Boomer Banter, Caregiving, Purpose, Connection

In this episode, guest, Heather Brooks emphasizes the importance of safe housing as a cornerstone of livability for aging individuals. She explores multiple factors including neighborhood settings, transportation, environmental considerations, social involvement, and quick access to emergency services.

Heather delves into the challenges and expenses associated with maintaining homes as people get older, highlighting the critical need for resources and connections to age in place successfully. She introduces her website, "How 2 Age Your Way," which offers an array of educational materials and vetted resources specifically designed for aging adults.

Practical advice is shared on proactive home modifications, such as installing grab bars, no-slip rugs, and creating accessible entryways. Heather discusses sleek designs that avoid creating a hospital-like atmosphere and recommends attractive, functional brands for home products. Cutting-edge age tech, like voice-controlled showers and universal stove knobs are highlighted, offering a glimpse into the future of age-friendly living.

Budget considerations are also tackled, with Heather outlining costs ranging from $5,000 to $100,000 depending on the scope of modifications. Furthermore, she touches on the potential impact of these modifications on home resale value, suggesting that age technology and multi-generational living adaptations can make homes more marketable.

Importantly, Heather speaks about her involvement in the National Aging In Place Council, shedding light on legislative efforts including bill HR 766 aimed at providing federal support for home modifications.

Our host, Wendy Green helps ground the conversation in real-world applicability by sharing her own home modification plans, making the episode both personal and relatable.

• Home Modifications: Proactively plan and implement home modifications to ensure future safety and convenience. Opt for aesthetically pleasing designs to maintain a homey feel and avoid a clinical appearance.
• Age Tech Innovations: Embrace cutting-edge technology such as voice-controlled showers, universal stove knobs, and accessible kitchen cabinetry. Focus on age-friendly technology to enhance safety, functionality, and comfort.
• Safe Housing as Livability Pillar: Understand the significance of a safe and accessible home environment for aging individuals. Address essential considerations like neighborhood, transportation, social involvement, and emergency services.

Heather's website: https://how2ageyourway.com

National Aging in Place Council (NAIPC)

HR7676 - Home Modification for Accessibility Act

AARP Home Fit Safety Presentations and Home Safety Guide

SmartHQ All-in-One App for Kitchen Appliances

OME Universal Kitchen Knob

Ponte Giulio Bathroom Safety Products

Sign up for the Boomer Banter Weekly newsletter, click on Connect with Us.

Check out CareLink360 and use boomer on checkout for 5% off purchase

Mentioned in this episode:

CareLink 360

If you are a long distant caregiver would you like to easily connect, face-to-face with your loved one? The Digital Health Companion™ from CareLink360 is a safe, secure, and easy to use device that fosters regular social interactions.

Host Wendy Green sits down with acclaimed photographer and filmmaker Sky Bergman to pursue the heartwarming and transformative world of intergenerational connections.

Inspired by her spirited grandmother who thrived well into her 100s, Bergman’s work sheds light on the incredible benefits of bridging generational gaps and combating the growing public health crisis of loneliness and isolation.

This episode covers a broad spectrum of insights and personal stories that highlight the necessity and value of intergenerational connections. Here are some of the high points:

• "Lives Well Lived" Documentary: Bergman's documentary explores resilience, positivity, and purpose at any age, featuring 40 remarkable individuals with a collective 3000 years of experience.
• Educational Impact: Discussing her collaboration with a psychology of aging professor, Bergman details how the film has transformed classrooms into hubs of intergenerational dialogue.
• Intergenerational Projects: Highlighting innovative projects, such as the film screenings paired with guided discussions between students and older adults, fostering understanding and friendships.
• Practical Steps for Connection: Emphasis on the power of open-ended questions and the irreplaceable value of capturing stories before it’s too late.
• Sky's Personal Practices: Insights into how Bergman builds intergenerational connections in her own life through regular women’s dinners and diverse friendships.

Three suggested conversation starters that Sky mentioned in this discussion.

1.    Tell me 3 Fun or Interesting Facts about you that I would not otherwise know.
2.    What’s the best advice you ever got, and did you take it?
3.    What’s been the most instrumental thing in shaping your life?

Other ways to share:

• Spread the Word: Educators can access the documentary "Lives Well Lived" and incorporate it into their classrooms to promote intergenerational learning.
• Get Involved: Whether through local organizations or personal initiatives, find ways to facilitate intergenerational interactions in your own community.

All of Sky's current and future projects can be found on her website: skybergmanproductions

Become part of the Boomer Banter community and always be informed about what is coming up. Go to our website and click on Connect With Us.

Sign up for the Road Scholar Great Global Giveaway.

Mentioned in this episode:

Road Scholar Great Global Giveaway

roadscholar.org/heyboomer

3 seconds of silence

The new book, "Fearless Female Leaders." shares empowering stories of women of all ages, who are pursuing a purpose and a passion.

In this episode, guest and author Kathy McAfee, shares her journey and mission to mentor and uplift others, particularly in the legacy phase of her career. With real-life stories of resilience and leadership, this episode is a tribute to women who refuse to let age define their contribution.

The story of Eva Hausman, founder of the Mothers' Day movement, and Sylvia Whitlock, the first female president of a Rotary club, highlight perseverance, dedication to public service, and gender inclusion.

Being fearless ignites the journey, while courage sustains it. The episode encourages listeners to start their fearless journey and use courage to see it through.

Continue contributing. We are not done yet. Supporting female leadership to create meaningful change in communities is highlighted in this episode and the book.

TheFearlessLeader.com

FearlessLeaderBooks.com/bonuses

YouTube.com: @TheFearlessLeader

To join the Boomer Banter Community, Click Connect with us

Email me at [email protected]

In this deeply introspective and enlightening episode of Boomer Banter, host Wendy Green delves into the essence of True Wealth, exploring the four pillars that constitute a meaningful and fulfilling life: finance, health, joy, and love. With personal anecdotes and practical advice, Wendy sheds light on how these components interweave to create a life of substance beyond material success. Get ready to be inspired, as we reflect on what it truly means to age well and live a purpose-driven life.

Introduction to the Four Pillars: Wendy Green opens the episode by introducing the idea that True Wealth is not just about money, but a holistic blend of financial security, health, joy, and love.

Personal Reflection: Wendy shares a profound excerpt from her father’s unpublished book, revealing his realization that material success does not equate to true wealth. This heartfelt story drives home the episode’s central message that wealth is defined by much more than financial prosperity.

Financial Security: Emphasizing the importance of financial planning, Wendy offers insights into securing one's financial future. She discusses factors such as lifestyle, debts, pensions, longevity, and health that influence financial stability. Wendy advises seeking professional help from financial planners and preparing for potential emergencies to ensure financial peace of mind.

Health Wealth: Wendy underscores the significance of maintaining both physical and mental health. She talks about the benefits of regular physical activity, a nutritious diet, proper hydration, and strong social connections. Wendy also touches on mental well-being, emphasizing the power of a positive mindset, gratitude, and strong social bonds.

Joy and Contentment: Exploring the concept of joy as a state of being, Wendy differentiates it from temporary happiness. She discusses the importance of nurturing joy through achievable challenges, practicing gratitude, disconnecting from technology, and finding a purpose. The story of the Chinese farmer serves as a reminder to maintain a nonjudgmental and accepting attitude for lasting contentment.

The Power of Love: Wendy articulates the crucial role love plays in true wealth. She explores how love of self and others, self-care, and meaningful social connections enrich our lives. Wendy highlights that love brings deeper meaning to financial security, health, and joy, making it an indispensable pillar of true wealth.

Join the Boomer Believers and meet monthly with one of our amazing guests. Get your questions answered directly as you build a sense of community with other members.

Catch up on episodes: Boomer Banter is taking a 3 week break in July. There are 192 episodes for your to peruse.

Share this episode with your friends. Rate and Review. So appreciated.

See you for our next episode on July 22.

This episode of Boomer Banter dives deep into the alarming rise of financial fraud targeting older adults. Join host Wendy Green and fraud expert Kathy Stokes from the AARP Fraud Watch Network as they unpack the sophisticated tactics scammers use, the emotional toll on victims, and essential steps for securing personal information.

Wendy Green begins the episode by sharing her own near-miss with a copyright infringement scam, underscoring the importance of being vigilant. Kathy Stokes delves into common scams such as tech support fraud, where scammers pose as legitimate tech support to gain access to financial information. The conversation highlights the use of heightened emotional states by scammers to manipulate victims, urging everyone to pause and assess suspicious messages logically.

1. Use strong passwords and two factor authentication to access online accounts. Try a password manager to create and store your unique passwords.
2. Let calls from unknown callers go to voicemail. Criminals do not tend to leave messages.
3. Avoid using open Wi-Fi networks without a VPN and refrain from plugging into public USB ports
4. If you suspect you've been a victim of fraud, report it to the police and use AARP's helpline for support (877) 908-3360
5. We are not helpless! What we know inoculates us. What we share inoculates others.

Follow the AARP Fraud Watch Network on Facebook

Connect with the AARP Victim Support Network

Register for the Virtual Fraud Prevention Summer Series - July 8: 10:00-12:00ET

Tell your friends to subscribe to Boomer Banter. Click on “Connect With Us” after you follow the link. You will get access to our weekly newsletter that will keep you up-to-date on all things happening in our community.

Follow the podcast, and please rate and review. This helps others find us

As we live longer, the need to make our money last becomes increasingly important.

In this insightful episode of Boomer Banter, host Wendy Green is joined by the esteemed Richard Eisenberg, an unretired freelance writer and former managing editor of Next Avenue, to tackle the intricate world of longevity planning.

We share practical advice for securing financial stability, and emphasize the need for "longevity literacy." Whether you’re nearing retirement, supporting adult children, or considering annuities and long-term care, this episode is packed with actionable insights and strategies for making your golden years financially secure.

1. Importance of Preparation: Richard underscores the necessity of being well-prepared and informed about retirement planning. He advocates using retirement calculators or consulting financial advisors.
2. Supporting Family Financially: Wendy and Richard discuss the balance parents must strike when financially aiding their children for education, housing, and other expenses, while also securing their own financial future.
3. Long-Term Care Insurance: Richard recommends the purchase of this insurance in one’s fifties or early sixties to avoid Medicare coverage gaps. In later years, you might explore hybrid long-term care insurance policies.
4. Balancing Enjoyment and Security: The conversation touches on balancing spending on enjoyable experiences, like vacations, with financial planning and longevity considerations, stressing the need for mindful spending and saving practices.

Find Richard on his podcast, Friends Talk Money, or follow his columns in Money Watch, Fortune and Next Avenue.

Subscribe to Boomer Banter. Click on “Connect With Us” after you follow the link.

Follow the podcast, and please rate and review. This helps others find us

Sign up for the Great Global Giveaway on the Road Scholar site, and check out all their amazing trips.

In this episode of Boomer Banter, host Wendy Green and certified financial planner Justin Smith delve into the intricate process of selling your parent's home. This is an emotionally charged, multi-faceted issue that can significantly impact your family's financial future. From tax implications to long-term care planning and probate avoidance, they cover many aspects you need to consider for a seamless and equitable transition. If you're a Boomer looking to make informed decisions about your parent's property, this episode is a treasure trove of wisdom and practical advice.

1. Complexity and Emotional Considerations: The complex and emotionally charged nature of selling a parent's property. Importance of understanding your parent's wishes and resources.
2. Family Dynamics and Communication: The importance of open communication and reaching a consensus among siblings to avoid conflicts regarding care expenses and inheritance.
3. Tax Implications: Learn about primary homeowner capital gain exclusion, cost basis step-up, and strategies to minimize tax burdens.
4. Learn about assessing your parent's resources and needs, so you and they can make informed decisions about using home equity for care or investing in assisted living.

Connect with Justin Smith for more valuable insights and estate planning guidance.

Find him on LInkedIn.

Subscribe to Boomer Banter. Click on "Connect With Us" after you follow the link.

Follow the podcast, and please rate and review. This helps others find us

Sign up for the Great Global Giveaway on the Road Scholar site, and check out all their amazing trips.

Season 7, Episode 188

In this episode, host Wendy Green announces the transition from Hey, Boomer to Boomer Banter, a podcast focused on real talk about aging well. She shares the motivations behind the rebrand and the evolution of the podcast's mission. The mission still includes embracing a purpose and realizing we are not done yet. It is expanding to include ideas about how to live a long life with health, happiness and satisfaction.

1. Discussion on change versus transition.
2. Wendy's internal journey towards transition and the decision to rebrand as Boomer Banter.
3. The importance of aging with purpose, health, and fulfillment.

Visit Heyboomer.biz to connect with the podcast and subscribe to the newsletter for valuable information on aging well.

Support the Walk to End Alzheimer's team led by Wendy Green to help reach their fundraising goal.

Follow us on Facebook.

Join us on LinkedIn

Watch on YouTube

Season 7: Episode 187

In our latest episode, host Wendy Green dives deep into the vital topic of stroke awareness, treatment, and prevention with our esteemed guest, Dr. Chris Favilla, a leading stroke neurologist.

Here's why you should tune in:

🔹 **Recognize Stroke Symptoms with "BE FAST":**

- **B**alance issues, **E**yesight changes, **F**acial droop, **A**rm weakness, **S**peech difficulties, and **T**ime to call 911.

- Early recognition and immediate action can save lives.

🔹 **Manage Silent Risk Factors:**

- High blood pressure and high cholesterol are major risk factors for stroke.

- Diet, exercise, and medications can significantly lower these risks.

- Sleep apnea, common in aging individuals, is another important factor to consider for stroke prevention.

🔹 **The Importance of Rapid Response:**

- Time-sensitive stroke treatments like clot-busting medications are critical for better outcomes.

- EMS providers play a vital role in the quick evaluation and transport of stroke patients to hospitals.

Explore Resources: Learn more about stroke awareness and prevention by visiting the American Heart Association at aha.org and stroke.org.

Join the Community: Subscribe to the Hey, Boomer newsletter for the latest updates and exciting announcements, including a big reveal in the next episode.

Spread Awareness: Share this episode with family and friends to raise awareness about stroke prevention and the importance of immediate medical intervention.

Check out Carelink360: See how you can get piece of mind and stay connected to loved ones who are far away.

Season 7, Episode 186

Join us as we dive deep into the world of Lyme disease, exploring its symptoms, controversies in treatment, and the crucial preventive measures to stay safe while enjoying the great outdoors. My guest, Dorothy Leland and I, shared personal stories to highlight the challenging journey of diagnosis and the resilience needed to manage this disease.

This episode sheds light on the complexities of Lyme disease. Our discussion aims to arm our listeners, particularly active agers, with the knowledge to protect themselves and enjoy their passions without fear.

**Understanding Lyme Disease**: Lyme disease is a tick-borne illness that can cause a spectrum of symptoms, from flu-like symptoms to more severe health complications if untreated. It's essential for everyone, especially those who enjoy outdoor activities, to be aware of how to protect themselves.

**Personal Stories**: Wendy shares the harrowing journey of her husband's initial misdiagnosis, and how they came to find the correct diagnosis of Lyme disease. Dorothy discusses her daughter's battle with Lyme disease, which left her wheelchair-bound for three years.

**Preventative Measures**: The importance of protective clothing treated with permethrin, proper tick removal techniques using tweezers, and the advisability against old methods like smothering ticks with Vaseline or using heat.

**Symptom Checklist**: Dorothy Leland elaborates on the importance of lymedisease.org's symptom checklist, which can be a critical tool for discussing potential Lyme disease with healthcare providers.

**Stay Protected**: As you plan your next adventure outdoors, remember to dress appropriately, use insect repellent, and conduct thorough tick checks upon returning indoors. Visit lymedisease.org for more resources and a symptom checklist.

Protective clothing can be found at: Insect Shield, look for clothing treated with permethrin.

Insect repellents recommended include Lemon Eucalyptus Oil or Picaridin

**Subscribe and Join the Community**: Don’t miss our next episode on stroke awareness. Subscribe to our newsletter at heyboomer.biz and stay tuned for more enriching discussions that help redefine aging.

**Support our Sponsor**: Plan your next trip with RoadScholar.org/HeyBoomer You will be glad you did!