Episode 94 - ADHD, Aging & Dementia

In this episode of Grandma Has ADHD, Jami Shapiro sits down with Certified Senior Advisor and dementia care specialist Sydney Kennedy for a conversation that bridges two often misunderstood topics: ADHD and aging.Sydney shares how reading Jami's book, This Explains So Much, helped her recognize many ADHD traits in herself later in life, including being labeled a daydreamer, struggling to stay engaged in school, and hearing the familiar phrase, "She needs to apply herself."The conversation then turns to Sydney's decades of experience helping older adults and their families navigate senior living and dementia care. Together, she and Jami discuss why it's important not to confuse normal aging, ADHD, and dementia, and how compassion, education, and the right support can make all the difference.What You'll LearnWhy many older women don't recognize ADHD until later in lifeThe childhood signs of ADHD that often go unnoticedWhy "She needs to apply herself" was a common message for many girlsHow coping strategies can mask ADHD for decadesThe differences between ADHD, normal aging, and dementiaCommon misconceptions about memory loss and dementiaHow to support a loved one living with dementia with dignity and compassionWhat placement professionals do and how they help families navigate senior careWhy understanding comes before assumptionsWhy This MattersAs we age, it's easy to mistake ADHD symptoms for normal aging or even dementia.This episode encourages listeners to approach both conditions with curiosity instead of judgment, reminding us that understanding someone's brain can transform not only how we see ourselves, but how we care for the people we love.The ADHD Button QuestionJami asks every guest: If there were a button that could remove your ADHD forever, would you press it?While Sydney has never been formally diagnosed, she shares that she wouldn't press the button. Over the years, she's learned to embrace the strategies that have helped her succeed and believes those experiences have shaped who she is today.About the GuestSydney Kennedy is a Certified Senior Advisor (CSA), Certified Placement & Referral Specialist (CPRS), and founder of Time to Move Care Placement. For more than 20 years, she has helped older adults and their families navigate senior living options, with a special focus on dementia care, education, and caregiver support.About the HostJami Shapiro is an ADHD coach, speaker, author, and founder of Silver Linings Transitions. Through Grandma Has ADHD, she helps adults, especially women diagnosed later in life, better understand their brains and navigate life with greater clarity and compassion.ResourcesThis Explains So Much by Jami ShapiroTime to Move Care PlacementTeepa Snow – Dementia Care EducationNational Placement & Referral Alliance (NPRA)National Association of Senior & Specialty Move Managers (NASMM)Links & SupportWebsite: https://www.jamishapiro.meBook: This Explains So Much by Jami ShapiroThank you for joining us for this episode of Grandma Has ADHD! We hope Jami's journey and insights into ADHD shed light on the unique challenges faced by older adults. Stay tuned for more episodes where we’ll explore helpful resources, share personal stories, and provide guidance for those navigating ADHD. Don’t forget to subscribe and share this podcast with friends who might benefit. Remember, Make the rest of your life the best of your life.Follow us:Instagram:@grandma_has_adhd@silverliningstransitionsFacebook:Silver Linings TransitionsGrandma Has ADHD (Facebook Page & Group)Youtube:Grandma Has ADHD