Losing a loved one is difficult enough. Figuring out what needs to happen next can make an already overwhelming time even harder.

In this episode of Aging Starts Now, host Dana Hentschel, Outreach Coordinator at Johnson McGinnis Elder Care Law & Estate Planning, sits down with attorney Josh Hunter to discuss the practical steps families should take after a loved one passes away.

From what to prioritize in the first 24 to 48 hours to notifying Social Security, locating the original will and other estate planning documents, handling bills and determining whether probate may be necessary, Josh walks listeners through some of the important decisions families may face.

They also discuss common mistakes that can create unnecessary legal or financial complications—and why taking the time to create a thoughtful estate plan now can make things easier for the people you love later.

If you’ve recently lost a loved one, are helping someone settle an estate, or simply want to be better prepared for the future, this episode offers practical information to help you know where to begin.

Learn more about Johnson McGinnis Elder Care Law & Estate Planning and find additional resources at tn-elderlaw.com.

Probate can be confusing—especially when a family is already dealing with the loss of a loved one. What actually goes through probate? Who pays the bills? What happens to debts? And what should a family do first?

In this episode of Aging Starts Now, Outreach Coordinator Dana Hentschel is joined by Johnson McGinnis Elder Care Law & Estate Planning attorney Ryan Hicks to answer some of the most common questions families have about the probate process.

Ryan explains what probate is, which assets may avoid probate, how funeral expenses and other bills can be handled, how creditor claims work, and what happens when an estate doesn’t have enough money to fulfill every gift in a will. He also discusses probate costs, revocable living trusts, and several common mistakes families should avoid after a loved one passes away.

Most importantly, Ryan shares some of the first steps families should take before making major legal or financial decisions.

If you’re settling a loved one’s estate—or thinking ahead about how to make things easier for your own family—this episode offers practical information to help you better understand the process.

Learn more or schedule a consultation with Johnson McGinnis Elder Care Law & Estate Planning at

www.tn-elderlaw.com or call 615-824-2571.

Subscribe to Aging Starts Now and share this episode with someone who may benefit from the conversation.

Caregiving can be rewarding, but it can also feel incredibly isolating. When the responsibility of caring for someone you love becomes overwhelming, where can you turn to connect with someone who truly understands?

In this episode of Aging Starts Now, host Dana Henschel talks with Tim Otis, founder of Empaira, an emotional support network created to help caregivers connect with other caregivers in a safe, anonymous space.

Drawing from his own experiences caring for his mother and later his father following a Parkinson’s diagnosis, Tim shares why he created Empaira and how peer-to-peer support can help caregivers feel seen, heard, and less alone.

Dana and Tim discuss caregiver burnout and isolation, the importance of emotional support, Empaira's anonymous and personalized communities, quick “Moments” designed to help caregivers manage the emotional weight of caregiving, and the need for accessible, localized resources.

Most importantly, this conversation offers a reminder every caregiver needs to hear: caring for yourself matters, too.

Learn more about the resources available from Johnson McGinnis Elder Care Law & Estate Planning at tn-elderlaw.com.

Subscribe to Aging Starts Now and share this episode with someone navigating the challenges of caregiving, aging, disability, or unexpected illness.

Are your passwords protecting you—or putting you at risk?

In this episode of Aging Starts Now, Outreach Coordinator Dana Hentschel sits down with Jim Hughes of Senior Risk Solutions to discuss one of the most overlooked aspects of personal safety: password security.

Older adults are increasingly targeted by online scams, identity theft, and financial fraud. Jim explains why using the same password across multiple accounts can leave you vulnerable, how to create strong passwords you can actually remember, and when to use passkeys and two-factor authentication. He also shares practical tips to help you recognize scams, avoid common online mistakes, and protect your financial and personal information.

Whether you're an older adult, a caregiver, or simply want to strengthen your online security, this episode is filled with practical advice you can put into action today.

In this episode you'll learn:

Why every account needs a unique password

What makes a password truly secure

The pros and cons of password managers

How passkeys and two-factor authentication improve security

Simple habits that can help prevent online scams and identity theft

Why speed matters if you think you've been targeted by fraud

Don't miss this important conversation about protecting yourself and the people you love in today's digital world.

As a FREE gift to our listeners, Jim Hughes is offering "Strong Passwords Made Easy" Ultimate Guide PDF (a $27 value.) Click here: https://business-risk-solutions.kit.com/6bebbd373e

You can reach out to Jim Hughes at Senior Risk Solutions at 847-710-1030 or [email protected]

Whether you're downsizing, relocating closer to family, building a mother-in-law suite, or wondering if paying cash is really the best option, this episode is packed with practical advice for older adults and their families.

Host Chris Johnson, Attorney and Partner at Johnson McGinnis Elder Care Law & Estate Planning, is joined by Anna Cook, Originating Branch Manager with CrossCountry Mortgage, to discuss the financial strategies that can help make housing decisions support your long-term goals. Together, they explore financing options for retirees, purchasing a home before selling your current one, multi-generational home buying, adding accessory dwelling units, and common mistakes to avoid during the downsizing process.

If you're planning your next move—or helping an aging parent with theirs—this conversation offers valuable insights to help you make informed decisions with confidence.

Can charitable giving be part of a smart estate plan? Absolutely.

In this episode of Aging Starts Now, host Janel Heflin, Elder Care Coordinator at Johnson McGinnis Elder Care Law & Estate Planning, welcomes Cathy Sheffield, Director of Philanthropic Partnerships with The Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee, to discuss the many benefits of Donor Advised Funds (DAFs).

You'll learn:

What a Donor Advised Fund is and how it works

Why DAFs aren't just for wealthy families

The tax advantages of charitable giving

How DAFs can simplify and maximize your philanthropy

Why many families include charitable giving in their estate plans

How The Community Foundation helps donors create a lasting impact in Middle Tennessee

Whether you're passionate about supporting your favorite nonprofit, looking for tax-efficient giving strategies, or thinking about the legacy you want to leave, this conversation offers practical guidance to help you make informed decisions.

To learn more about The Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee, visit cfmt.org.

For more information about estate planning, life care planning, and protecting what matters most, visit www.tn-elderlaw.com

Suicide among older adults is a difficult topic—but it's one we cannot afford to ignore. Many older adults face challenges such as grief, chronic illness, isolation, and depression, yet the warning signs are often misunderstood or overlooked.

In this episode of Aging Starts Now, Elder Care Coordinator Erin Keogh-Rankin speaks with Fiona Hoehn, Mental Health Training Coordinator for Mental Health America of Middle Tennessee, about how families, caregivers, and friends can recognize the signs of suicidal ideation and provide meaningful support.

In this conversation, you'll learn:

Why older adults are at increased risk for suicide

Common warning signs and behavioral changes to watch for

The difference between grief, depression, and suicidal thoughts

How to start a conversation with someone you are concerned about

When a situation requires immediate intervention

Resources available for older adults and their families

Whether you're caring for an aging parent, working with older adults professionally, or simply want to be better prepared to help someone in need, this episode offers practical guidance and hope.

If you or someone you know is experiencing a mental health crisis or having thoughts of suicide, don't wait to seek help. Resources are available, and support can make all the difference.

To learn more about Johnson McGinnis Elder Care Law & Estate Planning, visit www.tn-elderlaw.com.

Most older adults want to remain in the homes they love—but aging in place requires more than simply staying put. A safe, well-maintained home is essential for preserving independence and preventing costly accidents.

In this episode of Aging Starts Now, Elder Care Coordinator Erin Keogh-Rankin sits down with Mark Hill, President of Tandem Handyman Services, to discuss how proactive home maintenance can help older adults live safely at home for years to come.

Together they explore:

The most common home safety hazards for older adults

Preventative maintenance that can help avoid expensive repairs

How adult children can support aging parents—especially from a distance

The benefits of regular home maintenance versus waiting for something to break

Affordable ways to improve safety and maintain independence

Whether you're an older adult hoping to age in place or an adult child helping a loved one remain safely at home, this episode is filled with practical advice you can put into action today.

Learn more about Johnson McGinnis Elder Care Law & Estate Planning at tn-elderlaw.com.

Talking with aging parents about memory loss, driving, medications, accepting help, or future care plans can be one of the most difficult challenges families face.

In this episode of Aging Starts Now, host Dana Hentschel sits down with Elder Care Coordinator Pati Bedwell to discuss how families can approach these sensitive conversations with compassion, respect, and confidence.

Pati shares practical guidance on recognizing when concerns may need to be addressed, avoiding common communication mistakes, and helping aging loved ones maintain their dignity while ensuring their safety and well-being.

In this episode, you'll learn:

• Why conversations about aging are often emotionally charged

• How to approach concerns about memory, health, and independence

• Tips for discussing driving and accepting help

• Strategies for reducing conflict and preserving family relationships

• The benefits of planning ahead before a crisis occurs

• How an Elder Care Coordinator can help families navigate difficult decisions

Whether you're concerned about a parent today or simply want to be prepared for the future, this episode offers valuable insights for every family.

To learn more about Johnson McGinnis Elder Care Law & Estate Planning, visit tn-elderlaw.com.

What does it take to stay active, strong, and independent as we age?

In this episode of Aging Starts Now, outreach coordinator Dana Hentschel sits down with Dr. Shelby Blankenship, founder of Southern Grit PT and Wellness, to discuss the critical role that strength, balance, mobility, and functional movement play in healthy aging.

Many people think physical therapy is only for recovering from injuries, but Dr. Blankenship shares how her innovative approach combines physical therapy, wellness, and strength training to help adults maintain independence, reduce pain, prevent falls, and continue doing the activities they love.

In this conversation, you'll learn:

• Why strength training becomes increasingly important after age 50

• How balance and mobility impact long-term independence

• Common misconceptions about exercise and aging

• Signs you may benefit from working with a physical therapist—even without an injury

• Practical exercises and habits that support healthy aging

• Real-life success stories from clients who have improved their quality of life

Whether you're looking to improve your health, maintain your independence, or simply age with greater confidence, this episode offers valuable insights and encouragement.

To learn more about Southern Grit PT and Wellness, visit the links in our show notes.

For more information about elder law, estate planning, and aging resources, visit tn-elderlaw.com.