Celebrating Aging with Expert Dr. Lucy Pollock: Expert Dr. Lucy Pollock encourages us to celebrate aging, shift our perspective on caring for the elderly, and offers insights from her book 'The Book About Getting Older'.
Flexibility is important, whether it's in our yoga practice or in our health insurance plans. During this episode of the Lazar Well-being Show, we discussed aging with expert Dr. Lucy Pollock. She shared her journey from a young medical student to a trusted expert in caring for the elderly. Dr. Pollock emphasized the importance of treating aging as something to be celebrated rather than feared. Her book, "The Book About Getting Older," addresses the need for a shift in how we relate to and care for the frail and elderly. Meanwhile, for those looking for a meaningful Mother's Day gift, Blue Nile offers a wide selection of beautiful jewelry with fast shipping and free returns. And for those seeking flexible and budget-friendly health insurance, UnitedHealthcare Insurance Plans underwritten by Golden Rule Insurance Company may be an option to explore.
The Blossoming Importance of Geriatric Medicine: Geriatric medicine is a competitive field that focuses on complex care for elderly patients, requiring a holistic approach and teamwork.
Geriatric medicine, once considered a Cinderella specialty, has blossomed into an important and competitive field of medicine. It's not defined by age but by need, and geriatricians help people with complex and multiple conditions, often involving both physical and mental health. Geriatric medicine requires a holistic approach, considering every aspect of a patient's life, from their medications to their ability to manage at home. It's a team-based specialty that attracts brilliant and interesting individuals, and it's essential to challenge stereotypes about the elderly and frail, recognizing their individuality and unique needs.
Respecting Older Adults: Language and Interaction Matter: Using respectful language, getting names right, understanding emotions, addressing loneliness, and using technology are ways to foster respect and inclusion for older adults.
The language we use and the way we interact with older adults are crucial in fostering respect and inclusion. The term "fiercely independent," while seemingly positive, can come across as dismissive when an older adult refuses advice. It's essential to get names right and be mindful of using appropriate titles and forms of address. Misunderstanding emotions, such as assuming an older adult is upset when they're actually angry, can lead to miscommunication. The issue of loneliness and isolation among older adults is a significant concern, and the societal structures that contribute to this issue affect us all. During the COVID-19 pandemic, it's more important than ever to use technology to connect with older adults, be neighborly, and ensure they feel included. By taking small steps, such as using technology, being attentive to language, and checking in on older adults, we can help bridge the gap and create a more inclusive society.
Noticing changes in elderly parents' behavior: Stay alert for signs of neglect, forgetfulness, and isolation in elderly parents, but remember that these alone don't necessarily indicate a problem, and consider the possibility of happiness as they age.
As we age, we may notice changes in our elderly parents' behavior that could be early signs of cognitive decline or depression. These signs can include neglecting household chores, forgetting social arrangements, and becoming more isolated. It's essential to remember that these signs alone don't necessarily indicate a problem, but they could be warning signals that require further attention. Additionally, research suggests that people tend to get happier as they age, which might explain why we often overlook their quality of life. Despite the challenges of balancing work, family, and elder care, it's crucial to keep an eye out for these signs and ensure that our elderly loved ones receive the care and support they need.
Having a difficult conversation about driving with older adults: Approach the subject with care, most older adults are aware when they should stop driving. If necessary, involve a GP and report to DVLA for assessment.
Older adults are often happier and more contented than we may assume. However, there comes a time when we may need to have a difficult conversation with an older loved one about their driving abilities. This conversation can be tricky and may need to be had multiple times. It's important to approach the subject with care and consideration, as most people are aware of when they should stop driving. If the conversation needs to be had due to an accident or a medical condition, it may be necessary to involve a GP. However, GPs cannot force someone to stop driving, and they are bound by confidentiality rules. In such cases, family members may need to report the individual to the DVLA if they believe it is necessary for their safety and the safety of others on the road. The DVLA takes these reports seriously and will arrange for a fair driving assessment if there is sufficient concern.
Navigating difficult conversations and understanding cognitive impairments, two essential aspects of everyday life: Anonymity can help resolve stubborn situations, UnitedHealthcare TriTerm Medical Plans offer flexible coverage, Alzheimer's is a collection of symptoms with no good medication, 1800 Flowers offers heartfelt gifts, Bombas donates clothing, Quince offers affordable fashion, and Giggly Squad's Paige DeSorba introduces ethical manufacturing brands
While there are various ways to handle difficult conversations, sometimes anonymity might be necessary for resolving particularly stubborn situations. Meanwhile, in other aspects of life, there are constants such as the need for health insurance. UnitedHealthcare TriTerm Medical Plans offer flexible, budget-friendly coverage for those in between jobs or missed open enrollment. Regarding cognitive impairment, it's essential to understand that dementia is a collection of symptoms, not a single illness, and Alzheimer's is the most common cause. Alzheimer's patients can live normal, happy lives with support, and there are various types of dementia. Unfortunately, there is no good medication for Alzheimer's yet. Moreover, there are companies like 1800 Flowers, providing heartfelt gifts for special occasions, and Bombas, offering comfortable clothing with every purchase donating another to those in need. Brands like Quince offer high-quality fashion at affordable prices, and Giggly Squad's Paige DeSorba introduces Quince, a brand that prioritizes ethical and responsible manufacturing. In summary, handling difficult conversations, understanding cognitive impairments, and discovering new brands that cater to various needs are essential aspects of everyday life.
Ensuring an accurate Alzheimer's diagnosis is crucial for effective treatment: Accurately diagnosing Alzheimer's is important for receiving effective treatment. Engage in mentally stimulating activities, maintain an active lifestyle, address hearing problems, and ensure continued intellectual engagement to support brain health.
While there are medications licensed for Alzheimer's disease, they don't work for everyone and their effects are not permanent. Therefore, it's crucial to ensure an accurate diagnosis, as other conditions, such as menopause, could mimic symptoms. Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) can help some women, but it's not for everyone. Engaging in mentally stimulating activities, like crosswords and Sudokus, and maintaining an active lifestyle are essential for brain health. Addressing hearing problems can also contribute to maintaining cognitive abilities. Overall, a varied life and continued intellectual engagement are key to counteracting the intellectual faculties' reduction that can occur due to isolation or other circumstances.
The importance of addressing end-of-life care during the pandemic: During the pandemic, open conversations about end-of-life care are crucial for improving quality of life and reducing burdens on individuals and families. The absence of physical touch adds to the challenges, but addressing these topics can provide comfort and clarity.
During the pandemic, technology has simplified communication for many, especially for those with hearing difficulties. However, the lack of physical touch and difficult conversations about end-of-life care are challenges that must not be overlooked. While we may avoid discussing death, having these conversations can greatly improve the quality of life for individuals and their families. The power of touch is essential for comfort and clear thinking, and its absence during the pandemic has been devastating for some. The importance of addressing end-of-life care through open conversations cannot be overstated, as it can lift a significant burden from the shoulders of those involved.
Having open conversations about end-of-life wishes is crucial: Older adults should discuss end-of-life wishes, prompted by life events, using hypotheticals. Courage and right words are key. Legal documents can help record firm views.
Having open and honest conversations about end-of-life wishes and plans is important, and these conversations should happen more often. These conversations can be prompted by various life events, and it's essential not to avoid them. Older people may want to initiate these conversations but don't know how. Finding the right words to start the conversation is crucial. These conversations require courage and can be eased by discussing hypothetical scenarios. While it's not necessary to have legal documents like living wills and Do Not Resuscitate orders present during these conversations, they can be helpful in ensuring that firm views are recorded. The primary goal is to have the conversation itself, which can bring relief to both patients and their families. Advanced care plans, treatment escalation plans, advanced decisions to refuse treatment, and advanced statements are all related terms used in discussions about end-of-life care.
Understanding Different End-of-Life Planning Documents: Each document (living will, power of attorney, advance directive, and will) has a unique purpose in end-of-life planning. It's vital to know which one to use and discuss preferences with loved ones to alleviate burden during distressing times.
It's important for individuals to understand the difference between various end-of-life planning documents and make their preferences known to their loved ones. These documents include a living will, power of attorney, advance directive, and a will. Each document serves a distinct purpose, and it's crucial to know which one to use in specific situations. For instance, a living will outlines your healthcare wishes, while a power of attorney grants someone the authority to manage your financial affairs. An advance directive, on the other hand, appoints a healthcare proxy to make medical decisions on your behalf if you become incapacitated. Lastly, a will distributes your assets after your death. Creating these documents can be an emotional process, but it's essential to have these conversations with your family. By doing so, you can alleviate the burden of making difficult decisions during a distressing time. The author's book offers guidance, templates, and real-life stories to help individuals navigate this process. Moreover, discussing end-of-life planning can also serve as an opportunity to have open conversations about death and dying. It's essential to remember that death is inevitable, and planning for it can bring peace of mind and ensure that your wishes are respected. By having these conversations, families can create a shared experience and build a sense of unity and understanding.
Celebrating the Joy of Old Age: Focus on the positives and embrace the joy of old age as a time for personal growth and spending time with loved ones, rather than a time of worry and hand-wringing.
Old age should be celebrated as a bonus period in life filled with joy and opportunities for personal growth, rather than a time of hand-wringing and worry. As the speaker in this conversation emphasized, people didn't live long enough to retire and enjoy their golden years a century ago. Now, with longer lifespans, we have the chance to pursue hobbies, spend time with loved ones, and witness the growth of grandchildren. It's essential to focus on the positives and be grateful for the extra years, while also being mindful of those who haven't had the same opportunity. The speaker's book, which explores these ideas further, is an important reminder to embrace the joy and longevity of old age. Overall, the conversation emphasized the importance of a positive mindset and appreciation for the extra time we're given in life.
Ideal for life transitions: UnitedHealthcare's short term insurance plans offer flexible, budget-friendly coverage during job changes, aging out, or starting a business, with access to a vast network of healthcare providers.
UnitedHealthcare's short term insurance plans are ideal for individuals who find themselves in transition periods of their lives, such as job changes, aging out of parental coverage, or starting a full-time business. These plans, underwritten by Golden Rule Insurance Company, offer flexible and budget-friendly coverage with the convenience of access to a vast network of doctors and hospitals across the nation. UnitedHealthcare's short term plans can provide peace of mind during these transitional times, ensuring that individuals have access to necessary healthcare services when they need it most. For more information, visit uhone.com.
Getting older with Dr Lucy Pollock
Recent Episodes from The Liz Earle Wellbeing Show
Is ultra-processed food changing your brain? - with Lucinda Miller
Are ultra-processed foods affecting our brain health? Family naturopath and functional medicine practitioner Lucinda Miller joins Liz on this podcast to reveal how what we put into our mouths influences what happens in our brains.
Lucinda talks Liz through the links between ultra-processed foods and how they may affect our character, attention and behaviour. Plus, they discuss the emerging science surrounding the genetic components of conditions such as ADHD.
And Lucinda also reveals the key foods for brain health and overall wellbeing for ourselves, our children and our grandchildren. This episode also explores the potential benefits of botanicals such as saffron and lion's mane for neurodivergent brains.
Links mentioned in the episode:
- Follow Lucinda on Instagram
- Visit the Nature Doc website
- Purchase Brain Brilliance by Lucinda Miller
- Purchase A Better Second Half by Liz Earle
- Email us your questions at podcast@lizearlewellbeing.com
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Are you drinking too much alcohol in midlife? - with Dr Nzinga Harrison
With one in three women saying they drink more alcohol since becoming peri or menopausal, Dr Nzinga Harrison joins Liz on this podcast to share why she wants us to rethink what we know about drug and alcohol addiction.
In this episode, Nzinga, who is board-certified in psychiatry and addiction medicine, talks Liz through why the menopause may alter our relationship with alcohol, and emphasises that addiction is treatable and chronic, rather than being a choice or a moral failure.
Nzinga shares a four-question screener known as CAGE, which you can do yourself to identify whether you may be struggling with addiction.
They also cover how we can best support our loved ones through addiction and why language matters here.
Links mentioned in the episode:
- Buy Un-Addiction by Nzinga Harrison
- Visit Nzinga's website
- Follow Nzinga on Instagram
- Visit the Eleanor Health website
- Purchase A Better Second Half by Liz Earle
- Email us your questions at podcast@lizearlewellbeing.com
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Peptides for skincare, longevity and weight loss, with Nathalie Niddam
You might be familiar with peptides as a skincare ingredient. But what about for reversing biological ageing? Nathalie Niddam, certified holistic nutritionist and epigenetic coach, joins Liz to take a deep dive into the fascinating science of peptides, and how they can help our current and future health.
Nathalie walks Liz through different kinds of peptides and each of their extraordinary benefits - from wound healing to protecting our organs. Liz and Nathalie also discuss peptide weight loss drugs such as Ozempic, plus what benefits they can have for our complexion.
Links mentioned in the episode:
- Follow Nathalie on Instagram
- Listen to Nathalie's podcast, Longevity
- Visit Nathalie's website
- Purchase A Better Second Half by Liz Earle
- Email us your questions at podcast@lizearlewellbeing.com
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Is your thyroid to blame for weight gain? – with Dr Amie Hornaman
You will have heard of menopause, but what about thyroid-pause? Dr Amie Hornaman, who is known as the thyroid fixer, joins Liz to help midlife women with thyroid issues get their lives back.
Amie shares her own experience of thyroid problems, and walks us through common indicators that you may have an underactive or overactive thyroid, such as weight struggles, hair changes or brain fog.
And Amie also reveals why thyroid issues are far more common in midlife than you might think, and shares lifestyle changes that may help here.
Links mentioned in the episode:
- Follow Amie on Instagram
- Purchase A Better Second Half by Liz Earle
- Email us your questions at podcast@lizearlewellbeing.com
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
The truth about pelvic pain and menopause, with Dr Karen Tang
Did you know that 90% of women experience menstrual abnormalities or pelvic problems in their lifetime? Gynaecologist Dr Karen Tang joins Liz to share why any pain you're feeling in your pelvic area deserves to be taken seriously.
Karen reveals the reasons why we just don't know the causes of common gynaecological conditions like endometriosis and polycystic ovary syndrome (also known as PCOS). Liz and Karen highlight medical misogyny and how we can better advocate for ourselves
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Plus, Karen also talks through the signs and symptoms of fibroids, pelvic floor dysfunction, and how all of these common issues are affected by the menopause.
Links mentioned in the episode:
- Buy It's Not Hysteria by Dr Karen Tang
- Follow Karen on Instagram
- Visit Karen's website
- Purchase A Better Second Half by Liz Earle
- Email us your questions at podcast@lizearlewellbeing.com
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
The secret to slowing ageing, with Sandra Kaufmann
Want to delay the ageing process? Longevity physician Sandra Kaufmann reveals how we can protect our bodies from cellular ageing and promote longevity.
In this episode, Liz and Sandra take a deep dive into how our bodies age and whether we can reverse cellular ageing.
Sandra reveals the supplements she uses to turn back the clock, calm inflammation - and even avoid a hangover from alcohol.
Meanwhile Liz questions whether there are any downsides to ‘bio-hacking’.
Links mentioned in the episode:
- Follow Sandra on Instagram
- Visit the Kaufmann Protocol website
- Purchase A Better Second Half by Liz Earle
- Email us your questions at podcast@lizearlewellbeing.com
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Supplements you need in midlife, with Liz Earle
Liz Earle sits down to answer YOUR questions on which supplements you need in midlife - from magnesium to creatine and B vitamins to iron.
In this episode, Liz gives advice to Tracey on whether midlife women really need supplements and reveals her non-negotiables here, plus answers Emma's question on why creatine is a staple in her morning coffee.
Liz also delves into magnesium to help Sarah pick the right type for her, and shares pointers with Paula to ensure she's getting enough iron in midlife.
The episode also answers Susie and Caroline's queries on B vitamins and testing.
Have a burning question for Liz? Get in touch at podcast@lizearlewellbeing.com
- For a full list of links mentioned in the episode and Liz's favourite supplements head to: www.lizearlewellbeing.com/podcast/the-supplements-you-need-in-midlife-with-liz-earle
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
How much protein midlife women really need, with Caoileann Murphy
Are you struggling to hit your protein goals or confused by how much to aim for? Registered dietician Caoileann Murphy joins Liz to lift the lid on whether we really need to eat more protein in midlife to promote healthy ageing.
Caoileann reveals the best protein sources for meat eaters and those following a plant-based diet, and why it is more than just our muscles that need this macronutrient.
She also shares a simple sum to help you work out your personal protein goal and gives her take on protein powders.
Plus, Liz and Caoileann discuss how we can prevent and even reverse sarcopenia, and they answer questions from the audience on portion size and getting enough protein through the day.
Links mentioned in the episode:
- Purchase A Better Second Half by Liz Earle
- Email us your questions at podcast@lizearlewellbeing.com
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Eat to beat disease in midlife, with Aaron Deere
Confused by midlife nutrition? Nutritionist Aaron Deere joins Liz to set the record straight with simple and effective advice for eating well in midlife to help us age well, lose weight and feel great.
Aaron shares just how much of an impact diet can have on longevity, and the key nutrients we need to prioritise for our muscles, bones and brains.
He also reveals the importance of fibre and plant diversity in our diets - plus why intermittent fasting might even be hindering us here - and the other lifestyle factors that are impacting our midlife nutritional needs, like sleep and stress.
Liz and Aaron also cover menopausal weight gain and exercise for longevity.
Links mentioned in the episode:
- Visit the Hooke website
- Follow Aaron Deere on Instagram
- Purchase A Better Second Half by Liz Earle
- Email us your questions at podcast@lizearlewellbeing.com
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
What your sex life might be missing, with Charlene Douglas
Does talking about sex make you uncomfortable? Psychodynamic and psychosexual therapist Charlene Douglas joins Liz on this podcast to reveal why we’re so afraid about seeking help for our sex lives.
Charlene, who you may recognise as the therapist from Married At First Sight UK, shares why we should really interrogate our relationship with sex and consider therapy, plus she shares the one thing that will improve your sex life.
Liz and Charlene also discuss why pleasure is often left out of the conversations about sex (especially during sex education), whether there is ever a place for pornography, and common issues couples come up against in their sex lives in midlife.
Links mentioned in the episode:
- Purchase Come Closer: Everything You Ever Wanted to Ask a Sex and Relationship Therapist
- Follow Charlene Douglas on Instagram
- Purchase A Better Second Half by Liz Earle
- Email us your questions at podcast@lizearlewellbeing.com
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Related Episodes
What to Expect Along the Alzheimer's Journey with Loretta Veney
In 2006, Loretta Veney's mom was diagnosed with dementia. She immediately began learning everything she could about the disease and becoming an advocate for her mom in the process.
Loretta is the author of Being My Mom’s Mom, Refreshment for the Caregiver’s Spirit, and Colors Flowing from My Mind. Loretta and her Mom have been featured in articles in the Wall Street Journal, Psychology Today, The Washington Post, The NY Times, AARP Caregiver Stories, as well as a PBS special. In 2019, Loretta was selected as Trailblazer of the Year by Johns Hopkins Medicine. Loretta and her Mom have been selected as one of Robin Roberts Thriver Thursdays profiles for 2021. She shares her positivity with us, her humor, and what she has learned along the Alzheimer's journey. Her personal story and perspective are encouraging as we learn more about dementia and talk about her impactful work with Lego bricks and caregivers.
Loretta Veney shares about:
*Alzheimer's and the various dementia terms
*Loretta's story and what to expect along the Alzheimer's journey
*How families can be set up for success and look at various stages of care
*Her important work with Lego bricks- how they create connection and meaningful conversation
*Her encouragement and positivity moves caregivers to action and confidence
For more information visit: https://lorettaveney.com/
We are not medical professionals and are not providing any medical advice. If you have any medical questions, we recommend that you talk with a medical professional of your choice. willGather has taken care in selecting its speakers but the opinions of our speakers are theirs alone. Thank you for your continued interest in our podcasts.
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Nicole Will is our host and founder of willGather.
S2:E7: Why Independent Living Never Hires Me!
I've been in the senior living biz for a while now...so why haven't I ever worked with an independent living company? Find out in this episode, sponsored by FlyingAngels.com! And hey, if you're an IL looking to change it up, send me an email at rachael@dementiabyday.com — Here's the link to join my next free webinar for sales and marketing teams!
https://mailchi.mp/9b45b131360b/dementiacaremarketing
Are you enjoying my podcast? Please rate & review! Learn more about how I can help your organization here: https://rachaelwonderlin.com/workwithme/
29. Don't Turn A Blind Eye
On previous episode number 28, "Markers of the Heart" touched on the truth about advocating for ourselves. This week's episode number 29 continues with that topic as Mary Anne Oglesby-Sutherly and Sue Duffield discuss how to support and advocate for those living with dementia and the aging population. As usual, something always sparks Mary Anne's desire to share the truth with honest concern of life lessons she has learned in her advocacy journey. This week is no exception. Discussion includes Mary Anne's new diagnosis of "non-specified dementia" and also the arrest of a gentleman with FTD and that family's horrific journey. It's very obvious that this culture needs better understanding for those living with dementia. Most of all, the realization is vital to find ways to advocate for our loved one's health, as well as our own. The end of this episode shows a little levity that always seems to work its way into the dialogue between Mary Anne and Sue. It's sort of like a therapeutic release so desperately needed when talking about some of the most difficult realities of aging.
www.verandaministries.org
Meet Karen and Melissa
Welcome to the first episode of Real Life Renos! Today Karen and Melissa introduce themselves to you. Learn why they are so passionate about renovations to buildings and to the way we think about how to move forward successfully.
Welcome to DebTalks
Welcome to DebTalks. Listen in. This quick episode tells you what we are all about.