A dementia diagnosis doesn’t just change one life—it reshapes an entire family. In this powerful episode of Get Ready For Better Aging, host Jacqui Clark sits down with Libby Allman, Board Certified Behavior Analyst and founder of Align Family Solutions, to talk about what families really face after the diagnosis. Drawing from both her professional expertise and her personal journey caring for her father with dementia, Libby sheds light on the behaviors, burnout, grief, and role reversals caregivers experience every day. Together, Jacqui and Libby explore why a diagnosis often comes without guidance, how behavior-focused support can transform daily life, and what caregivers need most in those overwhelming early weeks. They discuss driving, incontinence, sleep disruption, and the quiet guilt so many caregivers carry—along with practical, compassionate strategies that move families from survival mode into clarity and confidence. This episode is a lifeline for anyone caring for someone with dementia—and a reminder that help does exist. Links and Resources: Align Family Solutions - https://www.alignfamilysolutions.com Libby Allman (619) 736-6498 Links and Resources: (Jacqui Clark): Connect with a local Aging Parent Tribe FB Group for caregiver support near you:  Aging Parent Tribe SoCal - San Diego : An Info and Support Group | Groups | Facebook- ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/groups/1300623337892805⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠This Is Living Well - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.thisislivingwell.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/getreadyforbetteraging⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Aging Well Magazine - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.thisislivingwell.com/magazine⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/GetReadyforBetterAging Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this powerful episode of Get Ready for Better Aging, host Jacqui Clark welcomes estate planning attorney Anna Howard of AC Howard Law to break down what estate planning really means—and why it matters for everyone, not just the wealthy. Together they unpack the “emergency documents” every adult should have, including healthcare directives and powers of attorney, and reveal the real-world consequences of putting planning off. From costly probate and family conflict to heartbreaking cases like Terri Schiavo, Anna explains how failing to plan can leave loved ones in crisis. The conversation also spotlights why women are uniquely vulnerable, especially when they’re left in the dark about finances or legal authority as partners decline. With practical guidance, clear language, and eye-opening examples, this episode is a must-listen for anyone who wants to protect their wishes, their family, and their legacy—before it’s too late. Links and Resources: https://www.achowardlaw.com (858) 800-2532 info@achowardlaw.com Anna Howard (@ac.howard.law) • Instagram photos and videos AC Howard Law | Carlsbad CA | Facebook Links and Resources: (Jacqui Clark): Connect with a local Aging Parent Tribe FB Group for caregiver support near you:  Aging Parent Tribe SoCal - San Diego : An Info and Support Group | Groups | Facebook- ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/groups/1300623337892805⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠This Is Living Well - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.thisislivingwell.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/getreadyforbetteraging⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Aging Well Magazine - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.thisislivingwell.com/magazine⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/GetReadyforBetterAging Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, Jacqui Clark sits down with veteran elder care manager Kira Reginato, a deeply experienced professional who has spent decades helping families navigate one of life’s most overwhelming chapters—caring for aging loved ones. Together, they unpack one of the most misunderstood roles in the senior care world: the Aging Life Care Manager, also known as a geriatric or elder care manager. Kira explains the difference between hospital case managers and community care managers, the trigger moments that prompt families to seek help, and why most people wait far too long to bring in professional support. She shares real insights into dementia-related challenges, caregiver overwhelm, driving safety, and how care managers quietly become lifelines for both older adults and their families. Through compassionate guidance, practical strategy, and years of hard-won wisdom, Kira shows why having the right care manager can change everything. Links and Resources: To schedule an appointment, find resources, and classes, visit Kira's website at www.callkira.com. Learn more about the Aging Life Care Association www.aginglifecare.org Contact: Kira (707) 762-5433 Links and Resources: (Jacqui Clark): Connect with a local Aging Parent Tribe FB Group for caregiver support near you:  Aging Parent Tribe SoCal - San Diego : An Info and Support Group | Groups | Facebook- ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/groups/1300623337892805⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠This Is Living Well - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.thisislivingwell.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/getreadyforbetteraging⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Aging Well Magazine - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.thisislivingwell.com/magazine⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/GetReadyforBetterAging Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Medical cannabis sparks curiosity, hope, and even fear—especially for caregivers navigating dementia, chronic pain, or complex health needs. In this episode of Get Ready for Better Aging, host Jacqui Clark sits down with Sherri Mack, a nurse with nearly four decades of experience in palliative care and cannabis education. Sherri shares her personal journey from traditional nursing to embracing plant-based medicine after cannabis transformed her own health. Together, Jacqui and Sherri explore how cannabis and CBD can safely improve sleep, manage pain, reduce anxiety, and support quality of life for older adults, while addressing common caregiver fears about memory and cognition. They unpack therapeutic use, microdosing, strategies, and real-world guidance for families. Plus, they discuss the future of cannabis in healthcare and the critical role of nurses in bridging conventional medicine with plant-based therapies. Tune in for a science-backed, compassionate conversation that could change how you care for your loved ones. Links and Resources: Website - https://holisticcaring.com Contact: info@holisticcaring.com (970) 404-4673 Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/TheGreenNurses Intagram - https://www.instagram.com/thegreen_nurse Bloom Hemp - https://bloomhemp.com Links and Resources: (Jacqui Clark): Connect with a local Aging Parent Tribe FB Group for caregiver support near you:  Aging Parent Tribe SoCal - San Diego : An Info and Support Group | Groups | Facebook- ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/groups/1300623337892805⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠This Is Living Well - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.thisislivingwell.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/getreadyforbetteraging⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Aging Well Magazine - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.thisislivingwell.com/magazine⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/GetReadyforBetterAging Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It’s Medicare Open Enrollment — and this episode of Get Ready for Better Aging pulls back the curtain on what really goes on behind the scenes. Host Jacqui Clark sits down with Greg McMullen, a Certified Senior Advisor and Medicare specialist with over 20 years of experience, to explain what every senior (and caregiver) needs to know before choosing or changing a plan. Greg reveals how Medicare certification works, the key differences between Original Medicare and Medicare Advantage, and why your zip code can dramatically affect your coverage. You’ll also learn what that Annual Notice of Change really means — and why tossing it in the recycle bin could cost you. Whether you’re turning 65, helping a loved one navigate their options, or re-evaluating your current coverage, this conversation will help you make informed, confident choices for your health and your future. Links and Resources: Greg McMullen, CSA, Medicare Agent, Financial & Retirement Agent Cell:  858-922-0195 E-Mail:  greg@mcmullenfis.com *Contact Greg for his upcoming Virtual Medicare and Local San Diego Events - Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/p/Greg-McMullen-Licensed-Sales-Agent-100063876799948/ Links and Resources: (Jacqui Clark): Connect with a local Aging Parent Tribe FB Group for caregiver support near you:  Aging Parent Tribe SoCal - San Diego : An Info and Support Group | Groups | Facebook- ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/groups/1300623337892805⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠This Is Living Well - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.thisislivingwell.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/getreadyforbetteraging⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Aging Well Magazine - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.thisislivingwell.com/magazine⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/GetReadyforBetterAging Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What does it really take to age safely at home? In this episode of Get Ready for Better Aging, host Jacqui Clark sits down with Fritzi Gros-Daillon, co-founder of Age Safe America and an expert in home safety and aging-in-place design. Together, they explore how small, proactive changes—like better lighting, wider doorways, and thoughtful bathroom design—can help older adults maintain independence and prevent the falls that send one in three seniors to the ER each year. Fritzi shares how her Senior Home Safety Specialist™ certification empowers professionals and families alike to see their homes with new eyes, tackling overlooked hazards before they become crises. From “beach entry” showers to motion-sensor lighting, discover how planning today creates freedom tomorrow. Because staying home longer isn’t just about luck—it’s about creating a safer, smarter space that grows old gracefully with you. Links and Resources: Fritzi Gros-Daillon Age Safe® America - https://agesafeamerica.com (877) 357-7233 Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/AgeSafe Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/agesafeamerica Links and Resources: (Jacqui Clark): Connect with a local Aging Parent Tribe FB Group for caregiver support near you:  Aging Parent Tribe SoCal - San Diego : An Info and Support Group | Groups | Facebook- ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/groups/1300623337892805⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠This Is Living Well - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.thisislivingwell.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/getreadyforbetteraging⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Aging Well Magazine - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.thisislivingwell.com/magazine⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/GetReadyforBetterAging Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, host Jacqui Clark sits down with Lisa Tyburski, Chief Marketing Officer of the George G. Glenner Alzheimer’s Family Centers, to explore the extraordinary legacy of Dr. George and Joy Glenner. What began as a desperate midnight call from an overwhelmed caregiver grew into a nationwide model for dementia care. Lisa shares how the Glenner Centers pioneered adult day programs that give people living with dementia safe, engaging spaces while providing caregivers much-needed respite. The conversation also highlights the groundbreaking creation of Town Square—an immersive 1950s-style community complete with a diner, movie theater, and vintage car—that uses reminiscence therapy to spark joy and connection. From Dr. Glenner’s landmark discovery linking beta amyloid protein to Alzheimer’s research to the expansion of franchised Town Squares across the country, this episode shines a light on a legacy of hope, innovation, and compassion for families navigating dementia. Links and Resources: Glenner Center (619) 543-4700 information@glenner.org Website - www.glenner.org Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/GlennerCenters Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/glennercenters Links and Resources: (Jacqui Clark): Connect with a local Aging Parent Tribe FB Group for caregiver support near you:  Aging Parent Tribe SoCal - San Diego : An Info and Support Group | Groups | Facebook- ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/groups/1300623337892805⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠This Is Living Well - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.thisislivingwell.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/getreadyforbetteraging⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Aging Well Magazine - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.thisislivingwell.com/magazine⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/GetReadyforBetterAging Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This poignant episode is a heartfelt exploration of love, loss, and what it truly means to show up for someone in their final chapter. Host Jacqui Clark sits down with Frank Cunningham — elder care consultant, placement specialist, and RCFE license holder — who not only helps families navigate senior living but has lived this journey himself. Frank shares the deeply personal story of moving into assisted living while his wife, Judy, entered memory care, the challenges of advocating for her care, and the profound spiritual experience of being present at her passing. Together, Jacqui and Frank discuss resilience, grief, and what Frank calls “soul work” — the calling to serve families through one of life’s hardest transitions. This conversation is raw, honest, and ultimately full of hope, offering comfort to anyone walking a similar path. Links and Resources: Frank Cunningham, RCFE (626) 318-6414 fcunningham19@gmail.com My Calling Inc. https://www.mycallinginc.com/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61555758043523 Links and Resources: (Jacqui Clark): Connect with a local Aging Parent Tribe FB Group for caregiver support near you:  Aging Parent Tribe SoCal - San Diego : An Info and Support Group | Groups | Facebook- ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/groups/1300623337892805⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠This Is Living Well - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.thisislivingwell.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/getreadyforbetteraging⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Aging Well Magazine - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.thisislivingwell.com/magazine⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/GetReadyforBetterAging Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Managing medications can be overwhelming for older adults and their families. In this episode of Get Ready for Better Aging, host Jacqui Clark welcomes Dr. Nancy Taylor, founder of TaylorMade Senior Advocacy and Consulting. With decades of experience as a pharmacist, plus credentials as a Board-Certified Patient Advocate and Certified Senior Advisor, Dr. Taylor brings deep insight into one of the most pressing challenges in senior health: polypharmacy. Together, they uncover how too many medications—or the wrong combinations—can impact quality of life, drive up costs, and create dangerous prescribing cascades. Dr. Taylor explains why advocacy is critical in today’s complex healthcare system, how personalized healthcare action plans work, and the ways adult children can get relief when caregiving becomes overwhelming. If you’ve ever worried about a loved one’s medications or struggled to navigate the system yourself, this episode offers practical strategies and hope. Links and Resources:  Contact Dr. Nancy Taylor (877) 216-7450 nancy@drtadvocacy.com  www.drtadvocacy.com    Facebook - (20+) Facebook Links and Resources: (Jacqui Clark) Connect with a local Aging Parent Tribe FB Group for caregiver support near you:  Aging Parent Tribe SoCal - San Diego : An Info and Support Group | Groups | Facebook- ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/groups/1300623337892805⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠This Is Living Well - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.thisislivingwell.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/getreadyforbetteraging⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Aging Well Magazine - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.thisislivingwell.com/magazine⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/GetReadyforBetterAging Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this eye-opening episode of Get Ready for Better Aging, host Jacqui Clark sits down with Vesna Ilich, owner and administrator of Monte Vista Manor, a six-bed residential care home in Vista, California. Together, they pull back the curtain on small but powerful care homes—also known as board and care homes—that offer hands-on, personalized support for seniors with high needs, including advanced dementia, mobility challenges, and end-of-life care. Vesna shares her 20+ years of experience, the realities of staffing, licensing, and cost pressures, and why these homes are often misunderstood despite being licensed at the same level as large communities. With rising costs and shrinking numbers of these homes, the conversation becomes a wake-up call for families on how to plan for long-term care. You’ll hear the heart, grit, and personal connection behind this overlooked model of care. Spoiler: It may just be theoption you never knew existed. Links and Resources: Connect with Vesna Illich (760) 685-2299 Links and Resources: (Jacqui Clark) Connect with a local Aging Parent Tribe FB Group for caregiver support near you:  Aging Parent Tribe SoCal - San Diego : An Info and Support Group | Groups | Facebook- ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/groups/1300623337892805⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠This Is Living Well - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.thisislivingwell.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/getreadyforbetteraging⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Aging Well Magazine - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.thisislivingwell.com/magazine⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/GetReadyforBetterAging Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Florida may be the top retirement destination in the U.S., but what’s it really like to age there? In this informative and upbeat episode of "Get Ready for Better Aging," host Jacqui Clark is joined by Wendy Rickenbach-Barclay, CSA, a senior care expert and founder of Hometown Senior Care Solutions. Together, they break down the unique assisted living licensing system in Florida and explain why understanding these care levels is critical for families making long-term decisions. From on-site doctors and mobile services to Medicaid planning and concierge care, Wendy shares essential insights into Florida’s senior care landscape. You’ll also hear how Florida communities compare to California’s—and why working with a knowledgeable advisor can save you time, money, and stress. Whether you're supporting aging parents or planning ahead for yourself, this episode offers clarity, compassion, and practical tools to navigate the journey. Learn how assisted living can increase independence—and what to consider before making the move. Links and Resources: Connect with Wendy Rickenbach-Barclay at www.hometownseniorcaresolutions.net Links and Resources: (Jacqui Clark) Connect with a local Aging Parent Tribe FB Group for caregiver support near you:  Aging Parent Tribe SoCal - San Diego : An Info and Support Group | Groups | Facebook- ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/groups/1300623337892805⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠This Is Living Well - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.thisislivingwell.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/getreadyforbetteraging⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Aging Well Magazine - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.thisislivingwell.com/magazine⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/GetReadyforBetterAging Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this essential episode of Get Ready for Better Aging, host Jacqui Clark welcomes Sandy Messer, CEO of Long Term Assurance and one of only 200 VA-accredited civilian agents in the country. Sandy breaks down the ins and outs of VA Aid and Attendance benefits—and why timing is everything. Learn who qualifies (hint: it’s more people than you think), what documents you need, and how to plan ahead to cover long-term care costs with VA benefits, Medicaid, or both. From little-known spend-down strategies to protecting your assets across state lines, Sandy offers powerful insights for families, caregivers, and veterans alike. Discover how to make smart financial moves today to avoid panic tomorrow. Whether you're planning for a parent or yourself, this conversation is packed with actionable guidance—and compassion. Don't wait for a crisis to figure it out. Tune in and start planning your “second retirement” now. Links and Resources: Connect with Sandy Messer of Long Term Assurance at www.ltainfo.com (877) 286-0402 Sandy@ltainfo.com FAQ: Veterans Aid & Attendance | Long Term Assurance - https://ltainfo.com/faq Links and Resources: (Jacqui Clark) Connect with a local Aging Parent Tribe FB Group for caregiver support near you:  Aging Parent Tribe SoCal - San Diego : An Info and Support Group | Groups | Facebook- ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/groups/1300623337892805⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠This Is Living Well - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.thisislivingwell.com⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/getreadyforbetteraging⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠Aging Well Magazine - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.thisislivingwell.com/magazine⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/GetReadyforBetterAging Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this eye-opening episode of Get Ready for Better Aging, host Jacqui Clark welcomes Christine Lee, a Certified Senior Advisor and the CEO of Casa Companion Home Care and Transport Solutions. Together, they unpack a critical—but often ignored—pillar of aging well: transportation. Christine shares her inspiring journey from founding a culturally rooted home care company to launching a transport service that empowers seniors, veterans, and adults with disabilities to stay mobile and independent. You’ll learn why lack of transportation is a major reason older adults enter assisted living before they’re ready—and how the right support can change everything. From hospital discharges to life events like weddings, Christine and Jacqui explore the emotional and logistical impact of getting where you need to go, with dignity. Whether you're aging in place or supporting someone who is, this episode delivers powerful insights to help you plan ahead—before a ride becomes a crisis. Links and Resources: Connect with Christine Lee and Casa Companion Home Care and Transportation - https://www.casacompanionhomecare.com Links and Resources: (Jacqui Clark) Connect with a local Aging Parent Tribe FB Group for caregiver support near you:  Aging Parent Tribe SoCal - San Diego : An Info and Support Group | Groups | Facebook- ⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/groups/1300623337892805⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠This Is Living Well - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.thisislivingwell.com⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠Instagram - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/getreadyforbetteraging⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠Aging Well Magazine - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.thisislivingwell.com/magazine⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠Facebook - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/GetReadyforBetterAging Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What if retirement isn’t the end, but the beginning of your most meaningful chapter? In this inspiring episode, Jacqui Clark welcomes Dr. Harry Agress, Jr.—physician, photographer, author, and reinvention enthusiast—to explore how retirement can be a launching pad for creativity, curiosity, and connection. Harry shares the deeply personal story behind his book Next Years, Best Years, and how simple lists of fears, loves, and curiosities led him to improv classes, children’s book illustration, and even background acting in TV shows. Together, they unpack his framework of Purpose, Passion, and Possibility and the “Four Freedoms” that make this life phase so unique. From turning hobbies into joy (not jobs) to embracing curiosity as a compass, this conversation offers a roadmap to vibrant, self-defined living after 60. Whether you're newly retired or just planning ahead, this episode is your reminder: you’re not winding down—you’re just getting started. Links and Resources: Connect with Dr. Harry Agress, Jr. His book Next Years, Best Years is available everywhere books are sold. See his website for his upcoming events - https://nextyearsbestyears.com Subscribe to get your FREE chapter, worksheets, and sample resource Links and Resources: (Jacqui Clark) Connect with a local Aging Parent Tribe FB Group for caregiver support near you:  Aging Parent Tribe SoCal - San Diego : An Info and Support Group | Groups | Facebook- ⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/groups/1300623337892805⁠⁠ ⁠⁠This Is Living Well - ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.thisislivingwell.com⁠⁠ ⁠⁠Instagram - ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/getreadyforbetteraging⁠⁠ ⁠⁠Aging Well Magazine - ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.thisislivingwell.com/magazine⁠⁠ ⁠⁠Facebook - ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/GetReadyforBetterAging Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What if death didn’t have to be lonely, confusing, or feared? In this powerful and deeply human episode, host Jacqui Clark welcomes Dr. Bob Uslander and death doula Lori Krause to explore a compassionate, team-based approach to dying well. Together, they reveal how the partnership between physicians and end-of-life doulas is revolutionizing care—offering emotional, spiritual, and practical support that the traditional healthcare system often misses. From navigating dementia to honoring a loved one’s final wishes, this conversation uncovers what’s possible when people are truly seen, heard, and supported. Whether you’re a caregiver, facing loss, or simply curious, this episode offers hope, tools, and vital insights into an experience we all will face. You’ll come away with a sense of peace—and maybe even inspiration to rethink how we live and die. This is one episode you can’t afford to miss. Links and Resources: (Connect with Dr. Bob Uslander and Lori Krause) https://empoweredendings.com https://www.facebook.com/empowerendings https://www.instagram.com/empowered_endings_ Links and Resources: (Jacqui Clark) Connect with a local Aging Parent Tribe FB Group for caregiver support near you:  Aging Parent Tribe SoCal - San Diego : An Info and Support Group | Groups | Facebook- ⁠https://www.facebook.com/groups/1300623337892805⁠ ⁠This Is Living Well - ⁠⁠https://www.thisislivingwell.com⁠ ⁠Instagram - ⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/getreadyforbetteraging⁠ ⁠Aging Well Magazine - ⁠⁠https://www.thisislivingwell.com/magazine⁠ ⁠Facebook - ⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/GetReadyforBetterAging Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this deeply moving episode, Jacqui Clark sits down with June, a devoted wife and caregiver, to share the emotional journey of caring for her husband, Ned, through the challenges of dementia. With raw honesty and tender humor, June recounts the heartbreak, resilience, and soul-deep love that defined their final years together. From the first forgotten memories to the last silent goodbye, her story is a powerful reminder that behind every diagnosis is a love worth honoring. This episode is a lifeline for anyone walking the path of caregiving—an intimate reflection on grief, strength, and the enduring human spirit. Links and Resources: (Jacqui Clark) Connect with a local Aging Parent Tribe FB Group for caregiver support near you:  Aging Parent Tribe SoCal - San Diego : An Info and Support Group | Groups | Facebook- https://www.facebook.com/groups/1300623337892805 This Is Living Well - https://www.thisislivingwell.com Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/getreadyforbetteraging Aging Well Magazine - https://www.thisislivingwell.com/magazine Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/GetReadyforBetterAging Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Think reverse mortgages are a last resort or a financial trap? Think again. In this eye-opening episode, Jacqui Clark sits down with Shanne Sleder—a Certified Reverse Mortgage Professional and Certified Liability Advisor—to debunk the myths and break down the real deal on one of the most misunderstood financial tools out there. From panicked adult children to confused homeowners, misinformation runs wild. But with the right knowledge, reverse mortgages can be a lifeline—not a loss. Learn how seniors can tap into home equity safely, use it as a long-term retirement strategy, and even protect themselves in a disaster. Shanne shares real-life examples, red flags to watch for, and key questions to ask before signing anything. Whether you're planning your own retirement or helping a loved one, this conversation will change how you think about homeownership, legacy, and financial freedom. Because sometimes, the smartest move… is in reverse. Connect with Shanne Sleder, Mortgage Advisor, CRMP NMLS# 239958 / DRE# 01346265 www.SanDiegoMortgageNews.com Facebook – www.facebook.com/ShanneSleder LinkedIn - www.linkedin.com/in/shannesleder Links and Resources: (Jacqui Clark) This Is Living Well - https://www.thisislivingwell.com Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/getreadyforbetteraging Aging Well Magazine - https://www.thisislivingwell.com/magazine Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/GetReadyforBetterAging Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, host Jacqui Clark sits down with Greg Hahn of Lightbridge Hospice, a dedicated hospice and palliative care nurse with decades of experience. As the hospice chair for the San Diego Regional Home Care Council and a San Diego Coalition for Compassionate Care member, Greg illuminates the crucial distinctions between hospice and palliative care, addressing common misconceptions and fears. Together, they discuss what hospice truly means, the role of hospice workers, and how families can confidently navigate these services. Greg shares powerful patient stories, including a touching tribute to veterans and hospice's impact on patients and their loved ones. He also provides practical insights on Medicare coverage, choosing the right hospice provider, and the importance of early intervention. Join us for an eye-opening conversation about compassionate end-of-life care and the incredible people who make it possible. Connect with Greg Hahn, RN and LightBridge Hospice & Palliative Care - https://lightbridgehospice.com/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/LightBridgeHospice Links and Resources: (Jacqui Clark) This Is Living Well - https://www.thisislivingwell.com Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/getreadyforbetteraging Aging Well Magazine - https://www.thisislivingwell.com/magazine Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/GetReadyforBetterAging Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, Jacqui Clark sits down with Diana Silva, aka Molé Mama, to explore her incredible journey from a dairy farm childhood to becoming a Silicon Valley executive, Food Network competitor, and passionate advocate for culinary storytelling. Diana shares her rich Mexican-Portuguese heritage, the deep connections created through cooking, and the importance of preserving family recipes. They dive into bold aging, embracing gray hair, navigating health challenges like AFib, and the resilience needed to reinvent oneself at any age. Diana’s story is an inspiring testament to following your passions, staying vibrant, and building a meaningful second act. Tune in for a conversation full of heart, humor, and a dash of spice! You can find Diana at molemama.com  Diana will be at the Tucson Festival of Books on March 15th and 16th and the Los Angeles Times Festival of Books on April 26th and 27th.  Upcoming Book Events: https://www.molemama.com/events  Coming soon… You can find a YouTube video covering her whole AFib journey.  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/molemama  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mole_mama/  YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC84wlsY9xuVhRd_CkNdVdqg  Links and Resources: (Jacqui Clark) This Is Living Well - https://www.thisislivingwell.com Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/getreadyforbetteraging Aging Well Magazine - https://www.thisislivingwell.com/magazine Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/GetReadyforBetterAging Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of Get Ready for Better Aging, host Jacqui Clark welcomes Lindsey Ann Unger, a certified medical speech-language pathologist, to discuss the vital yet often overlooked role of SLPs in neurological diseases like Parkinson’s, ALS, MS, and dementia. With cases of Parkinson’s rising by 50% in a decade, early intervention is more critical than ever—yet only 3–5% of patients see an SLP. Lindsey shares how therapy improves speech, swallowing, cognition, and breath control, ultimately enhancing quality of life. She also dives into the challenges of insurance coverage, the impact of therapy disruptions, and the importance of voice exercises in aging. Tune in to learn practical vocal health tips, the power of neuroplasticity, and how programs like Speak Out! help Parkinson’s patients maintain their voices. Don’t miss this eye-opening conversation! Connect with Lindsey Ann Unger, MS CCC-SLP www.conversewithconfidence.com LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/lindsey-unger-26a4ba21b Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/conversewithconfidence Links and Resources: (Jacqui Clark) This Is Living Well - https://www.thisislivingwell.com Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/getreadyforbetteraging Aging Well Magazine - https://www.thisislivingwell.com/magazine Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/GetReadyforBetterAging Links to the organization mentioned in the show: Stroke Support: https://www.heart.org/en/stroke-groups/stroke--aphasia-zoom-chats Parkinson Voice Project: https://parkinsonvoiceproject.org/program/find-a-provider/ Parkinsons Support Groups: https://www.parkinson.org/resources-support/find-your-chapter ALS Support Groups: https://www.als.org/support/support-groups Tremble Clefs Singing Groups: https://www.trembleclefs.com Glennar Foundation: https://glenner.org/services/caregiver-support-groups/ Multiple Sclerosis Support Groups: https://www.nationalmssociety.org/resources/get- connected/online-communities Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices