DG Linton Gridley shares insights about aging positively and with a touch of fun. Inspired by a conversation with a spirited woman from New York City, DG explores the importance of maintaining a positive attitude as a crucial aspect of aging well. DG emphasizes the significance of taking care of one's health, finances, and having a plan, while also advocating for integrating fun and social activities into our daily lives. The episode also highlights the benefits of visualizing a vibrant and active older self, countering negative stereotypes about aging and promoting a balanced approach to health, community, and personal growth.

DG shares personal anecdotes and advice, touching on various aspects of aging with grace and fun. The discussion includes practical tips on health, exercise, nutrition, and the value of social connections such as joining art classes or engaging in community activities. DG also discusses how positive thinking can significantly impact our choices and actions, ultimately influencing our overall well-being as we age. The episode wraps up with a reflection on maintaining a childlike curiosity and sense of humor, essential elements for staying young at heart.

Connect with Aging with Grace at agingwithgraceinfo.org

Guest Shari Frasure and host DG Linton Gridley examine the complexities of navigating divorce after 50, drawing from Shari's personal experience. They kick off by emphasizing the importance of acceptance and patience as crucial elements in the healing process, as each person grieves differently. Financial and logistical hurdles, such as housing, health insurance, and social security, are addressed, with the hosts highlighting the necessity of professional guidance, especially for older women who may face financial vulnerability. They also discuss property division, underscoring that mutual agreements and working with experienced professionals can streamline the process and minimize costs.

The discussion takes an emotional turn as the importance of rebuilding social circles post-divorce is explored, particularly the challenges of navigating mutual friends. Shari shares personal insights on the evolution of relationships, suggesting activities like dance, hiking, and volunteering to foster new connections. Emphasizing a positive attitude, the hosts highlight honesty, personal growth, and patience as key components in forming meaningful relationships. They wrap up by mentioning Shari's podcast "Divorce After 50," and invite listeners to join their community for ongoing support and resources tailored for individuals going through midlife transitions.

Connect with Aging with Grace at agingwithgraceinfo.org

Welcome to a special episode of the Aging with Grace podcast, dedicated to celebrating National Family Caregivers Month. In this episode, your host DG explores the profound role of caregivers, focusing on unpaid family members, close friends, and spouses who provide essential support to enable their loved ones to live at home. DG shares emotional and personal stories, including her own journey of caregiving for her in-laws, which highlights the challenges and rewards of being a caregiver.

You'll also learn about the "I Care" mission and values that guide Aging with Grace employees, emphasizing continuous improvement, appreciation, respect, and exceptional integrity. Additionally, DG offers practical tips to avoid caregiver burnout, featuring insights from the Parkinson's Foundation. Whether you're an experienced caregiver or new to the role, this episode provides valuable resources and heartfelt encouragement. Join us for an empowering and informative episode that honors those who care with love and dedication.

Connect with Aging with Grace at agingwithgraceinfo.org

In this Halloween-themed episode, host DG Linton Gridley shares three poignant ghost stories centered on older individuals who fell through the cracks of a system that failed to support them. Listeners are moved by the tales of Harold, a betrayed businessman; Sarah, a mother who sacrificed everything but was repaid with neglect; and Elaine, a dedicated nurse whose life ended in torment at a poorly managed nursing home. Each story serves as a cautionary tale about the importance of elder care, legal preparations, and the emotional toll of loneliness and neglect.

After reflecting on these somber tales, DG emphasizes the mission of Aging with Grace's Fountain of Youth Clubhouse. She explains how comprehensive wellness plans and regular check-ins with caregivers could have drastically altered the outcomes for Harold, Sarah, and Elaine. DG encourages listeners to be proactive in planning their elder years to avoid becoming ghosts of their own unfulfilled lives. The episode wraps up with an interesting history of Halloween, linking ancient Celtic traditions to present-day celebrations, thus blending the show's themes of historical awareness and personal reflection.

Connect with Aging with Grace at agingwithgraceinfo.org

DG had the pleasure of speaking with April Stauffer from the Sanders Brown Center on Aging. They covered a wide array of topics related to brain health, aging, and groundbreaking research endeavors. Here are three key takeaways from the insightful conversation:

🔹 Holistic Approach to Brain Health
April's work stretches across diverse scientific fields, from biochemistry to public health. This multidisciplinary approach enriches our understanding of brain health, emphasizing the interconnectedness of various health factors in aging.

🔹 Sleep's Crucial Role
Adequate sleep is essential for clearing brain toxins and maintaining cognitive health. April underscored the need for good sleep hygiene to prevent neurodegenerative conditions, highlighting sleep as a fundamental pillar for brain health.

🔹 Community Engagement and Resources
Isolation can contribute to chronic diseases and dementia. To combat this, the Sanders Brown Center offers resources like the Brain Health Activities website and Memory Café, designed to enhance social engagement and improve quality of life for individuals with cognitive impairments.

Catch the full episode to dive deeper into these fascinating insights and more. Big thanks to April Stauffer for sharing her expertise and passion for advancing brain health research!

https://dementiacaregiver.createuky.net/brain_health/activities-4/

Connect with Aging with Grace at agingwithgraceinfo.org

Episode Highlights:

• Understanding Independent Living: DG shares insights into independent living communities and the benefits they offer, such as safety, security, and socialization. Learn about potential challenges like cost and planning.
• Assisted Living Explained: A deep dive into the different levels of assisted living—from basic housekeeping and meals to more comprehensive healthcare services. What are the pros and cons? Find out in this episode!
• Personal Care Homes vs. Family Care Homes: Discover the differences and understand which might be the best fit for those who need one-on-one assistance with daily activities.
• Skilled Nursing Facilities and Hospice Care: DG discusses what you need to know about nursing home care and hospice services. Learn about the emotional and practical aspects of these important choices.
• Other Options & Programs: Get informed about continuum of care communities and the innovative PACE program. Explore why these might not be as ideal as staying in your own home with services brought directly to you.

Special Mentions:

• Don't miss the deeper dive into PACE programs in Podcast #76 from March 2023.
• Veterans benefits are covered in Podcast #12 from December 2021.
• Discover more about long-term care insurance in Podcast #113 from earlier this year.

Consult with Us: Planning for the future is crucial. Aging with Grace offers individualized consultations to help you determine the best living and care options tailored to your personal needs and preferences. Call us at 859-539-2147 to schedule an appointment.

Stay Connected: For more resources, guidance, and to listen to our latest podcasts, visit our website at agingwithgraceinfo.org.

Thank you for being a part of our community. Let’s navigate this journey together, aging gracefully and living independently!

Connect with Aging with Grace at agingwithgraceinfo.org

September is National Senior Center Month and Lexington Senior Centers are Exciting and Vibrant! In this episode, we delve into some enriching topics designed to keep your golden years filled with vitality, connection, and joy. Here’s a brief rundown of what we discussed:

1. Positive Mindset on Aging:

• The power of a positive mindset and staying socially engaged cannot be overstated. We explore how joining community activities and staying mentally active can significantly enhance your well-being.

2. Personal Reflections:

• DG shares her personal experience after joining the Lexington Senior Center, participating in activities such as yoga, weight training, educational classes, and even a friendly game or two of ping pong.

3. Lexington Senior Center Expansion:

• We are excited about the new $25 million Senior and Therapeutic Recreation Center coming to Shillito Park. With features like large group exercise rooms, an art studio, a fitness gym, three indoor pickleball courts, and much more, this center promises to cater to the growing needs of our senior community.

4. Community and City Involvement:

• We highlight the city officials' dedication to support our seniors, as evidenced by funding from the Mayor’s budget based on US Census data indicating that 1 in 4 people in Fayette County are over age 55.

5. Socializing and Mental Health:

• We emphasize the importance of combatting loneliness through socializing at senior centers, which can improve physical and mental health outcomes.

6. Lexington Senior Center Services and Policies:

• Information on services, attendance statistics, expanded offerings, and important policies, including inclusivity and safety guidelines aimed at ensuring a welcoming and secure environment for all participants.

7. Fountain of Youth Clubhouse:

• We compare services and highlight the specialized health care and recreational services offered at Aging with Grace’s Fountain of Youth Clubhouse, providing dedicated care and engaging activities.

Tune in to the full episode to get all the insights, stories, and inspiring talks about how you can continue to age with grace, joy, and purpose!

Thank you for being part of our community, and we look forward to continuing this journey with you.

Connect with Aging with Grace at agingwithgraceinfo.org

In this episode, we dive deep with Jessica Munoz from the Alzheimer's Association about the profound impact of the Walk to End Alzheimer's. We explore the importance of community, the funds raised for crucial research, and the incredible resources available for caregivers and those living with Alzheimer's. Join us in learning how we can support each other and make strides towards ending Alzheimer's.

Highlights from our Latest Episode:

🎙️ Guest Speaker: Jessica Munoz

• The Walk to End Alzheimer’s:
• Learn about the purpose, impact, and community support fostered through this incredible event.
• Resources Available:
• Including a 24/7 helpline, educational programs, support groups for caregivers and those with Alzheimer’s, and more!
• Upcoming Walk Details:
• Mark your calendars for
• Sunday, October 20th at the Kentucky Horse Park, Altec Arena.
• Registration starts at 1:30 PM with the opening ceremony at 2:30 PM.
• Exciting Updates in Alzheimer’s Research:
• Hear about the latest FDA-approved treatments and ongoing research advancing the fight against Alzheimer’s.

Why You Should Join the Walk to End Alzheimer’s

The walk is not just a fundraising event; it’s a powerful demonstration of support and solidarity for those affected by Alzheimer’s. Whether you choose to walk a mile or simply cheer on the participants, your presence makes a difference. Remember, there’s no registration fee, and everyone is welcome!

How to Register

1. Visit the website:
2. act.alz.org/lexington
3. Click on “Register” and follow the easy steps.
4. Set your fundraising goals and invite others to join or donate to your cause.

Connect with Aging with Grace at agingwithgraceinfo.org