Remember old-time radio shows? When families would gather around the radio each evening and listen to the news, comedy shows, children’s programming, and classic crooners Frank Sinatra and Bing Crosby? These shows were a great way to stay entertained, informed, and up-to-date.

As technology has evolved over the years, old-time radio is no longer a thing, but there is something similar whose popularity has exploded in recent years: podcasts. Podcasts are digital and on-demand audio series covering a wide range of topics and interests. There are podcasts about the news, comedy podcasts, podcasts about crime, podcasts about comedy and crime; the list goes on. 

Some people may believe that podcasts are only for younger generations, but they are for everyone! The audience for podcasts can be as unique as podcasts themselves. Listening to podcasts also has many benefits for older adults, so HarborChase Senior Living is sharing our top recommended podcasts for seniors!

The Daily

In today’s world, it can feel like the media and news are overwhelming and all-consuming, and it can be hard to keep up with what truly matters. The Daily, produced by The New York Times, puts out brief, 20-minute episodes each weekday that share current events in a digestible format. It’s a great way to stay informed without feeling bombarded with media. 

Listen to and download episodes here.

Good Job, Brain!

Good Job, Brain! is a quiz show and trivia podcast. Each episode has a theme (dog breeds, Stephen King movies, TV BFFs, etc.) and allows hosts, guests, and listeners to guess the answers. Not only is this show entertaining and teaches you new things, but it can also keep your mind sharp!

Listen to and download episodes here.

This American Life

Produced by NPR, This American Life shares real-life stories, essays, and interviews about the authentic and interesting lives of American people. Sometimes funny, sometimes poignant, but always extremely well-executed, This American Life is a podcast everyone can enjoy. 

Listen to and download episodes here.

Relic Radio

With just the right amount of nostalgia, Relic Radio describes itself as “classic entertainment from radio’s golden age.” The podcast takes classic old-time radio shows ranging from mystery and thriller to science fiction and comedy, offering something for everyone. 

Listen to and download episodes here.

Stuff You Should Know

Ever wondered why a tire company gives out stars to fine-dining restaurants or what makes a person left-handed? Stuff You Should Know shares these fascinating stories and more, explaining all the curious things that you never knew you wanted to know. This series has been running since 2008 and has over 1,200 episodes, so you’ll never run out of something new to learn! 

Listen to and download episodes here.

You Must Remember This

You Must Remember This focuses on the “Golden Age of Hollywood,” dishing secrets and little-known stories about Hollywood’s first century. Listening to this show will make you feel nostalgic and teach you things you may not have known! 

Listen to and download episodes here.

Freakonomics Radio

Consistently one of the top-rated podcasts on the charts, Freakonomics discusses economics and how it plays a role in our everyday lives in an exciting and digestible way. For example, some of the episodes include the history and the practice of tipping, the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the economy, and how entertainment restaurant Chuck E. Cheese can teach children about Price Theory. 

Listen to and download episodes here.

How Do I Listen to Podcasts?

You can listen to podcasts directly on your computer using the links above, but one of the best things about podcasts is that you can bring them anywhere with you! If you have a smartphone, you can download episodes and listen to them in the car, on your home smart speaker while cleaning, or on a walk. You can even subscribe to your favorite shows and get notifications when they release a new episode. 

Overall, podcasts are a great way to learn new things, discover new interests, and even join a community of like-minded people. We have listed a few recommended podcasts for seniors, but we encourage you to find one you enjoy! 

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HarborChase Senior Living offers independent living, assisted living, and memory care services throughout the United States. We are passionate about senior health and wellness, healthy aging, and celebrating senior living. To discover more articles and resources, visit our website today!