agingThe...
2021-07-1340 minMental Health + Aging with Dr. Regina Koepp#068- Legal Justice for Seniors: Ending Elder Abuse & Exploitation with Page UlreyElder abuse and exploitation have a significant impact on older adults who experience it, including an increased risk for death, worsening of chronic illness, increased likelihood of hospitalization and placement in a nursing home, as well as increased rates of depression, anxiety, among other consequences.Legal justice can, at times, be helpful to restoring a sense of personal security and reclaiming dignity for the survivor of the abuse. In this interview, Page Ulrey, Senior Deputy Prosecuting Attorney for the King County Prosecutor’s Office, is on the podcast discussing:The impact of elder abuse on...
2021-07-0652 minMental Health + Aging with Dr. Regina Koepp#067- Preventing Financial Elder Abuse & Exploitation with Dr. Peter LichtenbergOne out of every 20 older adults in the U.S. is a victim of financial exploitation, losing an average of $80,000 to $186,000 (olderadultnestegg.com). The vast majority of elder financial abuse cases are most likely to be somebody the older adult knows: family members (54%), 31% care workers, and 13% partners (Jackson, 2016).Banks and money service businesses reported a 400% increase in suspicious activity from 2013-2017. The vast majority of this suspicious activity involved people over 60 (olderadultnestegg.com).Today's guest, Dr. Peter Lichtenberg, is a national expert in preventing financial abuse and exploitation and reducing its impact on older adults.
2021-06-2950 minMental Health + Aging with Dr. Regina Koepp#066- Elder Financial Abuse by Family Members: Schottenstein Family StoryAt 93 years old, Beverley Schottenstein filed financial abuse charges against two of her grandsons, Evan Schottenstein and Avi Schottenstein, and JP Morgan. A ruling in February 2021, found the two grandsons and JP Morgan liable for abusing their fiduciary duty and making fraudulent misrepresentations. They also found the bank and Evan Schottenstein liable for elder abuse. It ordered JP Morgan and the grandsons to pay Beverley $19 million between them.In this episode, I interview Cathy Schottenstein Pattap, one of Beverly Schottenstein's granddaughters who took Beverly's concerns seriously and testified on her behalf.Here's what you'll discover...
2021-06-2256 minMental Health + Aging with Dr. Regina Koepp#065- Elder Abuse and Elder Abuse Reporting ResourcesAs senior care professionals, mental health providers, and family caregivers, it's essential that we raise awareness and increase our knowledge around elder abuse, self-neglect, and resources for reporting suspicions of elder abuse.In this episode, you'll learn: The answer to "what is elder abuse?" Including financial, physical, and emotional.The difference between elder abuse and neglect?Why it's important to be mindful self-neglect among older adultsResources for reporting elder abuse. Click here to visit the show notes page to learn more.Are you a licensed therapist, ps...
2021-06-1525 minMental Health + Aging with Dr. Regina Koepp#064- [REPOST] Affirming Care for Transgender Older Adults with Loree Cook-DanielsIn honor of PRIDE, I am reposting an interview with Loree Cook-Daniels, founder of the Transgender Aging Network. In this interview, Loree shares important insights, tools, and resources for working with Transgender older adults and their partners. About Loree Cook-DanielsLoree Cook-Daniels has been working on both LGBT and aging issues since 1974. In the ‘90s she was a primary staff person for the National Center on Elder Abuse. She founded the Transgender Aging Network in 1998, and in 2000 became the Policy and Program Director for FORGE, a 26-year-old national transgender and SOFFA (Significant Others, Fri...
2021-06-081h 04Mental Health + Aging with Dr. Regina Koepp#063- [REPOST] Enhancing Care for LGTBQ Seniors with SAGE’s Tim Johnston, PhDIn honor of PRIDE, I am reposting an interview with Dr. Tim Johnston, Senior Director of National Projects at SAGE. In this interview, Dr. Tim Johnston shares important insights about LGTBQ Seniors and provides resources for LGTB Older Adults. About Tim Johnston, PhD: Dr. Tim Johnston, the Senior Director of National Projects at SAGE. In this role, Dr. Johnston oversees the SAGECare cultural competency training program, and national partnerships with other advocacy organizations. Dr. Johnston is the author of Welcoming LGBT Residents: A Practical Guide for Senior Living Staff, which is the first c...
2021-06-0843 minMental Health + Aging with Dr. Regina Koepp#062- Family Legacy of Dementia Caregiving with MJ GrantThe stories of people living with dementia and their families need to be told, heard, and valued.I'm honored to share the life of, MJ Grant, as she describes the legacy of caregiving in her family, her transition to becoming a caregiver, and the isolation many Deaf people living with dementia experience.Here's what you'll discover in this beautiful interview: [06:26] MJ talks about the viral "Dementia Can Be Beautiful" video that has had more than 2.5 million views.[14:22] How MJ's mom's dreams of travel and enjoyment in retirement were thwarted by caregiving for h...
2021-06-0242 minMental Health + Aging with Dr. Regina Koepp#061- How Growing Up in Poverty Inspired My Career in Mental Health and AgingToday, I launch the Center for Mental Health and Aging website. As I unveil this exciting website and resource hub, I realize that despite pouring so much of myself into this website, you don’t know much about me. So, today as I celebrate the launch of the Center for Mental Health and Aging, I’m sharing a little bit more about myself, and some of the very personal experiences in my own life that have led me to creating the Center for Mental Health and Aging. Here’s a peek inside the episode: [01:39] I share a...
2021-05-2621 minMental Health + Aging with Dr. Regina Koepp#060- Addressing Suicide Among Older Adults with Yeates Conwell, MDSuicide is heart breaking and tragic. Today's guest, Yeates Conwell, MD, geriatric psychiatrist and leading expert on suicide among older adults is on the podcast to guide us in understanding late life suicide and how we can help older adults who may be suicidal. With older white men over 85 having the highest rates of suicide, more than any other age group, it's essential that we have tools for addressing and preventing elderly suicide. Here's what we'll cover in this episode:Statistics about older adults and suicide?Why do ol...
2021-05-1946 minMental Health + Aging with Dr. Regina Koepp#059- How Does Ageism & Age Discrimination Affect Older Adults' HealthIn 2020, researchers found that ageism cost the US $63 billion dollars in one year and resulted in 17.04 million cases of 8 of the most expensive health and mental health conditions, including heart disease, dementia, cancer, diabetes, mental health conditions, among others.In this episode, you'll learn about ageism, how age discrimination affects the physical and mental health of older adults, and what you can do to combat ageism. [02:03] What is ageism and why is it so harmful. [06:53] Discover the difference between structural ageism and individual ageism. [08:51] How does ageism affect older adults' physical health? [10:48]How does ageism affect the...
2021-05-1126 minMental Health + Aging with Dr. Regina Koepp#058- Anxiety in Elderly Adults: Causes, Symptoms, TreatmentsAnxiety is NOT normal with aging and can be effectively treated. Unfortunately, anxiety in the elderly often goes undetected and untreated largely due to the false belief that with age it’s normal to have a mental health problem.Good news: Anxiety is highly treatable in older adults!Here's what you'll learn in this episode:[03:11] What is anxiety?[05:10] What are the different types of anxiety disorder older adults experience? [05:40] Signs and symptoms of anxiety in the elderly?[06:55] How common are anxiety disorders among older adults?[07:51] What is the most common anxi...
2021-05-0420 minMental Health + Aging with Dr. Regina Koepp#057- The Mental Health Crisis Facing Older Adults & Their FamiliesThere's a mental health crisis facing older adults in their families. About 1 in 4 older adults experiences a mental health condition, including depression, anxiety, dementia, substance use and more, yet 67% of them struggle to get adequate mental health care, resulting in worse medical and mental health outcomes, like suicide. Herein lies the crisis.In this podcast episode, I discuss the mental health crisis older adults and their families are facing and I share a big announcement about what I aim to do about it.Here's what you'll learn in this episode:[03:33] What are t...
2021-04-2726 minMental Health + Aging with Dr. Regina Koepp#056- Cancer Caregiver Support & Bereavement Groups with Ronni Levine, LMFTCancer affects individuals, families, and communities. According to the National Cancer Institute, in 2020, an estimated 1,806,590 new cases of cancer were diagnosed in the United States and approximately 39.5% of men and women will be diagnosed with cancer at some point during their lifetimes. The American Cancer Society conducted an 8 year study published in 2013 and found that on average cancer caregivers spent about 8 hours per day providing care. They also stated that caregivers need a strong support system, explaining that having a system of support helps to weather the storms common with cancer, like a loved one’s re...
2021-04-2147 minMental Health + Aging with Dr. Regina Koepp#055- Facts About Aging and Alcohol: Signs of Alcohol Abuse in Older Adults & How to HelpMany older adults decide to stop drinking as they get older (YAY!)There's an ageist idea circling around society, however, that suggests that "older adults can't change". This idea is not only false, it's incredibly harmful to older adults who may just believe this erroneous statement and never get the help they need. Some researchers and mental health and aging groups talk about the invisibility of alcohol use among older adults, explaining that even though the number of older adults with alcohol problems is on the rise, alcohol use disorders are too often un...
2021-04-1432 minMental Health + Aging with Dr. Regina Koepp#054- Living and Aging Well with HIV: The Need for Better Mental Health Care with Mark Brennan-Ing, PhDMore than half of the people in the US living with HIV are 50 years old and older. With the use of antiretroviral medications, people who were diagnosed with HIV decades ago have been able to live well into older adulthood. This is great news. Sadly, stigma due to age, sexual orientation, gender identity, and HIV status contributes to poor mental health and physical health. In this interview, Dr. Mark Brennan-Ing, Director of Research and Evaluation at the Brookdale Center for Healthy Aging at Hunter College, the City University of New York, is on the Psychology of...
2021-04-0753 minMental Health + Aging with Dr. Regina Koepp#053- Older Adults Caring for Adult Children with Autism with Lois ShinglerOver 75% of adults with developmental disabilities live at home with family. There is a growing population of aging caregivers of adults with developmental disabilities, in part due to increased lifespan and extensive waiting lists for residential services (The Arc Autism Now). In honor of World Autism Day on 4/2/21, today's podcast episode focuses on older adults who are caring for adult children with autism or other Intellectual or Developmental Disabilities (IDDs).In this interview, Lois Shingler, an attorney and co-founder of Peter and Paul’s Place shares her experience of being 70 years old while caring for Pau...
2021-03-3049 minMental Health + Aging with Dr. Regina Koepp#052- When Aging Parents Need Help: Family Caregiving Roles & Impacts with Dr. Sara QuallsWhen older adults begin to experience physical or mental health changes, like with dementia disorders, for example, it can be difficult to know the steps to take when aging parents need help. It can be especially difficult for family caregivers to know how to balance autonomy and independence with concerns for risk and safety.In this episode, Dr. Sara Qualls, clinical geropsychologist and Kraemer Family Professor of Aging Studies at the University of Colorado at Colorado Springs (UCCS), will discuss common role transitions in older families, offer tips for balancing safety and autonomy, and provide tips on...
2021-03-2351 minMental Health + Aging with Dr. Regina Koepp#051- The 12 Best Brain Health Recommendations to Reduce Risk for DementiaResearchers have been investigating brain health recommendations that help to reduce our risk for cognitive decline in older adulthood. Many of the tips that I'm going to share today are really about how to live your healthiest life and achieve optimal physical health, brain health, and mental health in older adulthood. You may already be doing many of these recommendations. As you listen to this episode, take notes and make a list. Put a check mark by items that you are currently doing and a star next to the items that you need to be doi...
2021-03-1740 minMental Health + Aging with Dr. Regina Koepp#050- The Positive Effects of Nature on Brain Health and Mental Health with Dr. Paula Hartman-SteinAccording to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the average American spends only 7% of their entire life outdoors. Our guest today, Dr. Paula Hartman-Stein, geropsychologist and author, discusses the importance of Vitamin N for Nature by sharing current research about the importance of incorporating nature into our daily lives and provides actionable strategies you can use to reduce "nature-deficit disorder" by incorporating nature into your daily life, even if you cannot leave your home. Here's a peak into my interview with Dr. Paula Hartman-Stein:[02:47] From gro...
2021-03-0853 minMental Health + Aging with Dr. Regina Koepp#049- Mild Cognitive Impairment Vs. Dementia Vs. Alzheimer'sIn today's interview, Dr. Jason Karlawish, Neurologist and Co-Director of the Penn Memory Center is on the podcast answering some of your burning dementia questions, like: What is mild cognitive impairment? Describe the difference between Mild Cognitive Impairment Vs. Dementia Vs. Alzheimers.What are the best tips for staving off dementia when you have mild cognitive impairment?What are the pros and cons of an early diagnosis of a dementia disorder, like Alzheimer's Disease? Dr. Karlawish and I go deep in our discussion of how we as a society value human life, and talk about:Why dem...
2021-03-0351 minMental Health + Aging with Dr. Regina Koepp#048- Tips for Better Communication in Dementia Care: 3 Caregiving Traps to Avoid with Dr. Natali EdmondsIn today's interview, Dr. Natali Edmonds, Geropsychologist and founder of Dementia Careblazers, talks about how to improve communication in dementia care by sharing: 3 caregiving communication traps to avoid and what to do insteadA very important message she wants all dementia caregivers to hear. The tips in this episode will not only help you improve your communication with a person with dementia, they'll improve your connection with them as well. Here’s a sneak peek at what you’ll learn from my interview with Dr. Natali Edmonds[09:26] Learn how dementia change...
2021-02-2435 min
The Hanh Brown ShowDr. Regina Koepp - Understanding Older Family Dynamics and What Are the 6 Stages of Caregiving?Dr. Regina Koepp is the founder and CEO of Gero Champions, a company that provides training and education to enhance the mental health and wellness of older adults and their families. Dr. Koepp is the creator and host of the Psychology of Aging Podcast where she discusses aging and caregiving. She has been featured in the Chicago Tribune, Baltimore Sun, Insider, and is a contributing writer at Psychology Today.Topics of Discussion:[02:12] Introduction[02:58] What is the best way to study caregiving and what are some of the important roles of a caregiver?[09:14] What do...
2021-02-2355 minMental Health + Aging with Dr. Regina Koepp#047- Living with Dementia: Finding Purpose and Hope with Christine ThelkerChrissy Thelker was 55 years old when she had her first stroke and was subsequently diagnosed with Vascular Dementia. In today's interview, Chrissy shares her experience of living with dementia and her journey to finding purpose and hope. With more and more people living with dementia, it's imperative that we gain perspective and understanding of the lived experience of people living with dementia and the importance of advocacy, peer support, and building a purpose-filled life living with dementia.In this episode, Chrissy Thelker shows us how. Click here to visit the show note...
2021-02-1759 minMental Health + Aging with Dr. Regina Koepp#046- Elderly Parent Calling Multiple Times a Day? 5 Expert TipsIn this Caregiving Bonus episode, I answer the following question from a listener: My 85 year old dad is calling me multiple times a day. It’s interrupting my time at work. Sometimes he needs something. Sometimes, he just wants to check in. He has someone assisting him, but he’s always calling me. Can you address how to handle an elderly parent who is calling me all day long. Thank you, Theresa in AtlantaThe 5 expert strategies I share in this brief episode will help you and your parent work together as a te...
2021-02-1310 minMental Health + Aging with Dr. Regina Koepp#045- Dementia Education for African American Families with Dr. Fayron EppsDementia is one of the most important, but often overlooked, health care issues related to older African Americans. Research shows that African Americans are two to three times more likely to develop a dementia disorder (compared to European Americans) and at the same time are less likely to be diagnosed early in the disease process and provided with adequate treatment.Today's guest, Dr. Fayron Epps, Nurse Scientist and Assistant Professor at Emory University, Nell Hodgson Woodruff School of Nursing, is focused on changing this by improving access to resources a...
2021-02-1033 minMental Health + Aging with Dr. Regina Koepp#044- Lower Caregiver Stress with Proven Resilience StrategiesWe have a narrative in society that says that caregivers have more depression and stress, spend their caregiving years suffering, only to lead to premature death. Our guest today shares a more balanced and factual narrative about caregivers.Yes, many caregivers do indeed have increased rates of stress and depression. Research shows, however, that caregivers are remarkably resilient and actually DO NOT have a reduced lifespan as a result of caregiving.Our guest today, Dr. William Haley, Professor of Aging Studies, reveals how caregiving actually affects caregivers and shares several resilience strategies you can use...
2021-02-0239 minMental Health + Aging with Dr. Regina Koepp#043- Managing Caregiver Guilt and Shame about Moving Aging Parent to Assisted LivingHave you helped your loved one move to a senior living or assisted living community? Do you find that in the midst of experiencing relief that your loved one is being cared for and is safe, you also have intense feelings of guilt and shame? You're not alone. Many caregivers struggle with guilt and shame after moving older loved ones into a senior living community. Perhaps you feel that you've let your older loved one down, like you're not being a dutiful spouse, daughter, or son. This can lead to emotional distress and discontent. To...
2021-01-2715 minMental Health + Aging with Dr. Regina Koepp#042- How to Start a Senior Living Discussion with Aging ParentsThere may come a time in caring for your older loved one, when you're faced with the dreaded conversation of moving into a senior living or assisted living community. The expert tips in this episode will help you start this conversation without pushing your older loved one away. Today's episode will share: 6 Strategies for setting yourself up for success with the senior living discussionExamples of how to start the conversationHow to go about finding senior housing or assisted living communitiesHow to take care of yourself through it all. Click here to listen to the podc...
2021-01-1922 minMental Health + Aging with Dr. Regina Koepp#041- Expert Tips for Finding Senior Living with a Mental Health Condition - with Candy CohnWhen he was in his late 80s, Candy Cohn's father unintentionally stopped taking medication for a long-standing bipolar disorder and experienced a significant mental health crisis requiring hospitalization and intensive treatment. It was following this episode that Candy knew that she needed to help her older parents find a senior living community that would provide more continuity and medication management and offer opportunities for a better quality of life than they were getting at home. But, where to start?In today's episode, I interview, Candy Cohn, a Certified Senior Advisor, who help families find senior living and...
2021-01-131h 01Mental Health + Aging with Dr. Regina Koepp#040- Older Adults and Resilience During the COVID-19 Pandemic: 5 Proven StrategiesWhen we think of older adults during COVID, images of older adults living in long-term care communities sheltering in place with hands pressed against windows trying to connect with loved ones circle in our heads. 2020 was a year of incredible hardship and pain for many people and especially for many older adults and their families. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) tells us that since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, older adults have the greatest risk of requiring hospitalization or dying if they’re diagnosed with COVID-19. This has been one of th...
2021-01-0621 minMental Health + Aging with Dr. Regina Koepp#039- Dementia Communication Tips with Alzheimer's Poetry Project's Gary GlaznerDementia is a devastating illness that often robs families of the opportunity to connect and experience joy. Because of this, it's essential that we find a way to share connecting moments, enjoy one another, and see a little piece of the person eclipsed by the shadow of this devastating illness. And, I have just the person to help us with this!In this week's episode, I interview Gary Glazner, the founder and Executive Director of the Alzheimer’s Poetry Project. In this interview, Gary generously shares with us strategies facilitating communication and...
2020-12-2237 minMental Health + Aging with Dr. Regina Koepp#038- Real Talk about Hospice & Palliative Care with Lauren Marcewicz, MDHave you ever had the experience of meeting up with a dear friend for coffee or talking with your trusted therapist, and all of a sudden, you stumble into a conversation that's a little scary and emotional? Maybe you hesitate for a minute and ask yourself if you're gonna take the risk and really "go there".I don't know about you, but when I find myself in these situations with a person I trust, and I make the choice to dive in, I end up learning a lot about myself and having an even closer relationship with...
2020-12-1656 minMental Health + Aging with Dr. Regina Koepp#037- How to Talk About End of Life Wishes - with Patty Webster, The Conversation ProjectHave you had an end of life conversation with a loved one? What feelings came up for when you read this? Fear? Sadness? Longing? Remorse? Naturally, when we experience these feelings, we often want to run from them, rather than toward them. But, did you know that when we actually pursue end of life conversations with our loved ones, it actually does more good than harm. Research shows that end-of-life conversations lead to improved mental health and better-quality of life for both patients and caregivers. Here's how:The...
2020-12-0955 minMental Health + Aging with Dr. Regina KoeppHIV, Mental Health, and Older Adults: Must Know Statistics#036- In honor of world AIDS day on 12/1, I am devoting today’s episode to HIV and aging. And, yes. HIV is an important topic when it comes to aging. An estimated 1.2 million people in the United States had HIV at the end of 2018. More than half of the adults living in the US with HIV are 50 years old and older.With the use of antiretroviral medications, people who were diagnosed with HIV decades ago have been able to live well into older adulthood. 1 out of 6 people who are newl...
2020-12-0214 minMental Health + Aging with Dr. Regina KoeppCaregiving During COVID: 5 Self-Care Strategies for Caregivers#035- November is National Caregiver Month, but I really think this entire year should be dedicated to caregivers for all that they have been through during COVID. In today’s episode, I share statistics about the toll of caregiving during COVID and 5 self-care strategies for caregivers during COVID. Family caregivers during COVID are more stressed and overwhelmed than ever before and here are some reasons why:Approximately 61% of caregivers are employed while caregiving. Of these caregivers, 60% work 40 or more hours a week and another 15% work 30-39 hours per week. Caregiving resources durin...
2020-11-2322 minMental Health + Aging with Dr. Regina KoeppAffirming Care for Transgender Older Adults with Loree Cook-Daniels#034- Transgender Awareness Week (November 13-19) is a week when transgender people and their allies (like me!), take action to bring attention to the transgender community by educating the public. Transgender folks have heartbreaking rates of suicidal ideation and attempts. According to a 2019 study, suicidal ideation averaged 46.55% and attempts averaged 27.19%. Suicide rates were highest among non-White folks and those who had lower levels of education, reminding us of the phenomenon that people who hold multiple minority identities experience higher rates of risk and harm (known as double and triple jeopardy, etc). There ar...
2020-11-181h 03Mental Health + Aging with Dr. Regina KoeppSupport Veterans With Loving Conversations. Expert Tips from a Former VA Psychologist#033- Close to half of today’s Veterans are 65 and older.If you're caring for an aging Veteran, you may have many questions but not know where to start. Once you do get started, you might not know HOW TO ACTUALLY HAVE a conversation with your loved one about their military service. Maybe you're afraid of saying the wrong thing, pushing too hard, or maybe you're afraid that starting this conversation will open pandora's box of memories. For more than 10 years, I worked with older Veterans and their families in VA m...
2020-11-1115 minMental Health + Aging with Dr. Regina KoeppExercise Program For Seniors: How to Strengthen Body and Mind with Vivo's Eric Levitan#032- Exercise is essential for healthy aging. Having a consistent exercise routine helps to reduce risk of mental health conditions, improves cognitive function and helps our bodies to function optimally.Knowing the "right" exercise for older adults is key. In today's episode, I interview Eric Levitan, founder and CEO of Vivo, a digital fitness company focused on strength training for older adults. And Surprise! Also joining us in today's interview is Eric's 79 year old dad, Michael Levitan, who's a college professor and has been exercising with Vivo for the past several months, and noticing remarkable changes. S...
2020-11-0346 minMental Health + Aging with Dr. Regina KoeppArt & Alzheimer's: Dementia Awareness Through Visual Storytelling with Gina Martin#031 - In 2006, Gina Martin's mother, Diane, was diagnosed with early onset Alzheimer's Disease and died 5 years later. In a tragic yet poetic twist of fate, her father died 3 months later on his birthday of a "broken heart". To honor her parents and raise awareness about dementia, Gina created the Bob and Diane Fund, which grants a $5,000 award each November to an artist depicting the dementia journey through the lens of photography. Here’s a sneak peek at what you’ll learn from my interview with Gina Martin:[05:3...
2020-10-2742 minMental Health + Aging with Dr. Regina KoeppFAQs about Dementia and Voting with Jennifer Mathis of The Bazelon Center for Mental Health Law#030- Can people with dementia vote?A few weeks ago, I received an email from a listener:"Hello, Dr. Regina, I work in an assisted living facility. As the election approaches, family members of residents on memory care units have asked to have residents vote. Residents on this unit are here because they're unable to make informed decisions and don't have a grasp on reality. Also, the particular resident shows no interest in wanting to vote. It's the family that essentially wants to cast a vote for the individual, which seems unethical to me. I...
2020-10-2054 minMental Health + Aging with Dr. Regina KoeppTips for Living Independently and Safely with Alzheimer's & Dementia#029 - There's a common misconception that when somebody is diagnosed with dementia, they lose their independence and can no longer live alone. While down the road in the illness course of dementia, this may be true, there is A LOT that a person with dementia CAN DO to remain living independently and safely in their home. This episode is a must listen if you or someone you know is newly diagnosed with dementia and looking for what to do next.In today's episode, I share...
2020-10-1328 minMental Health + Aging with Dr. Regina KoeppHow to Reduce the Risk of Dementia and Alzheimer's Disease - Interview with Dr. Vonetta Dotson#028 - Caregivers often approach me with the question: "my parent had dementia, does that mean I'll get it too?"Today on the podcast, our favorite Neuropsychologist, Dr. Vonetta Dotson, is back to talk with us about genetic risk for dementia and reminds us that even if you have an increased risk for developing dementia, there's a lot that you can do to prevent it. Listen all the way through and you’ll learn several easy to use strategies you can start using today to reduce your risk of developing dementia. Here’s a sn...
2020-10-0740 minMental Health + Aging with Dr. Regina KoeppAging & Sexuality: Benefits & Barriers of Sex Among Seniors#027 - How well do you know your own assumptions, biases, and values when it comes to aging and sexuality? Have you taken much time to think about this? Let's take some time right now. After all, if you're not currently an older adult, I'm sure you aspire to become one and desire a healthy and happy life. And, If you're anything like most older adults, sex and sexuality will be a part of your older adulthood. So why not take a little time to learn about your future self? In this episode I t...
2020-09-2917 minMental Health + Aging with Dr. Regina KoeppIs Cannabis Use Safe for Older Adults? Interview with Dr. Peter Grinspoon#026 - Cannabis use, marijuana, and medical marijuana is becoming more and more acceptable and popular among older adults. In fact, millions of people are finding it useful for chronic pain, insomnia, anxiety, PTSD, fibromyalgia, colitis, and a wide variety of medical conditions. This is not, however, without controversy or side effects. I've even heard dementia caregivers giving CBD to their loved ones living with dementia to help manage insomnia and agitation. Admittedly, I am naive when it comes to cannabis use for any age group, and especially for...
2020-09-2345 minMental Health + Aging with Dr. Regina KoeppPsychological Assessment and Therapy with Older Adults: What to Expect in a First Session#025 - Older adults continue to experience mental health concerns as they age. Studies show that when older adults do engage in mental health care, the vast majority of the time they get better. Here's the tragedy: older adults do not readily pursue mental health care when they need it and as a result are left to suffer needlessly, and sadly have the highest rates of suicide. My hope is that this episode will demystify the process of going to therapy and build a bridge from suffering to healing. I...
2020-09-1630 minMental Health + Aging with Dr. Regina KoeppOlder Adults and Suicide: What You Can Do to Help#024 - In honor Suicide Prevention Week, I'm devoting today's podcast episode to older adults and suicide. More specifically, what puts older adults at risk of suicide and how you can help.You may be surprised to hear that older White men over 85 are at the greatest risk and have the highest rates of suicide - more than any other age group. But, here’s the thing, older adults are too often left out of conversations when it comes to simple things like assessing for depression, assessing for suicide, and then connecting old...
2020-09-0928 minMental Health + Aging with Dr. Regina KoeppWhen Caregivers Have Chronic Medical Illness of Their Own - with Dr. Kandi Schmidt#023 - What if the caregiver has chronic and life threatening illnesses of their own? How does this change the caregiving dynamic? To help answer this question, I invited my dear friend, Dr. Kandi Schmidt on the podcast to share her wisdom about this complex situation of caring for an older loved one when you yourself have a chronic or life threatening illness. Dr. Kandi Schmidt is the Director of Transplant Behavioral Health at Emory University School of Medicine and an Assistant Professor in the Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences at th...
2020-08-2637 minMental Health + Aging with Dr. Regina Koepp5 Facts You Should Know about Dementia Caregiving#022 - I hear from caregivers pretty regularly that "nobody really understands how hard caring for a loved one with dementia is!"So, I decided to share some facts about dementia caregivers in the hopes that it will provide some understanding and support for the dementia caregiver's journey!If you're caring for somebody with dementia, I see you and I value what you're doing. Please, please, please take care of yourself because we know that depression and anxiety and stress and strain will not only affect your, your sense of self and well-being, it will affect...
2020-08-1909 minMental Health + Aging with Dr. Regina KoeppCombat Ageism and Become an Older Person in Training - with Ashton Applewhite#021 - Since COVID started, I have received several emails from people who care about older adults expressing concern for them. Like, a college professor who reached out to me to express concern that her father, who is a physician, made the decision to leave retirement to return to work in a medical clinic during COVID. She shared with me that she was appalled and went so far as to call his medical practice and complain.There have been countless ageist expressions since the coronavirus started. And the problem with ageism, even well-meaning ageism, is that it has...
2020-08-1056 minMental Health + Aging with Dr. Regina KoeppCOVID-19 Health Disparities among African American and Latinx Seniors - with Dr. Monique Williams#020 - With COVID rates on the rise, and African American and Latinx folks 2-3 times more likely to have COVID than White Americans, I wanted to bring an expert on the podcast today to share a little bit about why there is this health disparity and what we can do to reduce this disparity, protect ourselves, our families, and strengthen our community in the midst of COVID. Before we get started, I want to acknowledge that COVID is lasting longer than many of us anticipated. If you're an older adult, or caring for an older a...
2020-08-0543 minMental Health + Aging with Dr. Regina KoeppIs Dementia a Normal Part of Aging?#019 - Have you ever thought: "Of course they have dementia, they're old, right?" or "We all get dementia at some point, don't we?"These statements about older adults make the assumption that with aging comes serious cognitive problems, like dementia! But, these ideas are actually not supported by science and in fact, are a myth.In today’s episode, I answer the question...Is Dementia a Normal Part of Aging? Here's a peak in side the episode:[02:28] If dementia is not a normal part of aging, wh...
2020-07-2913 minMental Health + Aging with Dr. Regina Koepp7 Benefits of Early Diagnosis of Dementia#018 - Witnessing memory problems in your loved one can be really scary. You may wonder what's causing the memory problems and you might find yourself fearing the worst.In today's episode, I set the record straight about the benefits to early detection of dementia disorders. There's actually a lot that we can do to make your life and your loved ones life with dementia easier- early detection helps.I do want to share that while there are many benefits to early detection of dementia, there is indeed a downside to knowing...
2020-07-2217 minMental Health + Aging with Dr. Regina KoeppNoticing Signs of Memory Loss? 5 Next Steps#017 - Last week, I talked about the 10 "must know" memory loss warning signs. If you missed that episode, listen to this one, then go back and watch that one. Today I'm going to share the 5 steps to take if you're worried that your loved one has memory loss. Please know that memory loss and memory problems that get in the way of daily life are NOT a normal part of aging. So, please take your concerns seriously by learning more about the 10 must know memory loss warning signs and which steps to take when you're c...
2020-07-1517 minMental Health + Aging with Dr. Regina KoeppKnow the 10 Memory Loss Warning Signs#016 - In today's episode of the Psychology of Aging Podcast, I share 10 Memory Loss Warning Signs to let you know that you might want to start the conversation with your loved one about memory loss and make an appointment with their doctor for further evaluation. Let me start by saying that there are common changes in the brain that come with age and growing older. And then there are changes with the brain that are not common and are more concerning. I'll discuss the difference between normal changes in the brain that h...
2020-07-0819 minMental Health + Aging with Dr. Regina KoeppOlder Adult Refusing To Go To the Doctor? Try These 5 Expert Tips#015 - You care about your older loved one so much and for some reason, they're just not listening to you and your pleas for them to go to the doctor. You try and you try, but nothing you say is convincing your older loved one that whatever is going on in their body is worth checking out. In today's episode of the Psychology of Aging Podcast, I share 5 strategies for helping your older loved one to go to the doctor when they're refusing. Here's a peak inside the episode:[03:05] If yo...
2020-07-0120 minMental Health + Aging with Dr. Regina KoeppThe Unique Needs of LGTBQ Caregivers - with SAGE's Tim Johnston, PhD#014 - If you're a caregiver, you know that caregiving can be rewarding and incredibly challenging, all at the same time. If you're an LGBTQ caregiver, you'll have some unique challenges that straight caregivers don't typically have. Some of these being that LGTBQ Caregivers experience more isolation while caregiving and have poorer mental and physical health in the long run. Here's the good news... we can improve this. This episode will share many resources and tips for helping LGTBQ caregivers live their best lives in the midst of caregiving. I want you to have th...
2020-06-2427 minMental Health + Aging with Dr. Regina KoeppEnhancing Care for LGTBQ Seniors - with SAGE's Tim Johnston, PhD#013 - Get ready for the confetti because it's Pride!!How do Pride and the Psychology of Aging fit together? Well, let me tell you, there are an estimated more than 3 million LGBTQ folks over 50 living in the US. This number is expected to more than double to 7 million by 2030. Today, I am delighted to interview Dr. Tim Johnston, the Senior Director of National Projects at SAGE. In this role, Dr. Johnston oversees the SAGECare cultural competency training program, and national partnerships with other advocacy organizations. Dr. Johnston is the author of Welcoming LGBT R...
2020-06-1643 min