New Year, New You: Realistic Resolutions for Older Adults in Los Angeles

The vibrant city of Los Angeles offers endless opportunities for older adults to stay active, engaged, and fulfilled.

As the New Year begins, many of us are making resolutions to improve our health, happiness, and well-being. While these resolutions can be a powerful motivator for people of all ages, it's important to approach them with a realistic and age-appropriate mindset.

For older adults living in Los Angeles, the focus should shift from drastic overhauls to sustainable, enjoyable changes that enhance the quality of life within the unique context of Southern California. Here are a few ideas:

1. Embrace the LA Lifestyle:

• Explore the outdoors: Take advantage of LA's beautiful weather and diverse outdoor spaces. There are several low-key hikes in Griffith Park and other natural places around LA, or you can always hit your favorite beach!

• Embrace the arts and culture: Attend a concert at the Hollywood Bowl, visit a museum in Downtown LA, or catch a performance at the Geffen Playhouse.

• Utilize LA's transportation options: Explore the Metro system, utilize ride-sharing services, or consider joining a carpool to reduce reliance on driving.

2. Prioritize Physical Activity:

• Take advantage of LA's fitness scene: Join a senior fitness class at a local community center, explore free beach yoga classes in Long Beach, or find a meetup group that walks in your neighborhood.

• Find enjoyable activities: Choose activities you genuinely enjoy, whether it's walking along the Strand in the South Bay, dancing at a dance studio, or gardening in your backyard.

• Set realistic goals: Start with small, achievable goals and gradually increase the intensity and duration of your activities.

3. Nurture Social Connections:

• Reconnect with loved ones: Make an effort to spend quality time with family and friends.

• Join a social club or group: Explore local senior centers, book clubs, or volunteer opportunities to meet new people.

• Utilize LA's vibrant social scene: Attend community events, festivals, and cultural celebrations. Los Angeles has many free and low-cost cultural events going on all the time, and engaging with new communities and cultures is excellent for brain health in older adults!

4. Cultivate Mental Well-being:

• Practice mindfulness and relaxation techniques: Explore techniques like deep breathing, meditation, or progressive muscle relaxation to reduce stress and improve sleep.

• Engage in mentally stimulating activities: Visit the Getty Center, attend a lecture at UCLA, or join a writing workshop.

• Prioritize self-care: Make time for activities that bring you joy, such as enjoying a picnic in Griffith Park, or pursuing a hobby.

5. Focus on Nutrition and Hydration:

• Make small, manageable changes to your diet: Incorporate more fruits, vegetables, and whole grains into your meals.

• Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day, especially during the warmer months.

• Consult with a registered dietitian or a healthcare professional: They can provide personalized guidance on nutrition and hydration.

Important Considerations:

• Be patient and kind to yourself: It's okay to make mistakes and adjust your goals as needed.

• Celebrate your successes: Acknowledge and appreciate your accomplishments, no matter how small.

• Seek support: Don't hesitate to reach out to family, friends, or healthcare professionals for support and encouragement.

Remember, the goal of any resolution is to improve your overall well-being and quality of life and enjoy a fulfilling life in the vibrant city of Los Angeles. Prioritize your physical, mental, and emotional health, and focus on creating sustainable changes that bring you joy and satisfaction.

Start Therapy for Older Adults in Los Angeles, CA

Some people forego resolutions, and there shouldn’t be pressure to make resolutions. At the same time, striving to stay engaged at all ages is an important part of keeping a growth mindset as we age and is beneficial for brain health. As a therapist for older adults, Dr. Reger is happy to help improve your well-being and cultivate lasting changes. You can start your therapy journey by following these simple steps:

1. Contact (424) 262-1925 to schedule your appointment

2. Meet with Dr. Reger for an evaluation

3. Start making the most of the new year!

Other Services Offered by Dr. Reger in Los Angeles, CA

Therapy for older adults isn’t the only service offered at my Redondo Beach-based practice. In addition, I am happy to also offer capacity assessments, neuropsychological and psychological assessments, pre-surgical assessments, and med-legal evaluations. In addition to evaluations, I also provide individual therapy, and mental health consultations and presentations. Visit my blog for more help today!

Disclaimer: This blog post is for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice.

Understanding Testamentary Wishes: A Psychologist's Perspective on Capacity Assessment

The Complexities of End-of-Life Decisions

As a geropsychologist (a psychologist specializing in aging), I often encounter individuals grappling with profound questions about life and death. One particularly sensitive area is the assessment of testamentary capacity, the ability to make sound decisions about one's estate and legacy. This involves understanding the nuances of a person's wishes, particularly when cognitive decline or mental health challenges may cloud judgment.

The Legal Framework

Testamentary capacity is a legal concept that varies across jurisdictions, and I work mostly in California. However, the core principles remain consistent across the US: a person must possess sufficient mental acuity to comprehend the nature and extent of their property, identify potential beneficiaries, and make rational decisions about the distribution of their assets.

The Psychological Perspective

While the legal framework provides a structured approach to assessing testamentary capacity, psychologists offer a deeper understanding of the cognitive and emotional factors that may influence a person's decision-making. We delve into questions such as:

• Cognitive Function: Does the individual have the mental capacity to understand complex legal and financial concepts? Can they appreciate the implications of their choices? Cognitive testing plays an important role when testamentary capacity is in question.

• Emotional State: Are they experiencing significant emotional distress or undue influence that might compromise their judgment? Is grief, untreated depression, or anxiety impacting their decisions?

• Vulnerability: Are there factors, such as isolation, dependency, or susceptibility to manipulation, that may render them vulnerable to exploitation?

The Role of the Psychologist

A psychologist can play a crucial role in the assessment of testamentary capacity by:

1. Conducting a Comprehensive Evaluation: This involves a thorough assessment of cognitive function, emotional state, and decision-making abilities.

2. Identifying Potential Biases or Undue Influence: Psychologists can uncover subtle pressures or manipulations that may influence a person's wishes.

3. Assessing the Impact of Psychiatric Diagnoses: Conditions like dementia, depression, or bipolar disorder can significantly impair judgment and decision-making.

4. Providing Expert Testimony: In legal proceedings, a psychologist's expert opinion can be invaluable in clarifying the mental state of an individual at a specific point in time. I have worked in many cases where a psychologist’s opinion is a crucial part of legal proceedings like establishing conservatorship.

Ethical Considerations

When assessing testamentary capacity, psychologists must adhere to strict ethical guidelines. This includes:

• Confidentiality: Protecting the privacy of the individual and maintaining confidentiality.

• Informed Consent: Ensuring that the individual understands the purpose of the assessment and the potential implications of the findings. In cases where a person’s cognitive function in in question, we still do our best to get consent from the person as well as any guardian, DPOA, or conservator who may make decisions on their behalf.

• Objectivity: Maintaining a neutral and objective stance, avoiding personal biases or prejudices.

• Beneficence: Acting in the best interests of the individual, even if it means challenging their wishes. The goal is always for the individual to retain as much independence and autonomy in decision-making as possible, while also maintaining safety and security.

A Delicate Balance

The assessment of testamentary capacity is a delicate balance between respecting an individual's autonomy and protecting them from harm. While it's essential to honor a person's wishes, it's equally important to ensure that those wishes are truly their own and not the product of cognitive impairment or undue influence.

Start an Assessment for Testamentary Capacity in Los Angeles, CA

By working collaboratively with legal professionals, medical practitioners, and family members, psychologists can provide valuable insights into the complex issues surrounding testamentary capacity. Ultimately, the goal is to ensure that a person's final wishes are honored while safeguarding their best interests. You can contact Dr. Reger for support with assessments and therapy services. Start your therapy journey by following these simple steps:

1. Contact (424) 262-1925 to schedule your appointment

2. Meet with Dr. Reger for an assessment

3. Start finding the support you deserve!

Other Services Offered by Dr. Reger in Los Angeles, CA

I am happy to offer support with a variety of services in addition to counseling for older adults. I also offer a variety of neuropsychological assessments in addition to ADHD testing. I am happy to offer capacity assessments, neuropsychological and psychological assessments, pre-surgical assessments, and med-legal evaluations. In addition to evaluations, I also provide individual therapy, and mental health consultations and presentations. Visit my blog for more help today!

Navigating the Holidays: Tips for Older Adults

The holiday season, while often filled with joy and cheer, can also sometimes be a challenging time for older adults. The hustle and bustle, social pressures, and changing family dynamics can contribute to feelings of stress, loneliness, and anxiety. Grief can also be very heavy during the holiday season. As a psychologist, I've worked with many older adults who have found ways to navigate these challenges and embrace the holiday spirit.

Here are some tips to help older adults enjoy the season:

1. Set Realistic Expectations

• Avoid Overcommitting: It's okay to say no to invitations or obligations that may feel overwhelming. Asking ahead about accessibility can also help with this (for example, folks with mobility needs might want to know whether a host’s home has 20 steps to get into the front door).

• Pace Yourself: Spread out holiday activities over a longer period to avoid feeling rushed or exhausted. For example, if you’re baking or cooking, do parts as early as possible, and complete the work over several days, giving yourself plenty of time to rest if you need it.

• Prioritize: Focus on the most important traditions and activities that bring you joy. I have often talked with patients about the fact that “no” is a complete sentence!

2. Manage Stress and Anxiety

• Practice Mindfulness: Engage in mindfulness techniques like meditation or deep breathing to reduce stress and anxiety. The best way to start a mindfulness practice is to practice daily at a set time to build the skill into your routine.

• Seek Social Support: Spend time with loved ones who provide positive and supportive company.

• Limit Stressors: Reduce exposure to stressful situations, such as crowded shopping malls or noisy parties.

3. Adapt Traditions

• Modify Traditions: If certain traditions become too difficult, stressful, or too painful because of grief, consider modifying them or creating new ones.

• Embrace New Experiences: Be open to trying new things and creating new holiday memories.

• Focus on the Positive: Shift your focus from what you can't do to what you can.

4. Stay Connected

• Virtual Connections: Use technology to stay connected with loved ones who live far away. Watch a tutorial on how to use Zoom or Facetime if you haven’t learned yet, or ask a family member or friend for help if you need it.

• Join Social Groups: Participate in social groups or clubs to meet new people and form friendships.

• Volunteer: Giving back to the community can provide a sense of purpose and connection.

5. Prioritize Self-Care

• Get Enough Sleep: Aim for 7-8 hours of quality sleep each night.

• Eat Healthy: Maintain a balanced diet to support your physical and mental health.

• Exercise Regularly: Engage in regular physical activity to boost your mood and energy levels. Even simple movement is good for us!

• Seek Professional Help: If you're struggling with feelings of depression, anxiety, grief, or loneliness, which are often worse for people during the holidays, consider seeking therapy or counseling for support.

Common Challenges and Strategies

• Loneliness: Spend time with loved ones, join social groups, volunteer, or consider getting a pet.

• Financial Stress: Create a budget, avoid impulse purchases, opt for homemade gifts like cookies, communicate with family and friends about budget boundaries, and seek assistance from social services if needed.

• Health Concerns: Consult with your doctor to manage any health conditions and create a holiday plan that accommodates your needs. 

• Grief and Loss: Allow yourself to grieve, seek support from loved ones or a grief counselor, and participate in memorial rituals to remember loved ones.

Start Therapy for Older Adults in Los Angeles, CA

Remember, the holidays are a time for joy and connection, but they can be particularly hard for older adults if loss, loneliness, disability, health concerns, or stress become overwhelming. Prioritize self-care this season! Dr. Reger can help you and your loved ones make the most of the holiday season. Start your therapy journey by following these steps:

1. Contact (424) 262-1925 to schedule your appointment

2. Meet with Dr. Reger

3. Start finding joy this holiday season!

Other Services Offered with Dr. Stacy Reger in Los Angeles, CA

Counseling for older adults isn’t the only service offered by Dr. Stacy Reger. Other services include capacity assessments and a variety of neuropsychological and psychological assessments. Other assessments include cognitive and dementia testing, pre-surgical assessments, and med-legal evaluations. In addition to evaluations, I also provide individual therapy, and mental health consultations and presentations. Visit my blog for more help today!

A Pre-Surgical Psych Evaluation Does Not Make You Crazy!

If you’ve been asked to undergo a pre-surgical psychological evaluation, it might seem a bit odd. After all, you’re about to have a physical procedure, not an emotional one. However, your mental health plays a significant role in your overall well-being, especially during periods of stress like surgery. Here is some info to help you understand why your surgeon might want a pre-surgical psychological evaluation, and to reassure you that it is NOT because they think you are crazy!

Pre-surgical psychological evaluations are designed to:

1. Assess Psychological Readiness: This involves evaluating your emotional state, coping mechanisms, and expectations about the surgery and recovery process. Realistic expectations are a very important part of undergoing surgery, and particularly a surgery that can have emotional implications, like a spinal cord stimulator placement surgery, transplant surgery, or bariatric surgery.

2. Identify Potential Risks: The evaluation helps identify any underlying mental health conditions that might complicate your recovery or increase the risk of post-surgical complications. A mental health history does not mean you can’t have a surgery! It may mean you and your surgical team need to get support in place before or after the procedure in order to have the best chance of success.

3. Optimize Post-Surgical Outcomes: By addressing any psychological concerns beforehand, the goal is to improve your overall recovery experience. 

What to Expect During the Evaluation

A pre-surgical psychological evaluation is typically a straightforward process. Here's what you can expect:

1. Clinical Interview: This is the core of the evaluation. Your psychologist will ask you questions about your:

• Medical History: This includes past surgeries, chronic illnesses, and any medications you’re taking.

• Mental Health History: This involves discussing any history of depression, anxiety, substance abuse, or other mental health conditions.

• Social Support: Your psychologist will assess your support system, including family, friends, and caregivers.

• Coping Strategies: They’ll explore how you typically cope with stress and challenges.

• Expectations and Concerns: You’ll have the opportunity to discuss your feelings about the surgery, any worries you have, and your hopes for recovery.

2. Psychological Testing: In some cases, your psychologist may administer psychological tests to assess specific cognitive functions, mood, or personality traits. These tests are typically brief and straightforward, not designed to “trick” you, but to get a good sense of your psychological wellbeing, any symptoms or distress you may be experiencing, and the best ways to support you in your surgical process.

Common Myths About Pre-Surgical Psych Evals

Let’s debunk some common misconceptions about pre-surgical psychological evaluations:

• Myth 1: It’s a Sign of Weakness: Seeking psychological support is a sign of strength, not weakness. It shows that you’re proactive about your health and well-being, and the research is clear that good coping and psychological stability are predictors of better surgical outcomes for many types of surgeries!

• Myth 2: It’s a Long and Tedious Process: Most pre-surgical evaluations are relatively brief, usually lasting an hour or two.

• Myth 3: It’s a Test of Sanity: The goal of the evaluation is not to judge your mental health but to understand your psychological strengths and vulnerabilities, so you are well prepared for surgery.

• Myth 4: It’s a Waste of Time: By addressing potential psychological issues before surgery, you can improve your chances of a smoother recovery. If you do have mental health symptoms that need to be addressed, it’s really important to do that prior to going through a major stressor like surgery. This can be the difference between a great recovery and a poor recovery requiring more intensive treatment down the road.

How to Prepare for Your Evaluation

To make the most of your pre-surgical psychological evaluation, consider the following tips:

• Be Honest: Open and honest communication with your psychologist is crucial. Don’t be afraid to share your concerns, fears, and hopes. We are not here to judge you or trick you into saying something you don’t want to say. We are here to support you as a member of your team, and provide feedback and resources that will help you in your journey.

• Gather Information: Bring any relevant medical records, including past psychological evaluations or treatment records. These can be really helpful in a presurgical psych eval.

• Write Down Questions: Prepare a list of questions you’d like to ask your psychologist. This is good advice for any doctor’s appointment, especially as you prep for surgery and have many appointments with different specialists. I always recommend having a notebook or a note on your phone where you keep track of your questions and answers, instructions, and to-dos from medical appointments.

• Relax: Try to approach the evaluation with a calm and open mind. Remember, it’s an opportunity to address any concerns and improve your overall well-being.

Start a Pre-Surgical Los Angeles Psych Evaluation Today

A pre-surgical psychological evaluation is a valuable tool for ensuring a successful surgical outcome. By understanding your psychological strengths and weaknesses, you can work with your healthcare team to develop a personalized plan for a smooth and speedy recovery. And hopefully, this information makes it clear that being referred for a presurgical psychological evaluation does not make you crazy! Dr. Reger can offer support with psych evaluations and other forms of support. Start your therapy journey by following these simple steps:

1. Contact (424) 262-1925 to schedule an appointment

2. Meet with Dr. Reger

3. Start the surgical process!

Other Services Offered By Dr. Stacy Reger in Los Angeles, CA

Pre-surgical evaluations are not the only service offered by my Los Angeles, CA-based practice. I am happy to offer capacity assessments, neuropsychological and psychological assessments, and cognitive and dementia testing. I’m also happy to provide med-legal evaluations, individual therapy, counseling for older adults, and mental health consultations and presentations. Visit my blog for more help today!