Month: September 2025

I’ve been thinking lately about how many of us have a longing or desire that has either been put on pause, pushed aside, or temporarily or permanently forgotten. Or talents, abilities, and skills that are just waiting to be discovered.

For instance, I recently heard a story of a woman who didn’t discover her talent for drawing until she was in her 80s, and now she has people lining up to buy her work. American folk artist, Grandma Moses didn’t start painting until the age of 78. Julia Child didn’t start learning to cook until she was 40. Louise Hay, self-help author and publisher founded Hay House at the age of 58! Heck, I didn’t start my podcast, Loving Later Life, until I was over 60.

Not Too Late

One theme that is a constant thread in my podcast is that it’s not too late. It’s never too late to pursue a passion or learn new skills. It’s not too late to try, to do, to make something happen that is pulling at you, that won’t leave your heart and mind alone. Something that keeps nagging at you saying, I wish I could, I wish I had, I’d really like to [……] fill in the blank.

Or maybe something is calling to you that you never had any interest in before.

So why not try it? Why not do it?

The reason? We all manage to come up with many!

Do any of the following sound familiar?…

• It’s too risky.
• I’m too old.
• People would think I’m nuts.
• I’m afraid to “fail.”
• I don’t have the time.
• I missed my window of opportunity.
• I tried before and it didn’t go well.

Remember, please, that the number one regret of the dying is not what they did do, but what they didn’t do.

Listen to your inner knowing, perhaps it’s even your younger self who is still in there.

That Voice: Listen to It

When I was about 24 years old, I saw a speaker who revved my engine so much so that I wrote to them asking if I could have a conversation with them about public speaking. I never heard back from them but to this day, I can still picture sitting there thinking, I want to do that.

Fast forward 41 years, and I will be doing it. An hour-long keynote, and my brain is fighting me big time, trying its best to convince me in a multitude of ways (some quite valid, by the way), that maybe I’ve taken on more than I should have at this time.

I’ve been on stage in many different venues and in many ways speaking and performing, but an hour-long keynote is a first, and it won’t be the last.

There is a quote from Paulo Coelho, “One day you will wake up and there won’t be any more time to do the things you’ve always wanted. Do it now.”

What Are We Waiting For?

I think I can safely say that we’ve all had a recent conversation about how fast time is going. Am I right? Something like, I can’t believe it’s almost Fall!

Here’s the thing: time is going to keep tick-tocking no matter what, so what exactly are we afraid of happening if we try whatever it is?

So what if we try something and we don’t like it or discover we’re not good at it? Honestly, who cares if we fail fabulously or “succeed”?

Time is going to pass regardless, so why does the outcome matter so much?

And what, pray tell, qualifies as successful anyway? I believe we’ve grown up in a society where productivity is rewarded and revered and seen as some kind of success. I happen to believe that merely making the attempt to do something qualifies as a success.

I ask again, what are you waiting for? If it’s putting that bathing suit on and wearing it to the pool proudly, getting up to sing at a karaoke party, going on a trip by yourself, learning to play pickle ball, go sky diving, taking a painting class…

What. Do. We. Have. To Lose!?

Life is an adventure. And the truth is that our brains are wired to scan for threats and keep us safe. A quote I once read decades ago just popped into my head. It’s by American author John Shedd: “A ship in harbor is safe, but that is not what ships are built for.”

Also, us. We were not made to remain moored to the couch.

So, what’s it gonna be!?

Will you consider getting quiet and listening to what is bubbling up for you, pulling at you, calling to you? Will you take one small step toward it?

If you’re looking for a sign, this is it.

Let’s Have a Conversation:

So, what are you waiting for? What thing(s) have you been putting off or not daring to even try?

As we age, the connection between hearing loss and cognitive decline becomes increasingly apparent. Understanding the unique patterns of how hearing loss affects cognition in older adults is crucial for maintaining overall health and quality of life. Let’s delve a bit into the intricate relationship between hearing loss and cognitive function, highlighting key insights and implications for women.

If you or someone you know would like more information on hearing health, I invite you to explore our network of certified hearing healthcare specialists at www.ExcellenceInAudiology.org.

And please keep in mind today and everyday that the #1 way to prevent hearing loss from diminishing your brain capacity and impacting your memory is to treat it ASAP!

Hearing Loss Is More Than Loss of Hearing

Hearing loss is not just a matter of reduced sound perception; it can significantly impact cognitive abilities. Research suggests that untreated hearing loss may accelerate cognitive decline, leading to conditions like dementia and Alzheimer’s disease. The reasons for this link are multifaceted:

1. Brain Overload: Straining to hear can overload the brain, diverting cognitive resources from other tasks such as memory and problem-solving.
2. Social Isolation: Untreated hearing loss often leads to social withdrawal, which is a known risk factor for cognitive decline.
3. Brain Structure Changes: Studies indicate that sensory deprivation due to hearing loss can lead to structural changes in the brain, affecting areas responsible for memory and cognition.

Gender-Specific Considerations

Women, in particular, face unique challenges related to hearing loss and cognition:

Hormonal Influences

Hormonal changes, particularly those related to menopause, can significantly impact both hearing and cognitive function in women. Estrogen, a hormone that declines during menopause, plays a protective role in the auditory system and brain health. Reduced estrogen levels have been linked to increased risk of age-related hearing loss and cognitive decline, including memory issues and slower information processing.

To counter these effects, women can adopt strategies such as maintaining a balanced diet rich in phytoestrogens (like flaxseed and soy), staying physically active, managing stress through mindfulness or therapy, and consulting with their healthcare provider about hormone replacement therapy (HRT) when appropriate. Additionally, regular hearing checks and cognitive assessments can help detect early changes and guide personalized interventions to support long-term brain and auditory health.

Social Dynamics

Social engagement plays a vital role in preserving both hearing and cognitive health, especially for women, who often serve as central figures in family and community networks. When hearing loss goes untreated, it can lead to frustration, misunderstandings, and a gradual withdrawal from social activities. This isolation not only affects emotional well-being but is also a significant risk factor for cognitive decline, including memory loss and reduced executive function.

To combat these effects, women are encouraged to stay actively involved in social groups, volunteer activities, or clubs that bring joy and purpose. Using hearing aids or assistive listening devices can dramatically improve communication and confidence in social settings. Building strong support systems and prioritizing meaningful connections can help protect cognitive vitality and improve overall quality of life as women age.

Healthcare Disparities

Women may experience disparities in healthcare access and diagnosis, affecting timely intervention for hearing loss and cognitive health.

Healthcare disparities can significantly influence how and when women receive care for hearing loss and cognitive issues. Women – especially those from marginalized communities—may face barriers such as limited access to specialists, underinsurance, or a lack of awareness about the importance of hearing and cognitive screenings. Additionally, symptoms may be dismissed or misattributed to aging or stress, delaying proper diagnosis and treatment.

To address these challenges, it’s important for women to advocate for their health by seeking regular checkups, asking for referrals to audiologists and cognitive specialists, and educating themselves about available resources. Community health centers, support groups, and patient advocacy organizations can also help bridge the gap in care. Proactive self-advocacy and increased awareness can empower women to overcome systemic barriers and ensure they receive the comprehensive care they deserve.

Mitigating Risks and Enhancing Well-Being

Understanding these patterns empowers women to take proactive steps:

• Regular Hearing Assessments: Routine hearing screenings can detect changes early, allowing for timely intervention.
• Cognitive Engagement: Activities that challenge the mind, such as puzzles, learning new skills, and social interactions, can help maintain cognitive function.
• Technology and Support: Prescription hearing treatment not only improves auditory perception but also alleviates cognitive strain and promotes social engagement.

By recognizing the intricate relationship between hearing loss and cognition, women can advocate for their health and well-being. Addressing hearing loss promptly and nurturing cognitive health through proactive measures is essential for a vibrant and fulfilling life as we age.

Resources to Explore

Here are several trusted resources where women can become informed and empowered to advocate for their hearing and cognitive health:

Hearing Health Resources: www.ExcellenceInAudiology.org

Cognitive Health Resources: www.alz.org

Advocacy and Support: www.ElderCare.acl.gov

By exploring these resources, you can take proactive steps to stay informed, seek care early, and advocate for better hearing and cognitive health throughout aging.

If you need more insight on hearing healthcare and cognitive wellness, feel free to reach out at keith@excellenceinaudiology.org.

Let’s Have a Conversation:

Have you noticed any recent changes in your ability to hear or understand conversations, especially in noisy environments? What challenges have you faced in accessing hearing or cognitive healthcare, and how have you addressed them? What steps have you taken – or would like to take – to stay socially and mentally active as you age?

They say women after a certain age should wear their hair short. That long hair past 50 is too much, too youthful and too heavy. Too… something. Maybe too shocking that women our age can actually still be sexy and sultry because we don’t have a sell by date despite what the media would like us to think.

With regards to my long locks, I say to the stylist: “Too bad, I’m keeping mine. And not only am a keeping it, I am extending it with luscious long extensions that fall past my ribs.”

At my age I’m not here to follow outdated rules about what women should look like. I’m here to feel like me – and for me, that means long, healthy hair that flows, swings, and makes me feel vibrant, and, if anything, I look and feel better than I did in my 30s.

People often assume that once you hit midlife, you’ve got to chop it off, go grey, and act your age. But I am acting my age. I’m acting like a woman who knows herself. And I know that my hair is part of my identity, it’s not just a style, but a statement.

The Myth of the Midlife Makeover

There’s this persistent myth that women need a drastic change once they hit their 50s. The pixie cut. The salt-and-pepper look. The muted wardrobe. And while there’s nothing wrong with any of that if it makes you feel fabulous, I resent the idea that it’s the only acceptable way to age gracefully.

So many women feel the need to chop their hair above their shoulders to keep it neat and tidy, to blend into the background and don’t make a fuss. For me, grace doesn’t come from conforming. It comes from confidence. And that includes the decision to keep my hair long, shiny, and dark.

Yes, It’s Still Dark – And No, I Don’t Apologize

Let’s get one thing out of the way: I’m lucky. I still have dark hair with only the occasional silver strand trying to peek through. I touch up my roots every couple of months, not because I’m hiding, but because I enjoy the ritual. It’s self-care, not self-deception.

And maybe I have genetics to thank for some of it. My dear Poppa had jet black hair into his 80s. He passed on more than just great hair, he passed on a belief in taking pride in your appearance and doing what feels good for you, not what the world expects.

I think about him every time I brush my hair and remember him brushing his hair back in front of the hallway mirror every time he prepared to step out of the house.

Hair Is History

Our hair carries so many stories. For many of us, it’s been a silent witness to our lives, pulled back for school runs, let down for date nights, tossed up for long workdays, and carefully styled for celebrations. Why, then, should we give it up just because someone decided we’ve aged out of long hair?

Long hair isn’t about clinging to youth – it’s about honoring your own narrative. Every inch tells a story. Every strand represents your strength.

Breaking the Beauty Rules

The unspoken rulebook for women over 50 is outdated and, frankly, boring. We’ve spent decades learning to love ourselves, fight for our worth, and show up authentically. Now we’re supposed to shrink back, soften up, and stop being too much? No, thank you.

I believe in rewriting those rules. If you want silver hair, rock it with pride. If you want purple streaks or a bold buzz cut, go for it. But if, like me, you still feel most like yourself with long, flowing locks, don’t let anyone tell you otherwise.

The Confidence Factor

One of the best things about being over 50? You’ve stopped needing permission. From anyone. You wear what you want. You say what you mean. And if long hair makes you feel strong, sensual, elegant, or just you, then you owe it to yourself to keep it.

Confidence doesn’t come from fitting in. It comes from showing up as yourself, fully and unapologetically. I even wrote a book about living your truth, You’re Going to Die So Do It Anyway and embracing your style your way features very strongly. There are no style rules for us. We can do what we want.

Tips for Keeping Long Hair at Any Age

Let’s be real: Long hair does require a bit of maintenance but it’s worth it.

Here are a few of my go-to tips:

1. Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate – both your hair and your body. Healthy hair starts from within.
2. Trim regularly – every 8–12 weeks keeps ends from looking tired.
3. Use heat sparingly – and always with protection if you do.
4. Invest in quality products – sulfate-free shampoos and nourishing oils are your friends.
5. Touch up your roots your way – whether it’s at the salon or with a home kit, do what makes you feel good.

My Hair, My Rules

At the end of the day, I’m not keeping my long hair to prove anything. I’m keeping it because I love it. Because when I look in the mirror and see those dark, shiny strands, I see a woman who’s lived, laughed, loved, and learned.

I see someone who’s earned every bit of her confidence, and I feel sensuous; I see people stare at me in either confusion or admiration and I love it. So, if you’re over 50 and wondering whether it’s okay to keep your hair long,the answer is yes, it’s more than okay. It’s beautiful. It’s powerful. And it’s yours.

Wear it your way because age doesn’t define you.

You define you.

Also read 12 Best Longer Hairstyles for Older Women and 8 Low-Maintenance Long Hairstyles for Women Over 60.

Let’s Have a Conversation:

How do you wear your hair? Have you transitioned to a shorter hairstyle? Do you still dye your hair? Tell us more about your hair experience after 60!

He was pardoned by Trump in May.

It’s time to restock those empties!