Clover's Healthy Aging Podcast

Antibiotics are often the first line of defense for illnesses from strep throat to UTIs, but do they work? As patients take antibiotics more and more regularly, we’re also seeing a surge of “superbugs” that are resistant to these drugs. In this episode, Kumar explains the state of antibiotic resistant bacteria today, and best practices if you are prescribed antibiotics. 

The average age of breast cancer diagnosis is 62, and getting older increases your chances of getting the disease. Listen in to learn more about the stages of breast cancer, risk factors, and how often to get a mammogram. 

This week, Kumar answers your most common questions about Alzheimer’s and dementia. Have you ever wondered the difference between the two? How it feels to suffer from dementia? Early signs and symptoms? When it’s time to seek help for yourself or a loved one? If so, check out this episode. 

Diabetes is an extremely common illness in the Medicare population, with about 1 in 4 Americans over 60 suffering from the disease. This week, Kumar dives into the diabetes epidemic, including the different types of diabetes, the risk factors, and ways to prevent the illness. He’ll also talk about new diabetes technologies, including needle-free ways diabetics can test their blood sugar levels.

Parents will always try to protect their children from hard and uncomfortable truths. However, continuing to hide financial, medical and mental issues can be dangerous for aging parents, who may need their kids to step in -- and be informed -- during an emergency. On this episode, Kumar shares why you shouldn’t wait to talk to your parents about planning for the future and the best way to start those tough conversations. He’ll also highlight a few telltale signs that could signal your parent or older loved one is struggling, even if they haven’t said anything. 

It's New Year's resolution time, so Kumar is answering all your burning questions about food and fitness, including how exercise benefits older adults and why walking is a great way to stay active. Kumar also touches on the value of the ‘Mediterranean Diet,’ why seniors should watch their salt intake and how certain medications can affect your tastebuds. Lastly, he’ll dive into vitamins and supplements, and why he recommends against the supplement trend. 

On this episode, Kumar answers all your most pressing medication-related questions, such as the difference between generic and name-brand prescriptions and when to talk to your doctor about medication side effects. He’ll also explain why it’s best to toss your old pill bottles instead of saving them for future ailments. 

In an industry where records are still sent by fax, healthcare and technology don’t always seem to go hand-in-hand -- particularly at your local doctor’s office. This week, Kumar explains how Clover is working to change that, by building technology to empower physicians to provide better care to patients. 

This week, listen in as Kumar answers your more pressing questions about Medicare and Medicare Advantage plans. From breaking down the difference between Part A and Part D, to explaining the financial and clinical benefits of different plan types, this is the perfect episode to tune in to before the Medicare Annual Enrollment Period comes to a close this December 7. 

Primary care physicians and specialists each play an important role in keeping older adults healthy as they age, but choosing which doctor to visit first can be confusing. On this episode, learn more about the ways generalists and specialists differ in training and expertise, the value of seeing a nurse practitioner, and how to decide if a geriatrician might be right for you. 

If you’ve ever felt intimidated visiting the doctor’s office, you’re not alone. Listen in to learn the difference between a medical assistant and a nurse, tips on building a great relationship with the receptionist, and practical ways to advocate for yourself during an office visit. 

Today, learn from Kumar what “aging in place” actually means, the pros and cons of aging in the home, and how to determine when it’s time to get a caregiver or move into an assisted living facility. 

This episode, Kumar explains why hearing often worsens with age, when to see an audiologist, what the “whisper test” is, and whether or not to keep using Q-Tips. He’ll also discuss the challenges of ear wax and how to clean your ears safely, and what’s new in hearing aids and cochlear implants. 

On this episode, Kumar shares his tips for a healthy diet, including how to add good fats into your diet (it’s not just avocados!), the importance of whole foods like fruits and nuts, and whether or not you should eat that egg yolk. He’ll also explain what an EKG is and when to see a doctor for your heart-related symptoms. 

On this episode, learn why Kumar decided to become a geriatric cardiologist, the four things you should ask your doctor about your heart health, and why you might not need to take that daily baby aspirin. Plus, learn exactly how much exercise you really need each week (hint, it’s more than you think!), and why strength, cardio and flexibility training are all equally important. 

What vaccines do seniors really need? How can I get vaccinated if I’m homebound? Will the flu shot make me sick? On this episode, Kumar discusses these questions and more, including common myths and misunderstandings about vaccines, and why certain vaccinations, like those protecting against the flu and Shingles, are so important for older adults.