Join me every week for REAL conversations about the ups, downs and sideways of navigating life with aging parents. We focus on mindset, education and collaboration through a willingness to discuss raw stories and all the sticky topics. Cultural pressure? Financial problems? Family dynamics? Fascinating!!
No judgement here. No shoulds. Just a bunch of people figuring this out together.
About the host:
I am a recovering perfect daughter, former roommate of my 92 year old grandmother, and a rehabilitation physician who has seen *thousands* of families navigate the chaos that can occur when the unexpected happens (falls, strokes, etc). I've been taking notes and I'm ready to share and listen.
Publisher
Rebecca Tapia, MD
Category
kids & family · society & culture · society & culture
109 || Solo Podcast: The mess of Nature's last word
Host Rebecca explores the emotional complexities of navigating a terminal diagnosis with aging parents, offering insights on grief and practical preparation.
26 Nov 2025
108 || Solo Podcast: "She ain't right..." Normal vs Concerning Cognition
Welcome!
In this episode I am discussing how to tell the difference between "normal aging" problems with memory/thinking versus what would cause more concern.
AI Show Notes:
Recognizing Cognitive Changes in Aging Parents during the Holidays
In this episode of Real Conversations about Aging Parents, host Rebecca Tapia discusses the cognitive changes one might notice in aging relatives during the holiday season. Rebecca outlines what is generally considered normal age-related cognitive decline and highlights more concerning signs that may warrant further evaluation. She also provides practical advice on how to differentiate between temporary issues, such as poor sleep or new medications, and more serious cognitive concerns. The episode aims to help listeners understand and observe the cognitive health of their aging loved ones during holiday gatherings.
00:00 Introduction and Apologies
00:38 Understanding Cognitive Changes
02:58 Normal Cognitive Aging
12:31 Concerning Cognitive Signs
22:39 Reversible Causes of Cognitive Decline
27:31 Conclusion and Holiday Wishes
Caveats:
This is a judgement free zone
There are no "shoulds" allowed, we live in curiosity
Take what works well for you, leave the rest!
This podcast is for informational purposes only; it is not intended as formal legal, financial or medical advice
If you are finding value in this podcast, please share and leave a review so others can find it too!
Rebecca
Disclaimer: The information presented on this podcast is solely for information purposes. We do not provide medical, legal, financial, or other professional advice through this podcast and we are not responsible for any errors or omissions. It is your responsibility to seek advice from a licensed professional. Any actions you take are done at your own risk.
12 Nov 2025
107 || Solo Podcast: Earned Rest
Welcome!
In this episode I am talking about the "earned rest" period of life and all that can bring up.
AI show notes:
Understanding the Concept of Earned Rest for Aging Parents
In this episode of Real Conversations About Aging Parents, host Rebecca Tapia delves into the concept of 'earned rest'—the idea that after a lifetime of hard work and caregiving, individuals hope to receive care and support in their later years. Rebecca shares insights from conversations with a retired nurse grappling with her new reality of needing long-term care. The discussion touches on the emotional and practical challenges faced by aging individuals who find their expectations of care unmet due to various life circumstances. Rebecca emphasizes the importance of having early and clear conversations about post-retirement plans, managing expectations, and being prepared for the psychological and physical transitions that accompany aging and retirement.
00:00 Introduction and Podcast Updates
00:39 Exploring the Concept of Earned Rest
01:36 Case Study: A Retired Nurse's Struggle
03:21 The Emotional Impact of Needing Care
04:43 The Reality of Long-Term Care
08:54 Managing Expectations and Grief
16:17 The Importance of a Health Retirement Plan
20:44 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
Caveats:
This is a judgement free zone
There are no "shoulds" allowed, we live in curiosity
Take what works well for you, leave the rest!
This podcast is for informational purposes only; it is not intended as formal legal, financial or medical advice
If you are finding value in this podcast, please share and leave a review so others can find it too!
Rebecca
Disclaimer: The information presented on this podcast is solely for information purposes. We do not provide medical, legal, financial, or other professional advice through this podcast and we are not responsible for any errors or omissions. It is your responsibility to seek advice from a licensed professional. Any actions you take are done at your own risk.
Reach and audience
Public platform figures. Ratings count people who left a rating, not total listeners.
YouTube views
200
Score snapshot 15 Sept 2025
Apple Podcasts (US)
5.0 / 5
49 ratings
Spotify
5.0 / 5
6 ratings
Podcast Authority Score: 66 / 100
A composite of feed quality, social presence, YouTube performance and engagement. Read the methodology.
Quality
77
Social presence
0
YouTube
66
Engagement
71
Contact Real conversations about aging parents
Guest appearances
Does not typically book guests
Based on episode analysis; this does not confirm that the show is currently accepting guests.
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