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

Send us a text#111- 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 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 experience after a disaster, and how these differ from typical stress reactions.Vulnerability Factors: Chronic health conditions, social isolation, and financial challenges that can exacerbate distress.Resilience in Older Adults: How past experiences often enhance older adults' ability to recover.Practical Strategies: Building trust, fostering community connections, accessing resources, and recognizing when professional mental health care is needed.Resources for Support: Key tools like SAMHSA’s Disaster Distress Helpline and local Area Agencies on Aging.Click here for the show notesResources MentionedTrauma-Informed Care with Older Adults GuideHelping Older Adults After Disasters: A Guide by SAMHSADifferentiating Acute Stress Disorder (ASD) from Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and Unique Considerations for Older AdultsHelping Older Adults Prepare for Disasters: Essential Resources & TipsSAMHSA Disaster Distress Helpline: 1-800-985-5990National Crisis Hotline for Mental Health: 988Find Your local Area Agency on AgingFREE RESOURCE If you’re supporting older adults recovering from a disaster, don’t forget to download my Trauma-Informed Care Guide for Older Adults. Together, we can provide the compassionate care older adults need to recover and thrive.Subscribe and Leave a ReviewIf 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 on LinkedIn: Regina Koepp, Psy.D.It's only with your help that we can meet the mental health needs of older adults. So, thank you for being here and doing your part. Link to the show notes page here:  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#110 - 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 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 and mental health care.How stigma, misdiagnosis, and provider training gaps keep older adults from receiving proper care.The importance of resilience in older adults and how it can mask mental health challenges.Key Takeaways:Misleading headlines distract from real mental health challenges faced by older adults.Ageism and stigma reduce the chances of mental health conditions being identified and treated.Untreated mental health issues lead to poorer quality of life, higher medical costs, and increased risk for suicide.Older adults deserve accurate representation and equitable care in mental health conversations.Articles Referenced: “A.D.H.D. Diagnoses Are Surging Among Older Americans.” Truveta Analysis on ADHD diagnoses 2018-2024 (scroll down to see the graph I discuss in the episode). Resources Mentioned:Learn more about Dr. Regina Koepp and the Center for Mental Health & AgingPrevious features of Dr. Koepp in The New York Times: 3 Steps to Age ExuberantlyHow to Change Your Mind-Set About AgingDid you enjoy this episode?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.Join the Conversation:What do you think about the mental health needs of older adults? Share your thoughts and questions by commenting or reaching out on social media.Let’s work together to spotlight the real issues and make sure no one is left out of the mental health conversation! 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 Message.#109- Medicare now includes LPCs and LMFTs! Discover the new opportunities this presents for mental health professionals working with older adults. In this Psychology of Aging episode, we dive deep into the recent changes in Medicare policies that now allow Licensed Professional Counselors (LPCs) and Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists (LMFTs) to enroll as Medicare providers. This landmark policy update, effective January 1, 2024, opens up new opportunities for mental health professionals and significantly expands access to care for older adults and those with long-term disabilities. Our expert guests, Dr. Matthew Fullen and Dr. Mary Chase Mize, share their insights on the implications of this policy change, the enrollment process, and how this will shape the future of mental health care for older adults.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

108- 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,  and it’s transformed my approach to health and aging. In today’s episode, I’ll share how my own journey into the world of gardening and nature began at a time when I needed it most—right as I turned 48 and was worn out from constant traveling and presenting. This personal experience opened my eyes to the potent benefits of connecting with nature. So, I dove into the scientific literature, and in this episode, I share…Key Topics Discussed:Personal Gardening Experience: I dive into my transformative journey into gardening after moving to Vermont, highlighting the deep personal and health benefits from tending to plants.Importance of Forest Bathing: Learn about the Japanese practice of Shinrin-Yoku, or forest bathing, and its proven effects on reducing stress, improving heart health, and enhancing overall well-being.Scientific Evidence on Nature’s Benefits: Explore the latest research from a 2024 meta-analysis that reviews various nature-based interventions and their impact on older adults’ health, especially those with chronic conditions.Virtual and Accessible Nature Experiences: Discover how therapeutic gardens, virtual reality nature experiences, and even simple indoor plants can benefit those unable to engage with outdoor environments directly.Practical Tips for Integrating Nature into Daily Life: Discussion on how to incorporate nature into everyday settings, particularly for older adults, to promote health and well-being.Access links to the research mentioned in this episode here.  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

#107- Today we're diving deep into a topic that affects many older adults but is often misunderstood: depression and anxiety.While these mental health conditions are prevalent among older adults, they are not a normal part of aging and deserve our attention and care.Episode Highlights:Understanding Depression and Anxiety in Older Adults:Depression and anxiety are prevalent but not normal aspects of aging.These conditions need to be recognized and treated to prevent serious health impactsEffective Treatments Available:A combination of medications and psychotherapies can effectively treat anxiety and depression in older adults.Encouraging older adults to seek help can significantly improve their quality of life.Impact of Untreated Mental Health Conditions:Untreated depression and anxiety can worsen medical conditions, increase hospital stays, and lead to more functional impairments.The importance of addressing mental health to improve both psychological and physical well-being.Identifying Symptoms of Depression (SIGECAPS):Sleep: Changes in sleep patterns.Interest: Loss of interest in activities.Guilt/Despair: Feelings of hopelessness.Energy: Decreased energy levels.Concentration: Difficulty concentrating.Appetite: Changes in appetite.Psychomotor changes: Agitation or slowing down.Social isolation: Withdrawing from social interactions.Signs of Anxiety in Older Adults:Excessive worry, fear, and a sense of doom.Avoiding daily routines and social situations.Physical symptoms like a racing heart, shallow breathing, and muscle tension.Encouraging Medical Evaluation:Symptoms of depression and anxiety can also indicate medical problems or medication side effects.Starting with a primary care provider to rule out physical health issues is crucial.The Five D's of Suicide Risk:DepressionDisabilityDisconnectednessDiseaseDeadly meansUnderstanding these risk factors helps us intervene and provide the necessary support.Fostering Hope and Connection:Social engagement, cultivating meaning and purpose, and reflecting on past resilience are key protective factors against depression and anxiety.Respecting the autonomy and wishes of older adults in their mental health journey is essential.Connect with Me:Visit my website: www.drreginakoepp.comFollow me on social media: Facebook | Twitter | LinkedInSubscribe to the podcast for more insights on mental health and aging!Support the Show: If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review and share it with others who might benefit from this information. Your support helps us reach more people and make a positive impact.Thank you for being a part of our community and for your commitment to enhancing the lives of older adults. 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

#106- Did you know that 65% of adults over 65 report high-risk drinking? Understanding the unique impacts of alcohol on aging bodies is crucial for all of us.In this episode, I'll walk you through three key considerations: increased sensitivity to alcohol, health complications, and harmful interactions with medications. We'll also discuss common triggers for increased alcohol use and practical tips for caregivers and healthcare providers to help identify and manage problem drinking among older adults.Episode Highlights:Increased Sensitivity to Alcohol:As we age, our bodies become more sensitive to alcohol.This means we experience its effects more quickly, putting us at a higher risk for falls, car accidents, and injuries.Health Complications:Older adults often have health conditions like diabetes, heart disease, and osteoporosis that alcohol can make worse.Heavy drinking can also lead to new health issues, such as liver disease and dementia.Medication Interactions:Many older adults take medications that can interact dangerously with alcohol.Even common over-the-counter meds can have harmful effects when mixed with alcohol.Triggers for Increased Alcohol Use:Life changes like retirement, divorce, or the loss of a loved one can lead to more drinking.Functional limitations and boredom can also contribute to increased alcohol use.Identifying Problem Drinking:Signs of alcohol use disorders can look like other medical conditions.The CAGE screening tool can help identify problem drinking in older adults.Effective Treatment:Substance use treatment works, even for older adults.Everyone deserves access to mental health care and support, no matter their age.Practical Tips:Be curious and open when discussing alcohol use with older adults.Encourage them to be honest with their healthcare providers about their drinking.Offer support and resources to help manage alcohol use and life transitions.Final Thoughts: Remember, you play a crucial role in supporting older adults. There's no expiration date on healing and transformation. Every person, at every age, deserves access to mental health care. Let’s break the myths and get older folks the help they need. 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

Are 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 go as planned, with techniques for apology and re-engagement.Respecting Autonomy: Understand the importance of respecting the individual's choices and offering them the freedom to decide their path to mental wellness.Listen to this episode and empower yourself with the knowledge and skills to help older adults get the mental health care they deserve, while respecting their autonomy and decisions. You have an important role in bridging older adults to mental health care so thank you for being here and doing your part.  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