Welcome to GrownFolksBizness. Today's conversation is one that I think is genuinely important — we're talking about health. Not in a lecture-y, eat-your-vegetables way. In a real, honest, this-is-what-we're-actually-dealing-with way.

And I want to start with something that doesn't get said enough: the healthcare system was not designed with us in mind. There are real disparities in how older adults — and particularly older Black adults — are treated in medical settings. Knowing that going in helps you advocate for yourself.

Let's talk about that — advocating for yourself. Because I've had experiences where I felt dismissed by a doctor. Where my concerns were minimized. What do you do in that situation?

First — you have the right to ask questions and get real answers. If a doctor is rushing through your appointment, it's okay to say, 'I have a few more questions and I need a few more minutes.' If you feel dismissed, you can say, 'I want to make sure I understand — can you explain that again?'

And bring someone with you if you can. A family member or friend who can take notes, ask follow-up questions, and help you remember what was said. It changes the dynamic in the room.

Also — write down your symptoms and concerns before the appointment. Don't rely on remembering in the moment. And don't minimize your own symptoms. If something is bothering you, it's worth mentioning.

Let's talk about mental health, because this is an area where I think our generation has some catching up to do. There's still a lot of stigma around therapy and mental health treatment in our community.

There is. And I understand where it comes from — we were raised to be strong, to handle things ourselves, to not air our business. But there's a difference between strength and suffering in silence. Therapy is not weakness. It's maintenance.

I started seeing a therapist three years ago and it changed my life. Not because I was in crisis — but because I had things I'd been carrying for decades that I'd never processed. And having a space to do that work was transformative.

And if traditional therapy feels like too big a step, there are other options. Support groups — grief groups, caregiver groups, chronic illness groups. Faith communities that offer counseling. Even just having honest conversations with trusted friends.

Let's talk about the physical stuff — exercise and nutrition. What actually works for our bodies at this stage of life?

Strength training. I know that sounds intimidating but it doesn't mean lifting heavy weights at a gym. It means resistance — bodyweight exercises, resistance bands, light weights. Maintaining muscle mass becomes critical after 60 for balance, metabolism, and independence.

Walking is underrated. Thirty minutes a day of brisk walking does more for your health than most people realize. And it's free, it's social if you do it with someone, and it's sustainable.

On nutrition — the biggest thing I've changed is reducing processed food and sugar. Not eliminating, but reducing. And eating more protein. Our bodies don't process protein as efficiently as we age, so we actually need more of it.

And screenings. Please, please get your screenings. Colonoscopy, mammogram, bone density, blood pressure, blood sugar, vision, hearing. These things catch problems early when they're most treatable. Don't skip them because you're afraid of what they might find.

You are the expert on your own body. Walk into that doctor's office knowing that — and don't leave until your questions are answered.

That's our word for today. Take care of yourselves, grown folks — body, mind, and spirit. Until next week.

Your health is your wealth. See you next time.