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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


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#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:

1. 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 impacts
2. Effective 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.
3. 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.
4. 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.
5. 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.
6. 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.
7. The Five D's of Suicide Risk:
   • Depression
   • Disability
   • Disconnectedness
   • Disease
   • Deadly means
   • Understanding these risk factors helps us intervene and provide the necessary support.
8. 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.com
• Follow me on social media: Facebook | Twitter | LinkedIn
• Subscribe to the podcast for more insights on mental health and aging!

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Thank you for being a part of our community and for your commitment

PROFESSIONALS: Grab your free guide to working with older adults here


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#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:

1. 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.
2. 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.
3. 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.
4. 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.
5. 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.
6. 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