The Age Guide: Perspectives on the Aging Journey

Aging happens to all of us, yet ageism remains one of the most accepted forms of bias in our society. In a special Ageism Awareness Day episode, Gretchen talks with Jeanette Leardi, social gerontologist and author of Aging Sideways. Drawing from both research and personal experience as a family caregiver, Jeanette challenges the myths and misconceptions that shape how our culture views aging and invites listeners to try out an entirely new perspective. Jeanette explains the science behind why aging brains become better equipped for perspective-taking, emotional regulation, and resilience over time. 

Learn how ageist attitudes are formed, why harmful stereotypes persist, and how older adults can advocate for themselves in healthcare settings and everyday interactions.

Resources: 

Jeanette Leardi | social gerontologist | public speaker 

Ageism Awareness Day - American Society on Aging 

UN Decade of Healthy Ageing – The Platform 

Age-friendly Environments | World Health Organization 

Find Your State's Advance Directive Form - CaringInfo 

TraceyGendron.com 

This Chair Rocks – Ashton Applewhite 

Caregiver Services – AgeGuide

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Podcast: ageguide.org/the-age-guide-podcast
Website: ageguide.org

In this episode of Aging Well, Dr. Tanvi Bhatt, Professor of Physical Therapy at the University of Illinois Chicago, and Alaine Kvedaras, AgeGuide’s Health Promotion and Education Specialist, explore why falls are not an inevitable part of aging and what we can do to reduce your risk.

Dr. Bhatt explains the science behind balance, including the important difference between maintaining balance during everyday activities and reacting to an unexpected slip or trip. She shares how reactive balance training can help the brain and body learn faster, more effective recovery strategies. Alaine brings that science into the community, highlighting evidence-based programs such as A Matter of Balance, Fit & Strong!, Bingocize, and Tai Chi programs that help older adults build strength, confidence, flexibility, and practical fall-prevention skills.

Together, they examine the many factors that can contribute to a fall, from strength, vision, medications, and chronic conditions to footwear and the home environment. They also look ahead at emerging approaches such as technology-assisted fall-risk screening, personalized interventions, and interactive exercise games.

This conversation offers practical, encouraging guidance for staying active, recognizing warning signs, reducing fall risks, and maintaining confidence, mobility, and independence as we age.

Resources:

Find an Evidence-Based Program | NCOA

Evidence-Based Program: Tai Ji Quan: Moving for Better Balance®

NCOA's Falls Free CheckUp

Illinois Falls Prevention Coalition | Prevent Falls Today — Get Involved

Evidence-Based Falls Prevention Programs | ACL Administration for Community Living

Community Prevention | Older Adult Fall Prevention | CDC

Therapeutic Benefits of Exergaming for Older Adults

Bhatt, Tanvi | College of Applied Health Sciences | University of Illinois Chicago

Aging and Mixed Perturbation Training | Cognitive Motor Balance Rehabilitation Laboratory | University of Illinois Chicago

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Twitter: twitter.com/AgeGuide 
Instagram: instagram.com/theageguidepodcast
Podcast: ageguide.org/the-age-guide-podcast
Website: ageguide.org

In this episode of Aging Well, Gretchen Knowlton welcomes Courtney Hedderman, Senior Associate Director for Advocacy and Outreach at AARP Illinois, and a leading voice in fraud prevention. As scams become increasingly sophisticated and costly, Courtney shares why fraud can happen to anyone and how criminals are using technology, artificial intelligence, emotional manipulation, and impersonation tactics to target people of all ages. 

Listeners will learn about the most common scams today, including imposter scams, romance scams, tech support fraud, and cryptocurrency-related schemes. Courtney explains the warning signs to watch for, why scammers create a false sense of urgency, and how simple strategies like "stop and verify" can help protect your finances and personal information. 

The conversation also explores the emotional toll of fraud, including embarrassment, loss of trust, and threats to independence, particularly for older adults. Courtney shares practical steps for reporting scams, protecting loved ones, and staying informed through trusted resources. Whether you've encountered fraud yourself, are concerned about a loved one's vulnerability, or simply want to stay ahead of evolving fraud trends, this episode offers practical tools and expert insights to help you stay vigilant and safe.

Resources:

AARP Illinois

Fraud Fighting Fraudlettes YouTube Series

Report fraud:

AARP Fraud Watch Helpline: 877-908-3360

Find and Report a Scam | Better Business Bureau

Illinois Secretary of State Securities Department

Illinois Attorney General Consumer Protection Division

FBI Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3)

Federal Trade Commission Fraud Reporting

Reach out to Courtney: [email protected]

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Twitter: twitter.com/AgeGuide 
Instagram: instagram.com/theageguidepodcast
Podcast: ageguide.org/the-age-guide-podcast
Website: ageguide.org

In this episode of Aging Well, we have Christina Peoples, a gerontologist, educator, speaker, health promotion coordinator, and founder of Gero-What?, a digital platform making conversations about aging more relatable, inclusive, and accessible. Through her work, Christina challenges ageism, amplifies historically marginalized voices, and centers the experiences and wisdom of Black elders. Christina explains how our physical health, emotional well-being, relationships, environments, identities, and lifelong experiences all influence the way we age. This episode also explores the intersection of aging and disability, the importance of embracing supportive tools without shame, and how racism, discrimination, health inequities, and limited access to resources can shape the aging experiences of Black and other marginalized communities. The conversation also highlights Christina’s Black Elder Truths storytelling project and the power of sharing older adults’ experiences, lessons, challenges, and sources of joy. Christina encourages listeners of every age to become more aware of the language they use, question ageist messages, and replace fear of growing older with curiosity, preparation, and a more positive vision of aging.

Resources:

Christina Peoples, MS Bio

GeroWhat | The Aging Experience

Area Agency on Aging | Piedmont Triad Regional Council, NC

Transforming Advocacy into Action - ASA Generations

Aging Well in Action: Evidence-Based Programs + Beyond

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Twitter: twitter.com/AgeGuide 
Instagram: instagram.com/theageguidepodcast
Podcast: ageguide.org/the-age-guide-podcast
Website: ageguide.org

In this episode of Aging Well, host Gretchen Knowlton talks with Billy Rogers, the President of Golden Rainbows of Illinois South and a longtime advocate for the LQBTQ+ community. Drawing on more than 40 years of experience, Billy shares powerful insights into the realities LGBTQ+ older adults face today, from isolation and healthcare distrust to the ongoing need for safe, welcoming spaces. 

Listeners will learn why many LGBTQ+ older adults may “go back into the closet” when seeking care, how barriers like transportation and lack of family support impact aging, and why building trust in services is critical. Billy also highlights the importance of intergenerational relationships, emphasizing how younger and older communities can learn from and support one another. 

This conversation offers practical examples of creating inclusive environments with curiosity and simple signals, to larger systemic challenges in housing, healthcare, and food access. Whether you’re an older adult, caregiver, professional, or ally, this episode provides meaningful ways to foster connection, dignity, and belonging as we age.  

Resources: 

Golden Rainbows of Illinois South 

Illinois LGBTQ Aging Commission Report 

Disrupting Disparities Report 

SAGE (Services & Advocacy for LGBTQ+ Elders) 

Area Agencies on Aging services & Eldercare Locator 

Adult Protective Services (APS) 

SNAP food assistance 

LIHEAP (Energy Assistance Program) 

Farmers Market Nutrition Programs 

Rainbow Cafe LGBTQ support

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Twitter: twitter.com/AgeGuide 
Instagram: instagram.com/theageguidepodcast
Podcast: ageguide.org/the-age-guide-podcast
Website: ageguide.org

As we age, mental health becomes just as important as physical health, yet it’s often overlooked, misunderstood, or dismissed as a normal part of getting older. In this episode of Aging Well, we hear from Robyn Golden, Associate Vice President of Social Work and Community Health at Rush University Medical Center and Caryn Blanton, Program Manager at the E4 Center of Excellence for Behavioral Health Disparities in Aging, to explore the realities of mental health and aging, and why connection, purpose, and support are critical to aging well. Robyn and Caryn share powerful insights on ageism in healthcare, the emotional impact of social isolation, caregiver stress, depression, anxiety, and the importance of treating mental health with the same urgency and compassion as physical health. The conversation also dives into the growing need for education and advocacy around behavioral health for older adults, including the work being done through the E4 Center of Excellence and innovative programs that help identify and support older adults before they reach a crisis point. Whether you’re an older adult, caregiver, healthcare professional, or simply someone looking to better support the people around you, this episode offers meaningful perspective, practical advice, and an important reminder: it is never too late to care for your mental health, ask for help, and stay connected. 

Resources: 

Social Work and Community Health Services | Rush 

E4 Center – Rush Center for Excellence in Behavioral Health Disparities in Aging 

E4 Center Toolkits 

4Ms Behavioral Health – E4 Center 

Longevity increased by positive self-perceptions of aging - PubMed 

The 8 Limbs of Yoga and Why They Matter to Your Practice – Sri Sri School of Yoga 

A Decolonized Guide to the 8 Limbs of Yoga 

Gatekeeper Program | Washington County, OR 

Bowling Alone 

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Twitter: twitter.com/AgeGuide 
Instagram: instagram.com/theageguidepodcast
Podcast: ageguide.org/the-age-guide-podcast
Website: ageguide.org

As Americans live longer than ever, too many are aging without financial security, health supports, or clear pathways to thrive. To continue exploring what it truly means to age well, we’re joined by Ramsey Alwin, President and CEO of the National Council on Aging, and a leading national voice on aging policy, economic security, and equity. In this episode, Ramsey unpacks why longevity is one of the most consequential megatrends of our time and how longer lives are reshaping work, caregiving, health, and community life across America. 

Gretchen and Ramsey explore the growing challenge of economic insecurity among older adults, the deep links between financial stability and health, and why aging well must be treated as a right, not a privilege. Ramsey also shares why the Older Americans Act remains a cornerstone of healthy aging, and why increased funding and reauthorization is essential as demographics continue to shift. The conversation highlights empowering tools like BenefitsCheckUp®, evidence-based health programs, and the power of community-based organizations to help older adults and caregivers age with dignity, security, and connection. Whether you’re planning your own future, caring for a loved one, or advocating for stronger aging policies in your community, this episode offers both practical resources and a compelling call to action.

Resources: 

NCOA 

UMass Boston's Elder Index: Measure of Economic Security 

UMass Boston's Gerontology Institute "Living Between the Lines: Economic Insecurity and Older Americans"  

Older Americans Act: Overview and Funding | Congress.gov | Library of Congress  

Evidence-Based Program: Tai Ji Quan: Moving for Better Balance®  

Caregiving in the US 2025: Key Trends, Strains, and Policy Needs  

Visit BenefitsCheckUp.org or call 1-800-794-6559

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Twitter: twitter.com/AgeGuide 
Instagram: instagram.com/theageguidepodcast
Podcast: ageguide.org/the-age-guide-podcast
Website: ageguide.org

In this episode of Aging Well, Bob Blancato, national advocate for older adults and expert in nutrition and aging policy, explores the critical role nutrition plays in supporting healthy aging and strengthening communities.

This episode examines how nutrition intersects healthcare, social services, and public policy, and why improving access to healthy food is essential for preventing chronic disease and promoting well-being among older adults. Listeners will gain insight into the growing “Food as Medicine” movement, the importance of nutrition security, and how programs like the Older Americans Act nutrition services help address both health and social isolation for older adults.

Bob also shares perspectives on current policy developments, including efforts to expand medical nutrition therapy, strengthen community nutrition programs, and integrate social care services into healthcare systems. Throughout the conversation, he highlights how advocacy, education, and community engagement can help shape stronger nutrition policies and better outcomes for older adults.

This conversation offers a thoughtful look at how better nutrition, stronger policy, and community advocacy can help ensure older adults have the support they need to age well.

Resources:

National Association of Nutrition and Aging Services Programs - PODCAST

Blog: Nutrition and Healthy Aging Featuring Bob Blancato - Alliance for Aging Research

Basics of Congregate Nutrition Programs | acl.gov 

Basics of Home Delivered Meal Program | acl.gov

Food Is Medicine | odphp.health.gov

Food and Nutrition Security

Food Assistance - SNAP Benefits for Older Adults

Food Paradigm

Older Americans Act Nutrition Programs

Older Americans Act: Summary in Brief | Congress.gov | Library of Congress

Dietary Guidelines for Americans, 2025–2030 

Innovation Insight: RFI Now Open for Comments on Potential Improvements to Medicare Advantage | CMS

Make America Healthy Again (MAHA) | HHS.gov

Medical Nutrition Therapy Act of 2025 | Congress.gov | Library of Congress

Treat and Reduce Obesity Act of 2025 | Congress.gov | Library of Congress

Find a Federally Qualified Health Center 

Adult Obesity Facts | Obesity | CDC

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Twitter: twitter.com/AgeGuide 
Instagram: instagram.com/theageguidepodcast
Podcast: ageguide.org/the-age-guide-podcast
Website: ageguide.org

 In this episode of Aging Well, Ryann Hill, Aging Policy and Advocacy Expert, shares the realities facing older adults and caregivers today and offers guidance on how listeners can take meaningful action.  

This episode explores how aging policy brings people together across party lines, how to effectively and confidently engage your legislators, and why the Older Americans Act continues to serve as the backbone of community-based supports for older adults. Participants will also gain a clear understanding of the difference between authorization and funding, and why both matter, along with practical, real-world strategies for advocating locally, sharing impactful stories, and strengthening support for aging services. 

This conversation offers a grounded and hopeful look at what it takes for communities to ensure that people can age with dignity, stability, and support. 

Resources: 

Older Americans Act: Overview and Funding | Congress.gov | Library of Congress 

Administration for Community Living - Older Americans Act 

USAging - Older Americans Act 

Indigo Hill Strategies 

Mic’d Up podcast 

Eldercare Locator 

Find and contact elected officials | USAGov 

Best-Practices-Meeting-with-a-Congressional-Office-February-2025.pdf 

Here’s a look at federal agencies’ shutdown contingency plans | Federal News Network 

U.S. House of Representatives 

Facebook: facebook.com/AgeGuide
Twitter: twitter.com/AgeGuide 
Instagram: instagram.com/theageguidepodcast
Podcast: ageguide.org/the-age-guide-podcast
Website: ageguide.org

In this episode of Aging Well, we talk with advocate and researcher Kris Geerken about how ageism and ableism shape the way we experience aging and healthcare. Drawing on her hospice work, her research at Virginia Commonwealth University, and advocacy with Changing the Narrative, Kris explores how age bias often goes unnoticed in medical settings and why stronger gerontology training is essential to improving care. She highlights the impact of unacknowledged grief, the high-cost ageism has on our society, and the need for person‑centered systems that honor the values and goals of people at every age.   

Also, Alaine makes her Medicare Minute debut to explain that Illinois allows self‑referral to physical therapy without a physician’s prescription.  

This conversation offers practical insights and encouragement for navigating care, challenging age bias, and aging well at every stage of life. 

Resources: 

Reach out to Kris: [email protected] 

Disrupting Ageism | ScienceDirect 

Antidotes for Ageism - Changing the Narrative 

Age-Friendly Healthcare – Changing the Narrative 

Ageism in health care found to cost $63 billion annually | Yale Daily News 

The Conversation Project - Have You Had The Conversation? 

National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health 

Aging Unfiltered: Flipping the Script on Ageism 

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Twitter: twitter.com/AgeGuide 
Instagram: instagram.com/theageguidepodcast
Podcast: ageguide.org/the-age-guide-podcast
Website: ageguide.org