Podcast
News for the Ages by Rethinking Aging Club
Hosted by Linda Sherman and Ray Gordon · EN
Stay informed with "News for the Ages," where we explore the latest developments in aging, longevity, and caregiving. Hosted by Linda Sherman and Ray Gordon with regular co-hosting support from Debbie Howard, our show features insights from a diverse group of industry experts.
Each week, we delve into journalistic articles from respected publications, bringing you the most current and informative stories. Join our lively discussions as we cover wellness, neuroscience, aging in place, senior fitness, caregiver support and more.
Our sister podcast is Rethinking Aging Club Podcast.
37episodes
Episodes
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First Human Cellular Reprogramming Trial Cleared by FDA, GLP-1 Muscle Mass Loss, Older Americans Quitting Weight Loss Drugs 2-10-26
Feb 1400:53:22Tap to summarizeOur News for the Ages by Rethinking Aging Club, Feb 10, 2026 episode discussed the FDA's approval of a study on reprogramming genes to reverse eye damage in glaucoma patients using viruses carrying three reprogramming genes. The study aims to regenerate blood flow to the optic nerve. Concerns were raised about muscle loss and functional strength reduction in GLP-1 drug users, with 47% of users discontinuing within a year due to side effects and cost. The Biden administration's efforts to cap out-of-pocket costs for Medicare beneficiaries were noted, but Medicare's current regulations prohibit coverage for weight loss drugs.Presented by Benjamin Surmi, Senior Living Expert and Social GerontologistMIT Technology Review 1-27-26 First Human Test of Rejuvenation Method Will Begin Shortly by Antonio Regaladohttps://www.technologyreview.com/2026/01/27/1131796/the-first-human-test-of-a-rejuvenation-method-will-begin-shortly/Lifespan Research Institute 2-6-26 First Human Cellular Reprogramming Trial Cleared by the FDA by Arkadi Mazinhttps://lifespan.io/news/first-human-cellular-reprogramming-trial-cleared-by-the-fda/We referred to “pluripotency” and defined it.We mentioned Shinya Yamanaka and the “Yamanaka Factors.”Presented by Ray Gordon, Architect, Urban Planner, Futurist and Former Pratt Institute Grad School Professor Vox 12-3-25 GLP-1 and Muscle Mass Loss by Dylan Scotthttps://www.vox.com/the-highlight/469742/ozempic-wegovy-zepbound-mounjaro-weight-loss-side-effects-muscleApple access: https://apple.news/AMGI3ozp8S923OYsSAf1p_APresented by Ellen Khalifa, Habits Coach for Healthspan and Wellspan NY Times 12-21-26 Older Americans Quit Weight-Loss Drugs in Droves by Paula Spanhttps://www.nytimes.com/2025/12/21/health/older-people-glp1-weight.htmlLinda referred to Benjamin’s excellent 2-4-26 article with Joe & Bellahttps://joeandbella.com/blogs/news/rethinking-care-what-makes-life-worth-living-as-we-age-part-iDiscussion hosted with commentary by: Linda Sherman and Ray Gordon.BoomerTechTalk.com episode page 2-10-26 LinkedIn Show PostNews for the Ages podcasts live on Tuesdays. How to join live.Please follow both of our podcasts including Rethinking Aging Club Podcast.Nickie’s Tune written and performed by Richard Sherman
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How to Live to 100 Dick Van Dyke, US Withdrawal from WHO, NIC Report 2-3-26
Feb 1000:55:28Tap to summarizeIn this News for the Ages by Rethinking Aging Club podcast episode recorded with a live audience on February 3rd, 2026, Elizabeth shared an article on Dick Van Dyke's secrets to living to 100, emphasizing physical activity, playfulness, and maintaining social connections. Ellen reported on the U.S. withdrawal from the WHO, noting its potential impact on global health. Benjamin presented on healthcare innovations for senior housing, focusing on wellness programs, precision medicine, and CMS initiatives like the Access, Team, and Elevate models. Our discussion underscored the importance of personal responsibility in health and the potential benefits of integrated healthcare services in senior living.Presented by Elizabeth Magallon Fleury, CAPS, Life's Encore Planning NYTimes 11-28-25 How to Live to 100 Dick Van Dyke by Jancee Dunn https://www.nytimes.com/2025/11/28/well/dick-van-dyke-health-habits.htmlPresented by Ellen Khalifa, Habits Coach for Healthspan and Wellspan Time 1-22-26 US Withdrawal from WHO by Alice Park https://time.com/7357180/us-withdrawal-who-world-health-organizationElizabeth mentioned a related article New York Times article from 1-30 Presented by Benjamin Surmi, Senior Living Expert and Social Gerontologist Nic 1-12-26 Healthcare Drivers and Outlook for Senior Housing and Care in 2026 by Tim Jacksonfocus on the last section - TEAM, ACCESS, and ELEVATE.https://www.nic.org/blog/healthcare-drivers-and-outlook-for-senior-housing-and-care-in-2026/NIC = National Investment Center for senior housing and careBenjamin mentioned a senior living tool EmpowerMeWe discussed reducing the use of emergency rooms:Quote from the NIC article: 2026 Impact: Performance requires senior housing leaders to recognize that access to and excessive dependency on the hospital emergency room should become a legacy. It may have created performance enhancement in the past as a relief valve, but it will be increasingly scrutinized in 2026 and the future. Senior housing leaders should develop a roadmap to advance in the healthcare ecosystem to leverage their strengths, develop unparalleled relationships with residents, and find healthcare partnerships that suit their goals and resident needs. Discussion hosted with commentary by: Linda Sherman and Ray Gordon.BoomerTechTalk.com episode page 2-3-26 LinkedIn Show PostNews for the Ages podcasts live on Tuesdays. How to join live.Please follow both of our podcasts including Rethinking Aging Club Podcast.Nickie’s Tune written and performed by Richard Sherman
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ASHA Living Winter 2026 Report, Rendever VR for Social Connections 1-27-26
Jan 2900:57:25Tap to summarizeBenjamin Surmi reported on the American Seniors Housing Association's report, "Surviving to Thriving" for our discussion. The report outlines key principles for senior living: value, inclusion, trust, agency, longevity, and systems (VI-LTS), emphasizing the need for affordable housing, outcome-based metrics, and innovative living formats like modular designs and multi-generational layouts. It highlights the importance of data intelligence and the potential of virtual reality in enhancing social connections and cognitive functions among older adults. The discussion also touched on the challenges of integrating Medicaid into senior living.Debbie Howard reported on an article featuring Rendever and we discussed how social connection is possible with virtual reality in a senior living environment.With commentary from Linda Sherman and Ray Gordon.Presented by Benjamin Surmi, Senior Living Expert and Social GerontologistAsha Living Winter 2026 From Surviving to Thrivinghttps://ashaliving.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/SIB_From-Surviving-to-Thriving_Winter-2026-DIGITAL.pdfPresented by Debbie Howard, Aging Matters International APNews 12-25-25 by Michael LiedtkeVirtual reality can be an isolating form of technology, but a Boston-based company called Rendever is turning VR into a catalyst for better cognition and social connections for the elderly.https://apnews.com/article/virtual-reality-senior-living-social-isolation-b20dc156f4aa0735d7f0cc7558de9bfcDiscussion hosted by: Linda Sherman, Ray Gordon and Debbie Howard.BoomerTechTalk.com episode page 1-27-26 LinkedIn Show PostNews for the Ages podcasts live on Tuesdays. How to join live.Please follow both of our podcasts including Rethinking Aging Club Podcast.Nickie’s Tune written and performed by Richard Sherman
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Three Best of Wellness, Mobility and Healthtech CES 2026 Articles Discussed 1-20-26
Jan 2401:03:30Tap to summarizeIn this episode we discussed three Best of CES 2026 articles in the wellness, mobility and healthtech categories. Presented by Ellen Khalifa, Habits Coach for Healthspan and Wellspan PC Mag 1-13-26 Top 10 Wellness Gadgets CES 2026 by Angela Moscaritolohttps://www.pcmag.com/news/fit-for-the-future-top-wellness-gadgets-to-recharge-your-routine-ces-2026 Linda mentioned our 9-28-23 podcast with Phoenix Hipwear offering benefits similar to Smart Hip Guardian product in this article. Included in this article, Sensate will be featured on our March 12 CES 2026 Highlights Longevity episode. Presented by Benjamin Surmi, Senior Living Expert, Social Gerontologist Mobility Management 1-5-26 CES 2026 Four Assistive Technology Exhibitors by Laurie Watanabehttps://mobilitymgmt.com/ces-2026-4-assistive-technology-exhibitors-to-watch/ Included is WheelMove who will join us on our 2-26-26 CES 2026 Highlights Mobility show.Presented by Linda Sherman, Founder and Managing Editor, Boomer Tech Talk - Home of Rethinking Aging Club PodcastsForbes 1-13-26 Ten Healthtech Innovations Driving a $2 Trillion Revolution by Sandy Carterhttps://www.forbes.com/sites/digital-assets/2026/01/13/ces-2026-10-healthtech-innovations-driving-a-2-trillion-revolution/ Apple News Plus accessIncluded in this article is Elemind, who will join us on our March 12 CES 2026 Highlights Longevity show; Veintree who will join us January 29 CES 2026 Highlights Senior Safety show. We featured Osteoboost on our 10-10-24 Bone Health podcast episode Resources from Linda's Forbes article:They’re not competing. They’re converging. AI trains the robots. Blockchain secures the data. Wearables collect it all together, per PWC Strategy, and a $2 trillion revolution by the mid-2030s.Discussion hosted by: Linda Sherman and Ray Gordon BoomerTechTalk.com episode page with links to all 23 products mentioned in these 3 best at CES 2026 articles.1-20-26 LinkedIn Show PostNews for the Ages podcasts live on Tuesdays. How to join live.Please follow both of our podcasts including Rethinking Aging Club Podcast.Nickie’s Tune written and performed by Richard Sherman
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Elder Millennials, Smart Home Products for Aging in Place 12-30-25
Jan 500:56:29Tap to summarizeIn this 12-30-25 News for the Ages by Rethinking Aging Club episode, Ellen Khalifa presented an article from New York Magazine on elder millennials, highlighting the concept of "the cliff" at ages 44 and 60, and the importance of self-acceptance and adaptability. Elizabeth Magallon Fleury presented the second part of her smart home products for aging in place, covering Wirecutter recommendations including the Amazon Echo Show 3, Apple iPad 11th generation, and smart locks for enhanced security and convenience. The discussion also covered the benefits of intergenerational activities and the importance of staying active to combat sedentarism. Co-hosts Linda Sherman and Ray Gordon provided commentary.Presented by Ellen Khalifa, Habits Coach for Healthspan and Wellspan New York Magazine The Cut December 2025 Old Young Person Elder Millennials by Emily Gouldhttps://www.thecut.com/article/middle-aged-millennials-feeling-old-44-aging-cliff.htmlApple AccessPresented by Elizabeth Magallon Fleury, CAPS, Life's Encore Planning NYTimes Wirecutter 10-7-25 Best Smart Home Products for Seniors by Rachel Cericola Part 2 of Elizabeth’s presentationhttps://www.nytimes.com/wirecutter/reviews/smart-home-for-seniors/Discussion hosted by: Linda Sherman and Ray Gordon BoomerTechTalk.com episode page 12-30-25 LinkedIn Show PostNews for the Ages podcasts live on Tuesdays. How to join live.Please follow both of our podcasts including Rethinking Aging Club Podcast.Nickie’s Tune written and performed by Richard Sherman
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UK Longevity Medicine, How Exercise Slows Cancer, Smart Home Devices for Aging in Place 12-23-25
Dec 2801:00:21Tap to summarizeIn our December 23, 2025 News for the Ages by Rethinking Aging Club episode Dr. Zalan Alam explained the British approach to longevity, emphasizing lifestyle interventions and social prescribing over supplements. Ray Gordon presented an article from New Scientist, explaining how exercise shifts metabolism to favor muscle cells over cancer cells. A new animal study confirms the continuing theory that muscle cells are more greedy for energy than cancer cells, potentially slowing cancer growth. Earlier related studies are included in our show notes.Elizabeth Magallon Fleury presented the first half of her Wirecutter article on smart home devices for aging in place. Ring Alarm 2nd Generation and the Apple Watch SE for emergency contact systems were recommended. Having professional tech help for our elders was supported by all and noted as an area that could support more employment.Presented by Dr. Zalan Alam, MBBS, FRCGP GP partner and Clinical Director IMC The BMJ (FKA British Medical Journal) 12-12-25 Science of Longevity Medicine https://www.bmj.com/content/391/bmj.r2536National Academy for Social Prescribing (NASP) What is Social Prescribing Linda mentioned our interview with Maddy Dychtwald on Rethinking Aging Club Podcast 12-11-25Presented by Ray Gordon, Architect, Urban Planner, Futurist and Former Pratt Institute Grad School Professor New Scientist 12-1-25 We Now Understand Better How Exercise Slows Cancer by Chris Simms https://www.newscientist.com/article/2506591-we-now-have-a-greater-understanding-of-how-exercise-slows-cancer/Apple News Plus access: https://apple.news/AnZNGx6zCS5WJwy7meduaAAThe main study referred to in Ray’s article PNAB 12-1-25 Precancer exercise capacity and metabolism during tumor development coordinate the skeletal muscle–tumor metabolic competitionPresented by Elizabeth Magallon Fleury, CAPS, Life's Encore Planning NY Times Wirecutter 10-7-25 Best Smart Home Products for Seniors by Rachel Cericola Part Onehttps://www.nytimes.com/wirecutter/reviews/smart-home-for-seniors/Discussion hosted by: Linda Sherman and Ray Gordon BoomerTechTalk.com episode page with additional resources 12-16-25 LinkedIn Show PostNews for the Ages podcasts live on Tuesdays. How to join live.Please follow both of our podcasts including Rethinking Aging Club Podcast.Nickie’s Tune written and performed by Richard Sherman
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New Alzheimer's Association Study on Brain Health Diet and Exercise, Getting Enough Protein, How to Advocate for an Older Loved One in the Hospital 8-5-25
Aug 8, 202501:04:10Tap to summarizeBenjamin Surmi highlighted a significant study reported by NPR July 28, 2025, showing that structured lifestyle changes, including exercise and diet, can improve brain health and reduce dementia risk. The Alzheimer's Association's $40 million commitment to implementing these findings was noted. Ellen Khalifa discussed the importance of protein intake during menopause, emphasizing its role in muscle and bone health. Elizabeth Magayon Fleury shared tips for advocating for older loved ones in hospitals, stressing the need for planning and communication. The discussion also touched on the challenges and benefits of structured lifestyle interventions in senior living communities.Presented by Benjamin Surmi, Koelsch CommunitiesNPR 7-28-25 New Alzheimer's Association Study on Brain Health Diet and Exercisehttps://www.npr.org/2025/07/28/nx-s1-5477556/aging-brain-health-lifestyle-diet-exercise-social-alzheimersThe Study 7-28 Jama Network: https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jama/article-abstract/2837046 We referenced Marama ExperiencePresented by Ellen Khalifa, Habits Coach for Healthspan and Wellspan Women's Health 7-24-25 Five Red Flags Not Enough Protein by Korin Miller https://www.womenshealthmag.com/food/a65500333/signs-not-enough-protein-and-deficiencyWomen’s Health 7–7-25 You Need to Eat More Protein During Menopausehttps://www.womenshealthmag.com/fitness/a65280597/do-you-need-to-eat-more-protein-during-menopause/Good Culture The 2% low fat cottage cheese that once you eat you won’t want another cottage cheese. Cottage cheese is a good source of both protein and calciumElizabeth used Cronometer calorie counter app to find out how much protein she was getting.Presented by Elizabeth Magallon Fleury, CAPS, Life's Encore PlanningUS News 7-23-25 How to Advocate for an Older Loved One in the ER or Hospital by Christine Comizio, MPHhttps://health.usnews.com/senior-care/articles/how-to-advocate-for-an-older-loved-one-in-the-er-or-hospitalDebbie Howard's summary of this show.Articles are listed in the order they were presented and discussed.Discussion hosted by: Linda Sherman, Ray Gordon and Debbie HowardBoomerTechTalk.com episode page8-5-25 LinkedIn Show PostNickie’s Tune written and performed by Richard Sherman
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AARP July 2025 Family Caregiver Report, Respecting Physical Labor Staff in Senior Living 7-29-25
Aug 2, 202500:59:44Tap to summarizeWe discussed AARP's new report released in July on caregiving in the U.S. for 2025. The report highlights the need for policy changes, including federal tax credits, paid family leave, and better training for caregivers. The discussion also touched on the importance of treating caregiving as a respected profession and the potential role of immigration in addressing caregiving shortages.Linda Sherman pointed out that the AARP report data did not show youth caregivers, an issue illuminated in Bradley Cooper’s recent PBS Caregiving documentary. The July 2025 AARP family caregiving report eliminates anyone under 18 from its tables and puts 18 to 49 into one segment. The latest statistics we can find on caregiving youth are from this December 2023 Report on Caregiving Youth from The Caregiving Youth Research Collaborative. Presented by Debbie Howard, Aging Matters InternationalAARP 7-24-25 Caregiving in the US 2025 by AARP & National Alliance for Caregivinghttps://www.aarp.org/pri/topics/ltss/family-caregiving/caregiving-in-the-us-2025/The report: https://www.aarp.org/content/dam/aarp/ppi/topics/ltss/family-caregiving/caregiving-in-us-2025.doi.10.26419-2fppi.00373.001.pdf AARP 7-24-25 AARP-NAC Report Finds 45% Increase in Americans Providing Care by Paul Wynn Study reveals 63 million Americans are now family caregivers, facing rising stress, health risks and financial strainhttps://www.aarp.org/caregiving/basics/caregiving-in-us-survey-2025/7-24-25 The 19th News Number of family caregivers is surging by Barbara RodriguezNew report shows they’re managing financial risks, poor health and isolation.https://19thnews.org/2025/07/family-caregivers-surging-aarpWe referenced we heard about the report from Sherri Snelling’s 7-25-25 LinkedIn posthttps://www.linkedin.com/posts/sherrisnelling_cgus2025-longevityventure-activity-7354570701191700482-nMAyRelated discussion kicked off by Benjamin Surmi on Treating Physical Labor Workers in Care Settings with Respect.Benjamin mentioned the Teton AI tool as being helpful in senior living settings. This is a well-funded Danish company.Debbie Howard's summary of this show.Articles are listed in the order they were presented and discussed.Discussion hosted by: Linda Sherman, Ray Gordon and Debbie HowardBoomerTechTalk.com episode page7-29-25 LinkedIn Show PostNickie’s Tune written and performed by Richard Sherman
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Middle Age Changes for Taste and Touch, 55+ Community Choices, Smart Home Reality Check 7-22-25
Jul 26, 202501:00:28Tap to summarizeWe discussed the impact of aging on the senses, focusing on taste and touch. Ray Gordon highlighted that taste changes in middle age due to reduced taste buds and olfactory receptors, suggesting hydration and nutrient-rich diets for taste and smell, as well as physical therapy to improve the performance of proprioception receptors in one’s feet. Host Linda Sherman referenced Victoria Villa in Davie Florida which provides places to walk outside on their property. She visited there often to get her Dad outside before he passed at 91.Benjamin Surmi emphasized the importance of family involvement in healthcare decisions for senior living residents, noting that physical therapy and wellness programs can significantly enhance quality of life. Elizabeth Magallon Fleury shared insights on moving to 55+ communities, stressing considerations of downsizing, social engagement, and financial planning. The discussion also touched on the challenges of integrating technology for older adults.Presented by Ray Gordon, Architect, Urban Planner, Futurist and Former Pratt Institute Grad School ProfessorAARP Magazine Spring Health Special How Middle Age Changes our Ability to See, Hear, Taste, Smell and Touch by Nicole PajerApple Access: https://apple.news/ApOF9NJeBSyKgTkjiLGF1twRay presented in three parts. Today's part 3 is taste and touch.Discussing walking in grass, Linda referred to Victoria Villa and Linda's Dad. Scroll down towards bottom of the memoriam photos for multiple shots of Howard with Linda at Victoria Villa and with Paty Renda (who joined us for our 5-25-23 fitness show). Linda hired Paty to come in and provide Howard with regular stretch and strength movement guidance sessions.Presented by Benjamin Surmi, Koelsch CommunitiesForbes 7-21-25 AI Smart Home Reality Check by Dr. Joe Coughlin https://www.forbes.com/sites/josephcoughlin/2025/07/21/ai-is-reimagining-retirement-but-whos-plugging-it-in/Presented by Elizabeth Magallon Fleury, CAPS, Life's Encore Planning AARP 7-9-25 Seven Questions to Ask Before Moving to a 55+ Community by Matt Swensonhttps://www.aarp.org/home-living/is-over-55-community-right-for-you.htmlWe referred to the News for the Ages by Rethinking Aging Club podcast on 7-1-25 where we spoke about Joe Coughlin’s 6-23-25 article about considering weather when choosing a place to retire.Articles are listed in the order they were presented and discussed.Discussion hosted by: Linda Sherman and Ray Gordon BoomerTechTalk.com episode page7-22-25 LinkedIn Show PostNickie’s Tune written and performed by Richard Sherman
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Fall River Eldercare Emergency Protocols, Technology Use May Lower Dementia Risk, Reverse Mortgage Pros and Cons 7-15-25
Jul 18, 202500:58:45Tap to summarizeEllen Khalifa presented a CNN article on technology use lowering dementia risk, noting a 42% reduction in cognitive impairment from tech use. Benjamin Surmi reported on two articles on a well publicized senior living fire in Massachusetts, leading to a discussion of the importance of considering city resources and emergency services when choosing a senior living community.Elizabeth Magallon Fleury reviewed a US News article on reverse mortgages, detailing pros like tax-free income and flexibility, and cons such as reduced home equity and potential foreclosure. Our three co-hosts Debbie Howard, Ray Gordon and Linda Sherman contributed to the discussion.Presented by Ellen Khalifa, Habits Coach for Healthspan and WellspanCNN 4-14-25 Technology Use May Lower Dementia Risk by Kristen Rogershttps://www.cnn.com/2025/04/14/health/technology-use-lowers-dementia-risk-wellnessCNN has kindly paid for you to have access to A meta-analysis of technology use and cognitive aging by Jared F. Benge (University of Texas) and Michael K. Skullin (Baylor University) - 18 page study on Nature.com published 4-14-25. This study is the basis of their article. Presented by Benjamin Surmi, Koelsch Communities Fall River tragedy sparks nationwide review of eldercare emergency protocols Rolling Out 7-14-25 Senior Living Facility Fire by Miriam Musa https://rollingout.com/2025/07/14/senior-living-facility-fire-terrifying/ Benjamin Surmi’s second article about the fire 7-15-25 Fire Rescue by Luis Fieldman https://www.firerescue1.com/fire-service-staffing/union-lives-wouldve-been-saved-at-fatal-mass-assisted-living-fire-with-more-staffingWe referred to News for the Ages by Rethinking Aging Club podcast 7-1-25 with Joe Coughlin’s 6-23-25 Forbes article on considering weather when choosing a place to retire Presented by Elizabeth Magallon Fleury, CAPS, Life's Encore Planning US News & World Report 6-17-25 Reverse Mortgage Pros and Cons: A Balanced View by Jessica Merritt https://money.usnews.com/loans/mortgages/reverse-mortgage-pros-and-consDebbie Howard's summary of this show.Articles are listed in the order they were presented and discussed.Discussion hosted by: Linda Sherman, Ray Gordon and Debbie HowardBoomerTechTalk.com episode page7-15-25 LinkedIn Show PostNickie’s Tune written and performed by Richard Sherman
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