Best Podcasts for Seniors

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Bayshore Memory Care

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Posted on

Aug 04, 2023

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Florida - Southwest

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Podcasts keep growing in popularity among all ages. According to DemandSage, there are more than 5 million podcasts available, with more than 460 million listeners globally. But which ones are the best for seniors, and why should they listen anyway?

Find out about podcasts, some of the best for seniors, and how to listen to them.

Why Seniors Should Listen to Podcasts

Seniors can benefit from listening to podcasts for various reasons, as they offer a wide range of outlooks that can enhance your life and well-being. Here are some reasons why you should consider listening to podcasts:

  • Entertainment and enjoyment – Podcasts offer a diverse selection of entertaining shows, including comedy, storytelling and interviews. They can bring joy and laughter, making leisure time more enjoyable and fulfilling.
  • Flexibility and accessibility – Podcasts are accessible on various devices like smartphones, tablets and computers. Seniors can listen at their convenience, whether it’s during walks, while cooking, or simply relaxing at home.
  • Keeping informed – Podcasts can cover news, current events and discussions on societal topics, helping seniors stay informed and engaged in the world around them.
  • Learning and education – Podcasts cover a vast array of topics, from history and science to personal development and language learning. Seniors can continue to engage their minds, learn new things, and stay intellectually active through podcast content.
  • Social connection – Listening to podcasts on shared interests can provide seniors with topics for discussion, fostering social connections with friends, family, or fellow enthusiasts.

12 of the Top Podcasts for Seniors

1. 70 Over 70

70 Over 70 is filled with the wisdom of elders. Host Max Linsky talks to 70 people over the age of 70 in these archived episodes. Celebrities such as Norman Lear and Dan Rather, along with everyday people, talk about their lives and how they’re making the most of their time right now.

2. 99% Invisible

Host Roman Mars discusses design, architecture and other things you don’t think about in the world in 99% Invisible. Recent episodes cover the player piano, creating shade in the public, and religious tracts. An outgrowth of this series is the book “The 99% Invisible City.” You can also subscribe to a newsletter.

3. Better Health While Aging

This podcast for seniors and family caregivers gives practical information from a geriatrician and other experts. Better Health While Aging, hosted by Dr. Leslie Kernisan, has covered memory loss, senior decision making and what to know about COVID. She also speaks about hearing loss, estate planning and other topics of interest.

4. BirdNote

Bird watching is a growing interest for older Americans, and BirdNote is a quick podcast filled with facts and sounds about birds. In just two minutes, you can learn about bird nests, the Great Blue Heron, or architecture for birds, along with hearing the calming sounds of birds in the wild.

5. Criminal 

Crime podcasts are one of the biggest categories, and Criminal is a podcast for any senior who may be interested. Real interviews of victims and criminals are featured, along with tales of manhunts. Recent podcasts talk about the Unabomber, the Tylenol murders, Cleveland’s Torso Murder, and more.

6. Freakonomics Radio

Consistently one of the top-rated podcasts, Freakonomics Radio is a simple discussion of economics and how it plays a role in our everyday lives. For example, some of the episodes include whaling, stolen art and taxes.

7. Good Job, Brain!

This fun podcast is part trivia and part quiz show. Each episode of Good Job, Brain! features a theme, such as road trip, summer and youthfulness. Hosts, guests and listeners all try their luck at the answers, and in the end learn something new.

8. The Joe Rogan Experience

Joe Rogan’s show is the most popular podcast and streaming show in the world. The controversial figure is a standup comic, television host and purveyor of the unusual. The Joe Rogan Experience has featured comedians, political figures, scientists and actors. This is the show that famously showed Elon Musk smoking marijuana.

9. Relic Radio

Pure nostalgia, Relic Radio features rebroadcasts of old-time radio shows from the Golden Age in their entirety. From horror to sci-fi, mysteries to comedy to “Orson Welles On the Air.” Relic Radio has several different podcasts to choose from.

10. Retirement Wisdom

There’s more to retirement than finances. Retirement Wisdom talks about living your life after work. Episodes focus on where you should live, Medicare, hobbies, wellness and becoming a consultant after you quit the day-to-day work world.

11. Stuff You Should Know

A compendium of interesting facts, Stuff You Should Know will tell you about just about everything you’d ever wonder about. Recent episodes covered learning a foreign language, insomnia, how police lineups work, the facts about birth order and more. You’ll get lost in the long-form episodes (around 45 minutes to an hour) and the Short Stuff quicker episodes (10 to 15 minutes).

12. This American Life

Produced by National Public Radio, This American Life shares real stories about real people. Sometimes humorous, sometimes shocking, this is a very popular podcast. Recent episodes featured stories from a fertility clinic, ghosts, the necessity of rats and more.

How to Play These Podcasts and Others

You’ll need to do a few things to settle into a good podcast. You don’t need any special equipment, just what you probably already have.

>> Read “Best Tablets for Seniors

  • Find a podcast app – First, download a podcast app on your smartphone or tablet. Popular podcast apps include Apple Podcasts (for iOS devices), Google Podcasts (for Android devices), Spotify, and Stitcher.
  • Search for podcasts – Once the app is installed, you can search for podcasts on topics you are interested in. Use keywords or browse through categories to find shows. The 12 examples above have links to each show’s website, but you’ll need to select the correct podcast app to save and play them.
  • Subscribe to podcasts – After finding a podcast you like, subscribe to it. Subscribing means that new episodes will automatically download or appear in your app’s library when they are released.
  • Listen to episodes – Once subscribed, you can listen to episodes by clicking on the show’s title and selecting the episode you want to hear. Listen using headphones or through the device’s speakers.
  • Playback controls – Podcast apps typically have playback controls, allowing you to play, pause, rewind, or fast-forward through episodes.
  • Downloading vs. streaming – Some apps allow users to download episodes for offline listening, which is useful when internet access is limited. Alternatively, you can stream episodes if you have a reliable internet connection.
  • Explore recommendations – Podcast apps often provide personalized recommendations based on listening history, helping you discover new shows that match your interests.

Overall, podcasts are an accessible, informative and enjoyable way for seniors to stay engaged, informed and entertained.

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Safe Summer Activities for Seniors

Summer can be one of the most joyful seasons for seniors, offering opportunities for movement, connection, and fun. By choosing the right activities and staying mindful of heat and hydration, older adults can enjoy everything the season has to offersafely and comfortably.Summer offers the perfect opportunity for seniors to enjoy the outdoors, soak up some vitamin D, and stay socially and physically active. However, rising temperatures and increased sun exposure can also bring unique risks, especially for older adults. With a bit of planning and awareness, seniors can make the most of the season while prioritizing safety and well-being.Here are some enjoyable and safe summer activities for seniors: 1. Morning or Evening WalksWalking is one of the best low-impact exercises for seniors. During the summer, its safest to walk early in the morning or later in the evening to avoid peak heat. Local parks, botanical gardens, or shaded trails offer refreshing scenery and a chance to connect with nature.Tip: Wear a hat, sunscreen, and breathable clothing, and bring water to stay hydrated. 2. GardeningGardening provides gentle physical activity and can be a therapeutic hobby. Whether its tending to flowers, vegetables, or herbs, it allows seniors to be outside while staying in control of their environment.Tip: Use raised garden beds to reduce strain on joints, and aim for shaded gardening times to avoid heat stress. 3. Outdoor PicnicsGathering with family or friends for a picnic is a great way to enjoy warm weather without exertion. Seniors can bring a comfortable chair and enjoy a meal, music, or a game of cards under a shaded tree or pavilion.Tip: Choose locations with accessible seating and restroom facilities. 4. Water Aerobics or SwimmingSwimming and water-based activities are ideal for seniors because theyre easy on the joints and help with mobility and flexibility. Many community centers offer senior-friendly aquatic programs in the summer.Tip: Always swim in supervised areas and wear water shoes to avoid slips and falls. 5. Outdoor Arts and CraftsFor those who love being creative, setting up a shaded table for painting, sketching, or crafting outdoors can be relaxing and inspiring. This combines artistic expression with the calming influence of nature.Tip: Use portable umbrellas or tents to create a cool, shaded workspace. 6. Farmers Markets and Outdoor FairsExploring a local farmers market is a pleasant way to get some light exercise while supporting local growers. Seniors can sample fresh produce, enjoy live music, and engage with their community.Tip: Go early in the day and use a rolling cart or bag to make carrying purchases easier. 7. Bird Watching or Nature ObservationBird watching can be both calming and mentally stimulating. A pair of binoculars and a local field guide can turn a simple outing into an enjoyable and educational experience.Tip: Choose a quiet, shady spot with seating and bring a journal to record observations. 8. Attend Outdoor Concerts or MoviesMany communities host free or low-cost concerts and movies in the park. These events offer great social opportunities and entertainment in a relaxed, outdoor setting.Tip: Bring a chair with good back support, a fan or mister, and snacks to stay comfortable. Safety Tips for Summer Fun Hydration is Key: Older adults may not feel thirsty as often, so its important to drink water regularly. Dress for the Weather: Light, loose-fitting clothes and a wide-brimmed hat help protect against heat. Use Sun Protection: Sunscreen with at least SPF 30 should be applied 20 minutes before going outside and reapplied every two hours. Know the Signs of Heat Exhaustion: Symptoms include dizziness, nausea, excessive sweating, and confusion. If any of these occur, seek shade and medical attention immediately.

Understanding ADLs and IADLs: Keys to Pennsylvanias Medicaid HCBS Programs

Pennsylvania offers Medicaid waiver programs under the Community HealthChoices (CHC) umbrella and the Pennsylvania Department of Aging (PDA) Waiver (often referred to as the PA Council on Aging Waiver). These programs help older adults and individuals with physical disabilities remain in their homes or community settings instead of entering nursing facilities. CHC and the PDA Waiver provide long-term services and supports (LTSS) based on assessed functional needs, emphasizing assistance with ADLs and IADLs. Covered services may include personal care assistance, adult day services, home-delivered meals, transportation, home modifications, assistive technology, and respite care for family caregivers. In addition, Pennsylvanias CHC Waiver offers Participant-Directed Services that allow participants to hire and manage their own caregivers, including family members. To qualify, applicants must be Medicaid-eligible, at least 60 years old (for PDA Waiver) or 21+ (for CHC), and require a nursing facility level of care as determined through a standardized functional assessment of ADLs/IADLs. In this article, we explain what Activities of Daily Living (ADLs) and Instrumental Activities of Daily Living (IADLs) are and how needing help with these tasks is central to qualifying for Pennsylvanias Medicaid waivers like CHC and the PDA Waiver.What Are ADLs (Activities of Daily Living)?Activities of Daily Living (ADLs) are fundamental self-care tasks that a person must perform daily to maintain independence. Difficulty with ADLs often signals a need for supportive services. Core ADLs include: Mobility (Ambulating/Transferring): Safely walking, getting up from a chair, or transferring from a bed to a wheelchair. Dressing: Selecting and putting on appropriate clothing (including handling fasteners) without assistance. Eating: Feeding oneselfusing utensils to get food from a plate to the mouth and consuming it. Personal Hygiene: Bathing or showering and performing grooming activities like shaving, brushing teeth, and combing hair on ones own. Toileting (Continence): Independently using the toiletgetting to the toilet, transferring on and off, and cleaning oneself afterward. When someone can no longer perform several ADLs without help, it indicates that ongoing care or support is likely needed.What Are IADLs (Instrumental Activities of Daily Living)?Instrumental Activities of Daily Living (IADLs) are more complex tasks that allow a person to live independently in the community. While not necessarily performed daily, they are essential for managing ones household and life. Key IADLs include: Shopping for Essentials: The ability to shop for groceries, pick up prescriptions, or purchase clothing and other necessities. Meal Preparation: Planning and cooking mealsgathering ingredients and safely using kitchen appliances. Housekeeping: Keeping the home clean and livable tasks like cleaning, laundry, and taking out the trash. Money Management: Handling finances, such as paying bills on time, managing bank accounts, and budgeting. Transportation: Getting around or arranging transportationdriving oneself or using public transit or rides to run errands and attend appointments. Medication Management: Managing and taking medications properly remembering to take the correct medicines at scheduled times and refilling prescriptions. Communication: Using the phone or computer to communicatelooking up phone numbers, making calls, sending emails, and staying in touch with others. Trouble with IADLs is often one of the first signs that someone needs more support, even if basic ADLs are unaffected.Why ADLs and IADLs Matter for Medicaid Waiver EligibilityIn Pennsylvania, needing help with ADLs and IADLs is a central eligibility criterion for the CHC and PDA Waiver programs. These waivers serve individuals who would otherwise qualify for nursing facility care but prefer to remain in their own homes or community settings. Eligibility is determined through both financial and functional assessments. The functional assessment evaluates whether an individual requires hands-on assistance with ADLs and/or significant help with IADLs, thereby meeting a nursing facility level of care. Pennsylvania uses standardized toolsoften the Pennsylvania LongTerm Care Assessment System (PaLTAS) or the Minimum Data SetHome Care (MDSHC)to score independence in ADLs and IADLs.During the functional evaluation, an assessor reviews abilities such as transferring from bed to chair, walking safely, eating, toileting, meal preparation, housekeeping, medication management, and managing money. Cognitive issuessuch as memory problems due to dementiaare also considered since they impact daily functioning. If an individual cannot perform multiple ADLs without assistance or has significant deficits in IADLs, they are likely to meet the level-of-care requirement and become eligible for waiver services.Community HealthChoices (CHC) WaiverCommunity HealthChoices (CHC) is Pennsylvanias comprehensive HCBS waiver program for individuals aged 21 and older who require a nursing facility level of care. Administered by the Office of Long-Term Living (OLTL), CHC is a managed care program that combines physical health, long-term services and supports, and pharmacy benefits under a single plan (with behavioral health carved out). To qualify for CHC: Be age 21 or older. Meet Medicaid financial eligibility guidelines. Require a nursing facility level of care (confirmed through functional assessment). Live in a setting that meets HCBS requirements (e.g., home, apartment, assisted living). Be a Pennsylvania resident. Once enrolled, participants receive a comprehensive package of services tailored to their needs. Covered services may include personal assistance, home-delivered meals, adult day services, behavioral support, professional nursing, home modifications, assistive technology, transportation, and respite care. CHC also offers Participant-Directed Services, allowing participants to recruit, hire, train, and supervise their own caregiversoften family membersto assist with ADLs (bathing, dressing, toileting) and IADLs (meal preparation, medication reminders).PDA Waiver (Council on Aging Waiver)The Pennsylvania Department of Aging (PDA) Waiver, also called the Council on Aging Waiver, serves seniors aged 60 and over who require nursing facility level of care but choose to remain at home or in other community-based settings like domiciliary care homes. To qualify: Be age 60 or older. Meet Medicaid financial eligibility requirements. Be assessed as requiring nursing facility level of care (through the functional assessment). Live in a qualifying community setting. Covered services under the PDA Waiver may include personal care assistance, home-delivered meals, homemaker services, personal emergency response systems, respite care, adult day services, minor home modifications, and transportation. Like CHC, the PDA Waiver emphasizes managing ADL and IADL needs to keep participants safely in their homes.Participant-Directed ServicesBoth CHC and the PDA Waiver offer Participant-Directed Services, which empower participants to choose and manage their own caregivers, including family members, friends, or neighbors. Under this model, participants develop a service plan with guidance from a care coordinator, set schedules, and handle payroll tasks. This flexibility helps ensure that personal care and IADL support align with participants preferences and routines.Signs That Your Loved One May QualifyBelow are practical indicators that someone may be eligible for Pennsylvanias CHC or PDA Waiver due to difficulty with ADLs and IADLs: Trouble with Personal Care: Skipping showers, unkempt hair, or wearing dirty clothes may indicate difficulties with bathing and dressing (ADLs). Malnutrition or Weight Loss: An empty fridge or significant weight loss suggests issues with meal prep or feeding oneself (ADLs/IADLs). Mobility Decline and Falls: Struggling to walk without assistance, needing help to stand, or experiencing frequent falls signals reduced mobility (ADL: transferring/ambulating). Medication Errors and Memory Problems: Missing doses, mixing up pills, or forgetting appointments point to challenges with medication management and scheduling (IADLs). Household Neglect: Piles of mail, unpaid bills, or a cluttered home reflect trouble with housekeeping and money management (IADLs). A combination of needing help with several ADLslike bathing and toiletingand difficulties with IADLssuch as meal prep and housekeepingstrongly indicates a nursing facility level of care. Document these challenges for the functional assessment to demonstrate eligibility.Were Here to Help: Next Steps and Contact InformationNavigating Pennsylvanias Medicaid waiver programs can be complex, but you dont have to go it alone. At Passion to Care, we specialize in guiding Pennsylvania families through the CHC and PDA Waiver application processesfrom the initial functional assessment of ADLs and IADLs to completing paperwork and coordinating services once approved. If you notice your loved one struggling with daily tasks or if a professional has recommended nursing facility care, it may be time to explore CHC or the PDA Waiver. Our compassionate, family-first team ensures your loved ones needs are met with dignity and respect. Call us or contact us today to learn how to get started with Pennsylvanias Medicaid waivers for home and community-based services.

The Importance of Social Interaction for Seniors and How to Facilitate It

Social interaction is a cornerstone of health and well-being, particularly for seniors. Engaging in social activities can significantly impact their mental, emotional, and physical health. This post aims to underscore the importance of socializing your parents or elderly loved ones and provide practical suggestions for encouraging meaningful social engagement.Research has consistently shown that seniors who maintain active social lives enjoy numerous health benefits, including reduced risks for chronic diseases, lower blood pressure, and decreased rates of depression and anxiety. Social interactions can also play a critical role in preserving cognitive function, thereby potentially delaying the onset of dementia and Alzheimers disease.However, fostering social connections for seniors can sometimes be challenging. Mobility issues, health conditions, and the loss of peers can make it difficult for them to maintain their social networks. Here are several ways to help your elderly loved ones stay connected and engaged:Leverage Community Events: Many communities offer events tailored to seniors, such as exercise classes, art workshops, and social clubs. Encourage your loved ones to participate in these activities, which can be great opportunities to meet peers with similar interests.Embrace Technology: Online platforms and social media can be invaluable for seniors, allowing them to connect with friends and family members despite physical distances. Introducing your parents to simple-to-use apps and devices can open up a world of interaction.Encourage New Friendships: Help your elderly loved ones find new social circles by encouraging them to join clubs or groups based on their interests. Whether its a book club, a gardening group, or a cooking class, these activities can provide both a sense of community and a chance to learn something new.Volunteer Together: Volunteering is not only a way to give back but also a powerful method for socializing. Engaging in volunteer work allows seniors to feel connected to their communities and provides a sense of purpose.Schedule Regular Visits: Regular visits from family members, friends, or caregivers can significantly boost a seniors mood and sense of belonging. Even short, frequent visits can make a big difference in their overall well-being.Facilitating social interaction for seniors is about creating opportunities for connection and ensuring they have the support needed to engage with their community. By prioritizing social activities and leveraging resources both offline and online, we can help enrich the lives of our elderly loved ones, contributing to their happiness and health. If you have any questions, please contact AmazingCare at 303-755-3170.

Local Services By This Author

Bayshore Memory Care

Assisted Living 1260 Creekside Boulevard E., Naples, Florida, 34109

Senior Lifestyle offers a range of lifestyle options designed to fit your unique needs and preferences. Explore our communities and discover the upscale amenities and friendly team members that make Senior Lifestyle a standout choice for senior living.Located in Naples, Florida, Bayshore Memory Care provides award-winning memory care services, including our Embrace Memory Care program for those with Alzheimers or other dementia. Our program is built on the principles of Wellness, Enrichment, Challenge, Connection, and Creativity, guiding our philosophy and providing meaningful opportunities for engagement and socialization.At Bayshore Memory Care, residents enjoy beautiful spaces designed for bright days, with floor plans up to 600 sq ft and rates starting at $6,600*. Our community is undergoing exciting renovations to enhance our residents' experience, with updates that honor the history and beauty of Naples.Our amenities include a beauty and barber shop, dining rooms, a sunroom, planned social activities, a spacious activity and entertainment room, courtyard, whirlpool bath and spa, complimentary Wi-Fi, smoke-free environment, rehabilitation gym, and library. Dining is a highlight, with restaurant-style meals prepared by our chef to be delicious and nutritional.We take pride in our inviting atmosphere and compassionate staff who go above and beyond to deliver unmatched services. Our Embrace Memory Care program creates a lifestyle for residents, offering structure and routine while promoting stimulation, purpose, and joy.With 24-hour care available and a calendar full of engaging activities, Bayshore Memory Care is a community where residents can live well and connect with others. Contact us to schedule a visit and experience the award-winning memory care at Bayshore Memory Care in Naples, Florida.

Bayshore Memory Care

Memory Care 1260 Creekside Boulevard E., Naples, Florida, 34109

Senior Lifestyle offers a range of lifestyle options designed to fit your unique needs and preferences. Explore our communities and discover the upscale amenities and friendly team members that make Senior Lifestyle a standout choice for senior living.Located in Naples, Florida, Bayshore Memory Care provides award-winning memory care services, including our Embrace Memory Care program for those with Alzheimers or other dementia. Our program is built on the principles of Wellness, Enrichment, Challenge, Connection, and Creativity, guiding our philosophy and providing meaningful opportunities for engagement and socialization.At Bayshore Memory Care, residents enjoy beautiful spaces designed for bright days, with floor plans up to 600 sq ft and rates starting at $6,600*. Our community is undergoing exciting renovations to enhance our residents' experience, with updates that honor the history and beauty of Naples.Our amenities include a beauty and barber shop, dining rooms, a sunroom, planned social activities, a spacious activity and entertainment room, courtyard, whirlpool bath and spa, complimentary Wi-Fi, smoke-free environment, rehabilitation gym, and library. Dining is a highlight, with restaurant-style meals prepared by our chef to be delicious and nutritional.We take pride in our inviting atmosphere and compassionate staff who go above and beyond to deliver unmatched services. Our Embrace Memory Care program creates a lifestyle for residents, offering structure and routine while promoting stimulation, purpose, and joy.With 24-hour care available and a calendar full of engaging activities, Bayshore Memory Care is a community where residents can live well and connect with others. Contact us to schedule a visit and experience the award-winning memory care at Bayshore Memory Care in Naples, Florida.