Podcasts have grown in popularity recently, but the format has a demographic issue. While 67% of adults ages 18 to 29 have listened to a podcast in the past year, that response drops to only 28% among adults 65 and older.

Still, as podcast listenership has grown over time, so has the number of podcasts – and with millions of podcasts available, there’s a little something for everyone. This list of podcasts for seniors, older adults, and their caregivers can help you find something to enjoy, whether you’re interested in learning, having a little fun, or simply finding something to listen to on your morning walk.

Benefits of Listening to Podcasts

As you track down a few good podcasts for mature listeners, it’s important to consider what you’re hoping to get out of listening. Here are some benefits that come from consuming podcasts.

Continued learning

Learning keeps the mind healthy as you age, and podcasts can help. With so many options available, you can dive deeply into anything that interests you, from history and science to diet and exercise. The best podcasts for seniors entertain and enlighten, bringing in experts to help.

Social connection

Podcasts might seem like a one-way conversation, but among the best podcasts for older individuals, you’ll find an opportunity for engagement. Studies have found that many popular podcasts offer social gratification through interactions with hosts and other listeners.

Consider following the social media accounts of the podcasts you enjoy or subscribe to their e-newsletters.

Entertainment

Whether you’re doing basic housekeeping tasks or commuting on the subway, having podcast hosts in your ear will help keep you occupied. Plus, you’ll catch up on your favorite subjects while completing your to-do list.

Reduced screen time

One of the biggest benefits of podcasts is that they provide entertainment and education without a screen. This can be a big plus since too much screen time can have negative effects, including contributing to balance disorders in older adults.

Top 5 Podcasts for Seniors and Older Adults

1. AARP’s The perfect scam

Scams targeting older adults are rising, increasing 14 percent in 2023. This AARP podcast keeps listeners updated on current scams by interviewing victims and experts. This project is part of the Fraud Watch Network, a program designed to help members avoid and recover from scams.

You can find AARP’s The perfect scam on Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music and Audible, Spotify, and TuneIn.

2. Alzheimer’s Society Podcast Dementia together

From the Alzheimer’s Society in the UK,. each episode features interviews from its magazine, Dementia together, which releases issues six times per year.

Recent episodes include an interview with former nurse and health lecturer Phil Angrave, who suffers from Lewy body dementia, and Teresa Davies, who has lived with dementia for more than a decade.

The Alzheimer’s Society’s Dementia together is available on Apple Podcasts, SoundCloud, and Spotify.

3. Dementia matters

Among the great podcasts for older adults is Dementia matters, which features interviews with leading scientists and caregiving experts. Recent episodes include an interview with Brother John-Richard Pagan, who went from a PhD student to a dementia research participant, and thoughts from Dr. Josh Chodosh on improving dementia diagnoses.

Dementia matters on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, PodBean, YouTube, and Audible.

4. Mobituaries

If entertainment is your preference, Mobituaries may be more your speed. This podcast features CBS News correspondent Mo Rocca, who spotlights interesting obituaries. Every Wednesday, he focuses on a different departed person. Recent episodes focus on author Laura Ingalls Wilder, comedian LaWanda Page, and TV producer Norman Lear.

Download episodes of Mobituaries on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Castbox, and YouTube.

5. You must remember this

You must remember this pays tribute to classic Hollywood, covering films and personalities from the film industry’s first century. The podcast has been around since 2014, attracting guests like John Mulaney, Fred Savage, and Patton Oswalt. Recent episodes have focused on Kim Novak, Eyes Wide Shut, and Adrian Lyne’s Lolita.

You must remember this on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, SoundCloud, and PodBean.

While podcasts are a great way to keep your mind active, it’s also essential to engage in social activities. The New Jewish Home offers adult day care in Manhattan and the Bronx, and skilled nursing for seniors and older adults in Manhattan and Westchester. Contact The New Jewish Home today to learn how we can help you.