In this conversation, Shari Ross shares her journey from acting to becoming an expert in assisted living and senior care. She discusses the misconceptions families have about senior living, the importance of social interaction for seniors, and how to navigate conversations with aging parents. Shari introduces her 'Simple Method' for understanding senior living options and offers advice on managing family dynamics during care decisions. She also explores the future of senior living and shares a personal success story that highlights the positive impact of community living on seniors' lives.

For more information, contact Shari Ross at: seniorlivingmadesimple.com

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When it’s time to move into a smaller space or retirement community, what do you take—and what do you let go? Kate Anderson and Blair Hammond from Downsizable share the emotional and practical steps to make downsizing easier and more meaningful. The conversation also underscores the importance of families discussing downsizing and the resources available to support them in the process, emphasizing that no one should face this transition alone.

Downsizable (https://www.Downsizable.com)

The National Association of Senior Move Managers (https://www.nasmm.org)

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In this episode, Amy Adler discusses the evolution of resume writing and the importance of understanding job seekers' needs, especially for those navigating career transitions later in life. She emphasizes the significance of crafting a compelling resume, addressing ageism, and the role of networking in job searching. Additionally, Amy shares insights on marketing resume writing services and the value of professional development and certifications. The conversation concludes with practical tips for enhancing LinkedIn profiles and the importance of self-reflection in the job application process.

Amy Adler is the president of Five Strengths Career Transition Experts, specializing in resumes and career portfolio development. She is a Certified Master Resume Writer (CMRW), Certified Executive Resume Master (CERM), and Nationally Certified Online Profile Expert (NCOPE). She judges in the annual Toast of the Resume Writing Industry (TORI) Awards, having won first and third places for Best Executive Resume. She presents to industry and to peers and is the author of Courageous Career Change: Fearlessly Earn the Executive Role You Deserve. She holds an MBA from Boston College and a BA from Franklin & Marshall College.

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In this conversation, Andrea shares insights on dating over 50, discussing the challenges and opportunities that come with it. She emphasizes the importance of mindset shifts, effective communication, and practical strategies for navigating the dating scene. Andrea also addresses common misconceptions about online dating and highlights the joy of connection through the success stories of her clients.

Resources: 

As the founder of It’s Just Lunch in the 1990s, Andrea McGinty revolutionized the matchmaking industry. Her innovative service grew to over 110 locations worldwide and facilitated over 33,000 setups, resulting in more than 10,000 marriages. Today, her company, 33,000 Dates, focuses on helping the over-45 crowd find love in the second act of their lives. Currently, 65% of her clients are in long-term relationships, a testament to her expertise and unique methods.

33,000Dates.com  https://www.33000dates.com/

 Andrea McGinty’s latest book, 2nd Acts: Winning Strategies for Dating Over 50, combines personal anecdotes and professional expertise to guide singles on finding meaningful connections later in life. Andrea’s vibrant, no-nonsense approach continues to inspire and empower those ready to embrace their second act with optimism and love.

2nd Acts: Winning Strategies for Dating Over 50 https://amzn.to/44Q9Vij

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In this conversation, Deborah Heiser discusses the psychological hurdles faced during retirement, emphasizing the importance of redefining one's identity beyond work. She highlights the significance of mentorship and legacy, illustrating how individuals can find fulfillment in giving back to the community. The discussion also addresses the epidemic of loneliness among retirees and the power of connections to foster a sense of belonging and purpose.

Dr. Deborah Heiser is an applied developmental psychologist, the CEO/Founder of The Mentor Project, and author of The Mentorship Edge. She is a TEDx speaker, member of Marshall Goldsmith 100 Coaches, Thinkers 50 Radar List, expert contributor to Psychology Today and is also an Adjunct Professor.

 Resources:

The Mentor Project https://mentorproject.org/

The Mentorship Edge by Deborah Heiser

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They tell you to eat more fiber and get your steps in—but what about the stuff they don’t tell you? Like why getting off the floor feels like a gym workout, or why no one warned us about retirement blues, frozen shoulders, and the mysterious sound your knees now make?

In this candid and laugh-out-loud episode, Cheryl and Kelvin open up about the unexpected realities of aging—physical, emotional, and romantic. From invisibility in public spaces to intimacy in the golden years, we’re talking about it all. The aches, the grief, the reinvention, and the beauty of embracing where we are right now.

Plus:

•      What makes aging feel taboo?
•      The surprising role of humor and life after 60
•     Questions to ask yourself as your body changes     
•      Why talking about it makes everything easier

Grab a comfy chair, your heating pad, and your favorite cup of tea—this is one you’ll want to share with a friend.

Resources:

“Aging: What to Expect” (Mayo Clinic)

A comprehensive guide to physical aging—from heart and joint changes to sexuality—and how to stay proactive mayoclinic.org+1agingoptions.com+1.

“Still Learning, Still Grateful: Discovering Unexpected Truths About Aging” (CNBC/agingoptions)

Shares insights from a study of seniors proving that later life often brings increased happiness and wisdom agingoptions.com+1harvardpilgrim.org+1.

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In this episode of 'Gray with Benefits', hosts Kelvin and Cheryl explore the concept of aging gracefully. They discuss their personal experiences with aging, the physical changes that accompany it, and the importance of humor in navigating this inevitable process. The conversation emphasizes self-acceptance and the idea that there is no single way to age, encouraging listeners to embrace their unique journeys.

 Embracing Aging with Humor and Wisdom

   Sally Jessy Raphael on Turning 90

Talk show legend Sally Jessy Raphael reflects on her vibrant life as she celebrates her 90th birthday, sharing insights on vitality, desire, and debunking myths surrounding aging. People.com

    Aging Gracefully: Embrace the Golden Years on Your Terms

This article discusses the shift from "anti-aging" to "pro-aging," highlighting how embracing gray hair and natural aging is becoming a symbol of confidence and self-acceptance. Aging.com+1Enotalone+1

  Aging with a Smile: The Power of Humor and Nostalgia in Our Later Years

Explores how embracing age with humor can enrich life, helping individuals find beauty in their experiences rather than focusing solely on what has changed. SATNEY

    100 Women Dish On Why They Chose Gray Hair

A collection of personal stories from women who embraced their natural gray hair, discussing the empowerment and authenticity that came with the decision. Byrdie+2The New Knew+2Allure+2

    Embracing the Beauty of Aging—and the Gray Hair That Comes With It

Highlights the trend of embracing gray hair, with insights from salon professionals and individuals who found freedom in letting their natural color shine. Edina Magazine

    Paulina Porizkova, 60, Loves Her Gray Hair

Supermodel Paulina Porizkova discusses her appreciation for her gray hair and how embracing aging has brought her a sense of authenticity and confidence. Page Six

 🤣 Laughing Through the Changes

    Top 55 Inspiring & Humorous Aging Quotes

A compilation of funny and inspiring quotes that celebrate the humor in aging, perfect for lightening the mood and embracing the journey. SeniorFunPrints

    Funny Quotes About Aging: Hilarious One-Liners for the Golden Years

A collection of witty sayings that poke fun at wrinkles, forgetfulness, and the joys of senior discounts, reminding us that laughter is the best medicine. Puns About Puns

🧘‍♀️ Body Image & Self-Acceptance

     Midlife Wisdom on Beauty, Body Image, and Aging Gratefully

A discussion on embracing the natural changes that come with aging, from hair color to body shape, and how gratitude can significantly impact our outlook. Life, Repurposed

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In this episode of Gray with Benefits, Cheryl and Kelvin explore the importance of joy in the aging process. They discuss how joy is not just a fleeting emotion but a form of resistance against life's challenges. The conversation delves into the obstacles that can hinder our ability to feel joy, such as exhaustion and negative mindsets, and offers practical tips for inviting joy into our lives, including dancing, keeping a joy list, and celebrating small moments. Ultimately, they emphasize that joy is essential for well-being and should be actively pursued, even amidst difficulties.

📚 Essential Reads on Joy and Aging

1. The Harvard Study of Adult Development

This nearly 80-year-long study reveals that strong relationships and a positive outlook are key predictors of long-term happiness and health in older adults. Harvard Gazette

2. National Institute on Aging: Participating in Activities You Enjoy As You Age

Engaging in hobbies and social activities can lower the risk of health problems, including dementia and heart disease, and contribute to a longer lifespan. National Institute on Aging

3. Positive Attitude About Aging Could Boost Health

Research from Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health indicates that individuals with a more positive attitude toward aging tend to live longer and healthier lives. Harvard Public Health

4. Joy, an Emotion That Transcends the Age Barrier

This article emphasizes that joy remains a vital component of well-being for older adults, even though it's often overlooked in scientific literature. Default

5. Aging Is Inevitable, So Why Not Do It Joyfully? Here’s How

This TED Ideas piece offers practical insights on embracing joy in aging, such as engaging in cultural activities and stimulating the senses to enhance well-being. ideas.ted.com

Journal Prompts - Use these prompts to reflect on your experiences with joy and aging.

https://bit.ly/4dLmUG0

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In this episode of Gray with Benefits, hosts Cheryl and Kelvin discuss the realities of retirement, exploring the misconceptions and unexpected joys that come with this new phase of life. They share personal experiences of reinventing their lives after leaving the 9-to-5 grind, the importance of finding new structures and routines, and the value of community and lifelong learning. The conversation emphasizes that retirement is not a one-size-fits-all experience and encourages listeners to embrace the journey of self-discovery and growth.

Want to learn more about reinventing life after work? Here are some powerful reads and resources:

1.     National Institute on Aging – Cognitive Health

2.     The Creativity and Aging Study (NEA)

3.     Bureau of Labor Statistics on Older Workers (Search “unretirement trends”)

4.     Journal Article on Purpose in Retirement (Kim & Moen, 2002)

5.     Meta-analysis on Loneliness and Health

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In this inaugural episode of the podcast, hosts Kelvin and Cheryl share their personal experiences and insights about transitioning into retirement. They discuss the challenges and surprises they faced, including the lack of structure, healthcare bureaucracy, and redefining their identities and relationships. The conversation emphasizes the importance of community and sharing resources as they navigate this new phase of life together.

1. The Emotional Shift from Work Life to Retirement:

1.        "Adjusting to Retirement: Emotional and Psychological Challenges"
This article delves into the psychological adjustments retirees face, emphasizing the importance of building a new life structure post-retirement.  Supportive Care

2.        "Navigating the Five Emotional Stages of Retirement"
This piece outlines the emotional stages individuals may experience during the transition to retirement, offering guidance on navigating each phase.  NeuroLaunch.com

2. Changing Family Dynamics:

1.        "Strengthening Older Adulthood Parent-Child Connections"
This resource explores the evolving relationships between aging parents and adult children, providing strategies to enhance communication and mutual support.  Psych News Daily+3NDSU+3secondwindmovement.com+3

2.        "Navigating Family Dynamics in Later Life – Boundaries Are Key!"
This article discusses the importance of setting boundaries to maintain healthy relationships with family members during later stages of life.  Sixty and Me

3. The Social Side of Senior Living:

1.        "Making Friends After 65: Social Groups for Older Adults"
This guide offers practical tips for seniors looking to expand their social circles and engage in community activities. Carewell

2.        "22 Ways For Retirees To Stay Social"
This article provides a comprehensive list of strategies for retirees to maintain and build social connections, emphasizing the benefits of an active social life.  Senior Resource

4. Dealing with Unsolicited Advice:

1.        "6 Polite but Effective Ways to Deal With Unwanted Advice"
This piece offers strategies to handle unsolicited suggestions gracefully while setting clear boundaries.  Psychology Today

2.        "How to Handle Unwanted Advice by Setting Boundaries"
This article discusses the importance of establishing boundaries to manage unsolicited advice and maintain personal well-being.  Verywell Mind

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