Mental health isn’t just a personal challenge—it impacts our families, communities, and economy in powerful ways. In this episode, we broke down the differences between borderline personality disorder and bipolar disorder, explored the various personality disorders, and discussed major mental illnesses like OCD and panic disorder. Remember, 1 in 20 adults face serious mental health issues, and seeking help is crucial. Together, by understanding risk factors and promoting protective ones, we c...

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-geneshttps://www.med.unc.edu/genetics/eight-psychiatric-disorders-share-the- same-genetic-causes-study...

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 professional counseling and making tough decisions about separation. With perso...

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 support her in-laws, emphasizing just how difficult it can be to fi...

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 symptoms of lichen sclerosis, touching on why awareness and ope...

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 overall health. Let’s empower ourselves with knowledge, ask the tough questions,...

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, and explains key differences between financial tools like tradit...

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, and how organizations like Aging with Grace Home Improvements ...

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 intervention to prevent severe complications. Listeners gain practical advice...

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 chores and health monitoring to the promise of self-driving cars an...