When someone is living with both dementia and PTSD, their needs are complex—but support is still possible, and it can make a world of difference.In this episode, I share what I’ve learned as a geropsychologist working with veterans and older adults navigating both cognitive impairment and trauma. You’ll discover:When trauma therapy can still be effective in the early stages of dementia.How dementia progression changes what’s possible for PTSD treatment.The importance of identifying and minimizing unique trauma triggers.Practical strategies to reduce distress at home or in memory care.Why moving someone because they’re “too difficult” can do more harm than good—and how to respond instead.You’ll also hear real stories from my clinical work and gain trauma-informed approaches you can start using right away to improve quality of life for people living with dementia and PTSD.If you’ve ever wondered how to balance mental health care with dementia care, this conversation will give you the clarity, compassion, and tools you need.Click here to link to show notes and resourcesHave a topic idea? Send us a text. PROFESSIONALS: Grab your free guide to working with older adults here Attention Social Workers, Therapists, Counselors, Psychologists, Aging Life Care Experts... Click here to get Continuing Education Credits

Can Unresolved Trauma Increase Dementia Risk?Trauma doesn’t just leave emotional scars—it can change the brain. And when post-traumatic stress goes untreated, the risk for dementia later in life rises.In this episode of my mental health and dementia series, I explore how trauma and PTSD intersect with brain health. Drawing from decades of research and my years working with older veterans, I break down why unresolved trauma increases vulnerability to dementia disorders and what clinicians can do to help.This conversation isn’t just about understanding risk—it’s about hope. Trauma treatment works at any age, and healing now doesn’t only restore quality of life today, it also protects the brain for tomorrow.3 Key Takeaways from This Episode1⃣ Trauma raises dementia risk. Landmark studies show veterans with PTSD have double the risk of dementia, and depression or anxiety tied to trauma can increase dementia risk even decades later.2⃣ The body keeps the score. Trauma heightens cortisol and inflammation, which damage the heart and brain. What’s bad for the heart is bad for the brain.3⃣ Treatment protects the brain. Trauma therapy in older adulthood restores quality of life now and strengthens brain health and autonomy for the future.What You’ll Learn in This Episode:Why PTSD symptoms often reemerge in older adulthood, especially after retirement, health changes, or loss.The science behind how trauma affects brain physiology—cortisol, inflammation, and cardiovascular health—and why that matters for dementia risk.Landmark studies linking PTSD, depression, anxiety, and racism-related stress to dementia.Why trauma often goes undetected in older adults—and how ageism can stop clinicians from asking the right questions.Five trauma-informed strategies to support older adults, reduce suffering now, and protect brain health for the future.Click here to see the show notes and get all resources mentioned in this episode. Download your free Trauma Informed Care Guide hereHave a topic idea? Send us a text. PROFESSIONALS: Grab your free guide to working with older adults here Attention Social Workers, Therapists, Counselors, Psychologists, Aging Life Care Experts... Click here to get Continuing Education Credits

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 sleep problems may be quietly raising her risk for dementia. As professionals, we can no longer shrug off insomnia in older adults. The stakes are simply too high. In this episode, I reveal the powerful connection between chronic sleep problems and dementia risk—and why ignoring insomnia symptoms can have lasting consequences for brain health.Here's What You'll Learn In This Episode:Why half of older adults report insomnia symptoms (even if they don’t meet full diagnostic criteria)How sleep architecture changes with age—and why that’s not the same as insomniaThe role of deep sleep in clearing beta amyloid, consolidating memory, and regulating emotionsThree major research studies linking short sleep duration to higher dementia riskFive practical steps you can take to assess and improve sleep in older adultsWhy Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia (CBT-I) is the gold standard, especially for people 65+The dangers of common over-the-counter sleep aids for older adultsHow collaborating with primary care and sleep medicine providers can change outcomesAs professionals, we hold the keys to better brain health in aging—often starting with something as simple, yet essential, as quality sleep.Click here to go to show notes and get resources on sleep and aging.  Have a topic idea? Send us a text. 👉 Want to Become an Aging Informed Therapist? Join us for our live CE course on 8/21/25 from 12-1:30pm EST. Click here to learn more. PROFESSIONALS: Grab your free guide to working with older adults here Attention Social Workers, Therapists, Counselors, Psychologists, Aging Life Care Experts... Click here to get Continuing Education Credits

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 when it comes to the aging brain.In this episode, I share compelling new research showing that even moderate alcohol use in midlife and later life may significantly increase the risk of dementia. I’ll walk you through why alcohol use in older adults often goes undetected, how it impacts brain health, and the exact screening tools and questions I use—and that you can use too—to spot red flags early.This isn’t about scare tactics. It’s about equipping you with the facts, the tools, and the confidence to support safer, healthier aging. Whether you’re a therapist, care manager, or simply someone who wants to protect your own brain health, you’ll come away knowing why there may be no safe level of alcohol when it comes to dementia prevention.What You’ll Learn in This Episode:1⃣ The brain changes alcohol accelerates—from memory loss to neurotransmitter disruption. 2⃣ Why “invisible” alcohol misuse often goes undetected in later life—and how to spot it. 3⃣ Three screening tools every clinician should know: SMAST-G, AUDIT-C, and CAGE Questionnaire.4⃣The good news: Older adults can recover—and often have better treatment outcomes than younger adults when care is tailored to them.Click here to get all of the resources mentioned in this episode hereIf you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with a colleague or friend. Together, we’re building a movement for mental health and aging—because there is no expiration date on healing, transformation, and growth.Have a topic idea? Send us a text. 👉 Want to Become an Aging Informed Therapist? Join us for our live CE course on 8/21/25 from 12-1:30pm EST. Click here to learn more. PROFESSIONALS: Grab your free guide to working with older adults here Attention Social Workers, Therapists, Counselors, Psychologists, Aging Life Care Experts... Click here to get Continuing Education Credits

Anxiety increases dementia risk by 24% (about the same rate as diabetes) —but treatment for anxiety corrects this. Learn why early detection and treatment in older adults is critical to brain health.In this episode, I unpack the groundbreaking connection between anxiety and dementia. You’ll learn why anxiety is not a normal part of aging—and why your role as a therapist, social worker, psychologist, or aging life care expert is critical in reducing long-term cognitive decline.You’ll walk away with four actionable steps you can take to make a meaningful difference in the lives of older clients—and possibly prevent dementia in the process.This isn't just about reducing symptoms. It's about restoring dignity, peace of mind, and protecting brain health—now and for years to come.Here’s what you’ll learn: ✅ How anxiety affects the aging brain and increases dementia risk ✅ Why anxiety is often missed or misdiagnosed in older adults ✅ How to screen, normalize, and treat anxiety in therapy ✅ The importance of collaborative care and early detection ✅ How you can adapt your practice to better serve older clients👉 Get the full list of research and clinical tools I mention here: https://www.mentalhealthandaging.com/podcast/anxiety-dementia-what-therapists-must-know/Have a topic idea? Send us a text. 👉 Want to Become an Aging Informed Therapist? Join us for our live CE course on 8/21/25 from 12-1:30pm EST. Click here to learn more. PROFESSIONALS: Grab your free guide to working with older adults here Attention Social Workers, Therapists, Counselors, Psychologists, Aging Life Care Experts... Click here to get Continuing Education Credits

The Hidden Link Between Depression and DementiaEvery time I sit with a client and help them move through depression, I know I’m not just helping them feel better in the moment—I may also be protecting their brain years down the road. That’s not just a hope—it’s science.In this episode, I’m diving into the powerful link between mental health treatment and dementia prevention. So many therapists don’t realize that untreated depression in midlife and later life increases the risk of dementia. But here’s the hopeful truth: when we treat depression, we don’t just reduce suffering—we may delay or even prevent cognitive decline.If you’re a therapist, this episode is a call to action. You have more power than you think to shape not just your client’s emotional well-being, but their cognitive future. I’ll walk you through the research, the biology, and—most importantly—what you can do right now to support your older clients in living full, vibrant, and connected lives. In This Episode, You’ll Learn:Why depression is a modifiable risk factor for dementiaWhat the latest research says about treating depression and reducing dementia riskHow therapy for depression improves mood, memory, and independenceWhy older adults are just as likely to benefit from therapy as other age groupsHow antidepressant treatment in people with mild cognitive impairment can delay dementiaWhat you can do for clients already living with dementia and depressionWhy your role as a therapist matters more than ever—and how to make a differenceVisit the show notes hereHave a topic idea? Send us a text. 👉 Want to Become an Aging Informed Therapist? Join us for our live CE course on 8/21/25 from 12-1:30pm EST. Click here to learn more. PROFESSIONALS: Grab your free guide to working with older adults here Attention Social Workers, Therapists, Counselors, Psychologists, Aging Life Care Experts... Click here to get Continuing Education Credits

If your 75-year-old client stops coming to therapy, it might not be them. It might be your approach.In this episode, I explore why therapy must evolve, just like people, with age. I share five powerful ways to evolve your practice to better serve older adults. While many therapists are trained to work with adults in general, most graduate and continuing education programs focus on midlife or younger adulthood, often excluding older adulthood entirely. The result is a significant gap in care.Therapy that resonates with younger adults can fall flat or even feel dismissive for older clients. When therapists don't adapt their approach, clients may feel unseen, misunderstood, or disengaged—not because they’re resistant, but because the therapy model doesn’t reflect their stage of life.This episode will help you recognize what shifts with age, why it matters in clinical practice, and how to modify your work for more effective and compassionate outcomes.What You’ll LearnWhy traditional therapy methods may not land with older adultsHow perceived time left in life shifts therapeutic goals and prioritiesWhat therapists often misunderstand about aging and mental healthHow to center meaning, wisdom, and resilience in your sessionsFive clinical adaptations you can start using right awayWant to learn more? Enroll in my upcoming 90min CE course on "Becoming an Aging-Informed Therapist" - Live July 22, 2025 See the show notes hereHave a topic idea? Send us a text. PROFESSIONALS: Grab your free guide to working with older adults here Attention Social Workers, Therapists, Counselors, Psychologists, Aging Life Care Experts... Click here to get Continuing Education Credits

Chronic pain isn’t just physical—it’s deeply emotional and psychological.And the connection between chronic pain and depression? It’s 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 just pain intensity, but emotional, relational, and financial strainHow the brain’s stress response amplifies both physical pain and emotional sufferingWhat research says about which comes first—pain or depression—and why it’s not always clear-cutHow chronic pain affects sleep, cognition, and identity, creating a vicious cycle of distressThe essential role of therapists trained in chronic pain in breaking this cycleWhat to look for in a therapist who can truly support someone living with chronic pain Whether you’re a therapist, psychologist, social worker, or aging life care expert—this episode will transform the way you think about pain. Because treating chronic pain isn’t just about reducing discomfort… it’s about restoring dignity, function, and hope.Click here to see show notes AttentionTherapists: Download your free guide on the Depression-Pain Cycle Become a sought after specialist with our Pain Psychology Certificate Course (14.5 CE Credits), where's you'll learn ACT and CBT for Chronic Pain, as well as strategies to address bias in pain care.Have a topic idea? Send us a text. PROFESSIONALS: Grab your free guide to working with older adults here Attention Social Workers, Therapists, Counselors, Psychologists, Aging Life Care Experts... Click here to get Continuing Education Credits

Chronic pain isn’t just physical—it's personal, emotional, and deeply misunderstood. And when it comes to older adults, the pain often hides in plain sight. In this episode, I sit down with pain psychology expert, Dr. Jennifer Steiner, to explore the invisible impact of chronic pain and what every therapist must understand to truly help older adults living with it.You’ll walk away with a fresh perspective—and four critical psychological themes—that can transform the way you support older adults in your practice.What You'll Learn in This Episode:The real size of the chronic pain epidemic—and why it’s often underestimated in older adultsCommon pain conditions affecting people 65+Dr. Steiner’s personal journey from growing up with chronic pain to becoming a national leader in pain psychologyHow chronic pain influences mental health, identity, relationships, and workThe 4 psychological themes every therapist must recognize when treating chronic pain:The Body as an ObstaclePain is Invisible—and RealDisrupted Sense of SelfUnpredictability of the ConditionAttentionTherapists:Download your free guide on the Depression-Pain Cycle Become a sought after specialist with our Pain Psychology Certificate Course (14.5 CE Credits), where's you'll learn ACT and CBT for Chronic Pain, as well as strategies to address bias in pain care.Click here to go to Show Notes Have a topic idea? Send us a text. PROFESSIONALS: Grab your free guide to working with older adults here Attention Social Workers, Therapists, Counselors, Psychologists, Aging Life Care Experts... Click here to get Continuing Education Credits

What do you do when your aging parent is being scammed—and keeps sending money even after you’ve begged them to stop? It’s heartbreaking. It’s infuriating. And it can leave you feeling powerless.If this is happening in your family, you’re not alone—and there is hope.In this episode, I unpack what’s really going on when an older adult falls victim to financial exploitation, why they often can’t stop—even when they know it’s a scam—and how to intervene without shaming or severing the relationship.You'll learn: ✅ Why people get trapped in scams—even when the truth is obvious ✅ What “dignity of risk” and “duty of care” mean for families ✅ How to lead with compassion instead of control ✅ What to do when cognitive decline might be involved ✅ Concrete steps to prevent revictimization ✅ Where to turn for professional supportWhether you're a family member or a professional working with older adults, this episode is packed with tools to help you respond with clarity, compassion, and courage.Professionals: Click here to get your free "Support for Older Adults After Financial Scams" GuideResources Mentioned:Older Adult Nest Egg: Assess financial vulnerability and get expert tools for reducing riskAARP Fraud Watch Network: Up-to-date scam alerts and prevention tipsGive an Hour: Mental health support including for victims of exploitationCenter for Mental Health & Aging: Find a therapist specializing in older adultsAdult Protective Services: State-specific reporting and supportClick here to see the show notes Have a topic idea? Send us a text. PROFESSIONALS: Grab your free guide to working with older adults here Attention Social Workers, Therapists, Counselors, Psychologists, Aging Life Care Experts... Click here to get Continuing Education Credits

Depression is not a normal part of aging—yet it's silently stealing joy, independence, and even life from millions of older adults. Most go undiagnosed and untreated. Why? Because we mistake their suffering for “just getting older.” But here’s the truth: late-life depression is serious—and it’s highly treatable.In today’s episode, you’ll learn how to spot the signs, challenge the myths, and take action that truly changes lives.What You’ll Learn in This Episode:What late-onset depression is and how it differs from earlier-life depressionHow depression presents differently in older adults—beyond just sadnessKey risk factors: chronic illness, loss, isolation, and moreWhy the myth that "older adults can’t change" is flat-out wrongPractical, research-informed steps you can take to help someone get careWhy healing and transformation are possible—at every ageHere’s the Truth:When older adults don’t receive mental health care:✔️ Medical issues worsen✔️ Medication use increases✔️ Hospital visits spike✔️ Caregiver and family stress grows✔️ Quality of life plummets✔️ Suicide risk risesBut when they do get care? Healing happens. Purpose returns. And lives transform.Click here to get resources mentioned in this episode. Remember...it’s only with your help that we can meet the mental health needs of older adults. So thank you for being here—and thank you for doing your part.Subscribe and Leave a ReviewIf you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with a colleague or friend. Together, we're building a movement for mental health and aging. Because there is no expiration date on healing, transformation, and growth. Have a topic idea? Send us a text. PROFESSIONALS: Grab your free guide to working with older adults here Attention Social Workers, Therapists, Counselors, Psychologists, Aging Life Care Experts... Click here to get Continuing Education Credits

Ever wonder what it really takes to build a national movement for mental health and aging? In this inspiring behind-the-scenes episode, I’m pulling back the curtain and sharing the heart, hustle, and healing that built the Center for Mental Health & Aging.You’ll hear where it all started—from working late nights with two small children at home to battling systemic bias in healthcare settings. I’ll walk you through the moments I nearly gave up, the surprising victories, and the “why” that keeps me going.If you’re a mental health professional, aging services provider, or change-maker with a mission-driven heart, this episode is for you.In This Episode, You’ll Learn:Why I left a successful career at the VA to start the Center for Mental Health & AgingThe barriers professionals face when working with older adults—and how we can solve themHow our signature GeroChampions program evolved into a national training movementThe step-by-step vision I mapped out (with a thermometer!) to earn CEU accreditationHow we’ve trained thousands of professionals and launched over 30 coursesWhy there's no expiration date on healing, transformation, and loveWhat post-traumatic growth has to teach us about aging wellAnd why older adults deserve more than just care—they deserve dignity and mental health equityGO TO SHOW NOTES HEREResources Mentioned:Free Download: Clinician's Guide to Mental Health & AgingMental Health & Aging Certificate ProgramCulturally Inclusive, Trauma-Informed Care with Older Adults Certificate ProgramEnd of Life Ethics & Psychotherapy CourseSee all CEU Courses National Provider Directory Remember...it’s only with your help that we can meet the mental health needs of older adults. So thank you for being here—and thank you for doing your part.Subscribe and Leave a ReviewIf you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with a colleague or friend. Together, we're building a movement for mental health and aging. Because there is no expiration date on healing, transformation, and growth.  Have a topic idea? Send us a text. PROFESSIONALS: Grab your free guide to working with older adults here Attention Social Workers, Therapists, Counselors, Psychologists, Aging Life Care Experts... Click here to get Continuing Education Credits

Loneliness is as harmful as smoking—and 43% of older adults experience loneliness. Social Isolation increases the risk of dementia 31%. The cure?  Connection and Belonging. 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.You'll learn the critical difference between loneliness and social isolation, how they each affect caregivers and people living with dementia, and why the consequences can be as severe as smoking, drinking, or living with obesity.But we won’t stop there.You'll also discover the revolutionary power of “social prescribing”—a compassionate, connection-first approach to well-being that’s gaining momentum in healthcare. You'll hear about a small-town doctor writing prescriptions for coffee and community… and how you can do the same in your own clinical practice.Whether you're a psychologist, therapist, social worker, or aging services professional, this episode will inspire you to screen, connect, and prescribe belonging.What You'll Learn:Why older adults may feel less lonely than young adults—but suffer more from its effectsThe difference between loneliness and isolation (and why this matters for dementia care)Startling statistics: how loneliness increases risk for dementia, heart disease, stroke, and depressionWhy quality of social ties matters more than quantityThe role of social prescribing: how to refer clients to connection—not just careCreative ideas for connection, including book clubs, walking groups, and even coffee shopsTwo screening tools for loneliness and isolation to use in your practiceA powerful quote: “Social prescribing connects a person to what matters to them—not just what’s the matter with them.”Click here for all of the resources mentioned in this episodeHave a topic idea? Send us a text. PROFESSIONALS: Grab your free guide to working with older adults here Attention Social Workers, Therapists, Counselors, Psychologists, Aging Life Care Experts... Click here to get Continuing Education Credits

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 who’ve been financially exploited. That email sparked this episode, and I’m so glad it did. Today, I’m taking you behind the scenes of what it’s really like for older adults after financial exploitation. I’ll share two powerful stories—one of an 84-year-old and another of a 46-year-old—and walk you through the unconscious age biases that shape how we react to fraud victims. We’ll also talk about the common scams, the emotional fallout, and most importantly—what you can do to support healing and prevent re-traumatization. This episode is especially close to my heart. I was invited by the Vermont Financial Elder Abuse Specialist Team to lead a workshop on this very topic, and I’ve been wanting to share it with you ever since. If you care about protecting and uplifting older adults—this is a must-listen. What You'll Learn in This Episode:Why older adults aren’t the only ones falling for scams—and why we judge them more harshlyHow ageism quietly shows up in our reactions to fraudThe top financial scams impacting people 60+ and how scammers manipulate trustThe emotional timeline of recovery: from shock and shame to anger and exhaustion4 major mental health effects of financial exploitation you need to watch forHow to talk with older adults about fraud in ways that heal—not harmWhat trauma-informed support really looks like after financial betrayalWhere to find peer support groups, prevention tools, and trusted therapistsClick here to get all the resources mentioned in this episodeA Guide for Mental Health and Aging Services Professionals to Supporting Older Adults Recovering from Financial Exploitation. Click here to download the guideHave a topic idea? Send us a text. PROFESSIONALS: Grab your free guide to working with older adults here Attention Social Workers, Therapists, Counselors, Psychologists, Aging Life Care Experts... Click here to get Continuing Education Credits

The first sign I was experiencing vicarious trauma hit me like a ton of bricks. Learn how to recognize, prevent, and heal from the emotional impact of therapy.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. Whether you’re a healthcare professional, mental health provider, aging services professional, or home health aide, your health and wellness matter just as much as the people you serve.  For over 20 years, I’ve worked with older adults in various settings, many of whom were recovering from significant trauma. I have always been diligent about self-care and sought support through my own therapy. But my experience with vicarious trauma still caught me off guard—and it hit me hard.  In this episode, I share my own journey of recognizing vicarious trauma, the signs to look for, and how to navigate healing so you can continue doing the work you love without sacrificing your well-being. What You'll Learn in This Episode:I share the first sign I was experiencing vicarious traumaWhat vicarious trauma is and why professionals are at riskKey warning signs of vicarious traumaThe impact of trauma exposure on mental health providers and aging service professionalsStrategies to recognize, manage, and prevent vicarious traumaOrganizational and personal solutions to creating a sustainable career in care work Click here to Get your free Trauma-Informed Care Guide Why Trauma-Informed Care Matters in Aging ServicesA trauma-informed approach:✔️ Improves trust and engagement between older adults and providers✔️ Leads to better health outcomes and reduces health inequities✔️ Helps providers avoid burnout and fosters resilience within care teamsClick here to go to the show notes for this episodeHave a topic idea? Send us a text. PROFESSIONALS: Grab your free guide to working with older adults here Attention Social Workers, Therapists, Counselors, Psychologists, Aging Life Care Experts... Click here to get Continuing Education Credits

Up to 90% of older adults have experienced trauma, yet their needs are often overlooked. Learn the essentials of trauma-informed care and how to foster healing and resilience.Trauma-informed care is essential for supporting older adults across healthcare, mental health, and social service settings.In this episode, we explore: ✅ The difference between trauma treatment and Trauma Informed Care✅ The three E’s of trauma: Events, Experience, and Effects✅ The impact of trauma across the lifespan, from adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) to end of life. ✅ The connection between PTSD, aging, and medical trauma✅ The four R’s of trauma-informed care✅ How culturally inclusive trauma-informed care improves outcomes for older adults and healthcare teamsClick here to Get your free Trauma-Informed Care GuideClick here to get access  all of the resources and references mentioned in this episodeHave a topic idea? Send us a text. PROFESSIONALS: Grab your free guide to working with older adults here Attention Social Workers, Therapists, Counselors, Psychologists, Aging Life Care Experts... Click here to get Continuing Education Credits

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 harder for older adults to access the care they deserve.In today’s episode, we break down barriers preventing older adults from receiving the mental health support they need. You’ll learn how common myths about aging impact mental health care, why stigma plays a significant role, and what you can do to change the landscape of care for older adults. What You'll Learn in This Episode:The major barriers preventing older adults from accessing mental health careHow common misconceptions about aging contribute to untreated mental health conditionsWhy ageism in health care and mental health professions keeps older adults from getting helpThe connection between mental health, chronic illness, and dementia riskHow you can help bridge older adults to mental health care How You Can HelpOlder adults deserve access to quality mental health care. Whether you are a mental health professional or someone who works with older adults, you play a key role in bridging the gap.? Want to improve your ability to recognize and address memory concerns in older adults? Download my free training This 10-minute expert training will help you gain clarity on detecting memory loss in therapy—a crucial skill for ensuring older adults receive the mental health support they need.Have a topic idea? Send us a text. PROFESSIONALS: Grab your free guide to working with older adults here Attention Social Workers, Therapists, Counselors, Psychologists, Aging Life Care Experts... Click here to get Continuing Education Credits

#114- 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. After experiencing profound loss—losing both parents, the end of a marriage, and supporting his sister through terminal cancer—Steven embarked on a journey to understand how joy coexists with grief, resilience, and even imperfection. Through deeply personal stories, humor, and wisdom, he reveals how small, intentional acts can bring light even in life’s darkest seasons. Whether you’re struggling to reclaim joy or simply want to invite more of it into your daily life, this conversation will leave you inspired and ready to cultivate joy in unexpected ways. Don’t miss this heartwarming and thought-provoking episode! Here's a Peek Inside the Episode: [01:54] Why a Book on Joy?[06:45] The Pecan Pie Competition & Joy of Storytelling[09:22] The Difference Between Happiness and Joy[12:50] Why We Struggle to Allow Ourselves Joy[17:22] Joy and Resilience[24:37] Embracing Imperfection[29:58] The Bond Between Siblings & Honoring Loss[32:00] Medical Aid in Dying: Julie’s Choice- Steven reflects on his sister Julie’s decision to pursue medical aid in dying (MAID) and how their family navigated this process. He discusses the importance of choice, dignity, and supporting a loved one through their end-of-life journey.[38:12] Joy Amidst Grief[39:23] A Simple Call to Action for Joy- Advice for listeners: Every night before you go to sleep, reflect on one moment that brought you joy that day—even on the hardest days.Click here to get access to all of the resources mentioned in this episode. Have a topic idea? Send us a text. PROFESSIONALS: Grab your free guide to working with older adults here Attention Social Workers, Therapists, Counselors, Psychologists, Aging Life Care Experts... Click here to get Continuing Education Credits

Send us a text#113- 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 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 the unique challenges faced by BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, and People of Color) older adults:By 2030, the older white population in the U.S. will increase by 39%, while the older BIPOC population will grow by 89%.By 2050, over 42% of adults aged 65 and older will be BIPOC.Studies show that nearly 50% of Black Americans report experiencing racial discrimination in health care, and BIPOC older adults are disproportionately excluded from clinical trials.These statistics highlight the urgent need for culturally responsive, anti-ageist, and anti-racist mental health care practices.Let’s rewrite the narrative: Older adults are resilient, capable, and deserving of high-quality mental health care.Click here to visit the show notes page for all references and resourcesResources Mentioned: 5 Expert Strategies for Addressing Memory Loss in Therapy Continuing education course on the impact of ageismSubscribe and leave a review wherever you listen!If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with a colleague or friend. Together, we can ensure older adults are included in the mental health conversation.Follow Dr. Regina Koepp:Website: www.drreginakoepp.com & Center for Mental Health & AgingLinkedIn: Regina Koepp, Psy.D. PROFESSIONALS: Grab your free guide to working with older adults here Attention Social Workers, Therapists, Counselors, Psychologists, Aging Life Care Experts... Click here to get Continuing Education Credits

Send us a text#112- 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. As a geropsychologist, I’m passionate about equipping you with the tools you need to make a difference. Let’s dive into 5 discoveries in mental health and aging from 2024 that you absolutely need to know.1. 14 Modifiable Risk Factors for Dementia:Review the expanded list from the Lancet Commission.Learn how addressing these factors can reduce dementia risk by 45%.2. New Treatments for Depression:Explore cognitive remediation and transcranial direct current stimulation (TDCS).Learn about their benefits for slowing cognitive decline and improving mental health.3. Importance of Social Connection:Feeling lonely increases the risk for dementia by 31%Equating risk of loneliness to that of smoking or physical inactivity. Learn how to address loneliness in this episode. 4. Anxiety and Dementia Link:Findings from the Hunter Community Study on how early anxiety treatment reduces dementia risk.5. ADHD in Older Adults:Learn how ADHD symptoms manifest differently in older adults and why proper diagnosis matters.Click here for the show notes  PROFESSIONALS: Grab your free guide to working with older adults here Attention Social Workers, Therapists, Counselors, Psychologists, Aging Life Care Experts... Click here to get Continuing Education Credits