This Is Getting Old Podcast with Melissa B PhD

Melissa B PhD
  • 5.0 (11)
  • SCIENCE
  • UPDATED WEEKLY
This Is Getting Old Podcast with Melissa B PhD

In today's busy society, people aren't typically thinking about aging or elder care. By 2030, there will be more older adults than children under age 5 for the first time in human history. Here's a fantastic podcast with different topics ranging from clinical care of older adults to things that family caregivers need to know. Hosted by Dr. Melissa Batchelor (MelissaBPhD) 'This Is Getting Old' highlights all of the things we need to do to create an age-friendly world - because when things are age-friendly, they are friendly for everyone.

  1. 6 DAYS AGO

    EP: 197 - Dating After 50: 10 Must-Know Tips for Finding Love Over 50

    Are you navigating the dating scene after 50? Whether you’re newly single or returning to the dating world after years, it can feel daunting, but also exciting! In this episode, I’m joined by Evan Marc Katz, a renowned dating coach with over 13,000 success stories, to explore how to find love and meaningful connections later in life. We discuss the challenges and joys of modern dating over 50, how to overcome fears, present yourself authentically, and stay safe both online and offline.

    34 min

  2. OCT 22

    EP: 196 - Role of Diet in Longevity

    In today’s fast-paced world, numerous diet trends promise to enhance health and longevity, but true wellness stems from understanding the science behind our food choices. This episode examines three popular diets—intermittent fasting, the Mediterranean diet, and the ketogenic diet—and their impact on aging. Intermittent fasting, which alternates between eating and fasting periods, is praised for weight management and metabolic health benefits, though its long-term sustainability, especially for older adults, is debated. The Mediterranean diet, rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and healthy fats, is widely regarded for reducing the risk of chronic diseases like diabetes and Alzheimer's. Its focus on whole, minimally processed foods makes it a balanced choice for promoting longevity. Meanwhile, the ketogenic diet, which encourages high fat and low carbohydrate intake, has shown benefits in weight loss and controlling epilepsy but raises concerns about long-term health risks, particularly its effect on heart disease. Despite their differences, these diets underscore the importance of nutrition in aging well. Whole, nutrient-dense foods, like those in the Mediterranean diet, help prevent chronic conditions such as cardiovascular disease and promote cognitive health, reducing the risk of dementia. For long-term well-being, the key isn’t extreme dietary restrictions but adopting a balanced approach that includes plant-based foods, healthy fats, and mindful eating. By doing so, we can support the body’s natural aging process and ensure a vibrant, fulfilling life in later years.

    22 min

  3. OCT 15

    EP: 195 - How to Choose the Best Home Care for an Older Adult

    Caring for an aging loved one can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re unsure where to start. Many older adults express a desire to "age in place," but it’s critical to assess whether staying at home is still a safe and realistic option for them. My "Care Options Checklist" offers a clear framework for evaluating important factors such as mobility, cognitive health, and their ability to manage daily living tasks like bathing, dressing, and meal preparation. Depending on their needs, solutions might range from simple home modifications to hiring a professional caregiver or even a home health aide for more hands-on assistance. Beyond in-home care, there are additional resources designed to support caregivers and aging adults alike. Community services, such as Meals on Wheels or adult daycare programs, can provide social engagement and lighten the load on caregivers. Another crucial resource is respite care, which offers temporary relief, allowing caregivers to recharge. By considering all available options, you can make informed, compassionate decisions that prioritize your loved one's well-being, ensuring they receive the right level of care in the most supportive environment possible.

    25 min

  4. OCT 8

    EP: 194 - How to Choose a Quality Nursing Home

    Choosing the right nursing home for a loved one requires careful attention to both care quality and financial considerations. When visiting a facility, be sure to observe how residents are treated, whether they’re well-cared for, and if the environment is clean and welcoming. Ask about staff-to-resident ratios, especially on different shifts, and the turnover rate of nursing assistants, which can indicate the facility’s culture. Additionally, check if the medical team is familiar with residents' needs and whether your loved one can keep their personal doctor. A surprise visit during off-hours can also provide valuable insights into the facility's day-to-day operations. Financially, it’s crucial to understand how nursing home care is paid for. While Medicare covers up to 100 days of short-term stays after a qualifying hospital stay, long-term care typically requires out-of-pocket payments until Medicaid eligibility is reached. Meeting with the business office will help clarify these costs, and resources like the Eldercare Locator (1-800-677-1116) and LongTermCare.gov can assist in navigating care options. Thorough research and asking the right questions will help ensure your loved one receives quality care in a facility that meets both their health and financial needs.

    28 min

  5. OCT 1

    EP: 193 - Medication accessibility: SnapSlide

    Prescription bottles can be tough to open, especially for those with dexterity challenges. Enter SnapSlide, an innovative solution designed for easy, one-handed medication access. CEO Rocky Batzel was inspired to create SnapSlide after watching his grandmother struggle with child-resistant bottles, common among older adults with conditions like arthritis. SnapSlide’s ergonomic, child-proof design ensures easy access without compromising safety. It improves medication adherence and reduces frustration for users with hand disabilities or caregivers. Rocky plans to bring SnapSlide to major retailers like CVS and Walmart by early 2025. Learn more and advocate for SnapSlide at your local pharmacy.

    22 min

  6. SEP 24

    EP: 192 - Emergency Preparedness for Older Adults Living with Alzheimer’s: Vital Tips for Caregivers

    Emergencies and natural disasters can be particularly dangerous for older adults and individuals with Alzheimer’s disease, making proper preparedness essential. Caregivers should focus on maintaining calm and offering reassurance during high-stress situations, sticking to familiar routines and providing comfort items to reduce confusion. Clear communication using simple language, avoiding sensory overload, and ensuring the individual has proper identification are key strategies for keeping those with cognitive impairments safe. It’s also crucial to develop and regularly review a comprehensive emergency plan, which includes evacuation routes, essential supplies, and backup power sources for medical equipment. Stock an emergency kit with water, food, medications, and important documents, and practice the plan with family and caregivers to ensure everyone is prepared. These steps can make a significant difference in ensuring the safety of individuals with Alzheimer’s during emergencies.

    26 min

  7. SEP 17

    EP: 191 - The Future of Care: Care Yaya Matches Healthcare Students with Older Adults

    In this episode, I sit down with Neal Shah, CEO of CareYaya, to explore how this innovative platform provides affordable, high-quality caregiving for aging adults. CareYaya connects families with healthcare students eager to gain real-world experience while supporting seniors with companionship and daily tasks. Learn how CareYaya, often dubbed "the Uber of caregiving," is revolutionizing the industry by offering trusted, accessible care to families nationwide. Tune in to discover how this tech startup is filling crucial gaps in caregiving, ensuring safety, affordability, and support for your loved ones!

    45 min

  8. SEP 10

    EP: 190 - Practical Strategies to Future-Proof Your Life with Bradley Schurman, Author of SuperAge

    Are you looking for practical strategies to navigate an ever-changing world as you age? In this episode, we dive deep with Bradley Schurman, demographic strategist and author of The Super Age. Bradley shares his expertise on how longevity and demographic change are reshaping the economy, businesses, and even our homes. With years of research on aging trends and their impact on society, Bradley offers actionable insights to help you future-proof your life. Whether you're preparing for new trends, seeking long-term success, or simply trying to stay ahead in an unpredictable world, this episode is full of tips you can't afford to miss. Melissa Batchelor, PhD, RN, FNP, FGSA, FAAN. I am a nurse, nurse practitioner, nurse educator and nurse researcher with over 25 years of experience in the aging and long-term care healthcare space. You can visit my website at MelissaBPhD.com to learn more about me, how you can work with me directly, and/or support future episodes of the podcast.

    51 min
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Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
11 Ratings

About

In today's busy society, people aren't typically thinking about aging or elder care. By 2030, there will be more older adults than children under age 5 for the first time in human history. Here's a fantastic podcast with different topics ranging from clinical care of older adults to things that family caregivers need to know. Hosted by Dr. Melissa Batchelor (MelissaBPhD) 'This Is Getting Old' highlights all of the things we need to do to create an age-friendly world - because when things are age-friendly, they are friendly for everyone.

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