ProAging Podcast

Mindy Mitchell’s story, shared in a candid conversation with Steve Gurney of the Positive Aging Community, offers a compelling narrative about solo aging, decision-making, and the importance of listening to one’s heart. As a 73-year-old woman who identifies as a “solo ager,” Mindy’s journey from a life plan continuing care retirement community (CCRC) in Washington State to a vibrant new life in South Florida underscores the value of adaptability, self-awareness, and community in navigating the complexities of aging alone.

Watch video and see full article here https://www.retirementlivingsourcebook.com/videos/real-life-story-navigating-solo-aging-life-plan-communities-ccrc-a-journey-of-self-discovery

In a recent interview with Steve Gurney of the Positive Aging Community, registered nurses Elisabeth Mack and Sherri Mack shared their expertise on plant-based therapy, specifically cannabis and hemp-derived products, for older adults. With decades of nursing experience, both have transitioned from traditional medical settings to pioneering the use of cannabinoids to improve quality of life, particularly for seniors. Their company, Holistic Caring and The Green Nurse, offers education, coaching, and consulting to help individuals navigate this evolving field Bloom Hemp CBD, their sister company, specializes in organic hemp-based CBD formulas tailored to target specific symptoms. They also provide free access to a nurse hotline and personalized care plans to support your wellness journey.

Personal Journeys to Plant-Based Medicine

Elisabeth Mack, MBA, BSN, RN, discovered cannabis as medicine after a bicycle accident left her reliant on high doses of ibuprofen and muscle relaxants. Introduced to CBD through a topical massage at her chiropractor’s office, she experienced reduced inflammation and pain after adding CBD extracts to her supplement regimen, prompting her to research cannabis extensively. This led to her book, Cannabis for Health: Become a Coach, and the development of training programs for healthcare professionals, nurses and patients.

Sherri Mack, BSN, RN, widely known as The Green Nurse, experienced a life-altering health crisis in 2012 that left her hospitalized in the ICU and dependent on numerous pharmaceuticals. Her turning point came when a 70-year-old nurse introduced her to cannabis, which enabled her to transition off 18 medications. Motivated to empower others through her experience, Sherri founded The Green Nurse. In 2021, she joined forces with Elisabeth’s Holistic Caring, creating a robust educational platform called Holistic Caring & The Green Nurse. This platform features a free network designed to help individuals adopt, optimize, and maintain holistic approaches to health and wellness using plant medicines.

Cannabis nursing has emerged as a recognized specialty, officially endorsed by the American Nurses Association in 2023. The National Council of State Boards of Nursing now requires nurses to be educated on cannabis as a form of medicine. Key resources, such as Cannabis: A Handbook for Nurses (featuring Chapter 9, "The Cannabis Nurse Experience," co-authored by Sherri) and Elisabeth’s book, offer valuable professional training. Their comprehensive 30-unit health coach program empowers nurses to incorporate cannabis therapy into their practice, broadening access to this specialized care.

Elisabeth and Sherri Mack are transforming how older adults approach plant-based therapy, offering a compassionate, evidence-based alternative to traditional pharmaceuticals. By combining their nursing expertise with personalized coaching, they empower seniors to manage pain, enhance well-being, and live their best lives. For those interested, their resources at Holistic Caring and Bloom Hemp provide a trusted starting point to explore this natural option.

For more information, visit Holistic Caring & The Green Nurse  https://holisticcaring.com/ or contact their free nurse line at 970-404-HOPE(4673) to begin your journey with plant-based therapy.

Interactive discussion with a live audience, featuring thought leader Wendl Kornfeld, provided an insightful and inspiring look into the challenges and solutions of “solo aging”—growing older without immediate family nearby. Hosted by the Positive Aging Community, the session brought together older adults from across the United States for a candid conversation on building support networks, fostering resilience, and finding belonging as we age.

Wendl Kornfeld’s personal story underscores the reality of solo aging. Married for over 40 years but without adult children and with a spouse in declining health, Kornfeld realized over a decade ago the importance of constructing a robust support team. She described how, in 2013, she began organizing small focus groups for older adults in similar circumstances. These meetings, initially held in private homes, evolved into a larger movement now known as "Community as Family." The group started with six attendees at New York’s Temple Emanu-El and now boasts a mailing list of more than 80, providing both practical resources and genuine friendships.

Kornfeld emphasized that community is as vital as resilience in navigating the later stages of life. Drawing from her experience and academic studies in the psychology of aging, she highlighted:

Participants openly discussed emotional hurdles, financial constraints, physical limitations, and isolation—especially for introverts and those with disabilities. Kornfeld explained that urban, suburban, and rural environments present different opportunities and challenges but encouraged everyone to seek out what’s available in their community, especially through county Departments of Aging.

The discussion was rich with personal stories—of pet owners bonding over dog walks, support groups forming around shared diagnoses, and strangers becoming trusted friends and even health care proxies. Kornfeld championed the idea that if you build it, they will come, encouraging attendees to start small support groups, develop mission statements, and be proactive about community-building.Full recording and more details here

A recent interview by the Positive Aging Community showcased Hello Everyday, an innovative technology designed to support aging adults in living independently, safely, and comfortably at home. Founder Kabir Bhatia and user Rebecca Lerback joined host Steve Gurney to discuss the origins, functionality, and real-world impacts of this unique solution.

Hello Everyday was born out of the founders’ personal experiences caring for aging relatives. Kabir Bhatia shared how observing his own parents' aging journeys, particularly his father's illness and passing, illuminated the everyday challenges faced by older adults living alone. Together with co-founders Dr. Mark Levitt, Dr. Huang, and Don, the team set out to fill a crucial gap: providing a simple, unobtrusive reassurance system for both seniors and their families.

The Hello Everyday sensor is about the size of a pack of cards and functions as a human presence detector. The device, made in Lake Oswego, Oregon, is simply plugged in—primarily in a high-traffic area such as the kitchen. This placement capitalizes on daily routines, providing a clear snapshot of activity patterns and peace of mind for caregivers. The device doesn’t require wearables or complicated setups, intentionally minimizing disruptions to daily life while maximizing privacy and dignity.

An hourly activity dashboard accessible through a secure link allows family members to instantly see if their loved one is "up and about." If movement is detected and routines appear normal, they can rest easy; any significant change prompts timely check-ins and conversations, rather than panicked guessing or unnecessary intrusion.

Rebecca Lerback described how the device has changed her family's experience with long-distance caregiving. With siblings spread across Oregon, Washington, and California, staying connected and informed was often stressful before Hello Everyday. Now, daily messages and dashboard access allow each family member to receive reassurance at their preferred detail level—some wanting just a simple "all is well," others checking more frequently.

Rebecca shared how knowing her mother's idiosyncratic routines enabled warmer, more genuine conversations, rather than calls solely focused on health and safety. It’s helped avoid her mother feeling "parented" while making family logistics more manageable.

In addition to motion sensing, Hello Everyday’s built-in temperature sensor alerts families if home conditions become unsafe—such as if temperatures exceed 90°F or drop below 50°F. This feature addresses a frequent concern: older adults sometimes avoid using air conditioning or heating out of worry for utility costs, unknowingly placing themselves at risk.

Listening to customer feedback, the Hello Everyday team is releasing a wireless emergency button. Unlike traditional pull cords tied to a single room, these buttons can be placed anywhere around the home—with zero need for charging or batteries. Seniors can keep one with them at all times, using it to call for help if they fall or need urgent assistance. The device remains discreet and functional, offering active monitoring and emergency backup without added burden.

In a marketplace crowded with complex monitoring technologies and wearable “I’ve fallen” devices, Hello Everyday stands out by stripping the solution down to what matters most: reliable confirmation of daily activity, delivered with respect and minimal intrusion. Seniors maintain autonomy, families enjoy tangible peace of mind, and everyone benefits from better communication—not just about health, but about life.

As Steve Gurney summarized during the interview, technology like Hello Everyday is not just about safety but about sustaining the independence and dignity so many older adults cherish—while easing the anxiety and logistical hurdles often faced by families.

For more information click here

View the recording at this link

Solo aging, defined as aging without the traditional support of a spouse, adult children, or close relatives, is a growing demographic reality for many individuals over 55. Far from a negative concept, solo aging is increasingly seen as an empowering journey that emphasizes proactive planning, community engagement, and the creation of a robust "personal village" to ensure a secure, purposeful, and joyful later life. This article explores the key aspects of solo aging, including its definition, the importance of planning, building a support network, addressing challenges, and available resources.Reframing Solo Aging

Solo aging encompasses a broad group, including those who are single, widowed, divorced, estranged from family, or whose children are unable or unwilling to provide care. As Steve Gurney notes, "We are all aging solo…there's only one person aging in my body, and it's me." The term, coined by Sara Zeff Geber, has evolved from focusing solely on childless individuals to anyone lacking a reliable support system. Unlike the outdated and disheartening term "elder orphan," "solo aging" is empowering, encouraging individuals to take ownership of their future with pride and agency. Even those with families are encouraged to plan for solo aging, as partners may pass away, and adult children may not be available or suitable as caregivers.

Proactive planning is the cornerstone of successful solo aging, preventing crises and providing peace of mind. As experts emphasize, "Planning for solo aging is much easier and far less stressful if it is done BEFORE a crisis." A comprehensive plan spans multiple life domains: health, finances, legal matters, housing, social connections, purpose, and spiritual well-being. Carol Marak’s "aging well circle" offers a framework for assessing these areas. Financial foresight is particularly critical, involving proactive saving, consulting financial advisors, and preparing for potential care costs. Such planning empowers individuals to maintain control over their lives and minimize burdens on others.

A "personal village" is the heart of solo aging, providing not just assistance but also purpose, joy, and belonging. Creating this network requires intentional effort, as solo agers must think differently about relationships. This village includes friends, neighbors, community members, and professionals, with an emphasis on age-diverse connections for mutual support. Practical strategies include:

This interdependence, rather than fierce independence, is key to thriving as a solo ager.

Finding a trustworthy medical or financial power of attorney (POA) is a significant challenge. Trustworthiness is paramount, and potential proxies—whether family, friends, or professionals like licensed fiduciaries, aging life care managers, or elder law attorneys—require relationship-building over time. Patient advocates and daily money managers can also assist in navigating healthcare and financial systems.

Recording of Steve Gurney, founder of the Positive Aging Community and Positive Aging Sourcebook, for a candid and insightful live discussion on solo aging at Charter Senior Living in Towson. In this episode, Steve shares his expertise on navigating the unique challenges and opportunities faced by individuals aging without traditional family support. Topics include:

Listen in for real-world advice, answers to common questions about senior living and solo aging. Whether you’re a solo ager yourself, a family member, or a professional in aging services, this conversation offers guidance and inspiration to empower your future choices.

Discussion between Steve Gurney and Laura Wayman, known as the Dementia Whisperer, explores the importance of journaling in dementia care. Laura shares her personal journey into dementia care, inspired by her parents' experiences, and emphasizes the value of documenting symptoms and behaviors over time. Journaling is presented as a tool for caregivers and individuals to track changes, improve communication with healthcare providers, and manage caregiver stress. The conversation highlights the emotional impact of dementia and the need for a loving approach to care. Laura offers practical advice on how to start journaling, the benefits of different formats, and the importance of understanding dementia symptoms. The session also addresses common challenges, such as driving safety and recognizing symptoms, while providing insights into living a purposeful life with dementia. Laura's resources, including her book and online support group, offer further guidance for families and professionals seeking to become dementia-aware.  

This talk was inspired from a previous conversation with Laura in April 2025, click here to view

Video, chat and additional resources

Read the Positive Aging Community Article with additional journaling resources

When Wally Klatch received a diagnosis of early-stage dementia while living outside Jerusalem, his life shifted in ways both expected and profoundly surprising. In a recent conversation with Steve Gurney of the Positive Aging Community, Wally reflected on a journey that has moved from fear and darkness to meaning, creativity, and even joy. 

Wally, a seasoned management consultant, spent much of his career helping organizations connect the dots and streamline operations. He lived in Israel for three decades, raising four children and embracing the vibrant rhythms of life abroad. But about three years ago, symptoms he chalked up to normal aging began to interfere with memory in undeniable ways. The defining moment came after a visit to Israel’s famed Roman amphitheater in Caesarea—an outing he excitedly recounted to his son, only to learn they had already been there together two weeks prior. Realizing something was amiss, Wally sought medical help, received a neurological assessment, and was ultimately diagnosed with mild cognitive impairment, the early stage of dementia. 

The emotional aftermath was immediate and intense. “There were only two words in my life—dementia and dying,” Wally shared. The diagnosis led to a period he describes as “black”—a time when fear, grief, and uncertainty clouded every thought. “It was a very dark period, where I had to first figure it out for myself before reaching out.” Gradually, however, a turning point arrived. With the support of his faith, trusted individuals, and community groups, Wally came to see that even as he was “dying, I’m also living.” That realization marked the beginning of a new chapter. 

“Guidance became really important—from a lot of people and from religion,” Wally explained. He joined support groups and, importantly, allowed himself the time and space to absorb his situation on his own terms. He found that, while others could help, only he could truly reconcile his new reality. 

As he adjusted, Wally noticed gradual changes, including difficulties with movement in his hand—a symptom that would eventually lead to various diagnoses, including Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s, depending on the neurologist. “Apparently there are ways to interpret things,” he mused. Yet he learned to become his own best observer, noting what changed and sharing those discoveries with his care team. 

Crucially, Wally’s story is not just about managing decline but about reframing experience. He launched a website, TheAlzheimersConversation.com, to share personal video journals and reflections. In doing so, he coined his own term: From “MCI” (mild cognitive impairment) to “MEE”—mild emotional enhancement. “My brain is working less, but my feelings are working more,” he said, describing a newfound balance of cognition and emotion, and a rich sense of presence. 

Through writing, community, and faith, Wally now sees life and death not as rigid opposites, but as dance partners—sometimes letting living lead, other times letting dying take the floor. His journey, marked by authentic vulnerability and creative growth, offers powerful reassurance: “You can live a purposeful and productive life with a dementia diagnosis.” And for anyone facing similar news, his advice is compassionate and simple—allow yourself to feel, to seek guidance, and to remember that, even now, you’re still very much alive. 

Resources mentioned in this discussion include: 

We are the first generation in history that has some say about how, when, and where we die. That empowerment allows personalized humane, compassionate, and family centered care that respects and supports people according to their own values and wishes. Dan Morhaim, M.D., is a board-certified physician in emergency and internal medicine, served as a member of the Maryland House of Delegates where he was deputy majority leader and contributed to numerous health-related committees and initiatives 

Preparing for A Better End: Expert Lessons on Death and Dying for You and Your Loved Ones https://www.thebetterend.com/order-book

Improving Dying https://hospicefoundation.org/hfa-product/improving-dying-book/

This chat offered a wide-ranging, compassionate discussion about end-of-life planning, resources for advance care, and community engagement, with numerous practical tools and perspectives for participants to explore further.

Full video with resources and chat transcript https://www.retirementlivingsourcebook.com/videos/improving-dying-preparing-for-a-better-end-with-dan-morhaim-m-d

Dr. Beverly Thorn, a clinical psychologist with extensive experience in neuroscience and chronic illness, shares her personal journey and professional insights in her book "Before I Lose My Mind." The book is a resource for caregivers, focusing on the challenges and emotional toll of caring for a loved one with dementia. 

Dr. Thorn's journey began when her husband, Walt, was diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease in 2013, leading her to become his primary caregiver until his passing in 2020. The book is structured into three parts: pre-diagnosis and early progression, serious disease progression, and life after Walt. It offers personal stories, practical advice, and electronic resources for caregivers. Dr. Thorn emphasizes the importance of caregiver self-care, the role of end-of-life doulas, and the need for a supportive community. She also addresses common issues such as survivor guilt and the emotional challenges faced by caregivers. Dr. Thorn continues to support caregivers through speaking engagements and her online resource directory, aiming to provide guidance and support for those navigating similar journeys. 

For more details visit https://drbeverlythorn.com/

Video recording at https://www.retirementlivingsourcebook.com/videos/beverly-e-thorn-ph-d-author-of-before-lose-my-own-mind-navigating-life-as-a-dementia-caregiver