エピソード

  • The Caregiving Crisis: How AI Is Changing the Game with Shauna Sweeney of Tendercare EP 153

    The Caregiving Crisis: How AI Is Changing the Game with Shauna Sweeney of Tendercare EP 153
    2025/05/13
    “Let’s be honest — taking care of someone you love can be all-consuming. But what if tech could take some of that weight off your shoulders?” Key Resources: Get more information about Tendercare HERE Watch Shauna Sweeney’s touching caregiving journey HERE Hi everyone. I'm Barbara and this is Age Better. In today’s episode, I’m speaking with Shauna Sweeney, former Meta executive turned caregiving innovator, who’s on a mission to transform how we support family caregivers. After her father was diagnosed with early-onset Alzheimer’s, Shauna found herself thrown into the complex, emotional, and often isolating world of caregiving. That experience inspired her to create Tendercare, an AI-powered platform that provides guidance, support, and relief for the 54 million Americans caring for a loved one — mostly unpaid, often unseen. We dive into the role of technology in caregiving, how AI can reduce burnout and streamline decision-making, and why we desperately need healthcare reform to support our aging population. Shauna also opens up about the emotional toll of caregiving, the importance of community, and how self-care isn’t a luxury — it’s a lifeline. This episode is for anyone who’s currently a caregiver, expects to be one, or simply wants to understand what so many families are facing — and why smart solutions like Tendercare could be the support system we’ve been waiting for. Key Takeaways: Tendercare is an AI-powered app designed to simplify and support elder care. Shauna’s personal caregiving journey was the spark behind the platform. AI can help reduce decision fatigue and emotional stress for caregivers. America is facing a caregiving crisis, with over 54 million unpaid caregivers. Caregiving can deeply affect emotional well-being, identity, and health. Creating community around caregiving is essential. Caregivers must prioritize self-care — it’s not selfish, it’s survival. Healthcare systems need reform to better serve aging adults and caregivers. Technology can bring peace of mind and practical solutions to overwhelmed families. We want to hear from you! If you’re a caregiver — or want to share your own story — reach out to me at agebetterpodcast@gmail.com or leave a comment on Instagram @barbarahannahgrufferman. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
    続きを読む 一部表示
    35 分
  • Best Diets for Midlife Women: New Research on How to Eat for Strength, Sharpness, and Longevity EP 152

    Best Diets for Midlife Women: New Research on How to Eat for Strength, Sharpness, and Longevity EP 152
    2025/05/06
    "A new study shows that small changes to how you eat today could mean a stronger, sharper, more independent you tomorrow. Let’s dive in . . ." Links Referenced: Listen to my previous conversation with Gretel Schueller on Protein Needs for Midlife Women HERE or WATCH HERE ON YOUTUBE. Read U.S. News & World Report articles on Nutrition and Aging HERE, HERE, & HERE Read U.S. News & World Report 2025 ‘Best Diets’ Rankins List HERE Read the full Nature Medicine Study on Diet and Healthy Aging HERE In this episode of AGE BETTER, I’m joined once again by Gretel Schueller, Managing Editor of Health & Wellness at U.S. News & World Report. Together, we unpack fascinating new research showing how the way we eat in midlife can dramatically shape the quality of our lives as we age. We dive into the role of nutrition to aging better, the dangers of ultra-processed foods, the critical connection between the gut microbiome and aging, and why small, realistic changes to your plate today can mean a stronger, sharper, more independent you tomorrow. We also explore why meal prepping could be a secret weapon for better nutrition, why plant-based foods are getting more emphasis in future dietary guidelines, and the surprising gap in nutrition education for medical professionals. Whether you’re 40, 50, 60, or beyond—it’s never too late to make meaningful changes! Key Takeaways: It’s never too late to make a difference in your diet. Only 9.3% of study participants achieved healthy aging without chronic diseases. The average American diet is not supportive of healthy aging. Ultra-processed foods significantly undermine long-term health. Meal prepping can help you stay on track with healthy eating. Adding more plant foods to your plate can improve overall health and aging. Nutrition education remains limited in the medical field. The microbiome plays a major role in healthy aging. Future dietary guidelines will likely push more plant-forward options. Small changes today can lead to significant improvements over time. Prefer to Watch? You can also watch the full episode on my YouTube channel under the AGE BETTER playlist: Barbara Hannah Grufferman YouTube Channel Follow AGE BETTER: If you enjoyed this episode, please follow AGE BETTER on your favorite podcast platform and leave a quick rating or review—it helps so much! And don't forget to share this episode with someone who wants to stay strong, sharp, and independent for decades to come. Thanks for listening—and as always . . . let's AGE BETTER, together! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
    続きを読む 一部表示
    38 分
  • On My Mind: Menopause is Over -- Now What? EP 151

    On My Mind: Menopause is Over -- Now What? EP 151
    2025/04/29
    Hi everyone—thanks for tuning in! In this short solo episode of AGE BETTER, I’m doing something a little different . . . I’m turning to YOU. If you’ve followed my work since The Best of Everything After 50 or Love Your Age, you know I’ve always been passionate about giving women the tools and confidence to live stronger, longer, and better lives. And now that I’m in my 60s, I’m thinking a lot about what comes after menopause—the part no one talks about enough. This next chapter? It’s full of challenges, yes—but also potential. And I want to make sure that everything I create—whether it’s the next season of the AGE BETTER podcast, new YouTube videos, or even my next book—reflects what YOU need most right now. So I’m inviting you to tell me: - What are you navigating in this phase of life? - What do you want more of—physically, emotionally, spiritually? - What’s keeping you up at night? - What kind of content do you prefer—short tips, longer conversations, video, audio? - Would you attend a live Q&A or workshop? 📩 Email me at agebetterpodcast@gmail.com or DM me on social @barbarahannahgrufferman. 🎁 As a thank-you, I’m a super-short digital guide to aging better: “10 Small Shifts to Age Better, Every Day.” To get your free copy click HERE. Let’s shape the next chapter of AGE BETTER—together. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
    続きを読む 一部表示
    9 分
  • The Midlife Protein Solution: How Much You Need & Easy Ways to Get It with Gretel Schueller EP 150

    The Midlife Protein Solution: How Much You Need & Easy Ways to Get It with Gretel Schueller EP 150
    2025/04/15
    KEY RESOURCES: Download the FREE ‘Midlife Protein Cheat Sheet’ HERE Get more info about guest expert Gretel Schueller HERE Go to US News & World Report's 2025 ‘Best Diets’ list HERE Article on the best plant-based protein powders is HERE Gretel’s favorite plant-based protein powder is HERE Barbara’s favorite whey protein isolate powder is HERE Watch the earlier podcast episode with Dr. Vonda Wright HERE Is your protein intake keeping up with your changing body? In this essential episode of AGE BETTER, host Barbara Hannah Grufferman sits down with Gretel Schueller, managing editor of health and wellness content for US News & World Report and the mind behind their influential annual "Best Diets" rankings. Together, they unpack the science of protein needs for women in midlife and deliver a practical roadmap for optimizing your nutrition without complicated meal plans or excessive meat consumption. WHAT YOU’LL LEARN Why protein requirements actually increase as women enter midlife and menopause The surprising connection between protein intake and maintaining youthful skin How to strategically time your protein consumption for maximum absorption and benefit Practical ways to incorporate more protein without adding excessive calories The truth about plant-based proteins and how to make them work in your daily routine Expert insights on the Mediterranean diet (ranked #1 in this year's US News report) and why it's particularly beneficial for midlife women Simple meal planning strategies that make high-protein eating sustainable When protein supplements make sense and how to choose the right ones The critical link between protein consumption and combating sarcopenia (age-related muscle loss) How to pair protein optimization with the right movement practices for best results ABOUT OUR GUEST EXPERT: Gretel Schueller brings her award-winning expertise in nutrition journalism to this conversation. As the curator of the highly anticipated annual "Best Diets" rankings from US News & World Report, Schueller translates complex nutritional science into practical advice that real women can implement in their busy lives. Her evidence-based approach cuts through the noise of fad diets and delivers solutions that support long-term health and vitality. Don't miss this protein masterclass that will transform how you think about nutrition in midlife and beyond! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
    続きを読む 一部表示
    38 分
  • How Grief Rewires Your Body: The Hidden Toll of Loss with Dr. Mary-Frances O'Connor EP 149

    How Grief Rewires Your Body: The Hidden Toll of Loss with Dr. Mary-Frances O'Connor EP 149
    2025/04/08
    LINKS & RESOURCES: Learn more about Dr. Mary-Frances O’Connor HERE Get info about The Grieving Body HERE Get info about The Grieving Brain HERE Learn more about the Dougy Project (to help grieving children) HERE In this episode of AGE BETTER, host Barbara Hannah Grufferman welcomes back Dr. Mary-Frances O'Connor, neuroscientist, psychologist, and author of the best-selling book The Grieving Brain. This time, Dr. O’Connor joins the show to discuss her latest work, The Grieving Body: How the Stress of Loss Can Be an Opportunity for Healing. Together, they explore the profound connection between grief and physical health, offering listeners a deeper understanding of how loss impacts not just the mind but the entire body. CHEAT SHEET: Grief is more than an emotional experience—it’s a whole-body stress response that affects systems like the heart, immune system, and even the gut microbiome. Dr. O’Connor shares fascinating insights from her research, including how grief can lead to conditions like broken heart syndrome, disrupt sleep patterns, and even influence long-term health through generational grief. She also provides practical strategies for managing grief’s physical toll, from improving sleep quality to fostering community support and self-care routines. This conversation is essential for anyone who has experienced loss or wants to better support loved ones who are grieving. By understanding the science behind grief’s physical manifestations, listeners can take actionable steps toward healing and resilience. WHY THIS EPISODE MATTERS TO YOU: Grief is a universal experience, but its physical effects are often overlooked. This episode sheds light on how loss impacts our bodies and offers practical advice for managing these effects. Whether you’re currently grieving or supporting someone who is, this conversation provides valuable tools for navigating one of life’s most challenging experiences with compassion and care. Connect with Barbara on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, or X! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
    続きを読む 一部表示
    1 時間
  • The Lagom Effect: How Sweden's 'Just Enough' Philosophy Can Change Your Life EP 148

    The Lagom Effect: How Sweden's 'Just Enough' Philosophy Can Change Your Life EP 148
    2025/04/01
    In this enlightening episode, host Barbara Hannah Grufferman sits down with author Kortney Yasenka to explore the transformative Swedish philosophy of "Lagom" (pronounced LAH-gom). Together they unpack how this concept of "not too much, not too little, but just right" can revolutionize our approach to life's challenges, particularly during midlife transitions. Kortney shares insights from her book, “Swedish Lagom: Finding Joy in Just Enough”, co-written with her Swedish mother, revealing how these ancient principles offer surprising solutions to modern problems from digital overwhelm to family dynamics. Learn more about “Swedish Lagom: Finding Joyy in Just Enough” HERE Episode Highlights: Discover why Sweden consistently ranks among the world's happiest countries and how Lagom contributes to this cultural wellbeing Learn practical strategies for setting boundaries without guilt, especially when caring for both aging parents and adult children Explore how Lagom differs from minimalism and other decluttering trends while offering a more sustainable relationship with possessions Understand how embracing "enough" can free you from comparison culture and social media-induced FOMO Find out how Lagom's community-focused principles can help address larger societal challenges from climate change to social division Lagom Cheat Sheet: Lagom emphasizes finding joy in just enough—neither excess nor scarcity This philosophy can be applied universally, regardless of cultural background Happiness is deliberately cultivated in Swedish culture through balance and moderation Midlife transitions become more manageable through Lagom's balanced approach Setting boundaries (saying no) becomes a positive act of self-care Community connection is essential to the Lagom lifestyle Digital overload can be countered by reconnecting with nature and loved ones "Swedish death cleaning" offers a meaningful approach to possessions different from typical minimalism Retirement becomes an opportunity for rediscovery when approached with Lagom principles Global challenges can be addressed through Lagom's emphasis on community and sustainability Connect With Us: Have ideas for future episodes of Age Better? We'd love to hear from you! Send your suggestions to agebetterpodcast@gmail.com. Follow Barbara Hannah Grufferman on Instagram and Twitter for daily inspiration on aging well. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
    続きを読む 一部表示
    35 分
  • FDA-Approved Osteoboost: CEO Laura Yecies on Slowing Bone Loss with NASA Tech EP 147

    FDA-Approved Osteoboost: CEO Laura Yecies on Slowing Bone Loss with NASA Tech EP 147
    2025/03/25
    RESOURCES & LINKS - Osteoboost Official Website - Video: Laura Yecies Discussing Osteoboost - Bone Health & Osteoporosis Foundation Website - Email questions to agebetterpodcast@gmail.com AGE BETTER host Barbara Hannah Grufferman and Laura Yecies, CEO of Osteoboost, discuss Osteoboost, an FDA-approved device using NASA-inspired vibration therapy to combat bone loss. Laura explains how the technology works, its impressive clinical results (85% reduction in spinal bone loss), and who benefits most. KEY TAKEAWAYS - Early intervention in bone health is crucial; hip fractures pose significant risks - Osteoboost uses precision vibration technology inspired by NASA research - The device works best when combined with nutrition and exercise - Particularly effective for postmenopausal women with osteopenia - FDA-approved and backed by clinical studies showing microarchitectural improvements - Telehealth options are available for prescriptions - Future studies planned for osteoporosis applications *Note: For informational purposes only. Consult your healthcare provider before starting any new health regimen.* Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
    続きを読む 一部表示
    43 分
  • Lp(a): The Heart Test Your Doctor Missed – Hidden Risks Revealed with Dr. Ann Marie Navar EP 146

    Lp(a): The Heart Test Your Doctor Missed – Hidden Risks Revealed with Dr. Ann Marie Navar EP 146
    2025/03/11
    “I think everyone should have Lp(a) measured.” Dr. Ann Marie Navar Key Resources to Go Deeper: - Dr. Ann Marie Navar - Lp(a) - Get a Free Test to Check Your Lp(a) Level - Previous episode with Dr. Navar about ApoB About This Episode: Join us for an enlightening discussion about Lipoprotein(a), or Lp(a), a critical but often overlooked marker for cardiovascular health. In this episode, host Barbara Hannah Grufferman takes a deep dive with medical expert Dr. Ann Marie Navar from UT Southwestern Medical Center about why this single test could be vital for understanding your heart disease risk, especially if you have a family history of early cardiovascular disease. Key Topics Covered: - What Lipoprotein(a) is and how it differs from standard cholesterol measurements - Why Lp(a) testing is particularly important for certain individuals - The genetic nature of Lp(a) and its implications for family health - Current treatment options and promising new therapies on the horizon - Practical steps for discussing Lp(a) testing with your healthcare provider Key Takeaways: - Lp(a) is a distinct type of cholesterol particle not captured in routine lipid panels - High Lp(a) levels significantly increase risk of heart disease and stroke - Lp(a) levels are primarily determined by genetics and remain stable throughout life - Current guidelines recommend universal Lp(a) testing for adults - New treatments specifically targeting high Lp(a) levels are expected by 2026 - Managing other risk factors can help offset the risk of elevated Lp(a) - Coronary artery calcium scoring can provide additional risk assessment Learn More About Dr. Ann Marie Navar Dr. Navar is a preventive cardiologist and epidemiologist at UT Southwestern Medical Center whose research focuses on cardiovascular disease prevention, risk prediction, and clinical decision-making. She is a leading expert in advanced lipid testing and cardiovascular risk assessment. This is Dr. Navar's second appearance on AGE BETTER, following her previous discussion about the ApoB test, which was one of the most down-loaded episodes in 2024. Connect With Barbara: Have ideas for future episodes? We'd love to hear from you! - Email: agebetterpodcast@gmail.com - Connect on Instagram HERE Note: This episode is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Please consult with your healthcare provider about your specific situation. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
    続きを読む 一部表示
    32 分