More than a senior moment – why we shouldn’t normalise memory loss

More than a senior moment – why we shouldn’t normalise memory loss

In this episode of The Next Bit Podcast, we delve into the often-overlooked topic of memory loss and its implications as we age. Join me as I speak with Dr. Di North, head GP at Brightly, who sheds light on the misconception that forgetfulness is just a natural part of aging. We explore the gray zone of cognitive decline and the importance of early intervention, discussing how proactive measures can help manage or even reverse mild cognitive impairment before it progresses to dementia. Dr. North emphasizes that memory loss should not be normalized and provides valuable insights on how to navigate conversations around cognitive health with loved ones. Tune in for essential advice on maintaining brain health and the steps we can take to age brightly.

You can’t eat your house – now what?

In this episode of The Next Bit Podcast titled "You can’t eat your house – now what?", I dive deep into a pressing issue faced by many retirees: being asset-rich yet cash-poor. As homeowners, many find their wealth tied up in property, leaving them without sufficient cash flow to support their lifestyle. Joined by financial expert Hannah McQueen, we explore five practical strategies to enhance liquidity in retirement. From downsizing and renting to innovative family investments, we discuss how to navigate these choices effectively. This episode aims to empower listeners with insights to maintain their independence and quality of life as they age. Tune in to discover actionable solutions that can make a real difference in your retirement planning.

Are you the meat in the generational financial sandwich?

Most of us assume the mortgage will be gone by retirement, the kids will eventually leave home, Mum and Dad will have things sorted and things will get easier. The reality is much messier. Many carry a mortgage for longer, help children for longer, and start to discover that their parents’ retirement plan is non-existent. In this episode of Age Brightly, Hannah McQueen talks to Katie Wesney, National Coaching Lead at enable.me, about the financial squeeze facing the ‘sandwich generation’. Katie explains why the old retirement maths no longer works, what happens when parents are not on track, and why adult children need to understand their own numbers before they start rescuing everyone else. Hannah and Katie talk about how paying board can preserve dignity, the stresses of managing sibling tension and the invisible labour that often falls to one person (spoiler alert: the daughter). Plus, why ‘fair’ and ‘equal’ are not the same thing, why an inheritance is not a financial plan, and why one uncomfortable conversation over a cuppa (or something stronger) could prevent a world of stress later. If you are paying the mortgage, raising kids, worrying about Mum and Dad, and wondering when exactly you were promoted to family shock absorber, this episode is for you. The Next Bit podcast Host is: Hannah McQueen - Founder of Brightly This week’s guest is: Katie Wesney, National Coaching Lead at www.enable.me Join our community! We love to hear your feedback and questions. Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thenextbitpodcast Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61584248556816 TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@thenextbitpodcast YouTube: https://youtube.com/@thenextbitpodcast

Why collagen gummies aren’t a health plan

Most of us want to age well, and are happy to take the supplements, wear the sleep ring and sit in the sauna in the pursuit of that. But the things making us feel good, and allow us to pat ourselves on the back for being proactive about our health don’t actually tell us what’s really going on in our bodies. In this episode of The Next Bit, Hannah McQueen confesses her fondness for collagen gummies to Brightly’s Chief Medical Officer Dr Manoj Patel and he gives her a reality check! “You could have the best skin in the world and still have a heart attack”. Hannah asks Dr Patel about biomarkers - the measurable clues that give you a peek ‘under the hood’ of your health – why one blood test rarely tells the whole story and the difference between wellness habits and clinical risk. Plus: can magnesium really increase your falls risk? If you want to take a proactive approach to your health as you age - and focus on the things that really matter - this episode is for you. Live well and independent for longer. Get your whole of person assessment at www.agebrightly.co.nz The Next Bit Hosts are: Hannah McQueen - Founder of Brightly Mark Leishman - New Zealand TV and Radio Broadcaster Join our community! We love to hear your feedback and questions. Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thenextbitpodcast Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61584248556816 TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@thenextbitpodcast YouTube: https://youtube.com/@thenextbitpodcast

The Levels of Care Explained

In this episode of The Next Bit Podcast, join me, Hannah McQueen, as I sit down with geriatrician Dr. Cheryl Johnson to explore the critical topic of care levels as we age. We delve into essential conversations about staying out of the hospital and the difficult decision of transitioning a spouse into care. Dr. Johnson breaks down the needs assessment process and explains the various levels of care available, from rest homes to private hospitals and specialized dementia units. We unpack the complexities of caregiving, the emotional toll on families, and the importance of making informed decisions for our loved ones. Tune in for valuable insights that can shape the next chapter of your life or the life of someone you care about.