Aging With Grace

Today I'm going to explore the subject of mental illness. May is Mental Health Awareness Month in the United States. I want to help you understand and manage mental illness in yourself and make you aware of the costs and challenges to society as a whole. This is a two-part episode.  Part 2 will release at the end of June.

• https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/publications/looking-at-my-genes
• https://www.med.unc.edu/ge...

DG Linton Gridley explores the challenges of removing yourself from unhealthy or unsafe relationships in order to achieve better mental, emotional, and physical health. Drawing on Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs, DG discusses why people sometimes remain in harmful situations, the complex signs that someone may be making you feel unsafe, and the practical steps needed to restore your sense of security—including seeking profe...

DG dives into the challenges and realities of aging, using personal stories from her own family to highlight issues around independence, driving safety, and access to care. She shares the emotional hurdles faced by older adults—how embarrassment often keeps them from asking for help, sometimes leading them into dangerous situations like unsafe driving. DG describes her experience navigating the healthcare and legal systems to...

In this episode of "Aging with Grace," DG shares a heartfelt and educational look into lichen sclerosis, a condition that often goes undiagnosed and can cause significant suffering, especially in women over 40. Using a personal narrative, DG highlights the confusion, embarrassment, and challenges people face when seeking a diagnosis, as well as the relief proper treatment can bring. The episode dives into the autoimmune roots and s...

Today we dive into one critical topic: oral health. Did you know the germs in your mouth can impact your whole body—from heart and lung problems, to diabetes, Alzheimer’s, and even cancer risk? We covered how infections like tooth abscesses threaten more than just your smile, discussed the latest prevention and treatment tips, and broke down what to do if trouble starts. Your oral health truly is a window to your overal...

In this episode of the Aging with Grace podcast, host DG sits down with financial expert Emily Nelson to break down the essentials of money management at any age. Together, they discuss the basics of budgeting, the importance of building emergency funds, understanding insurance needs, and preparing for retirement. Emily Nelson shares practical advice for those with little or no savings, highlights the value of tracking spending, an...

In this special episode of Aging with Grace, host DG sits down with Stephanie Cunningham from the Lexington Fayette Urban County Government to discuss accessory dwelling units (ADUs) and their role in helping people age in place. They cover how ADUs can foster independent living for seniors and caregivers, recent changes to local ordinances to make ADUs more accessible, ongoing challenges with building codes and public perception, ...

DG welcomes Dr. Todd McGrath, owner of McGrath Medical Wound Care, for an enlightening discussion about advanced wound care—especially for seniors hoping to stay independent at home. The conversation dives into why wound healing becomes more challenging as we age, explores cutting-edge treatments like amniotic membrane skin substitutes and portable oxygenation devices, and highlights the critical importance of early intervent...

In this episode of Aging with Grace, DG explores the evolving role of technology and robotics in enhancing daily life and independence as we age. From nostalgic memories of robots in classic sci-fi to firsthand experiences with modern home tech like robot vacuums, smart devices, and wearable safety gadgets, DG shares both the benefits and quirks of embracing new tools. This episode covers everything from support for household chore...

Host DG  welcomes Dr. Alan Rozanski, a cardiologist and lifestyle medicine physician, for an enlightening conversation on how to thrive as we age. Dr. Rozanski shares his evidence-based "six domains of health and vitality"—covering physical health, thinking, emotional well-being, social connection, sense of purpose, and stress management—and offers practical, approachable strategies for building resilience, strengt...

DG Linton Gridley explores the complexities of moving after age 50—whether you're downsizing, relocating for health or lifestyle, or simply craving a change of scenery. DG shares personal moving stories, practical tips, and expert insights on how to minimize stress, handle the emotional journey, and make smart choices that enhance health and happiness in your next chapter. With research-based advice and real-life success stor...

As we age, our balance naturally changes, but that doesn’t mean we’re powerless. In today’s Aging with Grace episode, DG breaks down the science behind balance, explained how your body’s proprioception works, and shared tips to prevent falls and stay strong. Simple steps like regular exercise, checking your vision, and making your home safer can keep you independent and confident at any age. Remember, aging ...

Host DG Linton Gridley shares her inspiring journey from schoolteacher to founder of the Fountain of Youth Clubhouse—a unique adult day healthcare center dedicated to helping seniors age well. DG discusses the personal experiences that motivated her mission, the difference between adult day healthcare centers and senior centers, the benefits of community-based care, and honest insights into the realities of starting and susta...

DG looks at the importance of regular stretching as we get older, sharing personal stories and struggles with pain and limited mobility! DG explores how our bodies change with age, covering why flexibility and range of motion decrease, and gets real about the pains and setbacks that come with neglecting stretching routines. Listeners will find relatable advice about not giving up after periods of inactivity and encouragement to sta...

Guest H Frances Reaves, an elder law attorney and author of "Boomers Booming," joins DG to dive into essential topics for aging gracefully, including the importance of independence consultations, dealing with complex insurance issues like Medicare and long-term care, and end-of-life planning. Frances shares personal experiences and insights from her book, emphasizing the value of planning for the future and cherishing life in your ...

DG talks about the concept of fasting and its benefits with special guest Renee Fitton, the director of education at El Nutra Prolon. DG shares her personal experience with Prolon's five-day fasting mimicking diet, highlighting its surprising effectiveness without the typical hunger pangs associated with fasting. Renee, a registered dietitian with a master's in nutrition and health span longevity, discusses how Prolon, developed un...

Host DG Linton Gridley discusses the importance of cultivating a positive attitude towards aging and provides practical advice on how to achieve this mindset. DG emphasizes that while growing older happens naturally, aging well requires effort and a strategic approach. Listeners are encouraged to envision their 90-year-old selves through the concept of creating an "alter ego." This alter ego should embody the attributes and activit...

DG Linton Gridley shares insights about aging positively and with a touch of fun. Inspired by a conversation with a spirited woman from New York City, DG explores the importance of maintaining a positive attitude as a crucial aspect of aging well. DG emphasizes the significance of taking care of one's health, finances, and having a plan, while also advocating for integrating fun and social activities into our daily lives. The episo...

Guest Shari Frasure and host DG Linton Gridley examine the complexities of navigating divorce after 50, drawing from Shari's personal experience. They kick off by emphasizing the importance of acceptance and patience as crucial elements in the healing process, as each person grieves differently. Financial and logistical hurdles, such as housing, health insurance, and social security, are addressed, with the hosts highlighting the n...