The Top 5 Podcasts for the Elderly

An online audio recording show, a podcast, is similar to a radio show but available at a time that suits you. They are incredibly popular, with over 7 million individuals in the UK listening to them every week. Podcasts come in a range of different topics, with something to suit absolutely everything. Whether you are looking for a good laugh, something that will offer a little educational insight or something with great entertainment value, there is a podcast for you.

How do you access podcasts?

There are a number of apps you can use to access podcasts. Once you have found the app that you would like to access, you download it, search for what you are looking for and then you will be able to play it, download the podcast and even subscribe to access more of the same.

Downloading means that the episode you listen to will be on your device if you want to listen to it again (lack of internet connection will not be an issue). Subscribing simply means that new episodes of your chosen podcast will automatically download to your device – it’s a bit like waiting for the next issue of your favourite magazine to arrive in the post.

If you have an Apple device, then look in the Apple App Store for an app to download. On an Android device, you should look for the Google Play Store.

Apps to consider include Amazon Alexa, Apple Podcasts, BBC Radio Sounds, Podbean and Spotify.

If you’re all ready to go but unsure as to what to listen to first, here are our top 5 podcast suggestions to get you started.

1.   Desert Island Discs

This is an all-time classic. The programme has been broadcast since 1942 and has been given the title “greatest radio programme of all time” There are a staggering 2500 recordings available to download, with a fantastic selection of famous guests and an even greater selection of music. 

If you love a real combination of humour and music, then try the 2016 Dame Judi Dench episode. 

2.   National Trust Series

If you love history and the great outdoors, then this is fantastic series of audio programmes that look at historic places and the space around them. Each series looks at things like gardening, sustainability, literacy and walking.

3.   News Quiz

This topical news panel quiz has been running since 1977 on the radio. There have been over 100 series made. The format offers a panel of regulars and guests who make light of the news each week. For those who are familiar with the radio version, the addition of an extra 10-15 minutes to make the podcast a full hour is an added extra.

4.   Stuff You Should Know

It’s great to learn something new, and it is particularly important to keep your mind active in your later years. The Stuff You Should Know podcast is full of information you never knew you might want to know. With insights into some of those everyday items and a look at how many of those things we use on a daily basis actually work, this is engaging, entertaining and very informative. There are over 1500 episodes to explore on a range of topics, from jet lag to skydiving.

5.   Audio Books

With most books being available as audio versions, it is actually possible to download them as podcasts. Whilst many would argue that there really is no substitute for the feel of a real book, for those with eyesight issues accessing favourite books as podcasts can offer a real lifeline that means not missing out on the imaginary world of a good book.

Whilst most podcasts are free, books may have a small charge for downloading. However, it is much cheaper than the cost of a physical book.