Podcasts for Seniors Help Keep the Mind Active

Listening to podcasts can transport you to another world, entertain you, or teach you something new. But did you know that podcasts for seniors are good for your brain? According to a study done at Pompeu Fabra University in Barcelona,  listening to podcasts is particularly useful for seniors because it activates different areas of the brain in ways that are conducive to better brain health.

This is Your Brain on Podcasts

When you listen to a podcast, your brain has to process the information at the pace it is played. “You’re constantly building your own images of the story in your mind and you’re creating your own production,” says Emma Rodero, a communications professor at Pompeu Fabra. “It’s something that you can never get with visual media,” she says.

Of course, the podcast has to be engaging enough to grab your attention and hold it to the end. That’s the secret to good storytelling in any form. What are some of the best podcasts for seniors? Let’s start at the top of the Apple Podcasts Chart with The Daily from The New York Times. It’s one this writer never misses for his dose of politics, news and a deeper dive into the stories making headlines. But that’s just me.

With more than 850,000 active podcasts, you can find popular podcasts for seniors on almost any topic that interests you. TED Talks have long been a source of education and understanding. If you’re looking for thought-provoking ideas, you’ll find a treasure trove of talks to get your synapses firing.

If escape and entertainment are more your cup of tea, This American Life is a popular and long-running podcast and radio show. The host of the show, Ira Glass, has a page of recommended episodes for first-time listeners.

Sports fans might like ESPN’s 30 for 30 podcasts. The stories go beyond the field of play to tackle broader subjects including abduction, cheating scandals, and even the murder of a suspected Russian double agent. Riveting stuff for anyone who appreciates a good story.

Feeling stressed (and who isn’t these days)? Then give Dan Harris’ Ten Percent Happier podcast a listen. He suffered a full-blown panic attack live on Good Morning America which led him to write a book, start an app and now a podcast. Hear his story and get tips from experts on coping with stress and anxiety and being more mindful. It’s a great podcast for senior citizens who are looking for enlightenment without the joss sticks.

For a trip down memory lane — or more specifically, Hollywood Boulevard — You Must Remember This is a podcast about “the secret and/or forgotten histories of Hollywood’s first century.” Recent episodes have covered Vanessa Williams (the first Black Miss America) and Cass Elliott, but you can hear little-known histories of Mae West, Jane Fonda, Kirk Douglas, Marilyn Monroe and more.

On a lighter note, NPR’s Wait Wait … Don’t Tell Me! is sure to brighten your day. Hosts Carl Kasell and Peter Sagal bring much-needed comic relief to a world that needs cheering up right now.

Find Podcasts That Interest You

With over 30 million podcast episodes now available, there’s no shortage of topics to choose from. To find a podcast that interests you, search Google for your topic plus the word “podcast.” Alternatively, you can search for topics using the podcast app on your phone. Look for the magnifying glass icon and type your term in the search field.

Tune Into a More Engaging Lifestyle

When you’re done listening to the latest podcast, explore some of the engaging activities we offer at StoneRidge. From Tai Chi and creative arts classes to homebrewing and Poetry in the Pub, there’s something for everyone. With our maintenance-free lifestyle, you’ll have more time to do the things you want, even if that means putting your feet up and relaxing in the comfort of your independent living apartment home. It’s your choice at StoneRidge.