ProAging Podcast

In 2025, the Positive Aging Community platform hosted over 50 live and interactive discussions, attracting over 10,000 attendees and thousands of additional viewers and listeners through on-demand recordings and podcasts. As we reflect back from early 2026, these sessions—spanning caregiving, policy, solo aging, health, end-of-life planning, and more—provided practical tools, expert insights, and community connection for older adults, families, and professionals.

The top 10 below, curated from registrations across the full year of discussions, highlight the most impactful topics. 

These sessions collectively reframed aging with optimism, action, and empathy. Now, here are the top 10 most engaged-with discussions from 2025:

Leading the list, this session shared practical strategies to reduce stress for dementia caregivers. Drawing from author Tracy Cram Perkins' extensive experience caring for family members, it emphasized self-care, laughter, and preparing for unique journeys of cognitive decline. A must-watch for anyone supporting loved ones with dementia. Watch here

With 25% of U.S. adults remaining childfree, this discussion illuminated the distinct challenges and opportunities for those aging without children. It explored planning for support, finances, and emotional well-being in a society built around traditional family structures. Watch here

Expert Howard Gleckman broke down key updates to these critical programs, offering clarity on how policy shifts affect long-term care, coverage, and costs for older adults. Essential viewing amid evolving healthcare landscapes. Watch here

This timely exploration examined the implications of political changes on aging services, including potential impacts on funding, accessibility, and innovation in senior care. A balanced look at navigating policy in uncertain times. Watch here

A dynamic panel of solo aging experts shared real-life strategies, successes, and lessons learned. This roundtable fostered inspiration and practical tips for independently navigating later years with confidence. Watch here

Far from morbid, this session celebrated the liberating practice of "dostadning"—decluttering with intention to ease burdens on loved ones and find personal joy in simplicity. A refreshing take on legacy and mindfulness. Watch here

Emphasizing chosen family, this discussion guided solo agers in cultivating strong community ties for emotional and practical support. Empowering advice on turning neighbors and friends into a robust network. Watch here

Occupational therapist Carol Chiang shared wisdom from her book on deciding whether to modify your current home or relocate. Practical secrets for safe, fulfilling living arrangements in later life. Watch here

Addressing a common yet overlooked issue, this session unpacked vestibular disorders causing dizziness and falls, offering solutions to restore balance and independence for active aging. Watch here

This compassionate exploration delved into the roots of hoarding behavior, providing pathways to healing, organization, and mental clarity without judgment. A vital resource for affected individuals and their supporters. Watch here

These top discussions underscore a powerful theme of 2025: positive aging is about proactive choices, community building, and embracing change. Whether you're planning for yourself or supporting others, these resources from Positive Aging Community offer hope and tools for a vibrant future.

1. Five Little Known Secrets to Make Dementia Caregiving Easier2. Spotlighting the Unique Needs of Childfree Solo Agers3. Understanding Recent Medicare & Medicaid Changes4. Aging Services in the Trump Era5. Solo Aging All-Stars Roundtable Discussion6. Discover the Joys of Swedish Death Cleaning7. Community as Family: Empowering Solo Agers to Build Their Own Support Networks8. Age in Place or Find a New Space9. Balance for Life: Vestibular Solutions for Older Adults10. Understanding Hoarding: A Path to Healing and Clarity

Join Steve Gurney from Positive Aging Community as he chats with experts Lisa Limper, Joy Cochran, and Elexa Waugh about urban poling – the game-changing walking tool that's like cross-country skiing without skis!

Discover how these specialized poles turn regular walks into full-body workouts, engaging 90% of your muscles. Perfect for rehab, balance, and fitness – from Parkinson's patients to post-surgery recovery.

Key highlights:

Backed by 300+ studies, urban poles reduce stigma, boost confidence, and promote active aging.

Get 20% off Joy's January virtual course with code TLC20!

Links:

Subscribe for more aging tips! #UrbanPoling #NordicWalking #ActiveAging #MobilityTools

In this inspiring episode, join Susan Zimmer (co-founder and administrator) and Karyn Walsh (LCSW with 20+ years specializing in older adults) from NOVA Older Adult Counseling (OAC) in Fairfax, VA, as they share the story of their pioneering practice.

Founded in 2016 as a mother-daughter collaboration, OAC was created to address the unique mental health needs of seniors—tackling grief, isolation, caregiving, retirement transitions, health challenges, and more. With a team of 21+ seasoned therapists (all over 40, bringing wisdom and life experience), OAC makes therapy accessible and affordable by accepting Medicare, offering unlimited sessions, telehealth, in-home visits, and free initial consultations.

Hear how specialized counseling empowers older adults to reclaim joy, build coping skills, combat loneliness (called a "real pandemic"), and navigate life's changes—whether solo aging or with family support. They dispel stigma, highlight the value of an objective sounding board, and explain why therapy is transformative at any age.

Guest insights from Steve Gurney add real-world perspective on why every solo ager needs a therapist.

If you're an older adult, caregiver, or adult child facing transitions, this conversation will motivate you to seek support. Therapy isn't a luxury—it's a tool for resilience and connection.

Visit https://novaolderadultcounseling.com/ or call 703-667-0752 for a free consult.

Timestamps:0:00 Intro2:15 Origin Story of OAC10:40 Meet the Experts18:20 Benefits of Therapy for Seniors28:50 Breaking Barriers: Cost & Stigma35:15 Virtual & Home Options42:30 Who They Serve & Future Plans48:00 Call to Action

#OlderAdultMentalHealth #SeniorTherapy #GriefCounseling #AgingWell #MedicareTherapy #TelehealthForSeniors

In the quiet suburbs of Pasadena, California, Jermaine Ee found himself at a crossroads—not his own, but his parents'. As the oldest of four siblings, Jermaine had always admired the grit of his immigrant parents, who in their twenties packed their bags and left their homelands for a new life in Oklahoma of all places. "I don't think I fully appreciated how big of a decision that was until I turned 30 myself," Jermaine reflected during a recent conversation on the Positive Aging Community podcast, hosted by Steve Gurney. "At 30 years old, my parents separately, individually from two different places, decided to pack their bags and move to this country... especially going to a place where nobody looked like them."

That sense of bold reinvention would echo through Jermaine's family story, shaping not just their past but their approach to aging, loss, and what comes next. What began as casual chats about retirement evolved into profound trips, heartbreaking realizations, and even a new tech startup aimed at helping others plan their legacies. Jermaine's tale is a raw reminder: Time is finite, dreams are personal, and the best way to honor our loved ones is to listen—really listen—before it's too late.

In an era where the global population is aging faster than ever—projected to have more people over 65 than under 18 within the next decade—staying in your own home shouldn't feel like an impossible dream. Yet for many, the transition from independent living to "aging in place" is fraught with hidden costs, safety pitfalls, and unspoken taboos. Enter Carol Chiang, an occupational therapist with 27 years of experience, mostly in home care, who has distilled her frontline wisdom into a practical guide: Age in Place or Find a New Space.In a recent lively discussion hosted by senior living advocate Steve (the transcript of which forms the backbone of this article), Chiang unpacked the book's core message: Aging well at home isn't about grand overhauls or pricey gadgets—it's about mindset shifts, early planning, and designs that work for everyone. From debunking myths about stair glides to championing "universal design," Chiang's insights empower families to turn homes into havens of independence. As she puts it, "The choices you make today are the consequences you're going to reap tomorrow. It's a gift to your future self."Watch the full discussion, chat and resources https://www.retirementlivingsourcebook.com/videos/age-in-place-or-find-a-new-space-occupational-therapist-carol-chiang-shares-secrets-from-her-new-book

In a rapidly aging world, where the growth of older adults is reshaping societies and economies, innovation isn't just welcome—it's essential. The National Institute on Aging (NIA) Startup Challenge and Accelerator, now in its 2025 edition, is fueling this transformation. From 300 applicants nationwide, 21 standout companies were selected for their groundbreaking work in devices, digital health, and activity-promoting tools. Hosted by the NIA's Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) program, the accelerator provides funding, mentorship, and networking to bridge the gap between cutting-edge ideas and real-world impact. Learn more about the program here.

On a recent episode of the Positive Aging Community podcast, host Steve Gurney sat down with four of these trailblazers: Kareem Elfoulie of Senior Shield Technologies, Marie Brodsky of WISE Connect, Neal Shah of CareYaya, and Stefano Selorio of Carevocacy. What emerged was a tapestry of personal stories, disruptive solutions, and shared optimism about dismantling the stigmas and barriers of aging. These entrepreneurs, many drawing from their own family caregiving experiences, are reimagining dignity, connection, and affordability for older adults.

https://www.retirementlivingsourcebook.com/videos/innovators-from-the-2025-national-institute-on-aging-nia-startup-challenge

In the quiet chaos of a family crisis, a single phone call can upend your world. For Beth Pinsker, CFP®, that call came when her 76-year-old mother, living independently in Florida, faced spinal surgery and needed help managing her daily life—and her money. What followed was nine months of medical ups and downs, culminating in her mother's passing and the grueling task of settling her estate. Pinsker, a retirement and financial planning columnist at MarketWatch, channeled this experience into her new book, My Mother's Money: A Guide to Financial Caregiving. It's not just a memoir; it's a roadmap for the 63 million Americans—often sandwiched between their own lives and aging parents—thrust into financial caregiving roles.As a Certified Financial Planner who doesn't manage client money, Pinsker's expertise shines through her journalistic lens. "I just write about this stuff for educational purposes and to help guide people through holistic planning," she explains in a recent interview with the Positive Aging Community. Her book demystifies the "mess" of elder finances, blending raw storytelling with practical tools. Structured in five parts—Getting Started, The Cost of Care, How to Make the Money Last, Settling the Estate, and Workbooks—it's designed to turn dread into doable steps.

Sam Simon, 85-year-old ex-Nader's Raider and lifelong troublemaker, shares his raw story in this exclusive interview with Steve Gurney of Positive Aging Community. Diagnosed with early-stage Alzheimer's, Sam turns terminal dread into triumphant advocacy via his memoir Dementia Man: An Existential Journey (Amazon: https://a.co/d/f7bJ8vq) and one-man play.

In a heartfelt conversation that blends personal vulnerability with practical wisdom, Joyce Kelly, an 81-year-old retiree from Silver Spring, Maryland, shares her unconventional approach to one of life's most daunting transitions: planning for aging. Hosted by Steve Gurney, founder and publisher of the Positive Aging SourceBook, the discussion reveals how Joyce turned her solo quest for a life plan community into a communal adventure. What started as a quiet exploration has inspired dozens of friends, neighbors, and even strangers to confront their fears about growing older—not alone, but together.

Group Power: Turning Solo Tours into Social Safaris

The catalyst was simple—a mention at her monthly women's group of Public Health Service retirees, a circle she's belonged to for over 30 years. When Joyce shared plans to attend an open house at a nearby life plan community, her friends' response surprised her: "Every woman said they wanted to join me." What she intended as a solo reconnaissance became a group outing. Over six months, Joyce and at least three companions attended open houses at eight communities within 20 miles of her home. These visits were possible because life plan communities across the county offer frequent open houses; no organizing required—just show up and learn, often with resident “ambassadors” who share unfiltered insights.

The Living Room Summit: A Panel of Peers, Not Pitchmen

The "working session" in Joyce's homeJoyce's boldest move? Hosting a "working session" in her home on healthy aging in place versus community living. Drawing from her women's group of former Public Health Service colleagues, two neighborhood book clubs, longtime friends and neighbors, and a local listserv, she invited 55 people. Forty showed up with furniture cleared to make room for folding chairs in her living and dining rooms.

Gurney's college analogy fits perfectly: Choosing a life plan community is like picking your next school—a large university's vast resources or a small liberal arts college's intimate vibe? "You don't get that inter-community opportunity" elsewhere, he marvels. Joyce's accidental "summit" bridged the gap, helping attendees "soak it up" without pressure. 

The Realities: Costs, Waitlists, and Solo Struggles

Amid the inspiration, hard truths emerge. Life plan communities are "extremely expensive," Joyce warns. Selling their Silver Spring home would cover an entrance fee, but monthly costs hover in the thousands—less for studios, but Paul balks at drastic downsizing. Younger friends worry for widowed mothers with limited means; even pooled family resources often fall short. The Sourcebook, Joyce adds, shines here, spotlighting affordable aging-in-place alternatives.

For singles—about 25% of Joyce's close circle—the hurdle is emotional: Uprooting a cherished townhouse alone at 80 feels "overwhelming." "When they moved in, they were in their thirties," she notes. Joyce now scouts tailored fits—a low-walk community for one friend, high-culture options for another, Rockville-specific spots for a third—offering to join tours as a buffer.

Don't Delay: The Universal Call to Action

Across eight visits (one community, seven times), Joyce has chatted with over 100 residents. Their mantra? "Don't delay. Move now." Gardens, gyms, musicals—they thrive when you're "young enough and energetic enough." No regrets for moving "too soon," only warnings against waiting for a health crisis.

For Joyce, this heightens tension with Paul: "I'm 81—how much longer do I want to risk it?" But her process replaces paralysis with possibility. "All of this—the meetings, the visits, reading resources—provides opportunities to replace fear with curiosity," she says. It's not about an "old age home" as a final stop; it's owning your path.

For now, her revolution ripples: A reminder that aging isn't a solo slog. Grab a friend, a book club, or a neighbor. Fear fades when curiosity leads the way.

In a world where aging brings complex challenges—from health shifts to family dynamics—professional guidance can transform overwhelm into empowerment. On November 5, 2025, Positive Aging host Steve Gurney led a lively roundtable with three seasoned Aging Life Care Managers®: Mindy Lee of ElderTree Care Management (Northern Virginia), Teresa Boring of Aging Well Eldercare (Maryland), and Jennifer T. Szakaly of Caregiving Corner (Charlotte, NC). These pros, representing larger practices with teams of 10-21, shared how they orchestrate seamless aging journeys. If you're caring for a loved one or planning your own later years, this discussion offers practical wisdom.

Aging Life Care Management isn't new—it's thrived since the 1980s as a holistic field blending social work, gerontology, and problem-solving. "We're experts in aging well," Szakaly explained. They partner with older adults to craft personalized plans, pivoting as needs evolve, to sidestep crises and amplify joy. The Aging Life Care Association® boasts over 2,000 members nationwide; find one at aginglifecare.org by zip code—urban areas yield dozens, rural spots may need broader searches.

Panelists drew vivid analogies: Mindy as the "orchestra conductor," harmonizing doctors, caregivers, families, and housing for safety and delight. Teresa likened it to "wedding planners for aging"—universal elements like care and finances, but tailored details, since no two strokes (or life stages) are identical. Jennifer emphasized their tagline: bridging today to aspirational tomorrows, whether independence or community living.

All three entered via social work or gerontology, drawn to its impact. Mindy shifted from child welfare to nursing homes and home health, finding her passion in "what I couldn't envision doing anything else." Teresa's grad specialization in aging launched her dream role, starting Debbie's Angels program. Szakaly grew her solo gig into a 21-person team over 20 years, loving the "rewarding problem-solving."

At the core? "What does living well look like for you?" Mindy urged. It's subjective—independence for some (like chat participant Irene), connections for others. They dive deep: initial visits uncover joys from lifelong hobbies, even in dementia, via art or music therapy. "We build plans around what brings joy," Mindy said, adapting if home isn't viable.

Transitions to senior living demand nuance. Families often arrive mid-crisis—"five-alarm blaze," per Mindy—resistant to losing autonomy. Experts assess clinically (care levels), personally (preferences like quiet vs. vibrant), and financially (private pay, LTC insurance, Medicaid). Crucially, no kickbacks from communities ensure objectivity. "We tour with clients, spotting nuances like an introvert needing an 8-bed unit," Mindy noted. Teresa scouts under-the-radar gems with "fantastic care for decades." Jennifer stresses resident connections: "Pair Mom with a beanie baby collector buddy—game-changer."

Home alternatives shine too. They vet co-housing, multigenerational setups, or modifications—handymen for grab bars, contractors for ramps—balancing sustainability against caregiver costs, which can soar regionally.

Beyond housing, they advocate fiercely. Accompanying to doctors (scheduling, transport, notes) fills gaps in brief visits. "We've noticed unsteady gait—PT orders?" Mindy prompts. For Ed's mom with knee issues and walker reliance, home-visit docs vary by area, but managers facilitate everything: rides, in-car help, follow-ups.

Therapies (OT, PT, speech) integrate seamlessly, in-home or community-based, per insurance. "We ensure what's needed, no matter the setting," Jennifer affirmed. Chatters like Leslie (therapist) and Melinda (community staff) praised this: managers enhance lifestyles, not compete.