Ageism & Loneliness
Podcasts > It's Your Life
Monday, June 29, 2026
Dr. Eric Shapira highlights how ageism can contribute to loneliness among older adults by fostering stereotypes that diminish their value, independence, and social connections. He emphasizes that compassionate healthcare goes beyond treating medical conditions; it involves listening attentively, respecting each person's dignity, and recognizing the emotional and social challenges that often accompany aging. By practicing empathy, building meaningful relationships with patients, and addressing loneliness as a health concern, healthcare professionals can help improve both the well-being and quality of life of older adults.
Dr. Eric Shapira Biography
Dr. Eric Shapira was born and raised in Los Angeles, California. He received a Bachelor of Science degree from Bethany College in West Virginia. Dr. Shapira went to the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine and Temple University School of Dentistry in Philadelphia and had a medical and dental residency at Mt. Zion Hospital and Medical Center in San Francisco. He met and married Susan and they are still running strong after 45 years of marriage! He received a master’s degree in clinical Gerontology from Notre Dame de Namur University and a master’s degree in health administration from the University of Phoenix. Dr. Shapira holds a master’s in general Dentistry as well.
He had his own private practice in Dentistry in Half Moon Bay, CA for 40 years. He now works per diem in dentistry and has a practice in gerontology and geriatrics named Aging Specialists, Inc, for over 20 years. Dr. Shapira teaches geriatric and special needs dentistry. He worked as a volunteer in China from 2007 to 2018 at the behest of the Chinese government, the US Dept of State and Commerce Department through a non-profit agency. Dr. Shapira taught geriatric medicine, dentistry, nursing, and hospital administration. He was presented with the Chinese Friendship award in 2014, the highest award for Humanitarian service they give.
He holds Rotary’s highest Award for Meritorious Service and is many times over a Paul Harris Fellow. Dr. Shapira has volunteered all over the world in almost 50 years of being a Rotarian. He has published three books: A book on healthy aging named, “A New Wrinkle: What I Learned from Older People Who Never Acted Their Age,” recently after 2 ½ years , A 60-year retrospective titled, “The Art of Eric Z Shapira,” and most recently. A textbook, after almost 4 years of writing and editing, “Geriatric Dentistry: Gateway to Longevity and Life-Long Health.” This book will be printed in 7-8 languages. But his greatest honor in life is to give his “gifts” away….
Website
https://agingmentorservices.com/services
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