EP 53 :: Elder Orphan :: Terry Korth Fischer

Terry Korth Fischer writes mystery, memoir, and short stories. Her memoir, Omaha to Ogallala, was published in 2019. After a friendship that spanned more than a decade, Terry spent eighteen months as the primary caregiver for Anna Fogelman, a 95-year-old unmarried woman, who loved life and learning until she forgot her passions. Guiding Anna through stay-at-home care and then into assisted living, Terry became her friend’s lifeline in the baffling world around her. “We like to say that we were sisters of the heart. People would always say, ‘Are you her daughter?’ Anna got a kick out of that, and then would say, ‘No, we're sisters of the heart.’” Terry said. About 22% of older adults in the United States can be considered elder orphans or solo agers, or are at risk of becoming one. Elder orphans are older people who don’t have a spouse or children they can depend upon, while solo agers are older adults who are living alone and never had children. Don't forget to subscribe, download, and review to share your thoughts about the show! To find out more about Bobbi and Mike or the inspiration behind this podcast, Rodger That, head over to rodgerthat.show.