Seniority Authority

Navigating the later stages of life can be as complex as it is essential. Where does one begin when planning for the golden years? It's not just about finding the right care; it's about understanding the nuances of aging and the healthcare system.On today's episode, Dr. Mark Lachs, a leading gerontologist and author of the book, "What Your Doctor Won't Tell You About Getting Older", joins us to delve deep into the realm of geriatric care, emphasizing the vital role geriatricians play in focusing on functionality and overall well-being in older adults. Dr. Lachs highlights empowering aging strategies, stressing the importance of proactive steps such as socialization, physical activity, and having a sense of purpose for maintaining health in the later years.Additionally, Dr. Lachs adeptly wades through the intricacies of the healthcare system, offering invaluable advice on how to be an informed and active participant in one's health journey, thus equipping listeners with the knowledge and tools needed for a more empowered approach to aging. What's Next?How do you plan to navigate your healthcare as you age? Share your thoughts and questions with us at info@seniorityauthority.org!\ Stay Connected and Informed:Join the Conversation: Follow Cathleen Toomey on LinkedIn for more insights into aging gracefully.Discover More: Visit the Seniority Authority Website, Facebook, and Instagram for additional resources and support.Subscribe and Stay Updated: Tune into more insightful episodes on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast platform.

Eldercare is a necessary fact of life for many seniors (and their families), but figuring out where to start can be pretty overwhelming. A Google search for “eldercare near me” is probably not going to cut it—so how do you know where to go?In this must-listen episode of Seniority Authority, we welcome Joy Loverde, a renowned author and authority in the aging industry. As we delve into the essentials of eldercare, Joy shares her valuable insights, drawing from her extensive experience and her popular books, "Who Will Take Care of Me When I'm Old?" and "The Complete Eldercare Planner".Discover the intricacies of planning for eldercare and learn how to maintain independence while aging. Joy addresses key aspects of personal safety, home care, and managing health and lifestyle changes. She also discusses coping strategies for overcoming isolation and loneliness, a common challenge in the aging journey.And because it’s important to think forward, we explore technology's ever-evolving role in eldercare, providing a glimpse into how advancements are reshaping the way we approach aging. Links to Joy Loverde's Essential Reads:"Who Will Take Care of Me When I'm Old?""The Complete Eldercare Planner" What's Next?Have thoughts or questions about eldercare planning? We'd love to hear from you! Reach out to us at info@seniorityauthority.org! Stay ConnectedChat with our host, Cathleen Toomey, on LinkedInLearn more about Seniority Authority on our websiteFollow us on Facebook and InstagramDon't forget to subscribe to our show on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast platform.

As the number of individuals grappling with dementia continues to rise globally, understanding and empathizing with their unique challenges has never been more crucial. Join us as we delve deep, exploring strategies, experiences, and the transformative power of genuine connection, and partnering with dementia patients instead of doing things for them.Meet Teepa SnowRenowned as a beacon in the world of dementia care, Teepa Snow stands as the driving force behind "Positive Approach to Care," an organization that's revolutionizing dementia care across over 30 countries. With 40+ years of experience as an occupational therapist, Teepa's passion and expertise shine through her work, guiding caregivers and families alike. In this episode, gain invaluable insights from Teepa on caregiving challenges, the magic of proprioceptive input, and personal anecdotes that promise to touch your heart. Don't miss this enriching conversation! What's Next?What are your views, comments, or questions on dementia, or caring for someone with dementia? Share them with us at info@seniorityauthority.org! Stay ConnectedGet in touch with our host Cathleen Toomey on LinkedIn.You can also find Seniority Authority on Facebook, on Instagram, or you can connect with us on our website!Subscribe to our show on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or anywhere you get your podcasts.

If you are a woman of a certain age, do you start to feel invisible? Do you sense that people think of you just as an “old person”—as if that were your defining characteristic? If you've experienced this sensation, then boy—do I have a book for you.Join us in this enriching episode where author Colleen Oakley delves into her latest book, "The Mostly True Story of Tanner and Louise," painting a vivid picture of aging, familial bonds, and the richness of shared stories. Colleen discusses her inspirations, particularly her grandmother, and shares humorous and heartfelt anecdotes that shaped her perspectives and her writing.Get her book, "The Mostly True Story of Tanner and Louise”.Discover more about:The inspirations behind Colleen Oakley's writing.The influence of strong familial bonds and female role models.The challenges and vivid hallucinations experienced by her grandmother due to Parkinson's Disease.How shared stories form connections and help cope with grief.What's Next?Share your views, comments, or questions at info@seniorityauthority.org!Stay Connected:Connect with Cathleen Toomey on LinkedInLearn more about Seniority Authority on our Website. Also find us on Facebook and Instagram.Subscribe to our show on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts.

Unveiling the secrets to a longer, healthier life has been the life's mission of Dan Buettner, a renowned explorer, journalist, and best-selling author. On this episode of Seniority Authority, we delve deep into Buettner's groundbreaking "Blue Zones Project", which sheds light on the regions across the globe where people live the longest, and the lifestyle choices that contribute to their longevity. Dan, who initially launched this project through a National Geographic article, expanded it into a series of informative books, a popular cookbook, and now, a riveting Netflix documentary series. In an engaging conversation with our host, he explains the intricate research process that spanned years and took him all over the world, to regions where lifestyle and environmental factors play a crucial role in longevity. He highlights the diet patterns in these regions, which are predominantly plant-based, incorporating whole grains, greens, and legumes, with minimal processed food and meat intake, complemented by regular low-intensity physical activities.We also explore the community health programs influenced by the Blue Zones approach in 72 American cities, witnessing notable reductions in obesity rates and heart diseases, along with an increase in life expectancy. Dan shares some of these success stories and provides tips for listeners to incorporate healthier choices in their daily routines, emphasizing environmental alterations over mere willpower.For a deeper dive into the life-extending secrets of the Blue Zones, check out the resources mentioned during the podcast, available on the official Blue Zones website and Dan's personal website. You can also connect with him directly on Instagram: @danbuettnerWhat's Next?What are your views, comments, or questions about the secrets to living a longer, healthier life shared in this episode? Share them with us at info@seniorityauthority.org!Stay ConnectedGet in touch with our host Cathleen Toomey on LinkedInYou can also find Seniority Authority on Facebook, on Instagram, or you can connect with us on our website!  Subscribe to our show on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or anywhere you get your podcasts.

Living a fulfilling, long, happy life is pretty much the number one thing on our wish list, particularly as we get older. But what are some things we can do to get there? Dr. Roger Landry, a Tufts-Harvard University Decorated Military Veteran and Preventive Medicine Physician who is the President of Masterpiece and author of Live Long Die Short. Dr. Landry discusses how society has traditionally marginalized older adults and is determined to help people reach peace, fulfillment and joy, no matter your age.On this episode Dr. Landry explains the importance of resilience, including the work of the Healthy Aging Work Group. He also talks about the inventory he created from his book, which helps people take an objective look at their lifestyle and make small changes to live a long and healthy life. Dr. Landry shares 10 tips to help people reach a level of peace and fulfillment. He stresses the importance of movement, social connection, purpose, emotional intelligence, and being mindful and present in life.  What's Next?What are your views, comments or questions on living a long, happy life?  Share them with us at info@seniorityauthority.org!  Stay ConnectedGet in touch with our host Cathleen Toomey on LinkedInYou can also find Seniority Authority on Facebook, on Instagram, or you can connect with us on our website!Subscribe to our show on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or anywhere you get your podcasts.

In this compelling episode, we delve into the distinct health challenges black Americans face as they age. We’re joined by Dr. Lauren Brown, an assistant professor and gerontologist at San Diego State University School of Public Health. Dr. Brown discusses her groundbreaking research on this critical issue. Discover the shocking underrepresentation of non-European people in genetic databases and learn about the implications of 'data capitalism'. You’ll want to stick around to learn about the historical and damaging practice of 'race norming', highlighting its persistent influence on access to health services and benefits. Further, the conversation explores 'accelerated aging', a concept that underscores how social determinants of health markedly impact the aging experiences of non-white older adults.As we delve into the realms of race norming, genetic testing, and more, Dr. Brown provides insights on some of the unique challenges that non-white adults face.Episode ResourcesJoel Bervell's Instagram AccountELSI HubData for Black LivesExpert panel recommends against use of race in assessment of kidney function  What's Next?What are your views, comments, or questions on health equity, genetics, and systemic racism in health? Share them with us at info@seniorityauthority.org!  Stay ConnectedGet in touch with our host Cathleen Toomey on LinkedInYou can also find Seniority Authority on Facebook, on Instagram, or you can connect with us on our website!  Subscribe to our show on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or anywhere you get your podcasts.

Episode 27: Arthur C. Brooks is the Professor of the Practice of Public Leadership at the Harvard Kennedy School and Professor of Management Practice at the Harvard Business School. Before joining the Harvard faculty in July of 2019, he served for ten years as president of the Washington, D.C.-based American Enterprise Institute (AEI), one of the world’s leading think tanks.He is also a columnist for The Atlantic, host of the podcast “How to Build a Happy Life with Arthur Brooks,” and subject of the 2019 documentary film “The Pursuit”. Arthur has written 12 books, including the national bestsellers “Love Your Enemies” and “The Conservative Heart”. His most recent book is “From Strength to Strength”, will be available this February 2022.Links:Arthur's book: From Strength to StrengthFacebook: Arthur BrooksTwitter: @arthurbrooksPodcast: How to Build a Happy LifePodcast: The Art of HappinessWebsite: arthurbrooks.com What’s Next?What are your questions about finding meaning in the second half of life? Share your questions with us at info@seniorityauthority.org or find us on your favorite social media platform. Stay Connected:Cathleen Toomey●       Linkedin:Cathleen Toomey●      Website:Seniority Authority●      Facebook:Seniority Authority●       Instagram:seniorityauthority Subscribe to our podcast + download each episode on Stitcher, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts and Spotify.

Engaging in open conversations around death can be unsettling, but it is a reality that we must all confront. In this enlightening episode, Taya Dunn Johnson, a writer, speaker, mother, and recent master's degree graduate in thanatology from Marian University, sheds light on this often avoided subject. Johnson's insights, deeply rooted in her personal experience of losing her young husband to a sudden heart attack, challenge societal discomfort around death and stress the importance of preparation for our inevitable end.Johnson debunks the myth that discussing death invites it sooner, and stresses that planning for death is an act of love that can ease the emotional burden for our loved ones during a painful time. She also highlights the importance of preparing for the "business of death,"( including discussions around wills, passwords, and final wishes), and advocates for culturally appropriate grief support, with a particular focus on the African American experience.This impactful and thought-provoking conversation that could reshape your perspectives on life, death, and everything in between.Episode Resources:Article: “Please Read This Before You Post Another RIP on Social Media”Book: “Grieving While Black” by Breeshia WadeWhat's Next?What are your views, comments, or questions on navigating conversations around death and bereavement? Share them with us at info@seniorityauthority.org! Stay ConnectedGet in touch with our host Cathleen Toomey on LinkedInYou can also find Seniority Authority on Facebook, on Instagram, or you can connect with us on our website!  Subscribe to our show on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or anywhere you get your podcasts.

Episode 24: Carol Marak is a solo aging advisor and advocate. She is the founder of the Elder Orphan Facebook Group, which launched in 2016 and has almost 10,000 members. She also has a successful YouTube channel called Solo and Smart and a book titled SOLO AND SMART: The Roadmap for a Supportive and Secure Future.Carol attributes her seven years of family caregiving as to how she learned to plan for the future. Between her and her two sisters, caring for their ailing parents took up almost all of their time. With no children to rely on as her parents did, and knowing the amount of care that they needed, she knew she had to plan for her future and figure out what to do.Links:Carol's Book: SOLO AND SMART: The Roadmap for a Supportive and Secure FutureCarol’s Facebook Group: Elder OrphansCarol’s YouTube Chanell: Solo and SmartCarol’s Website: CarolMarak.comWhat’s Next?What are your questions about solo aging? Share your questions with us at info@seniorityauthority.org or find us on your favorite social media platform.Stay Connected:Cathleen ToomeyLinkedin:Cathleen ToomeyWebsite:Seniority AuthorityFacebook:Seniority AuthorityInstagram:seniorityauthoritySubscribe to our podcast + download each episode on Stitcher,Apple Podcasts,Google Podcasts andSpotify. 

As we age, the conversation around sexual health and intimacy often gets swept under the rug, but it's an important aspect of our well-being and overall happiness. In this enlightening episode, we welcome Dr. Regina Koepp, a board-certified clinical psychologist specializing in mental health and aging, to tackle the misconceptions and discuss the benefits of maintaining an active and fulfilling sex life in our later years.Engage in our frank discussion about sex among older adults, where we delve into the physical, psychological, and cognitive benefits of maintaining sexual activity. We shine a spotlight on ageism and the stigmas that often deter open conversations about this crucial topic. Dr. Koepp brings a unique perspective to the table, stressing the importance of open dialogue about sexual health in combating these stereotypes.Join us in this riveting episode as we bust some pervasive myths about sexuality in older adults and spark important dialogue that could transform your views on aging and sexuality.  What's Next?What are your views, comments, or questions on aging, sexual health, and intimacy? Share them with us at info@seniorityauthority.org!  Stay ConnectedGet in touch with our host Cathleen Toomey on LinkedInYou can also find Seniority Authority on Facebook, on Instagram, or you can connect with us on our website!Subscribe to our show on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or anywhere you get your podcasts.

Episode 31: Ms. Elphick joined the Partnership for Public Health in 2014 working as an Options Counselor for the Belknap County ServiceLink office. Before joining PPH, Ms. Elphick was a Forensic Interviewer with the Merrimack County Advocacy Center in Concord, NH. She holds a Master of Arts Degree in Justice Studies from the University of New Hampshire in Durham, and a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Psychology (Summa Cum Laude) from Saint Joseph’s College of Maine in Standish, ME. Links:Service link National toll-free NO to access long term services: 1-866-634-9412Find all Service link info and addresses: www.servicelink.nh.govSample Letter  What's Next?What are your questions about Service Link? Share your questions with us at info@seniorityauthority.org or find us on your favorite social media platform Stay Connected:Cathleen ToomeyLinkedIn:Cathleen ToomeyWebsite:Seniority AuthorityFacebook:Seniority AuthorityInstagram:seniorityauthoritySubscribe to our podcast + download each episode on Stitcher, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts and Spotify.

In this enlightening episode, we're joined by psychiatrist Dr. Sarah Slocum to discuss the confusion between dementia, delirium, and depression in older adults. Dr. Slocum shares her journey into the field of psychiatry and her interest in geriatric patients.We explore the overlapping symptoms of delirium, dementia, and depression, and the importance of identifying the correct condition for proper treatment and intervention. Dr. Slocum emphasizes the seriousness of delirium, which is the most common issue faced by older adults in medical settings, and its significant impact on their health and recovery.In the second half of the episode, Dr. Slocum shares advice on lifestyle changes and habits that can help prevent delirium, such as exercise, managing chronic conditions, and engaging in a passion or hobby that brings joy. Stick with us to uncover the mysteries of dementia, delirium, and depression in older adults with Dr. Sarah Slocum.

Episode 29: Dr. Sara Zeff Geber is an author and the Founder of LifeEncore. Her book, Essential Retirement Planning for Solo Agers: A Retirement and Aging Roadmap for Single and Childless Adults, was selected as a “best book on aging well” by the Wall Street Journal. Sara also received the distinction of being named as one of the “2018 Influencers in Aging” by the PBS website, Next Avenue.  Links:Sara’s website: https://sarazeffgeber.com/Sara's book:  Essential Retirement Planning for Solo Agers What’s Next?What are your questions about solo aging? Share your questions with us at info@seniorityauthority.org or find us on your favorite social media platform. Stay Connected:Cathleen ToomeyLinkedin:Cathleen ToomeyWebsite:Seniority AuthorityFacebook:Seniority AuthorityInstagram:seniorityauthoritySubscribe to our podcast + download each episode on Stitcher, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts and Spotify.

Show Notes:As we enter retirement, we're faced with a new challenge: navigating the unstructured time and the need to find purpose and fulfillment. In this episode, we're joined by 68-year-old author Andrew Robin, who shares his insights on living a "tapas life" after retirement, as introduced in his book, Tapas Life.Andy offers advice on adding structure and cadence through routines, rediscovering passions, and exploring interests from earlier in life. We dive into the concepts of convergent and divergent thinkers and how they approach life after long careers. We explore the VIA (Values in Action) Happiness Survey, created by Martin Seligman, as a tool to identify personal strengths and interest. And finally, we explore reevaluating and reinventing relationships, letting go of old mental models, and embracing the freedom and spaciousness offered by a “tapas life”. Get Andy’s book, Tapas Life.  What's Next?What are your views, comments, or questions on living a fulfilling life after retirement? Share them with us at info@seniorityauthority.org!  Stay ConnectedGet in touch with our host Cathleen Toomey on LinkedInYou can also find Seniority Authority on Facebook, on Instagram, or you can connect with us on our website!Subscribe to our show on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or anywhere you get your podcasts.

Aging gracefully and staying healthy is a priority for many of us. In this episode, we're joined by certified yoga instructor Will Thomas, who shares his insights on the importance of stretching and strengthening as we age. Will, who began practicing yoga in grad school, explains how maintaining muscle mass and bone density is crucial for protecting our joints and preserving mobility.We explore breathing and stretching exercises that help listeners connect with their bodies, emphasizing the significance of focusing on how everything feels and incorporating breath into the practice. Additionally, we discuss the challenges of deep breathing and how strengthening muscles can improve lung capacity and overall health.Discover more about Will Thomas and his approach to yoga and aging by tuning into this enlightening episode.What's Next?What are your views, comments, or questions on stretching, strengthening, and aging? Share them with us at info@seniorityauthority.org! Stay ConnectedConnect with our host Cathleen Toomey on LinkedInFind out more about Seniority Authority on our website! You can also find us on Facebook and Instagram.Subscribe to our show on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or anywhere you get your podcasts.

Join us in this live edition of Seniority Authority from the Leading Age Summit in Washington, D.C., where our host interviews Bryant Johnson, former paratrooper, Army reservist, and personal trainer to Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg. Bryant shares his journey to becoming a certified personal trainer, his experiences working with Justice Ginsburg, and the impact their training sessions had on her health and his approach to fitness.Together, they discuss the importance of functional fitness and the dynamic wisdom concept, which involves the interaction of the biological, psychological, and social dimensions (body, mind, and soul). Bryant shares anecdotes about training his mother and Justice Ginsburg and his motivation for writing his book, "The RBG Workout," which focuses on functional exercises for people of any age.Learn about "prison anchors" – excuses people use to avoid working out – and the importance of overcoming them. The host praises Justice Ginsburg for her humility and willingness to learn, even at the pinnacle of her career.Bryant shares recommendations for listeners who want to start incorporating his methods into their daily lives and emphasizes the importance of movement and seeking professional guidance for exercising. In a lightning round of questions, Bryant reveals his guilty pleasures, favorite healthy practices, and favorite book, among other things.Discover how you can incorporate Bryant Johnson's functional fitness methods into your own life and embrace the power of exercise for aging well by tuning into this inspiring episode.Episode Resources:"The RBG Workout" by Bryant Johnson   What's Next?What are your views, comments, or questions on functional fitness and aging gracefully? Share them with us at info@seniorityauthority.org!  Stay ConnectedGet in touch with our host Cathleen Toomey on LinkedInYou can also find Seniority Authority on Facebook, on Instagram, or you can connect with us on our website!  Subscribe to our show on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or anywhere you get your podcasts.

In this enlightening episode of Seniority Authority, we're joined by Dr. Jennifer Smith, Director of Research at Mather Institute and an expert on positive aging. Dr. Smith shares her insights on the importance of savoring positive experiences for happier minds and healthier outcomes. She highlights her research on increasing positive emotions and offers practical advice for incorporating savoring practices into daily life.Dr. Smith delves into her recent research, the Age Wealth Study, a five-year longitudinal study on life plan community residents. She discusses her excitement in analyzing changes in savoring and wellbeing over the five-year period, which also encompasses the pandemic.Episode Resources:Mather Institute WebsiteHarvard Business Review article on “busyness”What's Next?What are your views, comments, or questions on savoring positive experiences and mental wellbeing? Share them with us at info@seniorityauthority.org!Stay ConnectedGet in touch with our host Cathleen Toomey on LinkedInYou can also find Seniority Authority on Facebook, on Instagram, or you can connect with us on our website!Subscribe to our show on Apple Podcasts,  Spotify, or anywhere you get your podcasts.

Show NotesOptimizing your brain health is essential for living a fulfilling, vibrant life at any age. In this episode, we're joined by Dr. Vonetta Dotson, a gerontologist, neuropsychologist, and the director of Aging Well for Everyone at Georgia State University. Dr. Dotson sheds light on the lifelong journey of brain health and the simple, yet powerful habits we can adopt to maintain cognitive wellness.Together, we debunk common myths surrounding brain health, discuss the significance of exercise and social connections, and explore the unique challenges faced by older Black adults. Dr. Dotson also introduces her innovative business, Cerebro Fit, a one-stop-shop for brain health services designed to make it easier for individuals to access the support they need.Tune in for a fascinating conversation on the intricacies of brain health and take away actionable tips to enrich your cognitive wellbeing.What's Next?What are your views, comments, or questions on brain health and wellness? Share them with us at info@seniorityauthority.org!Stay ConnectedGet in touch with our host Cathleen Toomey on LinkedInYou can also find Seniority Authority on Facebook, on Instagram, or you can connect with us on our website! Subscribe to our show on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or anywhere you get your podcasts.

Discover the secrets to designing a meaningful and fulfilling retirement with Joe Casey, a podcast host, author, and executive coach specializing in retirement planning. Joe shares his unique approach to helping clients envision and plan their next chapter in life using the Design Your Life process. He emphasizes the importance of exploring one's values, generating ideas, testing experiences, and maintaining strong social connections.In this episode, Joe discusses his journey and provides insights on overcoming challenges in retirement, such as boredom and societal expectations. He also shares a technique for rediscovering interests by going back in time, decade by decade. Additionally, Joe talks about the importance of experimentation in retirement, trying several small things instead of focusing on one main thing.Learn more about Joe Casey's coaching practice, which offers one-on-one and group coaching sessions, by visiting retirementwisdom.com and checking out his Retirement Wisdom Podcast. Don't miss this enlightening conversation on how to create a meaningful and satisfying retirement.What's Next?What are your views, comments, or questions on designing a fulfilling retirement? Share them with us at info@seniorityauthority.org!  Stay ConnectedGet in touch with our host Cathleen Toomey on LinkedInYou can also find Seniority Authority on Facebook, on Instagram, or you can connect with us on our website!Subscribe to our show on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or anywhere you get your podcasts.