Aging In Full Bloom

If you’re wondering what the next chapter after your career might look like, or you’re already there, this conversation is all about embracing "the after-work" years as a time of excitement and fulfillment.

I sit down with Don Akchin, the author of "The AfterWork: Finding Fulfilling Alternatives to Retirement." We talk about the realities of retirement today, pushing back against the myth that it’s supposed to be an endless vacation. Instead, Don and I talk about why most Americans can’t—and maybe shouldn’t—aspire to a life of nonstop leisure.

Through his own story and research, he shares how retirement can actually be the start of something new: a time for creativity, personal growth, and renewed purpose, whether that’s through volunteering, part-time work, or picking up new hobbies.

Moments

00:00 "Writing Challenges and Support"

05:45 Leisure Doesn’t Equal Happiness

06:46 "Happiness Beyond Financial Planning"

10:16 Earning in Retirement Insights

14:48 Volunteering Options for Everyone

17:08 "Retirement: A New Beginning"

Here are three key takeaways:

• Retirement isn’t the end—it’s a new beginning. As Don shares, most of us have 20-30 years post-career that can be used for growth, contribution, and self-discovery. The idea of endless leisure is neither realistic nor truly fulfilling for most Americans.
• Fulfillment comes from engagement, not just relaxation. Whether it’s volunteering, part-time work, or pursuing a lifelong passion, purpose and connection are central to happiness in our later years.
• It’s okay to take risks. The pressure is off! The “after work” years are an opportunity to explore, make mistakes, and try out new paths without the stakes being as high as before—embrace it.

Email me, Lisa Stockdale, anytime at [email protected]

Aging in Full Bloom with Lisa Stockdale is sponsored by HomeCaire. We believe every patient should get the personalized care they need, in the way they want it. Every caregiver should feel supported, valued, and motivated. We see each person as their own entity, with unique needs, desires, and skills. Our goal is to best support our family as they reach new milestones.

Follow the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast player. Android user? http://www.subscribeonandroid.com

Copyright 2026 Lisa Stockdale

Mentioned in this episode:

Thank you for listening to Aging in Full Bloom with Lisa Stockdale

Thanks for listening to Aging in Full Bloom with Lisa Stockdale, sponsored by HomeCaire of Ohio. We added an "i" to care because we care about the individual. That includes the individual caregiver and the individual client. From each caregiver's caseload to every client's care plan, we understand that individual preferences and priorities matter. People matter; we haven't lost sight of that here at HomeCaire of Ohio. If you or someone you know needs personal care at home, call 419-458-3000 to learn.

Whether you’re already retired, considering it soon, or just curious about what lies ahead, this episode will leave you feeling supported, inspired, and maybe even a little understood.

Welcome to another episode of "Aging In Full Bloom with Lisa Stockdale"! In today’s conversation, I welcome bestselling author Tom Marks, whose latest book, "Coming of Age in Retirement: An Advertising Executive Story of Enlightenment and Revelation," is making waves across multiple categories—from aging to mental health.

Join us as Tom Marks shares his candid journey from a high-powered advertising executive to navigating the often-overlooked emotional challenges of retirement. In this episode, he opens up about the unexpected struggles that come with leaving behind a decades-long career, the myths perpetuated by advertising about what retirement “should” look like, and the power of letting go and finding individuality in this new phase of life.

Tom and I have a heartwarming and honest discussion about the realities of aging, why financial planning is just one small piece of the puzzle, and how embracing gratitude and self-discovery can lead to genuine happiness.

Hear practical wisdom, personal stories, and a fresh perspective on finding your own path of happiness in retirement.

Moments

00:00 "Aging Insights with Tom Marks"

05:37 "Peaceful Retiree Transition Project"

08:46 "Escaping the Hamster Wheel"

11:53 Ageism in Advertising Exposed

16:39 "Individuality in Senior Demographics"

19:35 Struggling with Retirement Identity

24:35 Letting Go of Lifelong Sprint

25:45 "Gratitude Meditation for Joy"

30:40 "Apology and Gratitude: Award Speech"

33:10 "Life After Work Reflections"

Here are 3 key takeaways for anyone thinking about life after their career:

• Retirement is an emotional transition, not just a financial one. Tom Marks shared that even with decades of financial planning, he felt lost after leaving the business he had built for over 40 years. Emotional preparation matters!
• Happiness comes from the path itself, not chasing it. Inspired by a Buddha quote (“There is no path to happiness. Happiness is the path.”), Tom Marks realized fulfillment isn’t about chasing goals, but appreciating what’s in front of you—like family, nature, and the small joys each day.
• Individuality matters in retirement. There’s no one-size-fits-all answer, despite what advertising and society might suggest. What works for one person won’t necessarily work for another. Tom Marks encourages everyone to find their own “path of happiness,” whatever that looks like.

Email me, Lisa Stockdale, anytime at [email protected]

Aging in Full Bloom with Lisa Stockdale is sponsored by HomeCaire. We believe every patient should get the personalized care they need, in the way they want it. Every caregiver should feel supported, valued, and motivated. We see each person as their own entity, with unique needs, desires, and skills. Our goal is to best support our family as they reach new milestones.

Follow the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast player. Android user? http://www.subscribeonandroid.com

Copyright 2026 Lisa Stockdale

Mentioned in this episode:

Thank you for listening to Aging in Full Bloom with Lisa Stockdale

Thanks for listening to Aging in Full Bloom with Lisa Stockdale, sponsored by HomeCaire of Ohio. We added an "i" to care because we care about the individual. That includes the individual caregiver and the individual client. From each caregiver's caseload to every client's care plan, we understand that individual preferences and priorities matter. People matter; we haven't lost sight of that here at HomeCaire of Ohio. If you or someone you know needs personal care at home, call 419-458-3000 to learn.

If you’ve ever felt ambivalent or even anxious about your birthday, stick around—you’ll find plenty of inspiration and insights in this episode!

Welcome to another episode of Aging in Full Bloom with Lisa Stockdale! I’m Lisa, your host, and today I have a truly special guest joining me—Tamar Hurwitz-Fleming, author of How to Have a Happy Birthday and the How to Have a Happy Birthday Workbook. In this conversation, Tamar and I talk about the complicated emotions that can surround our birthdays, especially as we grow older. We chat about everything from why birthdays can sometimes leave us feeling blue to how we can reclaim the day as a joyful, intentional celebration.

Tamar shares her personal story of moving from heartbreak on her 18th birthday to discovering the power of creating her own happiness. Together, we explore practical tips for planning a birthday that really lights you up, letting go of unrealistic expectations from others, and treating your birthday like the major personal holiday it truly is. We also talk about facing milestone birthdays, navigating the realities of aging, and embracing each year with gratitude and purpose.

Moments

00:00 Self-Made Birthday in France

06:10 Honoring Grief and Celebrating Life

08:37 Plan Your Birthday Celebration

11:32 Embracing Birthday Joy

13:44 Embracing 60's Transition

18:20 Embrace Birthday Celebrations

20:11 "60th Birthday Reinvention"

Here are 3 key takeaways for anyone approaching a milestone year (or who’s ever felt the "birthday blues"):

Take Ownership of Your Happiness: Don’t wait for others to make your birthday special. Plan ahead and create the experience you want—it’s your personal New Year!

Release Unrealistic Expectations: Many birthday disappointments come from expecting others to deliver joy for us. Be direct about what you want, and don’t be afraid to ask for it.

Embrace Aging as a Privilege: Each birthday is a celebration of life and a reminder of the unique journey you’re on. Rather than dreading “big numbers,” honor the wisdom and growth you’ve gained.

Email me, Lisa Stockdale, anytime at [email protected]

Aging in Full Bloom with Lisa Stockdale is sponsored by HomeCaire. We believe every patient should get the personalized care they need, in the way they want it. Every caregiver should feel supported, valued, and motivated. We see each person as their own entity, with unique needs, desires, and skills. Our goal is to best support our family as they reach new milestones.

Follow the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast player. Android user? http://www.subscribeonandroid.com

Copyright 2026 Lisa Stockdale

Mentioned in this episode:

Thank you for listening to Aging in Full Bloom with Lisa Stockdale

Thanks for listening to Aging in Full Bloom with Lisa Stockdale, sponsored by HomeCaire of Ohio. We added an "i" to care because we care about the individual. That includes the individual caregiver and the individual client. From each caregiver's caseload to every client's care plan, we understand that individual preferences and priorities matter. People matter; we haven't lost sight of that here at HomeCaire of Ohio. If you or someone you know needs personal care at home, call 419-458-3000 to learn.

If you’re looking for simple strategies to sharpen your mind and enrich the quality of your life as you age, you’ll find plenty of inspiration and actionable advice here. Join us as we celebrate the joys of learning, growing, and blooming—at every age.

Welcome to Aging In Full Bloom! I’m Lisa Stockdale, and in this episode, I’m thrilled to welcome Angie Dortch—an educator, caregiver, and the creative mind behind a unique wellness program designed just for us, the active aging community. Angie shares her journey, inspired by caring for her mother and her background in the performing arts, and together we dive into the importance of not just aging, but learning how to age well.

In our conversation, Angie introduces practical, easy-to-use memory tips—like her object recall exercises—that I personally tried out (and loved!). We laugh about the everyday struggle of finding our keys, and Angie reassures us that those little lapses don’t mean we’re losing our minds. We also explore the value of staying socially connected, embracing lifelong learning, and facing the future with enthusiasm rather than dread.

Moments

00:00 Pioneer of Holistic Wellness

03:10 Neglected Wellness for Aging Adults

09:36 "Social Connection Programs for Seniors"

10:37 Virtual Community Initiative During COVID

15:46 Group Dynamics and Decision-Making

17:52 Experiential Learning Practice

22:34 Memory Exercise and Mental Flexibility

24:20 "Mastering Attention and Presence"

27:06 Embrace Aging with Enthusiasm

Here are my top three takeaways:

• Learning How to Age Is a Lifelong Skill: Just like becoming a teenager, a parent, or a professional, aging well is something we must actively learn. It doesn’t just happen—we’re always honing new skills.
• Intentional Practice Improves Memory: Angie’s “object recall” activity is a simple yet powerful exercise. Place a personal item in a designated spot, write down where you put it, and try to recall its location later. This intentional act of focusing your attention really does work!
• Social & Emotional Wellness Are Just as Important as Physical Health: Loneliness is a major challenge for aging adults. Angie’s programs encourage group work and personal connection to keep the mind flexible and the heart full.

Email me, Lisa Stockdale, anytime at [email protected]

Aging in Full Bloom with Lisa Stockdale is sponsored by HomeCaire. We believe every patient deserves personalized care tailored to their needs, in the way they prefer. Every caregiver should feel supported, valued, and motivated. We view each person as an individual, with unique needs, desires, and skills. Our goal is to best support our family as they reach new milestones.

Follow the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast player. Android user? http://www.subscribeonandroid.com

Copyright 2026 Lisa Stockdale

Mentioned in this episode:

Thank you for listening to Aging in Full Bloom with Lisa Stockdale

Thanks for listening to Aging in Full Bloom with Lisa Stockdale, sponsored by HomeCaire of Ohio. We added an "i" to care because we care about the individual. That includes the individual caregiver and the individual client. From each caregiver's caseload to every client's care plan, we understand that individual preferences and priorities matter. People matter; we haven't lost sight of that here at HomeCaire of Ohio. If you or someone you know needs personal care at home, call 419-458-3000 to learn.

If you’re facing the challenge of helping your parents move or wondering how to open those tough conversations about the future, this episode is full of guidance, support, and smart strategies to help you—and your family—thrive at every stage.

Welcome to another episode of Aging in Full Bloom! In this episode, I sit down with Marty Stevens-Heebner, a bestselling author, nationally recognized later life expert, and CEO of Clear Home Solutions, to tackle one of life’s trickiest transitions: moving your parents.

Drawing from her own experience as the “designated adult” in her family, Marty opens up about helping her aging father, the emotional hurdles so many of us face, and why even the most organized families can find this process incredibly challenging. She brings heartfelt wisdom and practical tips—covering everything from “right-sizing” your life and handling sentimental clutter, to navigating family disagreements and recognizing when clutter might actually be hoarding.

Together, we break down actionable ways to organize, declutter, and have those essential conversations with loved ones about planning for the next chapter. You’ll hear expert advice on making these big transitions more manageable, while preserving relationships and your own peace of mind.

Moments

00:00 Designated Adult: Managing Later Life

05:13 "Right-Sizing Your Life"

06:51 Unlocking Emotional Support for Clients

10:35 Rethinking Decluttering Methods

15:48 "Accountability Partner for Productivity"

19:31 Hoarding Scale Explained

22:03 Building Trust with a Hoarder

24:56 "Clutter Hazards Uncovered"

27:51 Discussing Future Care Preferences

30:21 Discussing Vulnerability and Future Care

35:22 "Managing Sandwich Generation Responsibilities"

37:21 Moving and Downsizing Services Guide

Age Wise Alliance

National Association of Senior and Specialty Move Managers

Here are my top three takeaways:

• Start conversations early & often: Don’t save “the talk” for a crisis moment. Building trust means having a series of honest, respectful conversations with your parents about their wishes—acknowledging their autonomy and learning what’s truly important to them.
• Downsize in do-able steps: Don’t let clutter (or “your stuff”) take charge. Break down the process—tackle one drawer or closet at a time, schedule short decluttering sessions, and keep it manageable. Celebrate the small wins and remember that progress, not perfection, is the goal.
• Ask for (and accept) help: Whether it’s from siblings, professionals, or specialized moving managers, you don’t have to go through this alone. Enlist support so you have the emotional bandwidth to care and be present for your loved ones.

Email me, Lisa Stockdale, anytime at [email protected]

Aging in Full Bloom with Lisa Stockdale is sponsored by HomeCaire. We believe every patient should get the personalized care they need, in the way they want it. Every caregiver should feel supported, valued, and motivated. We see each person as their own entity, with unique needs, desires, and skills. Our goal is to best support our family as they reach new milestones.

Follow the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast player. Android user? http://www.subscribeonandroid.com

Copyright 2026 Lisa Stockdale

Mentioned in this episode:

Thank you for listening to Aging in Full Bloom with Lisa Stockdale

Thanks for listening to Aging in Full Bloom with Lisa Stockdale, sponsored by HomeCaire of Ohio. We added an "i" to care because we care about the individual. That includes the individual caregiver and the individual client. From each caregiver's caseload to every client's care plan, we understand that individual preferences and priorities matter. People matter; we haven't lost sight of that here at HomeCaire of Ohio. If you or someone you know needs personal care at home, call 419-458-3000 to learn.

I have the pleasure of sitting down with Justin Moor, the President and CEO of the Area Office on Aging of Northwestern Ohio. Justin and his organization serve ten counties in our region, with a mission to help those who are 60 and better, not just older, live healthier, fuller, and longer lives.

Together, Justin and I talk about the many services his agency offers, from case management and home repairs to meals, transportation, and vital caregiver support. We talk about how every community is unique, discuss the realities and challenges around Medicaid and long-term care, and explore the incredible value older adults continue to bring to our society.

Justin also shares some eye-opening stories about how basic resources, safe housing, and social connection can impact longevity, and why advocacy at every level can make such an important difference. Whether you’re an older adult yourself, a family caregiver, or just someone passionate about creating better communities for aging in place, you’ll find practical advice and encouragement here.

Here are my top 3 takeaways from this episode:

• "60 or Better" Mindset: Words matter! Justin stressed the importance of using inclusive language (“60 or better” vs. “60 or older”) to help break down barriers of ageism and make reaching out for support less intimidating.
• Aging in Place & Community-Centric Support: Today's seniors overwhelmingly want to age at home. The Area Office on Aging and its national counterparts focus on direct and contracted services—case management, meals, transportation, home modification, and more—to ensure this is possible, regardless of income.
• Caregivers Need Care Too: Behind every thriving older adult is often a selfless, unpaid family caregiver. Support programs for these family heroes are vital, and sometimes the “responsible family member” needs to hear that it’s okay to ask for help!

Email me, Lisa Stockdale, anytime at [email protected]

Aging in Full Bloom with Lisa Stockdale is sponsored by HomeCaire. We believe every patient should get the personalized care they need, in the way they want it. Every caregiver should feel supported, valued, and motivated. We see each person as their own entity, with unique needs, desires, and skills. Our goal is to best support our family as they reach new milestones.

Follow the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast player. Android user? http://www.subscribeonandroid.com

Copyright 2026 Lisa Stockdale

Mentioned in this episode:

Thank you for listening to Aging in Full Bloom with Lisa Stockdale

Thanks for listening to Aging in Full Bloom with Lisa Stockdale, sponsored by HomeCaire of Ohio. We added an "i" to care because we care about the individual. That includes the individual caregiver and the individual client. From each caregiver's caseload to every client's care plan, we understand that individual preferences and priorities matter. People matter; we haven't lost sight of that here at HomeCaire of Ohio. If you or someone you know needs personal care at home, call 419-458-3000 to learn.

I have the pleasure of chatting with Diane Dean-Epps — an author, humorist, and, as she puts it, the queen of multiple jobs that make her a minimum amount of money. Diane just released a new book called Bangs and Botox: My Aging Journey Into, Through and Beyond Denial, Fillers, and Human Preservatives, and together, we’re diving into the ups and downs (and laughs!) of accepting aging.

During our conversation, Diane opens up about her personal journey: how she’s learned to face her changing reflection, why she swears by bangs as an anti-aging “arsenal,” and her admittedly hilarious adventures with fillers and Botox. We also have an honest talk about the emotional side of growing older—those unsolicited public comments, the shift in how others view us, and, ultimately, the power and joy that come from embracing who we truly are, even if we’re not everyone’s cup of tea.

If you’re wrestling with the idea of aging, wondering how to own your story, or just need a hearty laugh and a dose of encouragement, this is an episode for you. So join me as we explore why laughter is such good medicine, and how accepting ourselves—wrinkles, quirks, and all—can be the most liberating part of growing older.

Key Moments

00:00 "Aging Acceptance Journey"

05:29 Embracing Aging with Humor

07:30 "Embracing Authenticity Over Necessity"

12:45 No Judging Cosmetic Choices

14:24 "Realizing Aging Through Others' Remarks"

19:14 "From Humorous Mysteries to History"

22:59 "Inner Reflections on Happiness"

23:26 "Saying 'No' and Pursuing Dreams"

Three key takeaways:

• Humor is a powerful tool for acceptance: Diane reminds us that laughter is truly good medicine when it comes to embracing the changes that come with getting older. Self-deprecating humor and a lighthearted perspective can make the journey much more enjoyable.
• Own your journey—on your own terms: Whether it’s choosing “bangs and Botox” or simply saying “no” more often, Diane encourages us all to make choices that support our own happiness—regardless of social pressures or others’ opinions.
• Connection over comparison: Every story matters. Diane's message is clear: we’re all aging from the moment we stop producing collagen (yikes, age 21!)—so let’s uplift each other, share our experiences, and avoid judgment, whether our choices are about wellness, appearance, or anything else.

Email me, Lisa Stockdale, anytime at [email protected]

Aging in Full Bloom with Lisa Stockdale is sponsored by HomeCaire. We believe every patient should get the personalized care they need, in the way they want it. Every caregiver should feel supported, valued, and motivated. We see each person as their own entity, with unique needs, desires, and skills. Our goal is to best support our family as they reach new milestones.

Follow the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast player. Android user? http://www.subscribeonandroid.com

Copyright 2026 Lisa Stockdale

Mentioned in this episode:

Thank you for listening to Aging in Full Bloom with Lisa Stockdale

Thanks for listening to Aging in Full Bloom with Lisa Stockdale, sponsored by HomeCaire of Ohio. We added an "i" to care because we care about the individual. That includes the individual caregiver and the individual client. From each caregiver's caseload to every client's care plan, we understand that individual preferences and priorities matter. People matter; we haven't lost sight of that here at HomeCaire of Ohio. If you or someone you know needs personal care at home, call 419-458-3000 to learn.

I enjoyed sitting down with Marc Cooper, the insightful author behind "Older to Elder." Together, we discuss the difference between simply getting older and consciously stepping into the role of an elder—a transformation that calls for intention, mindfulness, and a commitment to higher purpose.

Marc brings a refreshing perspective, moving beyond conversations about ageism and decline to focus on what’s possible when we choose to live with wisdom, curiosity, and compassion. We talk about what it means to be a “contemporary elder” and how this journey involves embracing—not avoiding—life’s endings, and, in doing so, finding freedom, peace, and relevance.

Whether you’re navigating your own path through aging or supporting someone you love, I think this conversation will inspire you. It’s all about seeing aging not just as something that happens to us, but something we can deeply engage with—so we can truly age in full bloom.

Key Moments

00:00 Overcoming Ageism: "Older to Elder"

05:13 "Elders' Acceptance of Aging"

07:11 Embrace Death to Live Fully

11:59 Self-Discovery and Cultural Isolation

14:56 Embracing Life's Unfairness

18:29 Elder Freedom and Expression

23:07 "Life's End: Plan Backwards"

24:22 Hearing Life's Higher Purpose

30:10 Elder Acknowledgment and Transition

31:22 Inspiration: Confidence, Compassion, Kindness

Here are my big takeaways:

Elderhood is a Choice, Not Just a Stage: Becoming an elder requires mindfulness, intentionality, and self-inquiry. It’s about embracing the responsibilities and freedoms that come with age, rather than passively accepting societal narratives about getting old.

Legacy Through Presence and Purpose: Elders aren’t just “older” people—they’re contributors and stewards. By focusing on a higher purpose, elders enrich not only their own lives but also their communities, impacting personal, business, and political conversations with newfound wisdom.

Spirituality & Self-Reflection Are Key: The journey from older to elder hinges on self-acceptance, letting go of the past, and cultivating a sense of meaning. Marc emphasizes that this is a spiritual journey as much as a practical one, embracing uncertainty and fostering peace with both life and death.

Email me, Lisa Stockdale, anytime at [email protected]

Aging in Full Bloom with Lisa Stockdale is sponsored by HomeCaire. We believe every patient should get the personalized care they need, in the way they want it. Every caregiver should feel supported, valued, and motivated. We see each person as their own entity, with unique needs, desires, and skills. Our goal is to best support our family as they reach new milestones.

Follow the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast player. Android user? http://www.subscribeonandroid.com

Copyright 2026 Lisa Stockdale

Mentioned in this episode:

Thank you for listening to Aging in Full Bloom with Lisa Stockdale

Thanks for listening to Aging in Full Bloom with Lisa Stockdale, sponsored by HomeCaire of Ohio. We added an "i" to care because we care about the individual. That includes the individual caregiver and the individual client. From each caregiver's caseload to every client's care plan, we understand that individual preferences and priorities matter. People matter; we haven't lost sight of that here at HomeCaire of Ohio. If you or someone you know needs personal care at home, call 419-458-3000 to learn.

Thank you for listening to Aging in Full Bloom with Lisa Stockdale

Thanks for listening to Aging in Full Bloom with Lisa Stockdale, sponsored by HomeCaire of Ohio. We added an "i" to care because we care about the individual. That includes the individual caregiver and the individual client. From each caregiver's caseload to every client's care plan, we understand that individual preferences and priorities matter. People matter; we haven't lost sight of that here at HomeCaire of Ohio. If you or someone you know needs personal care at home, call 419-458-3000 to learn.

In this part of our series on aging at home, I’m taking a closer look at something that’s vital for seniors—but often gets overlooked: home maintenance. I’m joined by Sean Fitzgerald, president of TruBlue Home Service Ally, to talk about why proper home upkeep is so important for older adults who want to stay safe and independent in their own homes.

Sean and I discuss the common challenges seniors face, from preventing falls to simple chores that become harder as we age. He explains how TruBlue’s services—like home safety assessments, grab bar installation, and maintenance packages—can help solve these problems and give both seniors and their families peace of mind.

We also talk about how even small fixes, like improving lighting or clearing clutter, can make a big difference. Whether you’re a senior yourself, caring for an older loved one, or interested in starting a purpose-driven business in this field, you’ll find valuable insights in today’s conversation.

Highlights from the Conversation:

• Safety First: Home safety assessments are vital to help prevent falls. TruBlue experts look for clutter, poor lighting, tricky doorways, and more—simple fixes that make a big difference.
• Senior-Centered Modifications: The most-requested update? Grab bars! These and other modifications (like walk-in showers) can be surprisingly affordable and tailored to each person’s needs.
• Ongoing Maintenance: TruBlue offers regular maintenance packages. Think quarterly filter changes, lighting checks, fixing doors, and handling seasonal outdoor chores like snow removal—so you or a loved one isn’t up on a ladder alone.
• Trusted Employees: All work is done by TruBlue’s own screened and insured employees, not subcontractors, giving you peace of mind.

Did you know?

The #1 home modification? GRAB BARS! But they also offer creative solutions—like affordable ways to turn your tub into a walk-in shower, without the full remodel price tag. Seniors should have safety and dignity at home.

Email me, Lisa Stockdale, anytime at [email protected]

Aging in Full Bloom with Lisa Stockdale is sponsored by HomeCaire. We believe every patient should get the personalized care they need, in the way they want it. Every caregiver should feel supported, valued, and motivated. We see each person as their own entity, with unique needs, desires, and skills. Our goal is to best support our family as they reach new milestones.

Follow the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast player. Android user? http://www.subscribeonandroid.com

Copyright 2026 Lisa Stockdale

Mentioned in this episode:

Thank you for listening to Aging in Full Bloom with Lisa Stockdale

Thanks for listening to Aging in Full Bloom with Lisa Stockdale, sponsored by HomeCaire of Ohio. We added an "i" to care because we care about the individual. That includes the individual caregiver and the individual client. From each caregiver's caseload to every client's care plan, we understand that individual preferences and priorities matter. People matter; we haven't lost sight of that here at HomeCaire of Ohio. If you or someone you know needs personal care at home, call 419-458-3000 to learn.

What are some of the most important factors you should consider when planning to age at home?

Welcome to another episode of Aging In Full Bloom with Lisa Stockdale. I’m so glad you’re here as we wrap up our “Aging at Home” series with a conversation packed full of practical strategies to help you—or the ones you love—stay safe, independent, and happy right at home.

In this episode, I’m joined by Deana Liss, Executive Director of Elderwerks, a nonprofit organization from Illinois that provides complimentary support to older adults and their families. Together, we dive into what it really takes to age well at home, covering everything from making your living space safer and more accessible to financial planning, long-term care options, and the vital importance of honest conversations and early planning.

We’ll also tackle the rising threat of scams targeting seniors and point you to reliable resources and a supportive community, with highlights on the Elderwerks Senior Resource Directory—a goldmine of information for anyone navigating the aging process.

Whether you’re hoping to age in place, helping a loved one, or work with older adults, you’ll find practical advice, peace of mind, and a few moments of laughter along the way. Join us as we empower ourselves to make thoughtful, confident choices about aging well.

Top Takeaways from This Episode:

Keys to Aging Well at Home - Deana shares that aging well at home starts with planning. This means honestly evaluating your current health, finances, and home setup.

Plan Financially for Every Stage - If home isn’t an option, knowing the costs of senior living is essential. Assisted living can start at $6,000/month, with memory care and skilled nursing reaching as high as $11,000/month.

Don’t Hesitate to Ask for Help - Reaching out for support or sharing your plans with family doesn’t signal a loss of independence—it secures it.

Key Moments

00:00 Elderwerks Expands Aging Support Services

04:26 Aging Gracefully at Home

07:28 Rising U.S. Aging Costs

11:18 Elder Care Support and Planning

15:12 "Elderwerks: Aging Resources Online"

16:15 Elder Works: Comprehensive Care Experts

19:53 Scams Escalating: Seniors at Risk

25:52 Elderwerks Funding and Partnership Efforts

27:47 Aging Well: Planning Resources

Email me, Lisa Stockdale, anytime at [email protected]

Aging in Full Bloom with Lisa Stockdale is sponsored by HomeCaire. We believe every patient should get the personalized care they need, in the way they want it. Every caregiver should feel supported, valued, and motivated. We see each person as their own entity, with unique needs, desires, and skills. Our goal is to best support our family as they reach new milestones.

Follow the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast player. Android user? http://www.subscribeonandroid.com

Copyright 2026 Lisa Stockdale

Mentioned in this episode:

Thank you for listening to Aging in Full Bloom with Lisa Stockdale

Thanks for listening to Aging in Full Bloom with Lisa Stockdale, sponsored by HomeCaire of Ohio. We added an "i" to care because we care about the individual. That includes the individual caregiver and the individual client. From each caregiver's caseload to every client's care plan, we understand that individual preferences and priorities matter. People matter; we haven't lost sight of that here at HomeCaire of Ohio. If you or someone you know needs personal care at home, call 419-458-3000 to learn.