Chronic pain increases the risk for depression and suicide. The connection between chronic pain and depression is stronger—and more dangerous—than most professionals realize. In this powerful episode, Dr. Regina Koepp sits down with pain psychology expert, Dr. Jennifer Steiner, to uncover the complex and bidirectional relationship between chronic pain, depression, and suicide risk. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: Why people living with chronic pain are twice as likely to experience suicidal t...
Jun 17, 2025•14 min•Ep. 124
Chronic pain isn’t just physical—it's personal, emotional, and deeply misunderstood. And when it comes to older adults, the pain often hides in plain sight. In this episode, I sit down with pain psychology expert, Dr. Jennifer Steiner, to explore the invisible impact of chronic pain and what every therapist must understand to truly help older adults living with it. You’ll walk away with a fresh perspective—and four critical psychological themes—that can transform the way you support older adults...
Jun 10, 2025•14 min•Ep. 123
What do you do when your aging parent is being scammed—and keeps sending money even after you’ve begged them to stop? It’s heartbreaking. It’s infuriating. And it can leave you feeling powerless. If this is happening in your family, you’re not alone—and there is hope. In this episode, I unpack what’s really going on when an older adult falls victim to financial exploitation, why they often can’t stop—even when they know it’s a scam—and how to intervene without shaming or severing the relationshi...
Jun 03, 2025•11 min•Ep. 122
Depression is not a normal part of aging—yet it's silently stealing joy, independence, and even life from millions of older adults. Most go undiagnosed and untreated. Why? Because we mistake their suffering for “just getting older.” But here’s the truth: late-life depression is serious—and it’s highly treatable . In today’s episode, you’ll learn how to spot the signs, challenge the myths, and take action that truly changes lives. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: What late-onset depression is a...
May 27, 2025•8 min•Ep. 121
Ever wonder what it really takes to build a national movement for mental health and aging? In this inspiring behind-the-scenes episode, I’m pulling back the curtain and sharing the heart, hustle, and healing that built the Center for Mental Health & Aging. You’ll hear where it all started—from working late nights with two small children at home to battling systemic bias in healthcare settings. I’ll walk you through the moments I nearly gave up, the surprising victories, and the “why” that ke...
May 20, 2025•27 min•Ep. 120
Loneliness is as harmful as smoking—and 43% of older adults experience loneliness. Social Isolation increases the risk of dementia 31%. The cure? Connection and Belonging. Are older adults really lonelier than young people? You might be surprised by the answer. In this episode of The Psychology of Aging , we uncover the complex truth about loneliness and isolation in older adults—and why their impact is far more dangerous than many realize. You'll learn the critical difference between loneliness...
Apr 16, 2025•13 min•Ep. 119
Have you ever wondered what really happens after someone is scammed out of $25,000? Not only the steps to take after you've been scammed, but the psychological toll? A couple weeks ago, I received an email from a listener asking for help—resources for older adults who’ve been financially exploited. That email sparked this episode, and I’m so glad it did. Today, I’m taking you behind the scenes of what it’s really like for older adults after financial exploitation. I’ll share two powerful stories...
Apr 09, 2025•21 min•Ep. 118
The first sign I was experiencing vicarious trauma hit me like a ton of bricks. Learn how to recognize, prevent, and heal from the emotional impact of therapy. I am so glad that you're here and joining me for part two of Trauma-Informed Care with Older Adults . Today’s episode focuses on you —the professional in your role of providing care and services to older adults. Whether you’re a healthcare professional, mental health provider, aging services professional, or home health aide, your health ...
Feb 25, 2025•23 min•Ep. 117
Up to 90% of older adults have experienced trauma, yet their needs are often overlooked. Learn the essentials of trauma-informed care and how to foster healing and resilience. Trauma-informed care is essential for supporting older adults across healthcare, mental health, and social service settings. In this episode, we explore: ✅ The difference between trauma treatment and Trauma Informed Care ✅ The three E’s of trauma: Events, Experience, and Effects ✅ The impact of trauma across the lifespan, ...
Feb 18, 2025•29 min•Ep. 116
Did you know that 20-22% of older adults have a mental health condition like depression, anxiety, or substance use disorder—yet most go undetected and untreated? This isn’t because these conditions aren’t treatable, but because systemic barriers, misconceptions, and a lack of professional training make it harder for older adults to access the care they deserve. In today’s episode, we break down barriers preventing older adults from receiving the mental health support they need. You’ll learn how ...
Feb 11, 2025•17 min
What if joy isn’t something we find, but something we create—especially in life’s hardest moments? In this episode of The Psychology of Aging Podcast , award-winning journalist and bestselling author Steven Petrow returns to share insights from his newest book, The Joy You Make . After experiencing profound loss—losing both parents, the end of a marriage, and supporting his sister through terminal cancer—Steven embarked on a journey to understand how joy coexists with grief, resilience, and even...
Feb 04, 2025•42 min•Ep. 114
Have you ever thought, “Older adults are just set in their ways” or “Therapy isn’t effective for older clients”? If so, this episode is for you. Today, we tackle the hidden biases that even seasoned mental health professionals may hold toward older adults. You’ll learn: What ageism is and how it manifests in mental health care. The impact of structural and individual ageism on mental and physical health. Research-backed insights, including Dr. Becca Levy’s groundbreaking work on the Stereotype E...
Jan 28, 2025•24 min•Ep. 113
If you’re committed to meeting the mental health needs of older adults, this episode is for you. In 2024, we saw some incredible advancements in mental health research for older adults—insights that can shape how you practice and care for this underserved population. As a geropsychologist, I’m passionate about equipping you with the tools you need to make a difference. Let’s dive into 5 discoveries in mental health and aging from 2024 that you absolutely need to know. 1. 14 Modifiable Risk Facto...
Jan 22, 2025•27 min•Ep. 112
Imagine being 85 or 95 years old, surviving a natural disaster like wildfires, hurricanes, or earthquakes, and facing the immense challenge of grieving your losses while navigating emotional and psychological recovery. Older adults often show remarkable resilience, but unique challenges like chronic health conditions, isolation, and cognitive vulnerabilities can complicate the recovery process. In this episode, I discuss how to support older adults following disasters, highlighting common reacti...
Jan 15, 2025•32 min•Ep. 111
There was a misleading headline from The New York Times recently that claimed ADHD diagnoses are surging among "older Americans." In this episode, I set the record straight by clarifying who qualifies as an "older adult" (65+), highlighting why mental health needs for older adults are so often overlooked, and explaining how systemic issues like ageism, stigma, and misdiagnosis perpetuate these gaps. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: Why ADHD diagnoses are underreported among adults 65+ despite ...
Dec 12, 2024•11 min•Ep. 110
Medicare now includes LPCs and LMFTs! Discover the new opportunities this presents for mental health professionals working with older adults. In this Psychology of Aging episode, we dive deep into the recent changes in Medicare policies that now allow Licensed Professional Counselors (LPCs) and Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists (LMFTs) to enroll as Medicare providers. This landmark policy update, effective January 1, 2024, opens up new opportunities for mental health professionals and sign...
Aug 08, 2024•46 min•Ep. 109
Have you ever felt rejuvenated after a day spent outdoors, perhaps gardening or simply enjoying a walk in the woods? Recently, nature has been my much needed therapy, and it’s transformed my approach to health and aging. In today’s episode, I’ll share how my own journey into the world of gardening and nature began at a time when I needed it most—right as I turned 48 and was worn out from constant traveling and presenting. This personal experience opened my eyes to the potent benefits of connecti...
Jun 19, 2024•17 min•Ep. 108
Today we're diving deep into a topic that affects many older adults but is often misunderstood: depression and anxiety. While these mental health conditions are prevalent among older adults, they are not a normal part of aging and deserve our attention and care. Episode Highlights: Understanding Depression and Anxiety in Older Adults: Depression and anxiety are prevalent but not normal aspects of aging. These conditions need to be recognized and treated to prevent serious health impacts Effectiv...
Jun 12, 2024•18 min•Ep. 107
Did you know that 65% of adults over 65 report high-risk drinking? Understanding the unique impacts of alcohol on aging bodies is crucial for all of us. In this episode, I'll walk you through three key considerations: increased sensitivity to alcohol, health complications, and harmful interactions with medications. We'll also discuss common triggers for increased alcohol use and practical tips for caregivers and healthcare providers to help identify and manage problem drinking among older adults...
Jun 07, 2024•10 min•Ep. 106
Are you noticing signs of depression or anxiety in your older loved ones or clients and wondering how to approach the topic? This video is your essential guide to navigating these sensitive conversations with compassion and effectiveness. Learn from Dr. Regina Koepp, a geropsychologist, as she shares expert tips on: Starting the Conversation: Discover how to empathize and validate their feelings to create a supportive dialogue. Dispelling Myths: Uncover common misconceptions about aging and ment...
May 29, 2024•7 min•Ep. 105
In this touching episode, I share invaluable wisdom garnered from two decades of working intimately with older adults. Through personal anecdotes and professional experiences, I share five transformative life lessons that challenge and inspire. You'll embark on a journey exploring: the fleeting nature of life and the importance of embracing every moment, the profound impact of human connection, the relentless pursuit of meaning and purpose, the eternal presence of love, and the never-ending pote...
Feb 09, 2024•14 min•Ep. 104
Ever wondered if older people get anxious just like young folks do? Turns out, older adults can get anxious too, but it might look a bit different than what younger people experience. In this episode, we explore the questions: 1. How does anxiety manifest differently in older adults compared to younger individuals? 2. What biological, psychological, and social factors contribute to anxiety in seniors? 3. What is the difference between everyday stress and an anxiety disorder in an older individua...
Oct 09, 2023•39 min•Ep. 103
Dive into '3 Myths About Aging and Intimacy', inspired by lessons from the Golden Bachelor. We'll debunk common myths surrounding love and relationships in our later years using research, not stereotypes. The Golden Bachelor, with his own love stories, teaches us that age doesn't stop true connections. Plus, if medical conditions have you worried about intimacy, we've got you covered. This episode includes 5 essential tips for keeping the spark alive, even when health challenges arise. Whether y...
Oct 02, 2023•12 min•Ep. 102
Unlock the mystery behind the leading cause of cognitive impairment. Expert insights on prevention and management strategies. Have a topic idea? Send us a text. PROFESSIONALS: Grab your free guide to working with older adults here Attention Social Workers, Therapists, Counselors, Psychologists, Aging Life Care Experts... Click here to get Continuing Education Credits...
Jul 26, 2023•8 min•Ep. 101
Learn the difference between cognitive impairment versus memory loss, and the answer to the question "is mild cognitive impairment dementia?" Are you therapist, social worker, counselor, psychologist working with older adults? If you're like most therapists, you haven't had training addressing cognitive issues in therapy leaving you feeling ineffective, stuck, and unsure of how to best help your client. You're not alone. I created a free 10-min video training where I walk you through 5 steps for...
Jul 19, 2023•8 min•Ep. 100
When couples experience life altering medical conditions, like Parkinson's Disease, their level of intimacy can plummet. Here are 5 strategies that you can use to cultivate intimacy and connection with your partner. Learn more about aging and sexual health here In honor of Parkinson’s Disease (PD) Awareness Month, I'm partnering with the American Parkinson Disease Association on the release of their ParkinSex book and kit, a guide to intimacy for people with PD and their partner. Life altering m...
Apr 21, 2023•5 min•Ep. 99
Learn the difference between therapist, psychiatrist, and neuropsychologist when it comes to finding mental health care for older adults. Knowing what each professional does will help you to identify the mental health professional best able to address your most immediate need. Here’s an overview of the three most common licensed mental health professionals who specialize with older adults. LEARN MORE about each professional here. ARE YOU A MENTAL HEALTH PROVIDER WHO WORKS WITH OLDER ADULTS? Join...
Feb 14, 2023•7 min•Ep. 98
Expert advice for seniors new to therapy. In this episode I share common causes of depression in older adulthood and key advice for older adults who are new to the mental health space. Go to the show notes here FIND A MENTAL HEALTH PROVIDER FOR OLDER ADULTS GET CONTINUING EDUCATION Have a topic idea? Send us a text. PROFESSIONALS: Grab your free guide to working with older adults here Attention Social Workers, Therapists, Counselors, Psychologists, Aging Life Care Experts... Click here to get Co...
Feb 02, 2023•5 min•Ep. 97
Do you regularly screen for depression in the older adults you work with? Do you know which screening tools are best to use with older adults? With adults with mild cognitive impairment? With adults with moderate to severe dementia? No worries! I got you covered. In this week's video, you'll learn: ⭐️ 5 must have (and free) depression screening tools to use with older adults ⭐️ the screening tools to assess for depression and anxiety when older adults are medically hospitalized ⭐️ Which depressi...
Jan 11, 2023•11 min•Ep. 96
What are the signs of depression in older adults? How common is depression among older adults? How to help older adults get connected to care? What happens when depressed older adults do not receive mental health care? In this podcast, you'll learn the answers to each of these questions and more. You have an important role in helping older adults get the mental health care they need. Learn more about supporting the mental health of older adults at www.mentalhealthandaging.com. Have a topic idea?...
Jan 06, 2023•12 min•Ep. 95
