Aging In Place: The Naperville Area Family Guide - with guest Courtney Hedderman (AARP)

This episode of Aging In Place features Courtney Hedderman of AARP, who outlines the organization’s mission, history, and broad role in supporting older adults and their families. The conversation explains how AARP has evolved from its origins in securing health coverage for retired teachers into a nationwide, nonpartisan advocate focused on healthcare, financial security, livable communities, caregiving, and fraud prevention. Hedderman emphasizes the realities faced by the “sandwich generation,” noting the growing responsibilities of unpaid family caregivers and the need for early, practical conversations about planning, support systems, and aging in place. The discussion also highlights AARP’s efforts to combat scams—particularly those targeting older adults—through education, policy advocacy, and community outreach. In addition, the episode challenges outdated assumptions about aging by underscoring the value, purpose, and continued workforce contributions of older adults. Overall, the podcast presents AARP as both a trusted source of information and a strong advocate for policies and resources that help people age with dignity, independence, and security.