Caregiving in Autism and Aging: Finding Joy, Challenges, and Advocacy with Dr. Kerry Burnight

This week’s conversation takes us deep into the heart of caregiving and the layered beauty of loving someone with autism. Dr. Kerry Burnight—gerontologist and author of JOYSPAN: The Art and Science of Thriving in Life's Second Half(coming out August 5!)—joins Inchstones host Sarah Kernion for an open, honest, and uplifting dialogue about what it really means to care. Together, they unpack the raw and often complicated emotions that come with being a caregiver—especially when you're navigating both autism and aging. They explore how to support someone while honoring their independence and dignity, reflect on the power of spiritual freedom, and share the kind of hard-earned wisdom that only comes from lived experience. There’s vulnerability, laughter, and a whole lot of truth. This episode is a beautiful reminder that caregiving isn’t just a role—it’s a relationship. It’s challenging, transformative, and full of meaning. Whether you’re knee-deep in it or just stepping in, this conversation offers insight, companionship, and maybe even a little (a LOT) of joy.