Aging ain't for Sissies

Join me, Marcy Backhus, on a delightful journey into the marvels of growing older. Remember that hot dog we relished on Labor Day? That's right! We're embracing our golden years with enthusiasm, having a blast at water aerobics, and even shedding some pounds. We'll laugh our way through hilarious tales, like that shopping spree that nearly saw someone miss the ship! The anticipation of the upcoming Alaskan cruise is palpable, proving age is just a number for adventures.
But it's not all fun and games; we're also harnessing the wisdom that comes with age. We've got a more measured approach to life, are kinder to ourselves, and have learned that we don't need material possessions to be happy. Our storytelling prowess has never been better. Plus, we're shedding light on the treasure trove of senior programs in local parks and cities. From being a museum docent to day trips, there's an array of activities to keep us engaged. Don't forget, next week, we'll have a crucial conversation with a doctor about Alzheimer's. Choose happiness regardless of age. Let's celebrate the joys of growing older together!

Have you ever wondered how you can actively prevent dementia? Today, we're taking a deep dive into this topic with our esteemed guest, Dr. Mitch Clionsky, a board-certified Neuropsychologist and author of Dementia Prevention Using your Head to Save Your Brain. Join us as we explore the complex world of cognitive health, where we unravel the differences between Alzheimer's and Dementia, the concept of mild cognitive impairment, and why understanding our cognitive strengths and weaknesses is crucial for prevention.
The conversation continues by illuminating the unseen threads that connect sleep, oxygen, and dementia prevention. Sleep apnea, often overlooked, carries significant risks for our brain health and energy levels. Dr. Klianski sheds light on the fascinating world of telomeres and sleep apnea's role in their shortening over time. The importance of oxygen for preserving your brain health is elucidated, offering a fresh perspective on the science behind dementia prevention.
Finally, we broach the often-avoided topic of change – especially as we age. Dr. Clionsky emphasizes the significance of learning new things and being open to change. We dive into the importance of early detection and intervention in dementia and Alzheimer's prevention, discuss cognitive tests that help measure cognition, and underscore the benefits of regularly assessing physical and cognitive attributes. Get ready for a riveting discussion on the dynamics of cognitive health in aging adults, and join us on this enriching journey.

Caught amidst a snowstorm's unexpected charm at Chicago O'Hare, I, Marcy Backhus, transformed travel delays into a stage for reflection and storytelling. Experience the whimsical 'snow plow ballet' through my eyes and join in the childlike wonder as we witness the magic of a snow-melting machine. But it's not all about the frosty delays; this episode invites you on a heartfelt journey through the corridors of memory as we tackle the sentimental task of managing photo legacies. Inspired by my friend Katie's notion, I'll guide you through choosing between preservation methods and curating family mementos that resonate deeply with our narratives.
Have you ever found yourself the keeper of a box brimming with old photos, unsure where to start? Together, we'll navigate the emotional minefield of sorting through these snapshots of the past, offering actionable strategies to ease the process. I'll share insights on discerning the meaning from the forgotten and elaborate on the latest scanning technologies to help transition your memories into the digital age. We'll explore creative avenues for sharing these treasured pieces of history, from digital family trees to physical scrapbooks, all the while weaving in the emotional threads of personal anecdotes like my parents' wind chimes.
As we sift through the tangible pieces of our family's journey, we confront the emotional weight of deciding which items to hold close to. I recount the bittersweet act of parting with precious keepsakes and the liberation of cherishing the memories they represent over their physical form. This episode invites us to find comfort in simplicity—embracing the stories behind our heirlooms without succumbing to the clutter. Together, we'll celebrate the art of honoring our past, preserving our heritage, and sharing it with the warmth and connectivity that only actual storytelling can foster.

As the snowflakes tenderly kissed the ground on New Year's Eve, my husband Craig and I found warmth in a shared serenity, an evening of reflection marked by a snowy stroll and the nostalgic episodes of the Twilight Zone. It's these quiet moments of introspection that I invite you to join on our latest podcast, where I discuss the transformative power of setting intentions over resolutions, a method that has profoundly reshaped my approach to welcoming the New Year. Venturing beyond the usual festivities, I'll take you through the personal milestones that have dotted the past year, from the joy of reuniting with my son Alec to the complex emotions surrounding my estrangement from my eldest, Kyle. In the spirit of fresh beginnings and continual growth, we'll share in the beauty of embracing change as we step into 2024 together.
With intentions firmly in place, expect a peek into the evolution of our podcast, which will soon extend its reach onto YouTube, bringing a visual dimension to the vibrant conversations we've cultivated. In the breadth of this episode, I'll walk you through setting intentions closely tied to your core values and share actionable steps on how to live a more intentional life, drawing from personal anecdotes including my newfound passion for aquasculpt and the health journey that followed my accident. And while we've all felt the weight of years pressing upon us, I'm here to celebrate the resilience and strength we gain with age. Tune in for an episode that promises to be as heartfelt as it is inspiring—your guide to welcoming a year full of clarity and purpose.

This is a great episode I learned so much about the top anti-aging vitamins.