Advocacy and Innovation: A Vision for Aging Services

In today's episode of Elevate Eldercare, AgingIN CEO Susan Ryan welcomes Deke Cateau, CEO of A.G. Rhodes, a nonprofit nursing and rehabilitation organization in metro Atlanta. Born and raised in Trinidad and Tobago, Deke's path to long-term care was sparked by his wife's encouragement and is sustained by his deep belief in the power of family and person-centered care. Deke offers a behind-the-scenes look at A.G. Rhodes, which serves 1,300 eldersannually. Listeners will learn about A.G. Rhodes' innovative programs, including its small house model—designed to create intimate, elder-centered living environments—and its intergenerational initiatives that bring older and younger generations together in meaningful ways. Deke also highlights AG Rhodes' successful staffing agency, which ensures consistent, quality care, and ongoing research collaborations with Georgia State and Georgia Tech exploring the impact of music and horticultural therapy on resident wellbeing. The conversation digs into pressing policy and funding issues, including the devastating impact of Medicaid cuts on long-term care providers. Deke urges policymakers to reimagine Medicaid reimbursement structures, tying payments to quality outcomes rather than physical facilities. Looking ahead, Deke envisions eldercare that is fully integrated into the fabric of communities—much like childcare or schools—where intergenerational programs, dementia-friendly communities, and the longevity economy take center stage. His message is both practical and inspiring: we must all prepare for our own futures by engaging in advocacy, supporting innovation, and reframing how society values and supports older adults. Learn more about A.G. Rhodes here: https://www.agrhodes.org