Are you prepared for an aging parent crisis before it happens? Aging parent planning is the conversation most families avoid—until a fall, a health scare, or a sudden change forces decisions fast. In this episode of Real Talk on Aging, you’ll learn how to avoid an aging parent crisis, recognize risks inside the home, and start planning before “everything seems fine” turns into something urgent.

Hosted by Dave Ritterling and Barb Faust, this episode breaks down what an aging parent crisis actually looks like—from hidden dangers in the home and overlooked warning signs to the emotional and family dynamics that delay action. Drawing on decades of experience in senior care, Dave and Barb share how to spot risks early, navigate tough conversations with empathy, and create a proactive plan that keeps your loved ones safe while preserving their independence.

In this episode, you’ll learn how to:

• Identify hidden safety risks inside your parents’ home

• Recognize early warning signs before a crisis happens

• Start the aging conversation without causing resistance

• Create a simple 5-year plan for aging parent care

• Navigate family roles and avoid conflict during decision-making

Don’t risk waiting for a crisis to make decisions for you—learn how to plan ahead, reduce risk, and support your aging parents with confidence.

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Real Talk on Aging reveals why families fall behind the aging curve—and how to stay ahead before a crisis hits. In this episode of Real Talk on Aging, you’ll learn how subtle changes in your loved ones signal bigger shifts, and why waiting for “something major” can cost you time, options, and peace of mind. If you’ve ever felt unsure about what to look for or when to step in, this conversation gives you the clarity and confidence to act early.

Hosted by Dave Ritterling, SVP Global Operations at Visiting Angels, and Barb Faust, RN and Director of Program Development at Visiting Angels, this episode breaks down the reality of the aging curve—from overlooked warning signs and family denial to the importance of building a care team before emergencies happen. You’ll hear real examples from decades of experience in senior care, along with practical ways to recognize change, navigate tough conversations, and support your loved ones without overreacting. Whether you’re seeing your parents every day or only a few times a year, this episode will help you prepare for what’s ahead and protect the people you love.

In this episode, you’ll learn how to:

• Recognize early signs you’re already behind the aging curve

• Spot subtle changes most families overlook

• Navigate family dynamics and denial around aging

• Build a care team before a crisis forces decisions

• Support independence while reducing risk

Don’t risk waiting for a crisis to make decisions for you—learn how to stay ahead of the aging curve and take action with confidence.

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Real Talk on Aging is a podcast about the moments, decisions, and emotions that come with caring for an aging parent or loved one.

Hosted by Barb Faust, RN and Director of Program Development at Visiting Angels, and Dave Ritterling, Senior Vice President of Global Operations, the show brings thoughtful conversations with people who understand the realities of caregiving and the opportunity it creates to show up with compassion and presence.