GSA Momentum Discussions

When Opioids Help and When They Harm Older Adults

Tue, 27 Jan 2026 16:41:00 -0500

During this Momentum Discussions podcast episode, Dr. Bethea (Annie) Kleykamp of the University of Maryland School of Medicine and the Maryland Addiction Consultation Service talks to us about opioid use among older adults. She explores the many reasons people use opioids, common misconceptions around opioid use and older adults, her very personal reason for researching this topic, and how each of us can play a role in preventing an opioid overdose. And to learn more about this important topic, check out GSA’s recently-published report, Staying Safe with Opioids at Home.

This podcast episode is supported by Emergent BioSolutions. Content was developed by Gerontological Society of America (GSA).

Transcript

Guest:
Bethea (Annie) Kleykamp, PhD, MA, Assistant Professor, Psychiatry Department, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Director, Research and Evaluation Maryland Addiction Consultation Service (MACS)

Host:

Elana Kieffer Blass, MBA, Director of Strategic Alliances, GSA

Patient Perspectives of Disease-Modifying Therapies for Alzheimer’s Disease

Tue, 27 Jan 2026 15:36:00 -0500

Amyloid-lowering monoclonal antibody (mAb) therapies for early symptomatic Alzheimer’s disease, including mild cognitive impairment and mild dementia, have generated new excitement about the future of treatment for this progressive condition. These treatments aim to slow or halt the progression of Alzheimer's disease by tackling an underlying cause of the disease – not just managing its symptoms. The evidence shows that individuals receiving these therapies can experience slower disease progression and the potential to extend their independence in everyday life. This GSA Momentum Discussion webinar, recorded at the GSA 2025 Annual Scientific Meeting, highlights the clinical outcomes associated with mAb therapies through the reflections of patients receiving the treatments and those who support them.

Support provided by Eisai.

Transcript

Speakers

Tracy Collins, Person living with early-onset Alzheimer’s disease
Scott Hardy, Care partner to Tracy

Host

Jennifer Pettis, MS, RN, CNE, Director, Strategic Alliances, Gerontological Society of America

Trends in Comprehensive Obesity Care for Women as They Age

Wed, 21 Jan 2026 11:12:12 -0500

In this episode of the GSA Momentum Discussions Podcast, titled "Trends in Comprehensive Obesity Care for Women as They Age," a family medicine doctor and geriatrician with deep expertise in care of older adults with obesity reflects on the unique needs of older and aging women with obesity. She discusses key assessment principles that clinicians should consider when caring for women with obesity as they age, and she highlights the importance of comprehensive, individualized care by an interprofessional team for older and aging women with obesity.

This podcast episode is supported by Haleon and Novo Nordisk, with content developed by the Gerontological Society of America (GSA).

Transcript

Speaker

Anna Pendrey, MD, Dipl. ABOM, Assistant Professor, Family Medicine and Geriatrics Physician, Indiana University School of Medicine

Host

Jennifer Pettis, MS, RN, CNE, Director, Strategic Alliances, Gerontological Society of America

Family Caregiving from the Personal to the Professional

Wed, 22 Oct 2025 16:37:14 -0400

In this episode of GSA’s Momentum Discussions, sociologist Dr. Mindy Fried shares how caring for her father inspired her memoir Caring for Red and launched her into podcasting about aging and caregiving. She reflects on the emotional realities of caregiving, the complexities of assisted living, and the power of storytelling to build community and drive change.

Transcript

Speaker

Mindy Fried, MSW, PhD
Principal, Arbor Consulting Partners
Producer, Open Your Heart
Creator/Host, The Shape of Care podcast
Author, Caring for Red: A Daughter’s Memoir

Host

Elana Kieffer Blass, MBA, Director of Strategic Alliances, Gerontological Society of America

Living Well with Dementia

Wed, 22 Oct 2025 16:37:05 -0400

In this episode of the GSA Momentum Discussions Podcast, titled "Living Well with Dementia," three individuals living with dementia share personal insights into how they continue to lead meaningful, engaged lives after diagnosis. Through heartfelt reflections, they explore what “living well” truly means—from maintaining daily routines and adapting beloved hobbies to the critical role of peer support and the importance of compassionate care partners. Their stories offer valuable guidance for healthcare professionals, families, and communities on how to better support those navigating life with dementia.

This podcast episode is supported by Genentech, Lilly, Eisai, and Otsuka, with content developed by the Gerontological Society of America (GSA) in collaboration with the National Council of Dementia Minds.

Transcript

Speakers

Scott Guernsey Human Resources Consultant, HR Components, LLC
Krissan Moss, RN, BSN, Retired Clinical Education Manager, Genentech
Jay Reinstein, Former Assistant City Manager of Fayetteville, NC | Board member, Alliance for Aging Research

Host

Jennifer Pettis, MS, RN, CNE Director, Strategic Alliances, Gerontological Society of America

Dementia Diagnosis to One Year Out: Perspectives of People Living with Dementia

Wed, 22 Oct 2025 16:32:46 -0400

In this GSA Momentum Discussions Podcast episode, members of the National Council of Dementia Minds reflect on their first year living with a dementia diagnosis. They speak candidly about the moment they received the diagnosis, the support they did—or didn’t—receive from their medical providers, and what has helped them adjust to this new chapter of life. Their lived experiences offer clear, actionable insights for primary care teams on how to better support people living with dementia in the months that follow a dementia diagnosis.

Transcript

Speakers

Phyllis Cole Member, National Council of Dementia Minds, Dementia Friendly Services
Miriam Owens, Christian Author and Special Education Advocate, Rhema Publishing and Consulting, LLC
Seth Stern, MD, Obstetrics and Gynecology, NYC Health and Hospitals - Jacobi

Host

Jennifer Pettis, MS, RN, CNE Director, Strategic Alliances, Gerontological Society of America

Benefits of an Early Diagnosis

Wed, 22 Oct 2025 16:29:40 -0400

This GSA Momentum Discussion Podcast episode, the first of three episodes developed in collaboration with the National Council of Dementia Minds, highlights how receiving a timely diagnosis of dementia can positively impact overall well-being, relationships, and more. Our three guests who live with dementia offer honest reflections and practical advice for healthcare professionals and the public, emphasizing how early recognition opens the door to self-advocacy, planning, and purpose.

Transcript

Speaker

Steven Barbieri, President of the National Council of Dementia Minds
David Compton, MD, Doctors with Dementia Group, National Council of Dementia Minds
Joanna Fix, PhD, Former College Professor and Psychologist

Host

Jennifer Pettis, MS, RN, CNE Director, Strategic Alliances, Gerontological Society of America

Perspectives on Caregiving One Couple’s Unwelcome Journey with Alzheimer's Disease

Mon, 19 May 2025 10:30:33 -0400

During this Momentum Discussion Podcast episode, Jim Mangi reflects on being the loving and selfless caregiver for his wife, Kathleen, whose 17-year journey with younger-onset Alzheimer’s disease ended in December 2024. Jim is a Vietnam veteran, author, retired business owner, and an environmental scientist with a PhD in Ecology – none of which prepared him to be a caregiver. Inspired by his wife’s grace during her journey with Alzheimer’s disease, Jim has dedicated himself to dementia activism efforts, including his tireless work in Saline, Michigan, aimed at making it easier for folks living with dementia to enjoy the community with less difficulty and more dignity.

This podcast episode is supported by Genentech, Otsuka, Lilly, and Eisai. Content was developed by Gerontological Society of America (GSA).

Transcript

Speaker

Jim Mangi, PhD, Dementia Friendly Services

Host

Jennifer Pettis, MS, RN, CNE Director, Strategic Alliances, Gerontological Society of America

Reflections of My Weight Journey with Joe Sapone

Mon, 03 Mar 2025 11:52:43 -0500

In this Momentum Discussions Podcast episode, Joseph Sapone reflects on his weight journey. He provides us with unique perspectives of an older adult who has lived in a larger body size for most of his adult life. He shares how stigma and bias have affected him in his personal and professional life as well as in healthcare and other settings. Joe discusses how a comprehensive approach to obesity management has helped him to achieve his health and wellness goals, and he offers insights into why it is so important that older adults have access to the full continuum of obesity care.

Transcript

Guest
Joseph Sapone, MBA
Founder and President, P4+

Host
Jennifer Pettis, MS, RN, CNE
Director, Strategic Alliances
Gerontological Society of America

This podcast episode is supported by Novo Nordisk. Content was developed by Gerontological Society of America (GSA).

Advocating for Science-Based Person-Centered Obesity Care: A Conversation with Ted Kyle

Mon, 03 Mar 2025 11:51:16 -0500

In this Momentum Discussions Podcast episode, obesity advocate Ted Kyle shares a bit about his personal history with obesity and how this influenced his vital work as an advocate. He discusses his perspectives on how false beliefs and outdated paradigms, along with stigma and bias, negatively affect individuals living with obesity. Finally, he explains that good obesity care requires access to the full range of obesity care tools, and he offers a message to policymakers about the need to offer older adults access to the full range of obesity care options.

Transcript

Guest
Ted Kyle, RPh, MBA
Founder, ConscienHealth
Chair, Obesity Society’s Advocacy Committee
Steering Committee, STOP Obesity Alliance
Board of Directors, Obesity Action Coalition

Host
Jennifer Pettis, MS, RN, CNE
Director, Strategic Alliances
Gerontological Society of America

This podcast episode is supported by Novo Nordisk. Content was developed by Gerontological Society of America (GSA).

The Future of Higher Education in an Era of Longevity

Tue, 11 Feb 2025 10:00:00 -0500

During this Momentum Discussion podcast episode, GSA VP Lisa McGuire and TIAA Institute Head Surya Kolluri discuss how rapid transformations in our society are impacting trends in higher education. With life expectancy rising by 17 years since the Social Security program debuted in the United States nearly 90 years ago, tremendous opportunities have arisen on many fronts, including in higher education. The podcast also addresses some of the headwinds that come from these changes as they relate to institutions of higher education. Lisa and Surya discuss how, by broadening the scope of educational and recruitment efforts to include learners of all ages, institutions can be transformed and experience an economic lift.

Resources

Speaker
Surya Kolluri, MBA, Head of TIAA Institute

Host
Lisa C. McGuire, PhD, FGSA, Vice President of Strategic Alliances & Practice Innovation, Gerontological Society of America

This podcast received funding support from TIAA Institute. Content was developed by the Gerontological Society of America (GSA).

Stimulating Early Neurology Referrals for People with Cognitive Impairment Who May Benefit from Anti-Amyloid Therapies

Tue, 04 Feb 2025 10:00:00 -0500

In this Momentum Discussion Podcast episode, Dr. Armen J. Moughamian, a neurologist who cares for people with neurodegenerative brain illnesses, including Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias, explains anti-amyloid therapy for Alzheimer’s disease and mild cognitive impairment. He describes who may benefit from these therapies, discusses their efficacy and safety, and explains the importance of early detection of cognitive impairment. Dr. Moughamian also provides important insights into how primary care teams can help ensure that individuals who might be candidates for anti-amyloid therapies are well prepared for timely referrals to a neurologist.

Download the Transcript

Speaker

Armen J. Moughamian, MD, PhD, Medical Director at the Ray Dolby Brain Health Center, Division Chief of Neurology, Vice Chair of Neuroscience at the California Pacific Medical Center

Host

Jennifer L. Pettis, MS, RN, CNE, Director, Strategic Alliances, Gerontological Society of America

This podcast episode is supported by Eisai. Content was developed by Gerontological Society of America (GSA).

Emerging Issues in Obesity Care for Older Adults

Tue, 28 Jan 2025 10:00:00 -0500

In this Momentum Discussion Podcast episode, Dr. John A. Batsis, co-convener of the GSA Obesity and Aging Interest Group, describes exciting findings about how obesity management medications positively impact a variety of major medical conditions. He also describes the unique needs of older adults with obesity and highlights the need for evidence-based, team-based care for them.

Download the Transcript

Speaker

John Batsis, MD, Associate Professor, Division of Geriatric Medicine, School of Medicine, Department of Nutrition, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

Host

Jennifer L. Pettis, MS, RN, CNE, Director, Strategic Alliances, Gerontological Society of America

This podcast episode is supported by Novo Nordisk. Content was developed by the Gerontological Society of America (GSA).

Journey to GUIDE: One Practice's Road to Implementation

Tue, 14 Jan 2025 10:00:00 -0500

The Guiding an Improved Dementia Experience (GUIDE) Model is a Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Innovation demonstration model that launched on July 1, 2024. The model focuses on comprehensive, coordinated dementia care and aims to improve the quality of life for people with dementia, reduce strain on their unpaid caregivers, and enable people with dementia to remain in their homes and communities. During this Momentum Discussion Podcast episode, leaders from Emory Integrated Memory Care discuss the GUIDE Model and their experiences implementing the model. They also share insights on how other organizations can receive support from any of six evidence-based models through the National Dementia Care Collaborative.

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Speakers:

Carolyn Clevenger, DNP, GNP-BC, FAANP, FGSA, FAAN, Professor, Nell Hodgson Woodruff School of Nursing at Emory University
Founder and Director, Emory Integrated Memory Care

Laura Medders, LCSW, Administrative Director, Emory Integrated Memory Care

Host

Jennifer Pettis, MS, RN, CNE, Director of Strategic Alliances, Gerontological Society of America (GSA)

This podcast episode is supported by Eisai, Genentech, Lilly, and Otsuka. Content was developed by Gerontological Society of America (GSA).

Empowering Sons and Daughters of People with Younger-Onset Dementia

Thu, 02 Jan 2025 15:06:53 -0500

Younger-onset dementia is diagnosed when a person under 65 develops dementia; some people are diagnosed even as young as their 30s or 40s. People with younger-onset dementia and their families have unique needs, particularly when the family includes children, teens, or young adults. Lorenzo’s House empowers young people and their families walking with younger-onset dementia through an array of holistic support–shifting the narrative from isolation to connection, stigma to strength, and darkness to light. In this Momentum Discussion Podcast episode, Patti LaFleur, the Youth and Lighthouse Outreach Lead for Lorenzo’s House, describes her journey as a care partner to her mom, who she lost to early-onset dementia. She shares how Lorenzo’s House empowers young people and their families walking with younger-onset dementia through an array of holistic support–shifting the narrative from isolation to connection, stigma to strength, and darkness to light.

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Guest:

Patti LaFleur, M. ED, CDP, Youth and Lighthouse Outreach Lead, Lorenzo's House

Host:

Jen Pettis, MS, RN, CNE, Director of Strategic Alliances, Gerontological Society of America

This podcast episode is supported by Eisai, Genentech, Lilly, and Otsuka. Content was developed by Gerontological Society of America (GSA).

The Significance of Ensuring Older Adults Have Access to Age-Appropriate Vaccines

Tue, 22 Oct 2024 10:00:00 -0400

During this Momentum Discussion podcast episode, GSA CEO James Appleby and VP for Policy and Professional Affairs, Patricia D’Antonio, discuss the importance of older adults having access to and receiving age-appropriate vaccines. They describe the positive economic impact of being immunized, such as avoiding illness and maintaining work schedules and social engagements, avoiding co-morbid long-term illnesses and hospitalizations, and enjoying all aspects of living. They address topics pending at the upcoming Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices, including a discussion on the age when individuals can receive a vaccine to prevent pneumococcal infections. Appleby and D’Antonio also discuss the significant role of all healthcare professionals in championing age-appropriate vaccines.

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Speaker:
Patricia M. “Trish” D’Antonio BSPharm, MS, MBA, BCGP, Vice President of Policy and Professional Affairs, Gerontological Society of America

Host:
James Appleby, BSPharm, MPH, ScD (Hon), Chief Executive Officer, Gerontological Society of America

This podcast episode is supported by Pfizer. Content was developed by Gerontological Society of America (GSA).

Steps to Increasing Adult Vaccination Rates

Thu, 19 Sep 2024 10:41:39 -0400

During this Momentum Discussion podcast episode, our panelists identify strategies to increase the vaccination rates of older adults in 2024. They address the collaborative efforts healthcare teams can implement to champion adult vaccinations, how to ignite urgency and awareness of the importance of getting age appropriate vaccinations among both the public and healthcare providers, how to break through vaccine misinformation and hesitancy, how to bridge the gap between patient beliefs and evidence-based practice, how can we implement some flexibility in our vaccination schedules without compromising patient adherence or overall acceptance of vaccination, and the importance of catalyzing the whole vaccine neighborhood.

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Guests:
Barbara Resnick, PhD, RN, CRNP, FAAN, FAANP, FGSA, Distinguished University Professor, Sonya Ziporkin Gershowitz Chair in Gerontology, University of Maryland

Julian Ritchey, VP, Head of Public Affairs and Patient Advocacy, US Vaccines at Sanofi

Host:
Karen K. Tracy, Vice President, Strategic Alliances & Integrated Communications, Gerontological Society of America

This podcast episode is supported by Sanofi. Content was developed by Gerontological Society of America (GSA).

The 5-Cog Paradigm: An Innovation to Improve Detection and Management of Impaired Cognition in Primary Care

Tue, 10 Sep 2024 10:00:00 -0400

In April 2024, a team of researchers from Albert Einstein College of Medicine led by Dr. Joe Verghese published the results of a randomized controlled trial examining the impact of implementing the 5-Cog Paradigm in primary care. The 5-Cog Paradigm includes a non-literacy biased, culturally fair cognitive detection tool combined with clinical decision support embedded in the electronic medical record. In this Momentum Discussion Podcast episode, Dr. Verghese discusses the unmet needs that led to the development of the 5-Cog, explains the 5-Cog Paradigm, and shares key findings from the team’s research.

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Guest:
Joe Verghese, MBBS, MS, Professor, Saul R. Korey Department of Neurology, Murray D. Gross Memorial Faculty Scholar in Gerontology, Chief of the Divisions of Cognitive and Motor Aging, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Attending Physician, Department of Neurology, Chief of the Division of Geriatrics, Montefiore Health System

Host:
Jennifer Pettis, MS, RN, CNE, Director, Strategic Alliances, Gerontological Society of America

This podcast episode is supported by Eisai, Genentech, Lilly, and Otsuka. Content was developed by Gerontological Society of America (GSA).

The Second Fifty: Answers to the 7 Big Questions of Midlife and Beyond

Tue, 10 Sep 2024 10:00:00 -0400

In this Momentum Discussion podcast, James Appleby, GSA CEO interviews Dr. Debra Whitman, AARP Chief Public Policy Officer about her new book, The Second Fifty: Answers to the 7 Big Questions of Midlife and Beyond. Dr. Whitman shares why she authored this book and why the book is organized around seven questions. She provides insights about health and longevity, how we may reduce the risk of developing dementia, and what we should be demanding of our policymakers in this regard. Finally, Deb Whitman provides thoughts on how this country can address the aging population.

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Guest:
Debra Whitman, PhD, Executive Vice President and Chief Public Policy Officer, AARP

Host:
James C. Appleby, BSPharm, MPH, ScD (Hon), Chief Executive Officer, Gerontological Society of America

This podcast episode is supported by AARP.

Addressing Brain Health In Asian American Communities

Mon, 12 Aug 2024 10:00:00 -0400

In this Momentum Discussion Podcast episode, our guest shares key insights into the diversity of the Asian American population and why classifying Asian Americans as a single group is problematic for health data, research, and reporting. She discusses Asian Americans’ risk for developing Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias and identifies barriers to Asian Americans receiving early diagnosis of dementia and appropriate care for their condition. Finally, she offers suggestions as to how primary care teams can implement solutions to those barriers.

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Guest:
Diane Ty, Managing Director, Milken Institute Future of Aging

Host:
Jennifer L. Pettis, MS, RN, CNE, Director, Strategic Alliances, Gerontological Society of America

This podcast episode is supported by Genentech, Lilly, Eisai, and Otsuka.

ACHIEVE: A Landmark Study of the Effect of Hearing Intervention on Brain Health in Older Adults

Tue, 07 May 2024 13:06:51 -0400

In this Momentum Discussion Podcast episode, Dr. Frank Lin, co-primary investigator of the Aging and Cognitive Health Evaluation in Elders, or ACHIEVE, study discusses this landmark study examining the effect of hearing intervention on brain health. ACHIEVE is a multicenter randomized trial to determine if treating hearing loss in older adults reduces cognitive decline that can occur with aging. Dr. Lin and his co-primary investigator first reported in July 2023 that the hearing intervention slowed cognitive decline in older adults with mild to moderate hearing loss by 48% in a pre-specified segment of the study population. This exciting discovery has motivated Dr. Lin and others at Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health to develop a broader national campaign to encourage all adults to learn and monitor their own hearing with a free app, Hearing Number.

Additional Resources: The Clinical Practice piece Dr. Lin authored for the NEJM "Age-Related Hearing Loss."

Download the transcript

Guest:
Frank R. Lin, MD, PhD
Director of the Cochlear Center for Hearing and Public Health
Professor of Otolaryngology, Medicine, Mental Health, and Epidemiology at the Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine and Bloomberg School of Public Health

Host:
Jennifer Pettis, MS, RN, CNE
Director, Strategic Alliances
Gerontological Society of America

Support provided by Genentech, Lilly, Eisai, and Otsuka

Stuck in the Middle: What Belly Fat Is Doing To Your Health

Wed, 17 Apr 2024 16:57:16 -0400

The National Caucus and Center on Black Aging (NCBA) developed the report “Stuck in the Middle” to address all aspects of obesity, including but not limited to causes, effects, statistical profiles, myths and misconceptions, public policy, ways to address obesity, resources for managing obesity, barriers to accessing a full continuum of care, and more. In this Momentum Discussion Podcast episode, the report author and NCBA’s Director of Health Programs discuss key points from the report, whose target audience is the African American community, in which obesity occurs at an inordinately high rate. They share insights from the report that is written in laymen’s language in order to reach as broad an audience as possible, and they highlight why action is urgently needed to support African Americans to access the full spectrum of quality obesity care.

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Guests:
Angie Boddie, MPS
Director of Health Programs
National Caucus and Center on Black Aging, Inc.

Deborah Mathis
Consultant/Communications Strategist
National Caucus and Center on Black Aging

Host:
Jennifer Pettis, MS, RN, CNE
Director, Strategic Alliances
Gerontological Society of America

Support provided by Novo Nordisk

Alter - Empowering African American Churches to Support Members with Dementia and Their Families

Fri, 05 Apr 2024 20:27:49 -0400

The Alter program is a nurse-led, dementia-friendly congregation program aimed at empowering African American churches to serve all members, including those living with dementia and their families. Fayron Epps, PhD, RN, FGSA, FAAN, developed the Alter program to increase dementia awareness; develop a supportive, faith-based dementia-friendly infrastructure; and create a community supporting the well-being of African Americans living with dementia and their families. In this Momentum Discussion Podcast episode, Dr. Epps shares insights into the Alter program and what inspired her to found the program. She also describes key components of the program and discusses the result of 10 years of working in the community and creating a faith network committed to developing dementia-friendly congregations.

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Guest:
Fayron Epps, PhD, RN, FGSA, FAAN
Associate Professor, tenured
Director of Community & Research Engagement

Host: Jennifer Pettis, MS, RN, CNE
Director, Strategic Alliances
Gerontological Society of America

Support provided by Genentech, Lilly, Eisai, and Otsuka.

Addressing Brain Health in American Indian and Alaska Native Communities

Wed, 06 Mar 2024 17:29:39 -0500

In this Momentum Discussion Podcast episode, our guest shares challenges and opportunities around brain health in American Indian and Alaska Native communities. He provides insights into the Healthy Brain Initiative’s Road Map for Indian Country and discusses success stories with indigenous communities addressing dementia issues. Finally, he outlines research questions that need to be answered to successfully address brain health in American Indian and Alaska Native communities.

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Guest:
Michael Splaine
Principal, Splaine Consulting
Managing Partner, Recruitment Partners LLC

Host:
Jennifer Pettis, MS, RN, CNE
Director of Strategic Alliances
Gerontological Society of America

Support provided by Genentech, Lilly, Eisai, and Otsuka.

Additional Resources:

An Obesity Bill of Rights: Promoting Person-Centered Quality Obesity Care

Thu, 22 Feb 2024 16:49:07 -0500

The National Consumers League and National Council on Aging worked with health leaders and obesity specialists to establish a set of rights so people with obesity will be screened, diagnosed, counseled and effectively treated for their overweight and obesity based on medical treatment guidelines. During the Momentum Discussion Podcast episode, leaders from these two organizations discuss the impetus for and development of the Obesity Bill of Rights and discuss each of the eight rights included in it. They share what is next for their organizations around the Bill of Rights and share how others can join the movement to help ensure person-centered quality obesity care for adults living with the chronic disease of obesity.

Download the transcript

Guests:
Dorothea K. Vafiadis, MS
Senior Director, Center for Healthy Aging

Nancy Glick
Director of Food and Nutrition Policy
National Consumers League

Host:
Jennifer Pettis, MS, RN, CNE
Director of Strategic Alliances
Gerontological Society of America

Nonpharmacological Strategies to Support Behaviors Experienced by People Living with Dementia

Thu, 22 Feb 2024 16:45:44 -0500

Most individuals with dementia experience behavioral symptoms during their disease trajectory. These symptoms are troubling to the person living with dementia, their care partners, and others such as family members or those living in congregate living settings. In this Momentum Discussion Podcast episode, Dr. Kalisha Bonds Johnson, a Board-Certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner at Emory Integrated Memory Care, shares her insights into the importance of detecting and addressing behavioral symptoms. She offers general strategies that care partners and others can take when interacting with someone with dementia, and she provides important insights into managing specific troubling behaviors.

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Guest:
Dr. Kalisha Bonds Johnson, PhD, RN, PMHNP-BC
Assistant Professor, tenure track
Nell Hodgson Woodruff School of Nursing Emory

Host:
Jennifer Pettis, MS, RN, CNE
Director of Strategic Alliances
Gerontological Society of America

This podcast episode is supported by Genentech, Lilly, Eisai, and Otsuka.

Physical Activity and Older Adults

Fri, 16 Feb 2024 14:26:56 -0500

This Momentum Discussion podcast episode addresses the importance of physical activity for longevity and independence, challenges older adults may face when exercising and their solutions, and suggestions on how to get started with incorporating routine exercise into one’s life.

Download the transcript

Guests:
Kathryn N. Porter Starr, PhD, MS, RDN
Associate Professor, Duke University School of Medicine
Research Health Scientist, Durham VA Medical Center

Eric Levitan
Founder, CEO
Vivo

Host:
Jennifer Pettis, MS, RN, CNE
Director of Strategic Alliances
The Gerontological Society of America

This podcast episode is supported by Novo Nordisk.

Kickstarting Brain Health Conversations about LGBTQ+ Older Adults

Fri, 19 Jan 2024 11:52:31 -0500

In this Momentum Discussion podcast episode, Dan Stewart, MSG, Long-Term Care Equality Index program co-lead and associate director of the Aging Equality Project at the HRC Foundation, discusses considerations aimed at ensuring equitable and person-centered care for individuals in the LGBTQ+ community and ensuring LGBTQ+ inclusion in the healthcare. He provides insights into unique challenges around brain health, dementia, and aging for individuals in the LGBTQ+ community and shares key insights into the combined challenges of being LGBTQ+ and having dementia.

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Guest:
Dan Stewart, MSG
Long-Term Care Equality Index Program Co-Lead
Associate Director of the Aging Equality Project
Human Rights Campaign Foundation

Host:
Jennifer Pettis, MS, RN, CNE
Director of Strategic Alliances
The Gerontological Society of America

This podcast episode is supported by Genentech, Lilly, Eisai, and Otsuka.

Addressing Brain Health in Adults with Intellectual Disabilities and Developmental Disabilities

Fri, 05 Jan 2024 16:50:18 -0500

Certain groups of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD) develop dementia at rates similar to older adults in the general population. However, adults with certain conditions, such as Down syndrome, develop Alzheimer's disease at greater rates. During this Momentum Discussion podcast episode, our guest discusses this issue and provides an overview of unique challenges in assessing for dementia in individuals with I/DD. She discusses strategies that primary care teams and others can use from the GSA publication, Addressing Brain Health in Adults with Intellectual Disabilities and Developmental Disabilities: A Companion to the KAER Toolkit for Primary Care Providers, to improve detection of dementia and care and services for adults with I/DD.

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Guest:
Lisa Comes
Service and Support Advisor
Ohio Association of County Boards of Developmental Disabilities

Host:
Jennifer Pettis, MS, RN, CNE
Director of Strategic Alliances
Gerontological Society of America

This podcast episode is supported by Eisai.

Kickstarting Brain Health Conversations with Diverse Older Adults: A Discussion with Dr. Carl Hill

Wed, 03 Jan 2024 20:31:02 -0500

In this Momentum Discussion podcast episode, Dr. Carl V. Hill, Chief Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Officer at the Alzheimer's Association provides insights into race, ethnicity, and Alzheimer's in America and shares information about barriers and facilitators to quality dementia care for all populations. He discusses how to successfully engage in dementia risk reduction conversations with people from diverse backgrounds and shares examples of successful collaborations aimed at improving access to information about dementia and brain health.

Download the transcript

Guest:

Carl Hill, PhD, MPH
Chief Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Officer
Alzheimer’s Association

Moderator:

Jennifer Pettis, MS, RN, CNE
Director of Strategic Alliances
Gerontological Society of America

This podcast episode is supported by Genentech, Lilly, Eisai, and Otsuka.

The Chronic Disease of Obesity

Wed, 03 Jan 2024 20:28:04 -0500

During this Momentum Discussion podcast episode, interprofessional experts examine obesity as a disease and discuss the need to intently treat individuals with obesity using guideline-based and standard-informed interprofessional and multifaceted plans of care. They share insights into the unique needs of older adults living with obesity, and they reflect on the heterogeneity of the older adult population and the importance of considering this heterogeneity when providing obesity care for older adults.

Download the transcript

Guests:

Kathryn N. Porter Starr, PhD, MS, RDN
Associate Professor, Duke University School of Medicine
Research Health Scientist, Durham VA Medical Center

John A. Batsis, MD, FACP, FTOS, AGSF, FGSA
Associate Professor
Division of Geriatric Medicine, School of Medicine
Department of Nutrition, The Gillings School of Global Public Health
The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

Moderator:

Jennifer Pettis, MS, RN, CNE
Director of Strategic Alliances
The Gerontological Society of America

This podcast episode is supported by Novo Nordisk.

Detecting and Addressing Agitation in Alzheimer’s Disease: Improving Lives for Older Adults and their Caregivers

Wed, 03 Jan 2024 20:20:38 -0500

In this Momentum Discussion podcast episode, interprofessional experts from Emory Integrated Memory Care discuss the common neuropsychiatric condition of agitation in Alzheimer's disease (AAD) and how it impacts individuals living with Alzheimer's and their caregivers. They discuss challenges to detecting AAD and share how detecting and treating this common symptom can improve quality of life for older adults and their caregivers. Finally, they discuss the Agitation in Alzheimer’s Screener for Caregivers (AASCTM), a new tool released during the 2023 GSA Annual Scientific Meeting, with which clinicians can screen for AAD in just one minute. More information about the AASCTM is available online at theaasc.com.

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Guests:
Carolyn K. Clevenger, DNP, GNP-BC, FAANP, FGSA, FAAN
Professor, Nell Hodgson Woodruff School of Nursing
Emory University
Clinical Director, Emory Integrated Memory Care

Laura Medders, LCSW
Administrative Director, Emory Integrated Memory Care

Moderator:

Jennifer Pettis, MS, RN, CNE
Director of Strategic Alliances
The Gerontological Society of America

This podcast is supported by Otsuka.

Financial Aspects of Caregiving

Wed, 06 Dec 2023 19:32:15 -0500

More than 90% of caregivers are also financial caregivers, defined as either contributing direct financial support or coordinating some or all their loved one’s money-related matters. Managing someone’s finances is complex and can extend for months or even years, both during the care recipient’s life and often well beyond the death of a loved one. Longer life spans and lifestyle changes create an urgency to plan for caregiving costs across life stages, not just in middle age. Attention to financial caregiving, when coupled with financial and longevity literacy, can help optimize retirement readiness. This podcast episode provides helpful actions that families, employers, and communities can take to help address this critical need.

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Guest:

Surya Kolluri
Head of TIAA Institute

Moderator:

James Appleby

Chief Executive Officer, Gerontological Society of America

This podcast is supported by TIAA Institute.

Aging and Oral Health Research: Insights from the 2023 AADOCR Meeting within a Meeting

Tue, 31 Oct 2023 17:42:28 -0400

This Momentum Discussion podcast provides insight into the “Aging and Oral Health Research “Meeting within a Meeting” held during the March 2023 American Association for Dental, Oral, and Craniofacial Research Annual Meeting. Learn about the primary objectives and outcomes of the meeting and the impact of loneliness and isolation in older adults and oral health and nutrition in aging.

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Moderator:
Karen Tracy
The Gerontological Society of America
Washington, DC

Panelists:
Jane A. Weintraub
Department of Pediatric and Public Health
Adams School of Dentistry
University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
Chapel Hill, NC
And Immediate Past President of the American Association for Dental, Oral, and Craniofacial Research

Carla Perissinotto
Division of Geriatrics, School of Medicine
University of California San Francisco
San Francisco, CA

Riva Touger-Decker
Diagnostic Sciences
Rutgers School of Dental Medicine
School of Health Professions
Rutgers State University of New Jersey
Newark, NJ

This podcast is supported by Haleon.

Meeting the Needs of Diverse Caregivers

Wed, 27 Sep 2023 12:25:36 -0400

According to the Alzheimer's Association, over 11 million Americans provide an estimated 18 billion hours of unpaid care for people with Alzheimer's or other dementias. In 2022, this care was valued at $339 billion. Most of these caregivers are women, and many caregivers are from diverse and underserved communities. In this Momentum Discussion podcast episode, leaders from the Alzheimer’s Association of Northeastern New York discuss the unique needs of diverse caregivers and how they are meeting these needs. They offer insights into how healthcare providers and others can best meet the needs of all caregivers while promoting brain health for all individuals.

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Guests:
Elizabeth Smith-Boivin
Executive Director/CEO, Alzheimer’s Association of Northeastern New York

Debbie Abreu
Community Outreach Manager for DEI initiatives, Alzheimer’s Association of Northeastern New York

Host:
Jennifer Pettis, MS, RN, CNE
Director of Strategic Alliances, The Gerontological Society of America

This podcast episode is supported by Genentech, Lilly, Eisai, and Otsuka.

Agitation in Alzheimer’s Disease: Reflections of a Care Partner

Fri, 11 Aug 2023 19:49:45 -0400

Agitation can be described as increased, often undirected, motor activity, restlessness, aggressiveness, and emotional distress. It may include nonaggressive behaviors such as pacing, repetitious movements, and general restlessness, or it may manifest as physically or verbally aggressive behaviors. It is one of the most distressing behavioral and psychological symptoms of dementia, and between 30% and 80% of people living with dementia, depending on the setting, experience agitation. Because of the wide-ranging potential negative impacts associated with agitation in Alzheimer’s disease (AAD), a person-centered, individualized approach to address AAD is a must. In this Momentum Discussion Podcast episode, we provide insights into AAD from the perspective of a professional caregiver and a family member whose loved one lives with AAD. They share how the condition impacts the person with Alzheimer’s disease and those around them and offer strategies to prevent and address troubling behavioral and psychological symptoms of dementia associated with AAD.

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Guests:
Laura Medders, LCSW
Administrative Director, Emory Integrated Memory Care Clinic

Maureen Morrison
Care partner to her husband, Angus, who lives with Alzheimer's disease

Host:
Jennifer Pettis, MS, RN, CNE
Director of Strategic Alliances, The Gerontological Society of America

This podcast episode is supported by Otsuka. Content was developed by The Gerontological Society of America (GSA).

Cognitive Aging and Optimizing Cognitive Health

Fri, 11 Aug 2023 19:38:53 -0400

According to the McKnight Brain Research Foundation website, “there is growing hope and expectation that it’s possible to maintain cognitive health later in life, allowing people to age independently and enjoy the benefits of a fuller life.” During this Momentum Discussion Podcast episode, Allison Brashear, MD, MBA, a member of the Foundation’s Board of Trustees and the University at Buffalo’s Vice President for Health Sciences and Dean of the Jacobs School, and Angelika Schlanger, PhD, executive director of the Foundation, will offer insights into brain health, cognitive health, and cognitive aging. They discuss how normal cognitive aging differs from changes in cognitive function due to dementia. Finally, they offer insights into how individuals can take steps to promote their brain health at any age.

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Guests:
Allison Brashear, MD, MBA
Vice President for Health Sciences
Dean of the Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences
University at Buffalo

Angelika Schlanger, PHD
Executive Director, McKnight Brain Research Foundation

Host:
Jennifer Pettis, MS, RN, CNE
Director of Strategic Alliances, The Gerontological Society of America

This podcast episode is supported by Genentech, Lilly, Otsuka, and Eisai. Content was developed by The Gerontological Society of America (GSA).

Why an Early Diagnosis of Dementia Matters

Thu, 03 Aug 2023 17:49:56 -0400

Early detection of dementia leads to better outcomes for individuals with dementia and their care partners. It allows them to potentially benefit from a variety of care interventions, make decisions about their care, and tap into community resources to enhance their quality of life and function. Despite this, the Alzheimer’s Association reported that neither older adults nor primary care practitioners routinely raise brain health issues – particularly in the case that an older adult has signs of mild cognitive impairment. In this GSA Momentum Discussion Podcast episode, Bonnie Burman, president of the Ohio Council for Cognitive Health, discusses barriers to kickstarting brain health conversations and early diagnosis of dementia, offers strategies to overcome them, and highlights how care providers and other communities of interest can use the KAER Toolkit for Brain Health to improve early detection of dementia.

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Guest:
Bonnie Burman, ScD
President, Ohio Council for Cognitive Health

Host: Jennifer Pettis, MS, RN, CNE
Director of Strategic Alliances, The Gerontological Society of America

This podcast episode is supported by Eisai, Genentech, Lilly, and Otsuka.

Improving Dementia Care Practices - A Health System Approach

Wed, 26 Jul 2023 19:46:38 -0400

In their special report, Alzheimer’s Detection in the Primary Care Setting: Paving a Path Forward, the Alzheimer’s Association reported that despite a strong belief among older adults that brief cognitive assessments are important and that early detection of cognitive problems is beneficial, only half are being assessed for cognitive decline, and much fewer receive routine assessments. The Association’s findings about dementia care practices in primary care along with the ever-growing number of Americans living with Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias highlight the need to take a systems approach to improving dementia care. In this Momentum Discussion Podcast episode, Amy Boehm, senior health systems director for the Alzheimer's Association discusses the urgent need to improve dementia care practices in primary care, how The GSA KAER Toolkit for Primary Care Teams addresses an unmet need for primary care providers, and shares how the Alzheimer’s Association Health System Initiative can support them in implementing practice change to improve dementia care. Amy also offers strategies to get started with changing practice in any care setting.

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Guest:
Amy Boehm
Senior Health Systems Director
Alzheimer's Association

Host:
Jennifer Pettis, MS, RN, CNE
Director of Strategic Alliances
The Gerontological Society of America

This podcast episode is supported by Eisai, Genentech, Lilly, and Otsuka.

Combating Bias to Promote Comprehensive Obesity Care for Older Adults

Mon, 22 May 2023 20:39:18 -0400

People with obesity often experience bias due to their weight which can negatively impact their overall health and well-being. Older adults may have faced weight bias for many years, including from their healthcare providers, their families, and themselves. In addition to the weight bias being prevalent in healthcare, it also permeates places of employment, educational institutions, the media, and society overall. During this Momentum Discussion Podcast episode, Dr. Fatima Cody Stanford discusses weight bias and its negative consequences. She shares examples of how weight bias exists in healthcare and other areas and provides insights into how a person’s cultural identity impacts how they might experience weight bias. Finally, she offers solutions to this significant issue, including steps that healthcare professionals can take to eliminate weight bias and provide a comfortable environment of care for people with the chronic disease of obesity.

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Guest:
Fatima Cody Stanford, MD, MPH, MPA, MBA, FAAP, FACP, FAHA, FAMWA, FTOS
Associate Professor of Medicine and Pediatrics Harvard Medical School
Obesity Medicine Physician-Scientist Massachusetts General Hospital

Host:
Jennifer Pettis, MS, RN, CNE
Director of Strategic Alliances, The Gerontological Society of America

This podcast episode is supported by Novo Nordisk. Content was developed by The Gerontological Society of America (GSA).

Kickstarting Body Size Conversations in Older Adults with Obesity

Wed, 26 Apr 2023 11:00:00 -0400

Kickstarting the obesity conversation with older adults requires an understanding of the pathophysiology of overweight and obesity in conjunction with an appreciation for communication concerns that affect conversations with older adults. In this podcast episode, Dr. Jason Lofton of Lofton Family Clinic and Wellness in De Queen, AR discusses important issues addressed in Step One of The GSA KAER Toolkit for the Management of Obesity in Older Adults: Kickstart the Obesity Conversation. He shares insights into how he and his team set the stage to engage in successful, motivating conversations about body size with their patients. Dr. Lofton discusses overcoming common roadblocks to body size conversations, preparing for shared decision making and goal setting, and how issues such as culture, race/ethnicity, and age influence conversations about body size.

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Guest:
Jason Lofton, MD
Lofton Family Clinic and Wellness

Host:
Jennifer Pettis, MS, RN, CNE
Director of Strategic Alliances
The Gerontological Society of America

This podcast episode is supported by Novo Nordisk. Content was developed by The Gerontological Society of America (GSA).

Enhancing Early Detection of Cognitive Impairment

Wed, 08 Mar 2023 10:00:00 -0500

Early detection of dementia is vital, and it allows people living with dementia to receive comprehensive care to address symptoms, build a care team, participate in supportive services, access community supports, and potentially access disease-modifying treatments or enroll in clinical trials. With early detection of cognitive impairment and disclosure of the diagnosis to the patient, the individual with the condition and their care partners can set systems in place that allow them to achieve their highest practicable level of function and quality of life. In this episode, Dr. Joshua Chodosh shares strategies to kickstart the brain health conversation, describes how he has engaged the whole healthcare team in the conversation, and highlights approaches aimed at early detection of cognitive impairment in the primary care setting. Dr. Chodosh also underscores how providers can use tools in The GSA KAER Toolkit for Primary Care Teams to enhance their early detection efforts and help to improve outcomes for older adults with cognitive impairment and their care partners.

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Guest:
Joshua Chodosh, MD, MSHS
Co-lead, BOLD Public Health Center of Excellence on Early Detection of Dementia
Director, Division of Geriatric Medicine and Palliative Care, Department of Medicine, NYU Grossman School of Medicine
Professor of Medicine and Population Health, New York University

Host:
Jennifer Pettis, MS, RN, CNE
Director of Strategic Alliances, The Gerontological Society of America

This podcast episode is supported by Eisai. Content was developed by The Gerontological Society of America (GSA).

Risk-Based Strategies for Referrals to Community Services for Older Adults with Dementia and their Care Partners

Wed, 01 Feb 2023 10:00:00 -0500

A person living with dementia and their care partner often have needs for a variety of community supports that enables them to achieve their greatest potential function and quality of life. This podcast episode addresses the fourth step of the KAER Framework: Refer for Community Services. Our guests discuss how interdisciplinary care teams in primary care can use risk-based strategies to refer older adults with dementia and their care partners to appropriate community services, and they share strategies for success that they and their interdisciplinary colleagues use in the Emory Integrated Memory Care Clinic – a nurse-led primary care practice for people living with dementia.

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Guests:
Carolyn K. Clevenger, DNP, GNP-BC, FAANP, FGSA, FAAN
Professor, The Nell Hodgson Woodruff School of Nursing at Emory University
Clinical Director/Practicing Nurse Practitioner, The Emory Integrated Memory Care Clinic
Laura Medders, LCSW
Administrative Director, The Emory Integrated Memory Care Clinic

Host:
Jennifer Pettis, MS, RN, CNE
Director of Strategic Alliances, The Gerontological Society of America

This podcast episode is supported by Eisai, Genentech, Lilly, and Otsuka.

Reimbursement as a Pathway for Quality Dementia Care

Tue, 17 Jan 2023 10:00:00 -0500

GSA developed this podcast and the associated Additional Handout: Podcast Discussion Points in December 2022. It is important to note that payment policies change often and vary by payor, and listeners should seek payor-specific guidance around billing for services.

Appropriate reimbursement for detection, evaluation, and diagnosis of dementia as well as for care planning and ongoing care of individuals with cognitive impairment and dementia is possible. In fact, pathways to appropriate reimbursement well align with evidence-based guidelines for care and expectations around quality. To ensure well-coordinated quality dementia care, the primary provider and other members of the interdisciplinary care team spend a great deal of time outside the standard primary care visit, and reimbursement for this time is available. In this podcast, our guests share their insights into the documentation, infrastructure, and processes necessary to capture appropriate reimbursement for quality dementia care. They also discuss how using reimbursement as a pathway for quality dementia care supports high-functioning teams, incentivizes care teams to provide care that aligns with guidelines, and prevents the vital work of the entire interdisciplinary team from being invisible.

Handout: Podcast Discussion Points

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Host:
Jennifer Pettis, MS, RN, CNE
Director of Strategic Alliances, The Gerontological Society of America

This podcast episode is supported by Eisai, Genentech, Lilly, and Otsuka.

Culturally Congruent Care for Hispanic Older Adults with Obesity

Wed, 16 Nov 2022 10:01:00 -0500

It is vital that health care professionals supporting older adults on their weight loss journey recognize the importance of cultural differences as well as differences in risk based on age, race, or ethnicity. Cultural preferences and views about larger body sizes should also be respected. In this podcast episode, Dr. Rodolfo Galindo, an expert review panelist of the GSA KAER Toolkit on the Management of Obesity in Older Adults, highlights unique cultural beliefs and practices that are prevalent among individuals from the Hispanic community and discusses how providers must recognize and factor them into conversations about weight and obesity. He also notes how providers may provide culturally congruent care while using the GSA KAER Framework to kickstart the discussion of weight with older adults and their families; assess for the presence of altered body fat amount, distribution, and/ or function; evaluate treatment options; and refer patients to community resources.

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Guest: Rodolfo J. Galindo, MD
Associate Professor of Medicine, Emory University School of Medicine
Investigator, Center for Diabetes and Metabolism Research, Emory University Hospital Midtown

Host: Jennifer Pettis, MS, RN, CNE
Director of Strategic Alliances, The Gerontological Society of America

This podcast episode is supported by Novo Nordisk. Content was developed by The Gerontological Society of America (GSA).

Nutritional Needs of Older Adults with Obesity

Wed, 16 Nov 2022 10:00:00 -0500

We all experience normal physiological and metabolic changes as we age, including loss of muscle mass, that can impact functioning and quality of life. When combined with obesity or overweight, these changes can be magnified, causing even greater functional losses and decreases in quality of life. An all-too-often approach of simply limiting caloric intake to lose weight may further heighten these risks. As such, older adults seeking to lose weight need a balanced diet that will support loss of excess adiposity while preserving muscle. As vital members of the patient care team, dietitians can support older adults seeking to lose weight to ensure that their nutrient needs are met while on their weight loss journey. Additionally, these professionals can support the older adult to address social, environmental, and economic risk factors that often go unrecognized yet play an enormous role in healthy dietary patterns. In this podcast episode, Dr. Kathryn N. Porter Starr, an expert review panelist of the GSA KAER Toolkit on the Management of Obesity in Older Adults, explores complex issues around dietary needs of older adults, including the importance of assessing for and addressing sarcopenia, and highlights how comprehensive nutritional care can support function, independence, and quality of life while enabling the older adult to reach and maintain their desired body weight.

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Guest: Kathryn N. Porter Starr, PhD, MS, RDN
Assistant Professor of Medicine–Geriatrics, Duke University School of Medicine
Research Health Scientist, Durham VA Health System, Durham, North Carolina

Host: Jennifer Pettis, MS, RN, CNE
Director of Strategic Alliances, The Gerontological Society of America

This podcast episode is supported by Novo Nordisk. Content was developed by The Gerontological Society of America (GSA).

Cellular Aging and the Care of Older Patients

Thu, 12 May 2022 11:02:00 -0400

Researchers have identified several molecular pathways at a cellular level, including within the mitochondria, which appear to influence both aging and age-related chronic disease. These cellular changes associated with aging are cumulatively referred to as age-associated cellular decline, or AACD. Identifying AACD risk factors and intervening with cellular nutrients earlier in the aging process, before major mobility disabilities and disease driven limitations emerge, could help improve overall healthy aging. A set of three podcast discussions from the panel of the What’s Hot on Cellular Nutrition and Its Influence on Age-Associated Cellular Decline, explores various elements of AACD and the care of older adults. This episode explores how to apply what is currently known about AACD to the care of patients and older adults in clinical practice.

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Guest: Nathan K. LeBrasseur, PT, PhD
Professor and Co-Chair of Research, Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Mayo Clinic
Scientific Director, Office of Translation to Practice, Mayo Clinic
Co-Director, Paul F. Glenn Center for Biology of Aging Research, Mayo Clinic

Host: Roger A. Fielding, PhD
Associate Director, Jean Mayer USDA Human Nutrition Research Center on Aging, Tufts University
Lead Scientist and Senior Scientist Nutrition, Exercise Physiology, and Sarcopenia Team, Tufts University
Professor of Nutrition Friedman School of Nutrition Science and Policy, Tufts University
Professor of Medicine, Tufts University School of Medicine
Associate Director, Boston Claude D. Pepper Older Americans Independence Center

This podcast series was developed by The Gerontological Society of America (GSA). This program has received a grant from Nestle Health Science.

Mitochondria and Aging

Thu, 12 May 2022 11:01:00 -0400

Researchers have identified several molecular pathways at a cellular level, including within the mitochondria, which appear to influence both aging and age-related chronic disease. These cellular changes associated with aging are cumulatively referred to as age-associated cellular decline, or AACD. Identifying AACD risk factors and intervening with cellular nutrients earlier in the aging process, before major mobility disabilities and disease driven limitations emerge, could help improve overall healthy aging. A set of three podcast discussions from the panel of the What’s Hot on Cellular Nutrition and Its Influence on Age-Associated Cellular Decline, explores various elements of AACD and the care of older adults. This episode focuses specifically on what researchers are learning about the importance of mitochondrial function.

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Guest: Anthony J. A. Molina, PhD
Vice Chief of Research, Division of Geriatrics, Gerontology, and Palliative Care, University of California San Diego School of Medicine
Associate Professor, Department of Medicine, University of California San Diego School of Medicine

This podcast series was developed by The Gerontological Society of America (GSA). This program has received a grant from Nestle Health Science.

Nutrition and Cellular Aging

Thu, 12 May 2022 11:00:00 -0400

Researchers have identified several molecular pathways at a cellular level, including within the mitochondria, which appear to influence both aging and age-related chronic disease. These cellular changes associated with aging are cumulatively referred to as age-associated cellular decline, or AACD. Identifying AACD risk factors and intervening with cellular nutrients earlier in the aging process, before major mobility disabilities and disease driven limitations emerge, could help improve overall healthy aging. A set of three podcast discussions from the panel of the What’s Hot on Cellular Nutrition and Its Influence on Age-Associated Cellular Decline, explores various elements of AACD and the care of older adults. This episode focuses on the nutritional interventions that have the potential to extend human health span, as well as those that may slow age associated cellular decision and may impact longevity.

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Guest: Sai Krupa Das, PhD
Scientist I, Energy Metabolism Team
Jean Mayer USDA Human Nutrition Research Center on Aging
Associate Professor, Friedman School of Nutrition Science and Policy, Tufts University

This podcast series was developed by The Gerontological Society of America (GSA). This program has received a grant from Nestle Health Science.

Successful Conversations with Older Adults about Sleep Disturbances

Wed, 19 Jan 2022 10:00:00 -0500

This episode addresses the need for effective communication with older adults who have sleep disturbances. As a condition that is underdiagnosed and undertreated, it is important to understand how to address this issue with older people to ensure that the right treatments are provided, and that health and well-being are attained.

Guest: Michael V. Vitiello, PhD
Professor of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle

Host: Elizabeth Galik, PhD, CRNP, FAAN, FAANP
Professor, Chair of the Department of Organizational Systems and Adult Health, University of Maryland School of Nursing; Past President of the Gerontological Advanced Practice Nurses Association (GAPNA)

This podcast episode was designed by The Gerontological Society of America (GSA) along with our clinical partner, the Gerontological Advanced Practice Nurses Association. The program has received an educational grant from Eisai Pharmaceuticals.

Understanding the Vaccine Development Process

Thu, 21 Oct 2021 11:02:00 -0400

The process of bringing a vaccine to market takes extensive research and safety monitoring. Dr. Gordon Douglas explains the steps from preclinical studies to vaccine licensure, and discusses his own experience developing vaccines at a major manufacturer for 30 years. He also shares lessons learned from clinical trials during the COVID-19 pandemic, including the importance of participant diversity.

 Guest: R. Gordon Douglas, Jr, MD
Professor Emeritus, Weill Cornell Medical College

Host: Jo-Ana Chase, PhD, APRN-BC
Associate Professor, Sinclair School of Nursing, University of Missouri Health

This podcast episode is supported by Seqirus. Content was developed by The Gerontological Society of America (GSA).

Applying Risk Communication Models to Immunization Discussions

Thu, 21 Oct 2021 11:01:00 -0400

Communicating the risks and benefits of immunization can be challenging, as the language of science may not always be well understood by the public. Dr. Aaron Scherer shares his research on risk communication and infectious disease, what we can learn from outbreak communication with older adults, and his thoughts on future opportunities in the field.

Guest: Aaron Scherer, MA, PhD
Assistant Professor of Internal Medicine - General Internal Medicine, University of Iowa

Host: Cheryl Ann Monturo, PhD, MBE, ACNP-BC
Senior Nurse Research Scientist Chester County Hospital/Penn Medicine; Professor of Nursing West Chester University

This podcast episode is supported by Seqirus. Content was developed by The Gerontological Society of America (GSA).

Integrating Immunization in Long-Term Care

Thu, 21 Oct 2021 11:00:00 -0400

A routine immunization program in long-term care facilities can protect residents who are most at risk of poor outcomes if they contract a vaccine-preventable disease, however systemic challenges contribute to stagnant vaccination rates among residents and low vaccination rates among staff. In this episode, Dr. Barbara Resnick discusses her work in improving immunization rates in long-term care, using behavior motivation techniques to encourage staff and residents to get vaccinated, and what she sees as opportunities for future researchers and practitioners.

Guest: Barbara Resnick, PhD, RN, CRNP, FAAN, FAANP
Sonya Ziporkin Gershowitz Chair in Gerontology, University of Maryland School of Nursing

Host: Justine Sefcik, PhD, RN
Assistant Professor, Drexel University College of Nursing and Health Professions; Co-convener, GSA Interest Group on Nursing

This podcast episode is supported by Seqirus. Content was developed by The Gerontological Society of America (GSA).

Dementia-Related Psychosis in Long-Term Care: Series Part 3

Mon, 26 Apr 2021 12:02:00 -0400

Individuals with dementia-related psychosis experience worse outcomes than those who do not have psychosis, including but not being limited to accelerated time to being admitted to a long-term care facility and accelerated mortality. The manifestation of hallucinations and delusions in residents with dementia can also prove challenging for long-term care staff. Dr. Chad Worz discusses how appropriate documentation of a diagnosis of dementia-related psychosis and related care interventions are an important part of delivering individualized care for residents.

Guest: Chad Worz, PharmD, BCGP
Executive Director and Chief Operating Officer of the American Society of Consultant Pharmacists (ASCP)

Host: Judit Illes, BCL/LLB, MS, CPHQ
Director, Strategic Alliances, The Gerontological Society of America

For more information on dementia-related psychosis, see GSA’s February 2021 White Paper, Dementia-Related Psychosis: Strategies to Address Barriers to Care Across Settings.

This podcast episode is supported by Acadia Pharmaceuticals, Inc. Content was developed by The Gerontological Society of America (GSA).

Dementia-Related Psychosis in Primary Care: Series Part 2

Mon, 26 Apr 2021 12:01:00 -0400

Primary care providers (PCPs) are ideally positioned to recognize, diagnose, and provide care planning for individuals with dementia who experience psychosis. Dr. Alexis Eastman discusses the important role of PCPs in team-based approaches to care and shares examples of innovative healthcare delivery models that can support PCPs in addressing dementia-related psychosis.

Guest: Alexis Eastman, MD
Medical Director of the Division of Geriatrics at the University of Wisconsin Hospitals and Clinics; Associate Professor at the University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health; Member of GSA’s Workgroup on Dementia-Related Psychosis.

Host: Judit Illes, BCL/LLB, MS, CPHQ
Director, Strategic Alliances, The Gerontological Society of America

For more information on dementia-related psychosis, see GSA’s February 2021 White Paper, Dementia-Related Psychosis: Strategies to Address Barriers to Care Across Settings.

This podcast episode is supported by Acadia Pharmaceuticals, Inc. Content was developed by The Gerontological Society of America (GSA).

Diagnosing Dementia-Related Psychosis: Series Part 1

Mon, 26 Apr 2021 12:00:00 -0400

Dementia-related psychosis, defined as hallucinations and delusions in individuals with dementia, is a distinct neuropsychiatric symptom. Dementia-related psychosis differs from psychosis that originates from delirium or a pre-existing psychotic disorder (e.g., schizophrenia). Dr. Gary Small explains the challenges to and approaches for detecting and diagnosing these symptoms.

Guest: Gary Small, MD
Chair of Psychiatry at Hackensack University Medical Center and Physician in Chief for Behavioral Health; Chair of GSA’s Workgroup on Dementia-Related Psychosis

Host: Judit Illes, BCL/LLB, MS, CPHQ
Director, Strategic Alliances, The Gerontological Society of America

For more information on dementia-related psychosis, see GSA’s February 2021 White Paper, Dementia-Related Psychosis: Strategies to Address Barriers to Care Across Settings.

This podcast episode is supported by Acadia Pharmaceuticals, Inc. Content was developed by The Gerontological Society of America (GSA).

Understanding Respiratory Syncytial Virus, Influenza, and COVID-19

Fri, 19 Mar 2021 12:30:00 -0400

Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) causes 177,000 hospitalizations and 14,000 deaths in older adults each year. Those over 65, adults with chronic heart or lung disease, and adults with weakened immune systems are particularly at risk. Yet RSV remains underdiagnosed. This podcast was originally recorded as a webinar, where Drs. Robin Jump and Lindsay Kim answer questions about RSV and its impact on older adults; the challenges of distinguishing between RSV, influenza, and COVID-19; and ways to keep older adults healthy with so many respiratory viruses circulating, particularly in a long-term care facility.

Guests:
Robin Jump, MD, PhD
Assistant Professor, Division of Infectious Diseases and HIV Medicine, Case Western Reserve University and Louis Stokes Cleveland VA Medical Center
Lindsay Kim, MD, MPH
Medical Epidemiologist, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

Host: Elizabeth Sobczyk, MSW, MPH
Director, Strategic Alliances, The Gerontological Society of America

For more information, visit GSA’s National Adult Vaccination Program website.

This podcast episode is supported by Johnson and Johnson Health Systems, Inc. Content was developed by The Gerontological Society of America (GSA).

Understanding HIV in Older Adults: Part 2

Thu, 18 Mar 2021 12:30:00 -0400

Advances in medicine mean the number of older adults living with HIV/AIDS is increasing, which also presents new challenges to both aging service providers and HIV/AIDS service providers. In Part 2 of this series on Understanding HIV in Older Adults, Drs. Meredith Greene and Molly Perkins discuss the intersection of geriatric medicine and HIV specialists, as well as HIV prevention in older adults, medical, and psychosocial challenges for those who are aging with HIV, and the experience of those living with HIV during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Guest: Meredith Greene, MD
Assistant Professor, Department of Medicine, Division of Geriatrics, University of California San Francisco

Host: Molly Perkins, PhD
Associate Professor, School of Medicine and Graduate Faculty of Emory Sociology, Emory University

This podcast episode is supported by ViiV Healthcare. Content was developed by The Gerontological Society of America (GSA).

Understanding HIV in Older Adults: Part 1

Wed, 17 Mar 2021 12:30:00 -0400

Advances in medicine mean the number of older adults living with HIV/AIDS is increasing, which also presents new challenges to both aging service providers and HIV/AIDS service providers. In Part 1 of this series on Understanding HIV in Older Adults, Drs. Mark Brennan-Ing and Molly Perkins discuss social networks, isolation, and social supports among older adults living with HIV; resilience as a way to address stigma; the diversity of those who are living with HIV; internalized ageism; and the use of crisis competence to learn from HIV survivors during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Guest: Mark Brennan-Ing, PhD
Senior Research Scientist, ‎Brookdale Center for Healthy Aging, Hunter College, CUNY

Host: Molly Perkins, PhD
Associate Professor, School of Medicine and Graduate Faculty of Emory Sociology, Emory University

This podcast episode is supported by ViiV Healthcare. Content was developed by The Gerontological Society of America (GSA).

Understanding COPD in Older Adults

Tue, 16 Mar 2021 01:00:00 -0400

Dr. Melissa Batchelor speaks with Dr. Barbara Yawn about her journey to becoming Chief Clinical Officer of the COPD Foundation. Dr. Yawn shares the misconceptions about COPD in older adults and challenges that lead to underdiagnosis. She discusses treatment options – both pharmacologic and nonpharmacologic – and the importance of an interdisciplinary team in treating COPD.

Guest: Barbara Yawn, MD
Chief Clinical Officer, COPD Foundation

Host: Melissa Batchelor, PhD, RN-BC, FNP-BC, FGSA, FAAN
Director of the Center for Aging and Health and Humanities and Associate Professor at George Washington University School of Nursing

For a quick reference, download the fact sheet Understanding COPD in Older Adults.

For more information on COPD, see GSA’s recent What’s Hot publication: Recognizing and Treating COPD in Older Adults.

This podcast episode is supported by GlaxoSmithKline. Content was developed by The Gerontological Society of America (GSA).

Obesity and Its Disproportionate Impact on Racial and Ethnic Minority Populations

Fri, 12 Mar 2021 11:00:00 -0500

The vexing problem of the increasing weight of Americans has grown to epidemic proportions in recent decades. As millions of people enter older adulthood, they bring with them added pounds and the challenges of excessive body fat. Now recognized as a chronic medical condition, obesity is associated with serious health problems that increase morbidity and mortality, stigmatization at work and in social settings, decreased physical function, lower health-related quality of life, and increased direct and indirect health care costs. When combined with common aging-related challenges, obesity can create complex clinical situations without easy solutions.

In this episode, Dr. Fatima Cody Stanford speaks with Dr. Tamara A. Baker, addressing the issue of obesity and specifically how the prevalence of obesity is different in communities of color versus majority communities in the United States. Dr. Stanford reviews the different factors that contribute to the high burden of obesity in racial and ethnic minority populations, why there appears to be worsened outcomes in patients who have obesity and COVID-19, and strategies that can be utilized to address excess weight in communities with high prevalence of obesity, especially in older adults. The interview closes out with a review of barriers to receiving treatment and an overview of legislation has been proposed to help address the epidemic of obesity in our communities.

Guest: Fatima Cody Stanford, MD, MPH, MPA, FAAP, FACP, FAHA, FTOS
Obesity Medicine Physician Scientist, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School

Host: Tamara A. Baker, PhD, FGSA
Professor, Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

This podcast episode is supported by Novo Nordisk. Content was developed by The Gerontological Society of America (GSA).