What does it really take to build a national movement for mental health and aging? If you’ve ever had a big dream or felt a deep calling to change the world—especially for older adults—you know that the path to change is rarely straight, easy, or predictable. In this post, I’m inviting you behind the scenes […]

Up to 1 in 5 older adults lives with a mental health condition like depression, anxiety, or substance use disorder. And yet—most go undiagnosed and untreated. Why? Because too often we only focus on the body and neglect the mind and soul. The truth is: mental health concerns are just as treatable in later life […]

20-22%  of older adults live with a mental health condition such as depression, anxiety, substance use disorder, or a dementia-related disorder. Yet, the vast majority go undetected and untreated. Why? A complex web of misconceptions, systemic failures, and structural barriers keeps older adults from getting the care they need.   Mental health conditions are just […]

What kind of world are we living in where a person who needs assisted living—someone with dementia, functional disabilities, or frailty—can be detained by ICE?   A recent email from Lori Smetanka, Executive Director of the National Consumer Voice for Quality Long-Term Care, revealed that a resident from a small assisted living facility was taken […]

As I write this the wildfires in Los Angeles have displaced more than 100,000 people, and destroyed homes and communities. I’ve heard heartbreaking stories of older adults and people with disabilities unable to leave their homes and evacuate safely. While, at the same time, others have. Imagine you’re working with older survivors of this traumatic […]

  Ageism poses a threat to mental health and well-being, especially for older adults. Research shows that ageism can significantly impact the psychological well-being of older individuals. From depression to anxiety, the effects of age-based prejudice are harmful.   Ageism includes stereotypes (how we think), prejudice (how we feel), and discrimination (how we act) towards […]

Many older adults implement strategies, like crossword puzzles and supplements to stave off dementia, but do these strategies actually work?   Research shows that potentially 45% of dementia cases can be prevented or delayed through a series of personal and societal changes.   Because my goal is to give you the most up to date […]

Reflecting on two decades of specializing in psychology with a focus on older adults has been an incredible journey, one that has imparted wisdom and insights I hold dear.   Today, I’m eager to share with you five life lessons that have not only shaped my professional path but also touched my personal life in […]

When working with people with terminal illness, you’ve no doubt heard:  “I don’t want to live like this anymore” “If Medical Aid in Dying isn’t available, I’ll find another way.” “I want help dying, but I don’t want people to think I killed myself.” “I want to go quickly before the dementia gets worse” “Some […]

A couple years ago, I worked with Mr. Davis, a Black man who was 85 and held a strong Jehovah’s Witness faith.  He was in therapy due to a recent separation from his wife. This resulted in lowering his position in his Jehovah’s Witness congregation. New medical issues were cropping up and he was exploring […]

With age, the thought of cognitive impairment can loom large, casting a shadow on what should be your golden years. You’re not alone in this journey. This article is dedicated to exploring the main causes of cognitive impairment in old age and providing practical, actionable guidance to optimize brain health. It’s never too late to […]

  Imagine this scenario: you’re sitting with your loved one reminiscing about a very special time in your life and your loved one struggles to recall an important part of the story that used to bring them so much joy. Is this simply a mere slip of memory or is it something more?   Today, […]