This Is Getting Old Podcast with Melissa B PhD Melissa B PhD

“The gut microbiome is believed to hold the key to healthy aging.”
—Melissa Batchelor, PhD, RN, FNP, FGSA, FAAN
The secret to aging well may lie within our gut. Scientists have discovered that maintaining gut health is crucial for overall well-being, including brain health. In this episode, we'll explore the gut microbiome, what it is, and how to keep yours thriving.
WHAT IS THE GUT MICROBIOME?
Think of your gut microbiome as a diverse garden of bacteria, fungi, protozoa, and other microbes in your digestive system. A healthy garden means a healthy you, but if the balance is disrupted, it can lead to health issues. Maintaining a symbiotic relationship with these microbes is essential for good health.
FACTORS AFFECTING THE GUT MICROBIOME
From birth, our gut microbiome is shaped by various factors, including early life exposures, diet, hygiene, environment, and even socioeconomic status. It's a dynamic system that changes over our lifetime.
IMPACT OF DIET
A diet rich in high-fiber foods like whole grains, fruits, and vegetables promotes a healthy gut microbiome. These foods are converted into short-chain fatty acids, which have anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer properties. Avoiding processed foods and incorporating a variety of plant-based foods is key to gut health.
BENEFITS OF GUT HEALTH
A healthy gut microbiome aids digestion, supports the immune system, and influences our nervous and endocrine systems. It helps protect against diseases like heart disease, diabetes, and obesity by reducing chronic inflammation.
SIGNS OF IMBALANCE
Signs of an unbalanced gut microbiome include constipation, diarrhea, gas, and bloating. If you experience these, it's essential to consult with a healthcare provider to address potential underlying issues.
MAINTAINING GUT HEALTH
Diet: Eat a variety of plant-based foods and aim for at least 30 servings of fruits and vegetables each week.
Fiber: Ensure adequate fiber intake to feed your beneficial gut bacteria.
Hydration: Drink plenty of water to support digestion.
Physical Activity: Stay active to keep your digestive system functioning well.
Avoid Harmful Substances: Limit alcohol, tobacco, and exposure to pollutants.
Antibiotics: Use antibiotics only when necessary and under medical supervision.
RESOURCES
Join AgeWiseU to find and get all of my handouts and related content on Alzheimer’s disease and more at MelissaBPhD.com/join 
------------------------------------------------------------------------About MelissaBPhD
Melissa Batchelor, PhD, RN, FNP, FGSA, FAAN. I am a nurse, nurse practitioner with over 25 years of experience caring for older adults and their families. 
Below are 4 ways to connect with me and support the podcast:
BECOME AN AGEWISEU: Visit my website at https://melissabphd.com/join/ and sign up for free as an Insider or upgrade to being a MVP. Updated weekly, AgeWiseU MVP is a digital hub of over 175 hours of curated content, resources, helpful links and courses designed for caregivers of people living with dementia; adult children caring for aging parents; and anyone wanting to learn more about brain health and healthy aging! MVPs are also invited to join me for a members-only monthly live webinar!
BECOME A YOUTUBE MEMBER: Get early access to my podcast episodes and join me for a members-only monthly live webinar!
SUBSCRIBE, LIKE, SHARE, AND LEAVE A REVIEW: SUBSCRIBE to this YouTube Channel; LIKE the podcast by giving this episode a thumbs up; SHARE this episode with others; and LEAVE A REVIEW. These things only take a minute of your time, but they really do help increase my rating and ranking; but more importantly, these actions help other people find the podcast. 
JOIN THE FACEBOOK COMMUNITY: If you are on Facebook, feel free to join my private community here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/thisisgettingold

"Many nursing homes are owned by private equity firms that modify operations to maximize profits."
—Melissa Batchelor, PhD, RN, FNP, FGSA, FAAN
 
Nursing homes provide essential care for older adults who need more help than family and friends can give. During the COVID-19 pandemic, over 200,000 residents and staff died, exposing serious problems in these facilities. 
 
Recently, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) introduced new rules to improve nurse staffing for the 1.2 million older adults who call nursing homes "home" who are both short-stay residents needing rehabilitation and long-stay residents. However, the nursing home industry are opposing these changes.
 
SUPPORT ADEQUATE NURSE STAFFING IN NURSING HOMES
 
Just as you would promise never to place a loved one in a poorly managed nursing home, supporting adequate nurse staffing can ensure higher quality care. Many tragedies in nursing homes during the COVID-19 pandemic could have been mitigated with better staffing. Adequate nurse staffing ensures you and your loved one have a safer experience.
 
UNDERSTAND THE NEW CMS RULES
 
The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) published a new rule on nurse staffing standards in nursing homes. The key requirement is that at least one registered nurse be on duty 24/7. This rule aims to improve the quality of care and reduce preventable safety events.
 
KNOW THE OPPOSITION
 
The nursing home industry has launched efforts to block these new staffing standards, citing financial constraints. Understanding these oppositions helps you advocate for better care and transparency in nursing home operations.
 
SUPPORT LEGISLATION FOR TRANSPARENCY
 
Financial transparency is crucial. Many nursing homes are privately owned and divert funds meant for resident care into their profits. The CMS rule also includes financial transparency requirements to track how funds are spent, ensuring they are used for direct care.
 
ADVOCATE FOR YOUR LOVED ONES
 
In 2024, two joint resolutions were introduced in Congress (H.J.Res.139/ S.J.Res.91) and two bills (H.R. 7513/ S. 3410 ) to not only overturn the rule but to prevent any administration from ever developing any staffing standards. 
 
By writing to your representatives and opposing bills like H.R. 7513 and S.3410 and these Joint Resolutions, you can help protect the standards that ensure safe and quality care in nursing homes. 
 
Your advocacy can prevent the nursing home industry from putting profits ahead of care.
 
By following these steps, you'll ensure a safer, more comfortable, and more enjoyable environment for nursing home residents. 
 
RESOURCES
 
Join AgeWiseU to find and get all of my handouts and related content on Alzheimer’s disease and more at MelissaBPhD.com/join 
 
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
About MelissaBPhD
 
Melissa Batchelor, PhD, RN, FNP, FGSA, FAAN. I am a nurse, nurse practitioner with over 25 years of experience caring for older adults and their families. 
 
Below are 4 ways to connect with me and support the podcast:
 
BECOME AN AGEWISEU: Visit my website at https://melissabphd.com/join/ and sign up for free as an Insider or upgrade to being a MVP. Updated weekly, AgeWiseU MVP is a digital hub of over 175 hours of curated content, resources, helpful links and courses designed for caregivers of people living with dementia; adult children caring for aging parents; and anyone wanting to learn more about brain health and healthy aging! MVPs are also invited to join me for a members-only monthly live webinar!
BECOME A YOUTUBE MEMBER: Get early access to my podcast episodes and join me for a members-only monthly live webinar!
SUBSCRIBE, LIKE, SHARE, AND LEAVE A REVIEW: SUBSCRIBE to this YouTube Channel; LIKE the podcast by giving this episode a thumbs up; SHARE this

“Be prepared for agitation and anxiety; have snacks, water, and distractions ready”
—Melissa Batchelor, PhD, RN, FNP, FGSA, FAAN
 
Traveling with a loved one who has Alzheimer's disease can be challenging, but with the right preparation, it can also be a smooth and enjoyable experience. In this episode, I provide five essential tips to help make your journey more comfortable and less stressful.
 
UTILIZE IN-FLIGHT ASSISTANCE PROGRAMS
 
Just like booking for an unaccompanied minor, using an in-flight assistance program can provide valuable help from the curb, through security, and onto the aircraft. This support ensures you and your loved one have a smoother experience.
 
MAKE SURE YOU STAY TOGETHER 
 
When passing through airport security, go through first so you can assist your loved one from the other side if needed. This strategy helps prevent separation and ensures a seamless transition through security.
 
USE A COMPANION CARD
 
Carry a companion card to communicate your situation to TSA and flight attendants. This card informs them that you are traveling with someone who has Alzheimer’s, helping them provide the necessary support and understanding if agitation occurs.
 
FIND FAMILY RESTROOMS
 
Family restrooms are ideal for maintaining privacy and providing assistance. Whether you need to accompany your loved one or wait just outside the door, these facilities offer a safe and convenient option.
 
PREPARE FOR AGITATION AND ANXIETY
 
Travel can be unsettling for anyone, especially for those with Alzheimer's. Be prepared with snacks, a filled water bottle, magazines, or pre-downloaded movies on your iPad. These items can help distract and calm your loved one during the trip.
 
By following these five tips, you'll ensure a safer, more comfortable, and more enjoyable journey for both you and your loved one. See you next time as we continue to support each other on this journey.
 
RESOURCES
 
Join AgeWiseU to find and get all of my handouts and related content on Alzheimer’s disease and more at MelissaBPhD.com/join 
 
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
About MelissaBPhD
 
Melissa Batchelor, PhD, RN, FNP, FGSA, FAAN. I am a nurse, nurse practitioner with over 25 years of experience caring for older adults and their families. 
 
Below are 4 ways to connect with me and support the podcast:
 
BECOME AN AGEWISEU: Visit my website at https://melissabphd.com/join/ and sign up for free as an Insider or upgrade to being a MVP. Updated weekly, AgeWiseU MVP is a digital hub of over 175 hours of curated content, resources, helpful links and courses designed for caregivers of people living with dementia; adult children caring for aging parents; and anyone wanting to learn more about brain health and healthy aging! MVPs are also invited to join me for a members-only monthly live webinar!
BECOME A YOUTUBE MEMBER: Get early access to my podcast episodes and join me for a members-only monthly live webinar!
SUBSCRIBE, LIKE, SHARE, AND LEAVE A REVIEW: SUBSCRIBE to this YouTube Channel; LIKE the podcast by giving this episode a thumbs up; SHARE this episode with others; and LEAVE A REVIEW. These things only take a minute of your time, but they really do help increase my rating and ranking; but more importantly, these actions help other people find the podcast. 
JOIN THE FACEBOOK COMMUNITY: If you are on Facebook, feel free to join my private community here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/thisisgettingold

“Meaningful relationships and social connections are essential components of our overall health”
—Melissa Batchelor, PhD, RN, FNP, FGSA, FAAN
 
Many of us deeply value our connections to family, friends, and our wider community, understanding that these relationships are crucial for our mental and emotional health.
Renowned athletes like Michael Phelps have emphasized the importance of these connections, highlighting how they support our overall well-being. 
Join me in this episode as we explore the significance of these bonds, in line with the celebration of the Older Americans Act and Older Americans Month.
EMBRACE NEW PASSIONS AND ACTIVITIES
Bring more joy and connection into your life by trying new things you enjoy. Join a club, take a class, or explore activities in your area. These experiences not only add excitement to your life but also help you make new friends.
GIVE BACK AND TEACH
Stay involved in your community by giving back. Volunteer, join community projects, teach, or mentor others. These activities connect you with people of all ages and let you make a big difference in your community.
BUILD AND DEEPEN RELATIONSHIPS
Spend time with people. Make new friends and strengthen your bonds with family, friends, coworkers, or neighbors. These connections are the bedrock of a supportive community and contribute greatly to your sense of belonging and happiness.
ORGANIZE INTERGENERATIONAL GATHERINGS
Bring people of all ages together by hosting a game night across all generations. Board games or card games are perfect for bringing young and older adults together, sharing stories, and exchanging knowledge.
ATTEND AND COORDINATE MUSIC EVENTS
Music is a powerful way to unite people. Check out a musical event in your community, like a park concert, a local band's gig, or a music festival. These gatherings offer a great opportunity to enjoy good music and good company.
Each of these actions not only enhances your own life but also strengthens the community around you. In a world where connections can sometimes be brief, making a conscious effort to engage deeply and meaningfully has never been more important. So, let's get involved, stay connected, and continue to support each other every step of the way.
RESOURCESJoin AgeWiseU to find a get all of my handouts and related content on Alzheimer’s disease and more at MelissaBPhD.com/join 
-------------------------------------------------------
About MelissaBPhD
Melissa Batchelor, PhD, RN, FNP, FGSA, FAAN. I am a nurse, nurse practitioner with over 25 years of experience caring for older adults and their families. 
Below are 4 ways to connect with me and support the podcast:
BECOME AN AGEWISEU: Visit my website at https://melissabphd.com/join/ and sign up for free as an Insider or upgrade to being a MVP. Updated weekly, AgeWiseU MVP is a digital hub of over 175 hours of curated content, resources, helpful links and courses designed for caregivers of people living with dementia; adult children caring for aging parents; and anyone wanting to learn more about brain health and healthy aging! MVPs are also invited to join me for a members-only monthly live webinar!
BECOME A YOUTUBE MEMBER: Get early access to my podcast episodes and join me for a members-only monthly live webinar!
SUBSCRIBE, LIKE, SHARE, AND LEAVE A REVIEW: SUBSCRIBE to this YouTube Channel; LIKE the podcast by giving this episode a thumbs up; SHARE this episode with others; and LEAVE A REVIEW. These things only take a minute of your time, but they really do help increase my rating and ranking; but more importantly, these actions help other people find the podcast. 
JOIN THE FACEBOOK COMMUNITY: If you are on Facebook, feel free to join my private community here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/thisisgettingold

"Just because it's a nursing home, doesn't mean they're doomed to be in there forever."
—Melissa Batchelor, PhD, RN, FNP, FGSA, FAAN
 
Many families face the difficult decision of choosing the right care setting for their aging loved ones. You may have promised never to place your loved one in a nursing home, yet sometimes a skilled nursing facility is the most appropriate setting for their care needs. 
 
Join us for this episode where we'll discuss the basics of housing and care options for older adults. I'll help you understand the differences and what to think about so you can make a smart decision when the time comes.
 
HOUSING AND CARE OPTIONS FOR OLDER ADULTS:
 
ACTIVE ADULT COMMUNITIES
 
Active Adult Communities are designed for active, independent older adults 55 and older who can manage their daily lives. These communities provide some  maintenance, like lawn care, amenities, possibly even healthcare close by.
 
INDEPENDENT LIVING
 
Independent Living Facilities are often part of larger retirement communities offering apartments or condos. Ideal for those aged 65 and older, these setups also provide a low-maintenance lifestyle with services like housekeeping and laundry, allowing residents to enjoy a socially active environment without the burdens of maintaining a home.
 
ASSISTED LIVING
 
Assisted Living is for those who need more help with daily activities. Assisted living offers a range of services from basic assistance  with medication management to memory care units for individuals with Alzheimer’s or other forms of dementia. While these facilities are out-of-pocket, they  can provide personalized care to meet varying degrees of need.
 
SKILLED NURSING CARE
 
Skilled Nursing Care Facilities are for individuals requiring daily skilled nursing care. Often these stays are temporary; primarily for rehabilitation, and are covered by Medicare Part A. The goal is typically to rehabilitate and return to either a less intensive care setting or home. Skilled nursing homes also offer long-term care for those on Medicaid.
 
CONTINUING CARE RETIREMENT COMMUNITIES (CCRCs):
 
CCRCs provide all types of care and housing options, from independent  and assisted living to skilled nursing homes. This means residents can stay in the same general area (“campus”) as they age and their care needs change. CCRCs gives residents peace of mind knowing they'll always have the care they need with more on-site guidance for residents and families for what’s next based on those needs.
 
RESPITE CARE
 
Respite Care provides temporary relief for someone caring for a loved one at home, allowing them to take a break or fulfill other obligations while ensuring their loved ones receive professional care.
 
REHABILITATION CARE
 
Rehabilitation Care Facilities are usually found in hospitals and involve intense therapy for people recovering from major health events like surgery or a stroke. These facilities offer more rigorous daily therapy than a regular skilled nursing facility provides (e.g. 6 hours of daily rehab vs. 3 hours respectively).
 
Remember, choosing the right housing and care option for an older adult is both a responsibility and an opportunity. By understanding the full range of available options and utilizing the resources provided, you can make decisions that honor your loved one's needs and preferences with confidence and care.
 
RESOURCES
 
Join AgeWiseU to find a get all of my handouts and related content on Alzheimer’s disease and more at MelissaBPhD.com/join 
 
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
About MelissaBPhD
 
Melissa Batchelor, PhD, RN, FNP, FGSA, FAAN. I am a nurse, nurse practitioner with over 25 years of experience caring for older adults and their families. 
 
Below are 4 ways to connect with me and support the podcast:
 
BECOME AN A

“If you aren't taking care of yourself, you can't take care of anybody else.”
—Melissa Batchelor, PhD, RN, FNP, FGSA, FAAN
 
Caring for individuals living with dementia is a profound act of love and dedication, but it also comes with its unique set of challenges. Caregivers often find themselves facing a tough journey filled with uncertainty, frustration, and emotional strain. In this episode, we'll talk about ways to help caregivers, offering insights to reduce stress and prevent burnout.
 
Tip 1: Ignoring symptoms won't make them disappear. Don't ignore signs of dementia. Early detection helps in getting timely support and planning.
 
Tip 2: It's never too late to improve brain health. Encourage a healthy lifestyle. Regular exercise, a balanced diet, and mental stimulation can slow down the progression of dementia.
 
Tip 3: Regularly review medications. Keep track of medications and consult healthcare providers regularly to avoid harmful drug interactions.
 
Tip 4: Avoid arguments. Instead of arguing, try to understand and validate their feelings. Responding with empathy reduces stress for both of you.
 
Tip 5: Use validation techniques. Acknowledge their reality, even if it differs from yours. Redirect conversations gently to avoid confusion and frustration.
 
Tip 6: Don't take negative behaviors personally. Understand that it's the disease, not the person, causing difficult behavior. Respond with patience and compassion.
 
Tip 7: Focus on what you can control. Prioritize tasks and be flexible with plans. Focus on maintaining a positive relationship rather than getting everything done perfectly.
 
Tip 8: Seek support from others. Don't hesitate to ask for help. Building a support network can ease the burden of caregiving and provide valuable emotional support.
 
Tip 9: Make time for self-care. Nurture your own well-being to sustain your ability to care for others. Make time for activities that recharge you, even if it's just a short break each day.
 
Tip 10: Have open discussions about future medical decisions. Have open conversations about future medical decisions and end-of-life wishes. Being prepared helps in making informed decisions later on.
 
Remember, caring for someone with dementia is both challenging and rewarding. By implementing these tips and accessing available resources, you can navigate this journey with resilience and compassion.
 
RESOURCES
 
Join AgeWiseU to find a get all of my handouts and related content on Alzheimer’s disease and more at MelissaBPhD.com/join 
 
 
 
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
About MelissaBPhD
 
Melissa Batchelor, PhD, RN, FNP, FGSA, FAAN. I am a nurse, nurse practitioner with over 25 years of experience caring for older adults and their families. 
 
Below are 4 ways to connect with me and support the podcast:
 
BECOME AN AGEWISEU: Visit my website at https://melissabphd.com/join/ and sign up for free as an Insider or upgrade to being a MVP. Updated weekly, AgeWiseU MVP is a digital hub of over 175 hours of curated content, resources, helpful links and courses designed for caregivers of people living with dementia; adult children caring for aging parents; and anyone wanting to learn more about brain health and healthy aging! MVPs are also invited to join me for a members-only monthly live webinar!
BECOME A YOUTUBE MEMBER: Get early access to my podcast episodes and join me for a members-only monthly live webinar!
SUBSCRIBE, LIKE, SHARE, AND LEAVE A REVIEW: SUBSCRIBE to this YouTube Channel; LIKE the podcast by giving this episode a thumbs up; SHARE this episode with others; and LEAVE A REVIEW. These things only take a minute of your time, but they really do help increase my rating and ranking; but more importantly, these actions help other people find the podcast. 
JOIN THE FACEBOOK COMMUNITY: If you