This week on the Art of Aging, Rev. Beth Long-Higgins welcomes Susan Wallace, President and CEO of LeadingAge Ohio, for an insightful discussion on aging in the 21st century. Topics include the evolution and importance of hospice and palliative care, differences between for-profit and nonprofit care providers, the risks of fraud in hospice services, and the innovative PACE program for comprehensive elder care. Susan also shares personal stories and reflections on caregiving, the value of social connection, and her own journey with aging. Key takeaways for listeners include understanding care options, the importance of informed choices, the power of relationships in aging abundantly, and so much more. 

Highlights from this week’s conversation include:

• Susan’s Background and Role at Leading Age Ohio (0:40)
• What is LeadingAge Ohio and Its Connection to National Organization (1:28)
• How Hospice Has Changed and What to Expect Today (6:05)
• For-Profit vs. Nonprofit Hospice Care (9:44)
• What to Look for When Choosing a Hospice Provider (12:18)
• Quality Measures and Medicare’s Care Compare (14:44)
• The Role of Community and Spiritual Care in Hospice (15:46)
• Fraud and Trends in Hospice Care (17:12)
• Palliative Care vs. Hospice Care (0:20:26)
• The PACE Program: All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (24:20)
• Expansion and Education about PACE in Ohio (26:43)
• The Importance of Caregiving and Social Connection in Aging (29:29)
• Challenges and Opportunities in Aging Services (30:23)
• Reflections on Aging: Personal Growth and Surprises (32:18)
• How to Connect with Susan and Parting Thoughts (36:20)

Abundant Aging is a podcast series presented by United Church Homes. These shows offer ideas, information, and inspiration on how to improve our lives as we grow older. To learn more and to subscribe to the show, visit abundantagingpodcast.com. 

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