Two Gerontologists Walk Into a Zoom...

That’s exactly what happened when I sat down (virtually) with Vanessa Valerio, co-founder of Care Indeed. Vanessa is a fellow gerontologist I met in grad school at USC. We’re both passionate about challenging outdated ideas about aging—and this conversation is full of laughs, insights, and real talk about what it takes to make positive changes at any stage of life.

In this short conversation, we explore:

  • Common myths about our ability to change later in life, such as starting an exercise program, eating better, or just getting outside of our comfort zone

  • The obstacles that get in our way—including mindset and the trap of comparison

  • How ageism impacts both older and younger adults

I also share a few lighthearted stories (including one about my favorite professor, Dr. Christopher Gardner). I hope you’ll find 20 minutes to watch!

About Vanessa Valerio, RN
Vanessa is a registered nurse and co-founder of Care Indeed, which has been delivering compassionate, personalized care to older adults in the San Francisco Bay Area for over 13 years.

Alzheimer’s Disease and Brain Health: Insights, Resources, and Real Stories

June is Alzheimer’s and Brain Awareness Month, a topic that’s especially close to my heart. I began researching Alzheimer’s in 2021 and have since published several papers, including qualitative studies about family caregivers. Their stories deeply moved me, and continue to shape the work I do today.

To support those of you caring for loved ones with dementia, I’m sharing a few trusted resources.

In Defense of Seed Oils

Have you heard of the “Hateful 8?” No, it’s not a new crime series on Netflix. The “Hateful 8” is used in the blogosphere to defame the eight types of seed oils: Canola, Corn, Cottonseed, Soy, Sunflower, Safflower, Grapeseed, and Rice Bran. Seed oils are being blamed for everything from obesity to heart disease to autoimmune disorders to diabetes, but this reputation is undeserved.