Aging With Grace 55+

Bob Hill reflects on an esteemed career that includes writing 4,000 newspaper columns and his now closed whimsical eight acre Hidden Hill Nursery & Sculpture Garden. Closet and space organizer Ashley Gude from "Ashley Organizes" returns to discuss the calm that comes from organizing living space into minimalist safe havens.

Four years ago, during the pandemic, older workers began exiting the workforce in large numbers. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that more individuals aged 65 and older left the workforce in 2020 than any year since 1948, when the U.S. started tracking the data. Many of those who left during the early part of the pandemic have returned to work since then; more than half, according to a paper by T. Rowe Price Thought Leadership Director Judith Ward, a Certified Financial Planner. Of the 2.4 million additional people who retired in 2020, 1.5 million had "unretired" by March 2022. These figures indicate a trend of older workers retiring and subsequently deciding to return to work for various reasons, including seeking income or mental stimulation. In this episode Harriet Edleson shares insights from her article “Finding Your Encore Career” published earlier this year in the online newsletter Next Avenue, "featuring news, advice, information, conversations and stories curated for people over 50”. Her article includes retirees, some aged 73, discussing strategies for how and why they returned to the workforce. Edleson also authored the book “12 Ways to Retire on Less: Planning an Affordable Future”. She is a former staff writer, editor, and producer for AARP, and has written for The New York Times, The Washington Post, and Kiplinger's Retirement Report. 

The loss of a family member often necessitates surviving members to take on new roles and responsibilities. This transition can be both challenging and transformative. One poignant example is the experience of Dr. Phyllis Connelly, who faced the unexpected passing of Kevin after close to 40 years of marriage.

In 2023 Troy J. Broussard moved to Louisville from Baton Rouge to accept the position of AARP Kentucky State Director. In this episode he shares some of his proudest achievements / accomplishments in this past year. Including testifying before the House Committee on Veterans' Affairs and how this advocacy supports the AARP mission to serve our Veterans. Troy also shares a couple of things we likely know about AARP and something we likely don't know. For example, anyone can become a member of AARP at age 18 years of age! Our new state director is in it for the long haul as Troy also shares his vision for the future of AARP Kentucky.

Kentucky Department of Veterans Affairs (KYDVA) Commissioner Whitney Allen highlights the comprehensive support provided to the state's 295,000 veterans and their families. Allen also emphasizes that every state has a Department of Veterans Affairs ready to help veterans access these essential resources. The KYDVA is dedicated to ensuring that veterans receive the full range of benefits and services they've earned, regardless of where they are in their post-service journey.  Whether you're newly transitioned from military service or have been a civilian for years, veteran organizations stand committed to delivering the entitlements you deserve, creating a supportive network for veterans across the nation.Thank you for your service to a grateful nation.

Voting is essential for shaping policies and ensuring that democracy reflects the collective voice of the people. In this episode, Fayette County Clerk Susan Lamb shares her insights on the election process. With 27 years of public service—including her time as a city council member and now as an elected county clerk—Lamb brings deep expertise, particularly in managing early ballots and maintaining election security.Whether you live in Kentucky or elsewhere, rest assured that the election process is safeguarded at the federal level. Make sure to cast your vote on November 5, 2024. Many races, both national and local, are often decided by narrow margins, reinforcing that every vote matters.

Rev. Dr. James Thurman, State Commander & Second Vice  for NABVETS, comments on the creation of and need for the National Association of Black Veterans. Soldiers of color coming home were not allowed to join veteran associations. So in 1972 NABVETS was issued a Congressional Charter in the tradition of the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW), American Legion, etc. Today NABVETS help ensure that all veterans who come out of their service are not lost but have a way to help them to go back to lead a healthy life.  Contact NABVETS.com to learn more information about the services provided. Including Demise Benefits, Long Term Care, Caregiver Support and more. Each one essential to ensuring veterans receive the respect they deserve in making the sometimes-difficult transition from active duty to civilian life.Please visit NABVET.org to register for its National Conference, September 4th – 8th in Louisville, Kentucky. Theme: “Honoring the Past and Inspiring the Future”.

With this year's major investment, across the eight years of the program (2017-2024) AARP has invested $20.1million through over 1,700 grants to make communities more livable.  Interim Executive Director Tiffany Studivant and Operations Director Roger May discuss how being a grantee helps build even more momentum for Appalshop's mission which includes livability for residents of all ages, backgrounds, and abilities.  This grant is even more timely given the small town of Jenkins (2010 Census population of 2100 people) continues to slowly recover following devastating flood waters that heavily damaged  Appalshop and thousands of residents across eastern Kentucky were left without homes.   Roger also addresses overcoming the barriers of being rural while Tiffany shares her thoughts on the importance of what she terms “the magic of art” affecting citizens’ identities and mental health in small, tight knit communities like Jenkins.

Retirement concerns for most people tend to center on health, and fear of outliving their savings. Which are in many ways intertwined. For example, your health plays into how long you can work, how much you'll need to spend on insurance and medical care, where you can live, and your quality of life in retirement.  And keep in mind Inflation often called the "quiet killer" of retirement. Over time, prices rise, making your money less valuable. These challenges and more are made even more complicated by taxes. John Watson, from dpl Financial Partners, returns to share his holistic approach to creating a plan that might help you avoid unpleasant surprises in the future.

John Tesh is internationally recognized for his diverse talents as a journalist, composer, broadcaster, concert pianist, and author. His online course, the John Tesh Piano Method, available at Tesh.com, was developed after surveying his nearly 2 million social media followers. One of the most requested topics was advice on how to improve memory.A recent study published by the International Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry suggests that playing a musical instrument can help keep the brain healthy in old age, improving memory and the ability to solve complex tasks, particularly for those with dementia. The study’s authors recommend incorporating music playing into a lifestyle approach to maintaining brain health.Earlier this year, the Emmy Award-winning musician launched his online course, which teaches anyone how to play the piano without reading sheet music or learning complex music theory. Tesh claims that, using Neuroscience techniques, anyone can learn to play the piano in just three days. His method is based on his decades of experience as a multi-million-selling music artist and composer, and the advice he has shared on his self-help daily radio show, which is broadcast on more than 350 stations.In a candid interview, Tesh also discusses highlights from his inspirational memoir, Relentless: Unleashing a Life of Purpose, Grit, and Faith. The candid memoir covers his recovery from “serious, stage3-plus” cancer diagnosis, key moments from his extensive broadcasting career at CBS and NBC, and his ten years as co-host of "Entertainment Tonight." Throughout his career, Tesh has earned three gold albums and six Emmys for his best selling albums and singles.

 Past AARP Purpose Prize winner Karen Cassidy discusses the Hildegard House (www.hildegardhouse.org) which is Kentucky's first and only comfort care home. It provides a home and compassionate care for individuals at the end of life who have no home or loved one ones to care for them so that they die with dignity.  As a co-member of Sisters of Loretto (based in Nerinx, Kentucky) Karen is also a palliative care nurse by profession. KY Democratic and Republican Parties will hold primary elections in May. Secretary of State Michael G. Adams returns to share important information including how to register on line to vote, the need for poll workers, and safeguards in place to minimize ballot tampering or voter fraud.  More information available by visiting  govote.ky.gov. 

Running out of money during retirement is the concern that consistently ranks as the No. 1 fear of retirees. John Watson, from dpl Financial Partners, shares his holistic approach to financial planning using a time proven combination of managed assets, annuities, income and protection strategies. Other topics include effects of the 2017 Tax Cut & Jobs Act scheduled, pending Congressional action,  to sunset soon  in addtion to standard deductions that are also in jeopardy.

State Board Volunteer President Gary Adkins shares how AARP / KY is encouraging Congress to act before 447,000 Kentucky families lose access to affordable, reliable internet through the Affordable Connectivity Program.  Plus proposed changes to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) in House Bill 367 and other hot topics at the state and federal level. He also reflects on the effectiveness of  AARP / Kentucky Lobby Day.

On average a 65-year-old in the U.S. can expect to live a little more than 20-25 more years. Effectively spending a 1/3 of their life in retirement!  With a 50 % - 65% chance they will still be alive at age 95, the ideal retirement plan involves generating multiple streams of income to provide both stability and tax flexibility in retirement. David Lau, founder and CEO of DPL Financial, shares market trends and how important the inclusion of annuities can help navigate a potentially volatile market in 2024.   Next up  Dave Grunenwald has created quality paperback bound Keepsake Activity Journals as a simple solution to "I'm bored ".  His Grandparent Merit Badges (GMB) are a very easy and inexpensive way to "Disconnect from the digital and reconnect with those who matter most”.  Imagine collecting Merit Badges around doing simple activities, like flying a kite, baking cookies,  gardening,  going for a walk, or watching a movie! Collect and date other badges for even more fun activities designed to build warm, lasting relationships with aging grandparents or seniors.  Available on Amazon as a keepsake for years to come.

David Lau, founder, and CEO of DPL Financial Partners, discusses the surge in annuities compared to the previous year.  Including solutions and benefits annuities provide in peace of mind for building or protecting investment portfolios in retirement.  Greg Lozano, Branch of Wellness Counseling in San Antonio, Texas, discusses "Healthy Living in the Age of Social Media" for aging adults.  Be sure to read his article in the online September edition of Healthy Aging magazine. We've all heard the phrase "let’s make a toast “at a wedding or dinner honoree.  Did you know this phrase originated in the Middle Ages? Thanks to U.S, History Facts.com enjoy learning more including how this term came into common use today!

The Rosemary Clooney Museum features costumes and props from the popular movie “White Christmas”. This holiday musical classic stars Bing Crosby and Danny Kaye as a singing duo who befriend and become romantically involved with the beautiful Haynes sisters played by Kentuckian Rosemary Clooney and Vera-Ellen. Crosby’s hit song "White Christmas" was the number one record in the U.S. for 11 weeks straight and remains to date the bestselling single in the history of music.   Former Miss America Heather French Henry and her husband Steve discuss curating the museum.  Including collecting costumes and other movie-set paraphernalia from the 1954 classic of the same name about two song-and-dance men who team up after the war and plot to help their former commander save his rural Vermont inn.

Meet Gary Adkins who was recently named the next volunteer State President for AARP Kentucky.  In this position he is a key partner and counsel to the new Kentucky State Director Troy Broussard. Mr. Adkins replaces outgoing president Charlotte Whittaker who has been interviewed on past episodes of this podcast series sponsored in part by AARP Kentucky.  In his new role effective January of 2024 Gary becomes essentially a lead volunteer, acting as a partner to the state director and state office staff while helping to manage more than 110 volunteers around the state working on various advocacy issues at the state and federal levels. AARP is the nation’s largest nonprofit, nonpartisan organization dedicated to empowering people 50 and older to choose how they live as they age. This  podcast series Aging With Grace 55+ is made possible in part by support from AARP Kentucky.

After serving as a CEO for 24-years Chip Conley eventually founded Modern Elder Academy. One of MEAs secrets to thriving in midlife is marrying wisdom and experience with curiosity and a beginner’s mind.  He believes society offers little support and inspiration for many transitions during these expanded years with the average life span rising and many bypassing the traditional retirement age. So this visionary created a midlife pitstop in Baja, Mexico (and soon in Santa Fe, NM) where thousands have gathered over the past five-years to marry their wisdom with tools as part of a curriculum designed to celebrate and navigate what Chip refers to as the "sacred ritual"  of Midlife. Then meet 87-years young Mrs. Edna Siniff from Mahtomedi, Minnesota, who shares her story of learning at a young age to hunt small game. Acquiring accurate shooting skills, she earned a spot on a collegiate team. Sadly, in that time period she was barred from having her picture taken or traveling with the men's rifle team to out-of-state competitions. Nor could she afford an invitation to compete in the Olympics. Later in life after seeing a video while working out at the YMCA she discovered a passion for competition landing on archery in the National Senior Games as a natural extension of her prowess with a rifle. 

This episode welcomes Troy J. Broussard to the new role as the State Director for Kentucky in the South Region.  The proud Desert Storm Army Veteran and native of Louisiana shares his passion for leading the AARP Kentucky staff and volunteer teams working to enhance the lives of the 50+ community throughout the state.  Troy shares his commitment to communication, collaboration, and consultation as AARP expands and deepens its work in targeted communities and throughout Kentucky. Volunteer Spotlight: Jean Schumm, founder and President of Operation Parent, discusses several challenges to the traditional family including her thoughts on the biggest threat to our children /grandchildren today. Parents are the #1 influence in the lives of their children. She stresses educated parents are the best prevention tool.   It is important to understand the dangers our kids and grandkids are exposed to. Did you know volunteers age 50+are less likely to develop high blood pressure and are more likely to increase physical activity and decrease stress?   Studies also show volunteering combats depression.   Including people who volunteer at two+ organizations have a 63% lower mortality rate than non-volunteers.  Additionally, volunteers working with AARP/Kentucky, Operation Parent, or wherever they call home in the United States can enjoy meeting new people while serving others.

Architect Aaron Murphy shares his passion for housing that allows for Aging In Place in your own community. Technology is pivoting.  Medicine is advancing.  But according to this Certified Aging In Place Specialist, home design hasn't changed much since WWII as builders are still erecting two-story homes.   Coining the term "Empowering Housing",  Aaron says "Families are going to suffer the consequences; a future without housing will create a lack of independence, autonomy, and personal freedom of choice."  The founder of Foreverhome-us.com shares the good news from Chicago to Tokyo on how planning and acting NOW specifically creates benefits for the homeowner beyond simple DiY handrails.  Director Amy Arnette from dpl financial partners returns to discuss financial challenges around Caregiving.  Genworth reports 66% of Caregivers are paying from personal savings and retirement income to provide care for aging parents.   Absent proper financial planning for Long Term care can crater individual income or family savings.  Amy shares the importance of customizing financial plans given 10,000 Americans started turning 65 years old every day!  You do not want to be the son or daughter suffering mutual indignities of role reversal including cleaning and tending to other personal needs of mom or dad.  Episode concludes with origin story of AMPEX as a shining example of toiling in obscurity to build an international brand that at the death of its founder was worth half-a-billion dollars.

Why plan for long term care?  Amy Arnette,  director, Insurance Solutions with dpl Financial, discusses why you would need it and how to customize a long term care plan.  Bottom line is Long Term Care planning is essential to protecting your financial assets. Most people have a bucket list.   Amy shares how getting to choose your care setting can become a reality for successfully aging in place. How many of us check off a bucket list of great adventures we want to have for fun? Well, Julia Inman and her husband Terry Brabb did just that; purchasing a 45' catamaran and living at sea for five and a half years! Julia recounts the fun but also some of the challenges that include lightning striking their 75' sail mast.  Trying to decide the name of their boat was so frustrating until Julia said of the process "This is madness!' which became the moniker (Madness) of their sailboat! This episode concludes with a former state legislator who has lived most of his life in Baton Rouge, LA.   After being displaced by Hurricane Katrina, Raymond A. Jetson launched “MetroMorphosis” challenging perceptions about Black and brown people who live in inner-city communities, and the narrative about those very communities.  Foundational to this work is Raymond's fervent belief that inner-city neighborhoods are teeming with assets and resources that can be activated or repurposed.  Including co-creating a community where all citizens, old and young feel vibrant, connected and valued.  Former Pastor Jetson's oft-repeated mantra is: “The resources necessary to transform urban communities cannot be imported exclusively but must begin with identifying and nurturing what already exists.” 

Recently singer Tony Bennett, whom the New York Times labelled as “Jazzy Crooner of the American Songbook”, succumbed to the ravages of Alzheimer’s. Despite being diagnosed with the disease in 2016 he could amazingly still remember song lyrics even as the disease ravaged his mind. Including winning another Grammy Award in 2021 with Lady Gaga for their album Love for Sale. Kim Baker, President, and CEO of Kentucky Performing Arts, discusses this amazing feat of Tony remembering lyrics despite fading memories. Pensions have become a thing of the past. Getting a gold watch at retirement is long gone as employees are now responsible for their retirement plans. Willie Jones, from DPL Financial Partners, returns to discuss how annuities and other products can help protect while providing income for life. Episode concludes with the evolutionary funk of primitive to modern men and women. Anthropologists suggest reeking may have saved them from being eaten by predators as strong odors clung to humans.  Various remedies were created by the Egyptians, Ancient Greeks, Romans, and through the Middle Ages of Europe.  All in vain until 1888 when Edna Murphey, a U.S. inventor created an amazing product in Philadelphia, PA.  While effectively combating the Dog Days of Summer it eventually began growing into a multi-billion-dollar industry with the introduction of an aerosol brand in the mid-1950s. 

In the event you missed it enjoy  the origins of two essential skincare products for the summer sun. One of which was created inside a coffee pot and the other brand,  despite its idylic tropical name, actually came from a small town in Kenucky!From the conclusion of S3 / E8: "Understanding Income vs. Assets in Retirement and Kids Cancer Alliance"

Ron Bridges reflects on his stellar 27-year career with AARP.  He first joined AARP in 1997 and was promoted to AARP Kentucky State Director in September 2012. This special retirement, or as we like to say “repurposed”, edition also includes John B. Caine, II, South Region Vice President, for AARP.  Shelby Russell, Executive Director of  the Kids Cancer Alliance, discusses how volunteering your skill, time, and resources, SOME place, ANY place, is one of the most potent ways to make a difference. Enjoy another fun factoid, this one  about the origins of two essential products for protecting your skin from the sun. 

Make sure your retirement can generate income for life. Willie Jones from DPL Financial Partners discusses common risks associated with retirement planning today including income versus assets.  Regardless of your age or life situation, volunteering can help take your mind off your worries, keep you mentally stimulated, and add more zest to your life. Shelby Russell, Executive Director of  the Kids Cancer Alliance, discusses how volunteering your skills, time, and resources, SOME place, ANY place, is one of the most potent ways to make a difference.  Fun Factoid:  this one  about the origins of two essential products for protecting your skin from the sun. 

Volunteer and retiring Board Chair Charlotte Whittaker reflects on her leadership of AARP Kentucky. Including comments from Scott Wegenast, Associate State Director for Communications & Outreach. Then enjoy the story about an American inventor who after 10,000 attempts truly changed the world.Aging With Grace 55+ podcast series is an attack by host A. Dale Josey on rampant Ageism for the upbeat, mature adult embracing life 55+. Lifestyle podcast series provides useful tips for taking care of aging self, family, and friends.  And also enjoying life more abundantly than many even thought possible. Some of our guests doing what other seniors only dream about or never thought possible. Rotating magazine style interviews are designed as an encouragement to live well and remain engaged in society. Episodes include fun factoids, and popular "Did You Know..."  in addition to topics, intriguing guests and vetted professionals in health and wellness, life changes, living options, money, law, and more!

The conclusion of my interview with delightful sisters JJ Elliott Hill and sister Natalie Handy who share the complex realities of caring for an aging loved one.  Their podcast series "Confessions of a Reluctant Caregiver" is advertised as a judgement free zone where caregivers can be their most authentic selves, confessing their truths without shame or fear of rejection. David Lau, founder, and CEO of DPL Financial Partners, returns to discuss the benefits of MYGAs which is a Multi-Year Guaranteed Annuity product gaining popularity especially following recent bank collapses. More information about MYGAs can be found at dplfp.com. LaDonna Koebel, Executive Director of the Office of Senior Protection and Mediation in the Kentucky Office of the Attorney General, discusses types of scams that pop up following natural disasters. She also shares prevention tips like how seniors can protect themselves from more popular scams focused on grandchildren.Aging With Grace 55+ podcast series is an attack by host A. Dale Josey on rampant Ageism for the upbeat, mature adult embracing life 55+.    Lifestyle podcast series provides useful tips for taking care of aging self, family, and friends.  And also enjoying life more abundantly than many even thought possible. Some of our guests are doing what other seniors only dream about or never thought possible. Rotating magazine style interviews are designed to encourage us to live well and remain engaged in society. Each episode features topics, intriguing guests and vetted professionals in health and wellness, life changes, living options, money, law, and more!

Part 1 of a two-part interview with delightful sisters JJ and Natalie who share the complex realities of role reversal with their mom from their podcast series "Confessions of a Reluctant Caregiver." Given recent bad news of a bank collapse David Lau from dpl financial partners discusses alternative strategies for retirement planning. Tech writer Vanessa Hutchinson shares how to embrace technology.   E5 concludes with names of several famous people who were  labelled "failures".Aging With Grace 55+™ is a 45-minute interview magazine format featuring guests providing useful tips for taking care of self, aging family members and those who priovide care for elders. The podccast series is produced as an attack on rampant Ageism. Featured topics have included caregiving for aging parents, protecting finances in retirement and many more!This is the fourth podcast series produced by host Dale Josey who has been blessed with renewed energy in his retirement with a purpose.  For more information visit  AWG55.com.