

Ageing – The Very Short Introductions Podcast – Episode 43
Dec 9, 2021
In this discussion, Nancy A. Pachana, a Professor of clinical geropsychology and co-director of the UQ Ageing Mind Initiative, explores the multifaceted nature of ageing. She dives into the biological, psychological, and social changes we face over time. Topics include ageism, the role of technology in care, and innovative nursing home models. Nancy also tackles the implications of COVID-19 on ageism and human rights, sparking a conversation on societal attitudes towards longevity and the importance of cultural responsiveness in ageing.
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Episode notes
Early Clinical Spark
- Nancy A. Pachana describes how clinical placements in Los Angeles and San Francisco sparked her interest in ageing through rich patient stories.
- She explains older adults' life experiences inspired her to pursue gerontology and its interdisciplinary links.
Aging Is Deeply Interdisciplinary
- Aging spans history, biology, psychology, sociology and economics, forming a complex, interdisciplinary topic.
- Understanding all these facets is key to responding to global demographic aging.
Lifespan Perspective Over Fixed Ages
- Psychological views, including internalised ageism, profoundly shape individual aging experiences.
- Taking a lifespan perspective avoids arbitrary thresholds like 65 and highlights maturation across decades.