Do you regularly screen for depression in the older adults you work with? Do you know which screening tools are best to use with older adults? With adults with mild cognitive impairment? With adults with moderate to severe dementia? No worries! I got you covered.…

Are older adults really lonelier than young people? You might be surprised by the answer. In this episode of The Psychology of Aging, we uncover the complex truth about loneliness and isolation in older adults—and why their impact is far more dangerous than many realize.…

Have you ever wondered what really happens after someone is scammed out of $25,000? Not only the steps to take after you’ve been scammed, but the psychological toll?  A couple weeks ago, I received an email from a listener asking for help—resources for older adults…

  Our attitudes about sexuality & aging may influence an older adults’ sexual health. Researchers¹ have found that sex among older adults is often viewed as stereotypically “shameful, disgusting, laughable, and nonexistent”, which can lead to internalized stigma and increased sexual problems for older adults.…

The First Sign I Was Experiencing Vicarious Trauma I am so glad that you’re here and joining me for part two of Trauma-Informed Care with Older Adults. Today’s episode focuses on you—the professional in your role of providing care and services to older adults.  …

When we think about trauma, older adults are often not the first group that comes to mind. However, 70-90% of older adults have experienced a traumatic event in their lifetime, and they are particularly vulnerable to medical trauma. Trauma-informed care is essential for supporting aging…

Did you know that 20-22% of older adults have a mental health condition like depression, anxiety, or substance use disorder—yet most go undetected and untreated? This isn’t because these conditions aren’t treatable, but because systemic barriers, misconceptions, and a lack of professional training make it…

What if joy isn’t something we find, but something we create—especially in life’s hardest moments?   In this episode of The Psychology of Aging Podcast, award-winning journalist and bestselling author Steven Petrow returns to share insights from his newest book, The Joy You Make.  …

  Your Hidden Biases May Be Harming Your Clients.   Have 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…

If you’re committed to meeting the mental health needs of older adults, this episode is for you.   In 2024, we saw some incredible advancements in mental health research for older adults—insights that can shape how you practice and care for this underserved population.  …

    Imagine 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…

There 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…