Last week, a therapist told me about her client, an 82-year-old woman who hadn’t had more than 6 hours of sleep in years. “It’s just part of getting older,” the woman sighed. But here’s the truth—fatigue isn’t a normal part of aging, and chronic…

Does moderate drinking increase dementia risk? Here’s what the science says—and what you can do to support brain health in later life. If you’ve ever been told that “a little wine is good for you,” you might want to hear what the latest science says—especially…

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.  …

  Have you ever felt rejuvenated after a day spent outdoors, perhaps gardening or simply enjoying a walk in the woods? Recently, nature has been my much needed therapy.   In today’s episode, I’ll share how my own journey into the world of gardening and…

Aging and intimacy often bring forth various misconceptions. Dive into the latest episode of our “Psychology of Aging Podcast” where we unmask the reality of love and sexual health for older adults. Inspired by the heartfelt journey of Gerry from the popular “Golden Bachelor” series,…

I 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…

Researchers 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,…

According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the average American spends only 7% of their entire life outdoors. Spending instead, 93% of their life indoors, including 87% of their life is inside buildings or homes, then another 6% of life in automobiles. This statistic is…

When 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…

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,…

Caregivers often approach me with the question: “my parent had dementia, does that mean I’ll get it too?” It’s a scary thing to devote years of your life caring for a loved one with dementia and all the while wonder if you will end up…

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…