Hearing is about more than just understanding what's happening around you, it has a direct impact on quality of life, cognitive health and self esteem.

It shouldn't take much convincing to say that you should do as much as you can to look after your hearing.

But it may seem a little intimidating, overwhelming or even embarrassing to talk to someone about it.

My good friend Dr. Susan Waltzman is here today to break down the stigma and misinformation, and point us in the right direction to getting the help we need.

We talk about hearing aids, both over-the-counter ones that are a few hundred dollars, and the much more substantial Cochlear implants, which can be an absolute life-changer.

And here's the amazing thing: Cochlear in particular can be almost completely covered by Medicaid!

So get your hearing tested, that's the first step. Visit an Otolaryngologist or an Audiologist to get the ball rolling.

Addressing hearing loss can prevent social isolation and cognitive decline. So if you're struggling with hearing loss, take charge and rescue your hearing! There is help, and lots of it.

As per the subject, this one is audio-only: we want you to really concentrate on what's being said!

Find Dr. Suzie and some very useful resources here:

• ⁠Susan Waltzman, NYU Langone Health
  https://med.nyu.edu/faculty/susan-b-waltzman
• A Faster, Clearer Way to Program Cochlear Implants:
  https://nyulangone.org/news/faster-clearer-way-program-cochlear-implants
• Cochlear Implant most effective way to correct hearing impairments
  https://www.informa.com/media/press-releases-news/latest-news/cochlear-implant-most-effective-way-to-correct-hearing-impairment-in-arab-populations/

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and send me your thoughts and suggestions at weareoldpodcast@gmail.com.

So, you have a tattoo.

Maybe you're thinking, "I'd like to get rid of that thing."

Maybe you've even been telling yourself that for oh, a few decades now.

The good news: the technology is available now to zap that tattoo away, so that there's scarcely any trace of it. It takes a while to do, and it's not cheap, but it is doable.

So if it's important to you to get it done: there is a way.

Lisa Giamarino is here to discuss laser tattoo removal, something she does on an increasingly regular basis at her clinic, Naples Laser & Skin Aesthetics.

We chat about the types of people who come into her clinic, reasons they have for removing tattoos, and the difference between laser removal and the other ways.

You don't want to try the other ways.

It is quite interesting though to learn how these lasers actually work on your skin. It may sound like James Bond but don't worry, they expect you to talk. So you can tell others how it works!

But in all seriousness, finding a qualified, certified professional to do this service is paramount. It has to be safe, clean and hygienic, and a clinic like Lisa's covers all the bases.

Did you know?

• 32% of U.S. citizens have tattoos.
• 13% of baby boomers have tattoos.
• Tattoo removal is increasingly popular among seniors.
• Laser technology is the most effective method for tattoo removal.
• Tattoo artists cannot legally remove tattoos.
• The age and type of ink affect removal success.
• Pain levels vary, but removal is often more painful than getting a tattoo.
• Costs for removal depend on the size and complexity of the tattoo.

Find Lisa and her resources here:

• ⁠Naples Laser & Skin Aesthetics:
  https://www.napleslaserandskinaesthetics.com/
• https://www.instagram.com/napleslaserandskinaesthetics/
• https://www.facebook.com/napleslaserandskinaesthetics

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Reach out to the show by visiting our website,

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and send me your thoughts and suggestions at weareoldpodcast@gmail.com.

What exactly is a "living" will?

Howard Krooks is a lawyer who specializes in these kinds of documents, and is here to explain it to us in nice, clear and friendly language:

- A living will is a will that's only applicable to a specific point in time. It starts when a person has developed a terminal condition, with a prognosis of typically 3 to 6 months, and their quality of life is very low. Unable to make decisions, or communicate those decisions, and it's a situation that's not likely to reverse itself.

So, it's about end of life instructions. To have your wishes set down in writing, and declare an agent who can communicate those wishes to a third party, such as a health care provider or a financial institution.

This is of course crucially important, because you need to find someone who knows you well, and are trustworthy to put your best interests first.

In fact, it's smart to name at least two people, to have an alternate ready as well.

And how's this for a bold statement from Howard:
When choosing your person, "You don't necessarily need to or want to treat your kids equally."

Now, you probably know already, in your gut, who you have in mind, but these guidelines today from Howard might help you with the confidence and perspective that's required.

And don't forget probably the most important thing: just getting the documents prepared and signed isn't enough. You do have to actually talk to the people you've nominated, to make sure they understand the responsibility, and most of all that they understand your instructions - written out as clearly as possible.

Even though they are someone you trust implicitly, that doesn't mean they'll actually know what to do when the time comes.

Howard tackles some more important questions too, like, What happens if you decide to move between states? Are out-of-state documents honored? What do you do if you're traveling? And can you change your documents later?

Howard is here to answer these questions and get you prepared for this important task.

Like so much of what we do on this podcast, it's about breaking down those barriers, making overwhelming tasks seem less intimidating, and maybe even something that's satisfying too.

Find Howard and his resources here:
Howard S. Krooks, CELA
Elder Law Specialist
⁠https://www.cozen.com/people/bios/krooks-howard

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Reach out to the show by visiting our website,
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and send me your thoughts and suggestions at weareoldpodcast@gmail.com.

00:00 Understanding Advanced Directives
03:04 Choosing the Right Agents for Decision Making
05:49 The Importance of Trust in Appointments
08:39 Healthcare Proxies vs. Living Wills
11:19 Navigating State Laws and Advanced Directives
14:20 The Role of Communication with Agents
17:17 Revoking and Updating Advanced Directives
19:59 Costs and Considerations in Estate Planning
22:54 Final Thoughts on Planning for the Future

#weareoldpodcast #kengluckman #seniorpodcast #retirementpodcast #aarp #advanceddirectives #livingwills #healthcareproxies #elderlaw #estateplanning #healthcaredecisions #financialdecisions #end-of-lifecare #howardkrooks

The idea of a "bucket list" is likely something you've heard of before, it's become more common in everyday parlance; wasn't there even a movie made under that name?

But today we're taking the concept a bit further and introducing the approach of having an "active bucket list."

Our guest is an expert on the topic, having written a book 50 After 50: Reframing the Next Chapter of Your Life, which is all about taking control and initiative over your life, interests and priorities. After all, no one else will do it for you, especially in the way that you want.

Maria Leonard Olsen talks about the psychology behind bucket lists, from spiritual endeavors to physical activities, to the richer experiences you can have even in your day to day life, in your own neighborhood, by taking the time to walk, stop or just pause for a bit.

"Practice the Pause!," as she says.

Maria also talks about her dramatic decision in her 50's of selling most of her belongings to move to Nepal and volunteer at a school. She lived with a family that had no running water or electricity, and shares how this incredible experience fostered a new sense of perspective and gratitude for the things we are so fortunate to have, and can take for granted.

So, today learn about making that initial bucket list, how to approach it and where to start.

• Keep notes as you go through your day/week/month of things that are interesting, things you want to try. It doesn't all have to be extravagant, adventurous or expensive!
• Be conscious of lifestyle changes, and changes to relationships.
• Learn about what Maria calls "energy vampires."
• Consider also the "anti-bucket list," which helps you identify what to avoid.
• And another great idea: get an accountability partner, and encourage each other to push ideas and action forward. Maria shares some great ways of going about finding the right person.

You can tell this episode is full of lots of great quotes and easy-to-remember slogans. Like, "Don't forget to 'Drop the rocks'"!

Check your local library for the book, and if it's not there, put in a request: this really works!

Remember, gratitude enhances our appreciation for life. You are responsible for your own happiness, and creating a bucket list can be a fun and empowering process that gives more meaning and contentment to life after 50.

Find Maria and all her inspiring resources here:

• ⁠Maria's website: marialeonardolsen.com
• Buy the book, 50 After 50: Reframing the Next Chapter of Your Life
• Listen to Maria's podcast, Becoming Your Best Version
• Maria's TEDx Talk: Turning Life's Challenges Into a Force for Good
• Join the 50 after 50 Facebook group! https://www.facebook.com/FiftyAfter50

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Reach out to the show by visiting our website,

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and send me your thoughts and suggestions at weareoldpodcast@gmail.com.

"We Are Old, Get Over It!" returns on Wednesday September 3 with a new season of fun conversations, useful information and inspiring guests, all geared towards a golden audience!

Host Ken Gluckman continues to grow into the role of podcast host, an adventure he started earlier this year in 2025.

With lots more interviews coming down the pipeline, and an extra emphasis on video, plus new Instagram and TikToks accounts: there's lots to look forward to over the coming weeks.

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Reach out to the show by visiting our website,

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠weareoldpodcast.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

and send me your thoughts and suggestions at weareoldpodcast@gmail.com.

Living in Naples, Florida, Ken is fortunate to have the USOP National Pickleball Center just down the road from his home. Therefore, he has a perfect opportunity to get involved in the game, and to have access to experts like Pat Shea.

Pat is a professionally-certified pickleball instructor and coach who, with about seven years of experience, could be considered a veteran, given that it's a sport that's only really become widely familiar and popular since about 2015. Although, pickleball does in fact date back to 1965, when it was invented on Bainbridge Island, WA.

In our episode today, Pat teaches us the basics of pickleball, its social aspects, and explains the sport's rising popularity, particularly in the United States, but also increasingly worldwide.

Pat shares insights into the game's origins, rules, court terminology, and how beginners - especially seniors - can start playing.

He also discusses the professional side of pickleball, including the US Open, potential earnings, and the investment and technical development that is pouring in.

In fact, we are releasing this episode the exact same week as the 2025 US Open Pickleball Championships are taking place at the NPC in Naples, April 26 to May 3, 2025. You can follow along with the matches live on their website, or catch the highlights on YouTube afterwards.

Pickleball continues to be a fast-rising sport, but the real takeaway from our conversation today is its social aspect. For people looking for a new activity, a sport that is not too intense but still a good workout, that gets you out of the house and into a warm, welcoming community, consider looking into your local pickleball scene. You've probably heard about it already!

USOP National Pickleball Center, Naples, FL

2025 US Open of Pickleball, April 26 - May 3, live streaming

The Pickleball Channel on YouTube, US Open highlights

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Reach out to the show by visiting our website,

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠weareoldpodcast.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

and send me your thoughts and suggestions at weareoldpodcast@gmail.com.

Ken welcomes in today's episode Amanda Bruns, founder of the beverage consulting firm Ale Advised, to talk about the emerging trend of cannabis-infused beverages.

Not even two months ago, Ken had no idea that these drinks even existed. Yet when a friend suggested he check them out, suddenly it emerged that there are entire sections of common wine and liquor stores devoted to cannabis-infused mixed drinks, almost like an overnight industry had sprung up.

And you may just be thinking the same thing: "Where did these drinks come from?"

So Amanda is here to give us some background on what's involved, how they're made, the different types and, most of all, what kinds of effects you should watch out for.

Fundamentally, cannabis-infused drinks are growing in popularity as an alcohol alternative, for both recreational and wellness purposes. Amanda tells us about the difference between CBD and THC varieties, as well as the science behind the infusion processes, and their effects compared to traditional alcohol.

The conversation also touches on the evolving market, legislative variations across states, and safety concerns such as driving under influence and mixing with alcohol.

The key takeaway: start slowly, don't drink too fast, and pay attention to how your body responds. Everyone will have their own distinct reaction. Start with low doses, and seek medical advice if necessary. Always be considerate of safety and awareness, and be with people you trust and who will look out for you when first trying it out.

Our episode today aims to demystify cannabis beverages and encourage informed and responsible consumption. If you are looking for that alternative to alcohol, energy drinks or sugary drinks, do your research and see what you think!

Learn more, visit Ale Advised, Amanda Bruns, founder

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Reach out to the show by visiting our website,

⁠⁠⁠⁠weareoldpodcast.com⁠⁠⁠⁠

and send me your thoughts and suggestions at weareoldpodcast@gmail.com.

Ken welcomes old friend and yoga expert Suzie Muchnick to chat about the benefits of yoga for all, and especially seniors.

We highlight the importance of balance to avoid falls, of being aware of the space around you, common fears about inflexibility, and the use of props in iyengar yoga to accommodate various physical conditions.

Suzie emphasizes to us how yoga is a lifelong practice that enhances both physical and mental well-being. Seniors need to build muscle strength, flexibility, and stability to improve their quality of life.

And you need to make it a routine! Yoga can be a calming exercise, a communal exercise and a great way to revitalize your energy and stamina.

Visit postures.com for further information about Suzie's Zoom classes and yoga practices tailored for older adults.

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Reach out to the show by visiting our website,

⁠⁠weareoldpodcast.com⁠⁠

and send us your thoughts and suggestions at weareoldpodcast@gmail.com.