Engaging Aging

In this episode of Engaging Aging, Erin welcomes Gwen Sorley from Play Attention and Silver Minds for an eye-opening conversation about cognitive health, aging, and the incredible neuroplasticity we maintain throughout life. Gwen shares how NASA-inspired neurotechnology is helping older adults strengthen attention, memory, processing speed, and executive function — whether they’re looking to stay sharp, prevent decline, or navigate early cognitive changes.Together, they explore the emotional side of aging, why cognitive vitality has become the top concern for older adults, and how holistic support — including personalized neurocognitive training, movement, mindfulness, learning, and community — can create meaningful improvements in day-to-day life. Gwen also shares the personal story behind the creation of Silver Minds, and why it’s never too late to change your brain.If you’ve ever wondered what’s possible for your cognitive health or a loved one’s, this conversation offers science, hope, and practical, empowering next steps.Connect With Silver MindsPhone: 📞 828-676-2239 | Website: www.mysilverminds.comConsultation: https://calendly.com/gsorley/silver-minds-callUpcoming Webinar Registration to learn more about Silver Minds https://us06web.zoom.us/webinar/register/4717335103103/WN_Wdexw1kXSmKNWGfag-uucA#/registration

In this powerful episode of Engaging Aging, we sit down with Katie Brandt, nationally recognized advocate and Director of Caregiving & Education at the MGH Frontotemporal Disorders Unit.Katie shares her deeply personal journey—caring for a husband with frontotemporal dementia (FTD), a father with Alzheimer’s disease, and raising her young son—all while navigating profound loss. She opens up about carrying what she calls the “grief backpack,” why love should guide every care decision, and the importance of building a strong support system.This conversation is a reminder that caregivers are never alone, and that even in the hardest seasons, joy and grief can coexist.✨ Inside this episode: What every family should do right after a diagnosis Why promises around care should be rooted in love, not guilt Practical advocacy tips: documenting changes, speaking up, and getting connected with the right professionals How grief and happiness can exist side-by-side, and what it means to care for yourself as well as your loved one🔗 Helpful Resources & Links Learn more about Katie Brandt: katibrandt.org | Instagram: @katibrand6 | From Care to Care Podcast (Apple/Spotify) The Association for Frontotemporal Degeneration (AFTD): theaftd.org Alzheimer’s Association: alz.org | 24/7 Helpline: 1-800-272-3900 MGH Frontotemporal Disorders Unit: massgeneral.org/neurology/ftd-unit

In this thought-provoking episode of Engaging Aging, Erin and Lauren open up a powerful conversation about the emerging role of plant medicine in supporting mental health, cognitive health, and overall well-being—especially for older adults. Joined by Reverend Dr. Leah Linder and Reverend Pam Convoy, experts in plant medicine and therapeutic integration, we explore: What plant medicine really is (hint: you may already be using it daily!) How psilocybin microdosing is showing promise for anxiety, depression, PTSD, Parkinson’s, Alzheimer’s, and more The importance of addressing root causes, not just symptoms, in aging and mental health Real client success stories, from renewed creativity and calmer moods to improved focus and reduced pain Why quality, safety, and integration practices matter when considering plant medicineThis episode shines a light on both the science and the spirituality of these ancient practices, while breaking down stigma and misconceptions. Whether you’re an older adult, a caregiver, or simply curious, you’ll walk away with new insights into how plant medicine may become part of the future of aging well.You can learn more at https://www.setasseminary.org

If dementia has touched your life—whether through a recent diagnosis, a loved one’s changing needs, or your work in elder care—this episode is for you.Erin sits down with Shari Flight of Ember Holistic to explore how a holistic approach can transform dementia care for both the person living with cognitive impairment and those who support them. From recognizing the earliest signs and navigating the moment of diagnosis, to adapting the home environment, fostering engagement, and sustaining caregiver well-being, Shari shares practical tools and heartfelt wisdom.We discuss why seeing the person beyond the diagnosis matters, how to preserve independence through “doing with” instead of “doing for,” and why planning ahead can ease the emotional, logistical, and financial toll of the dementia journey.Whether you’re an older adult, a family caregiver, or a professional in aging services, you’ll walk away with hope, clarity, and tangible steps to help keep the spark alive—no matter where you are in the journey.Connect with Ember Holistic:🌐 Website: www.emberholistic.com📧 Email: [email protected]📱 Social Media: @EmberHolisticCareLLC on all platforms

What if the behaviors we often see in older adults—resistance to change, anxiety, denial, even people-pleasing—aren’t just personality traits, but protective nervous system responses?In this powerful and heart-expanding episode of Engaging Aging, Erin sits down with Elisabeth Kristof—founder of NeuroSomatic Intelligence and Brain-Based Wellness—to explore how nervous system healing transforms the aging journey for older adults, caregivers, and professionals.Together, they unpack: Why behaviors like fawning and freeze are misunderstood survival patterns How sensory deficits and trauma impact balance, memory, and mood later in life Why so many nurses and caregivers are stuck in burnout—and how to break the cycle How tiny daily practices (even 1–2 minutes!) can create profound, lasting change Why healing yourself is the first step to truly supporting othersWhether you’re a care provider, an older adult, or simply someone who wants to age with more clarity, confidence, and peace—this episode will open your eyes and soften your heart.✨ Learn more and get started:🧠 Brain-Based Wellness Membership🎓 NSI Professional Certification Course

In this powerful episode of Engaging Aging, Lauren Watts sits down with Curtis Peterson, National Director of Sales at the Society of Certified Senior Advisors (CSA)®, for an honest and insightful look at what it really means to serve older adults with integrity.Together, they explore: Why the (CSA)® designation is more than just a credential—and why it should be the baseline for professionals in the aging space The ethical risks of stepping outside your scope (especially in real estate and senior living referrals) How to build a trusted, multidisciplinary network to better support older adults The growing wave of real estate agents becoming (CSA)® designees—and how it’s transforming the industry What older adults and their families should look for when vetting professionalsWhether you're a real estate agent, care manager, financial advisor—or simply passionate about aging well—this episode will challenge you to elevate your standards, deepen your knowledge, and recommit to putting the older adult first.🔗 Learn more at www.csa.us

Feeling stuck, uncertain, or disconnected from your purpose? In this inspiring conversation, coach and author Kimberly Napier joins Engaging Aging to share how older adults and caregivers can reconnect with themselves, gain clarity, and dare to choose what they truly want next. Through personal stories and practical mindset tools, Kimberly reminds us: you have all the answers—you just need space to listen.Connect with Kimberly:Download her free book and explore coaching programs at www.kimberlynapier.comFollow her on Instagram @kimberly_napier

Welcome to Part 4 of our four-part series, How to Sell Your Longtime Home for Top Dollar with Ease. In this heartfelt episode, Lauren Watts focuses on a critical—but often overlooked—element of the home-selling journey: partnership.Selling your home isn’t just about real estate. It’s about transition, emotion, and letting go of a chapter filled with decades of memories. Lauren explains why this journey shouldn't—and truly can't—be done alone.You’ll learn: Why trying to go it alone often leads to overwhelm and costly mistakes The trusted professionals you should bring into your circle, from financial advisors to estate planning attorneys to transition specialists How to avoid common pitfalls like selling before knowing where you're going The importance of legal and financial readiness before listing Why your real estate experience should reflect your values, not just market data✨ Feeling overwhelmed? We've got you.Watch our complimentary e-webinar for deeper support:👉 www.dovetailcompanies.com/webinar📞 Connect with UsWhether you're just getting started or already in the thick of planning, we're here to help.🌐 Visit www.dovetailcompanies.com📧 Email [email protected]📱 Call 617-227-1600At Dovetail, we believe real estate is personal. Let’s do this with heart.

Welcome to Part 3 of our four-part series, How to Sell Your Longtime Home for Top Dollar with Ease. In this episode, Lauren Watts takes you behind the scenes of one of the most important (and often misunderstood) steps in the home selling process: pricing.Pricing your home isn’t about picking a number and crossing your fingers—it’s a strategic decision that can make or break your sale. Lauren walks you through the four key factors that influence your home’s value: Condition – What buyers see (and don’t) affects what they’ll pay Local Market Data – Why your zip code matters more than national headlines Current Economic Conditions – How interest rates, job markets, and the economy play a role Marketing Strategy – From staging to photography to timing, how you market mattersWhether your home is turnkey or needs some love, this episode gives you the insider knowledge to price with confidence, attract serious buyers, and retain negotiating power throughout the process.✨ Want to go deeper?Watch our free e-webinar:👉 www.dovetailcompanies.com/webinar📞 Let’s Talk!We're here to help guide you every step of the way. Visit www.dovetailcompanies.com, email [email protected], or call us at 617-227-1600.We’ll even connect you with one of our trusted, Dovetail-approved agents nationwide if you’re outside our service area.

Welcome to Part 2 of our four-part series, How to Sell Your Longtime Home for Top Dollar with Ease. In this solo episode, Erin dives deep into the importance of preparation—and why this crucial step can make or break your sale.From first impressions to strategic updates, Erin shares how even small investments in preparing your home can result in significantly higher offers, smoother showings, and a better overall experience for everyone involved. Whether you have a move-in ready gem or a legacy fixer, this episode will help you see your home through a buyer's eyes—and make empowered, profitable decisions.🏠 Erin also walks you through four common home types: Move-In Ready Gem Well-Loved Haven Time-Worn Treasure Legacy FixerYou’ll learn which updates matter most, how to protect your equity, and how Dovetail’s proven method ensures your interests stay at the center of every decision.✨ Want to go deeper?Watch our free e-webinar:👉 www.dovetailcompanies.com/webinar📞 Need support from a team that gets it?Visit www.dovetailcompanies.com, email [email protected], or call us at 617-227-1600.We’re here to help you navigate this next chapter with clarity, compassion, and confidence.

Welcome to Part 1 of our 4-part series, How to Sell Your Longtime Home for Top Dollar with Ease. In this episode, Erin kicks things off by guiding you through the most important (and often most overlooked) step of the entire process: planning.If you're feeling overwhelmed, unsure where to start, or wondering how to make such a major life transition smoother, this episode is for you. Erin breaks down the key elements of a thoughtful and effective plan—including how to determine where you're going, how to prepare legally and financially, and how to create a timeline that works for you, not just the real estate market.✅ You’ll learn: How to clarify where you're going before anything else What documents and professionals you need in place How to tap into your home’s equity (with options like HELOCs, HECMs, bridge loans, and more) Why creating multiple versions of your plan (Plan A, B, and C!) can give you confidence and peace of mind How to avoid the costly mistakes that come from rushing into a move without a clear roadmap✨ Ready to go deeper?Watch the full How to Sell Your Longtime Home for Top Dollar With Ease e-webinar here:👉 www.dovetailcompanies.com/webinar📞 Need personalized support?We’re here to help. Visit www.dovetailcompanies.com, call us at 617-227-1600, or email [email protected] to connect with our compassionate and experienced team. You don’t have to go through this alone.

In this insightful episode, Erin welcomes Dr. Joshua Kaplan, Doctor of Physical Therapy and Founder of Enphysion Health, to discuss how simple, consistent movement can completely transform the aging experience. Together, they explore why muscle is the true organ of longevity, how neuroplasticity can improve with age, and what it really takes to stay strong—physically and cognitively—well into your later years.Dr. Kaplan shares his personal journey from sports medicine to skilled nursing, and how that experience led to the creation of Enphysion—a virtual, personalized movement program designed for older adults who want to feel confident, stable, and strong at home. Whether you’re an older adult, a caregiver, or simply someone who wants to age well, this episode offers practical tips, inspiring stories, and a refreshing mindset shift.📞 Want to connect with Dr. Kaplan or try Enphysion Health?Visit www.enphysion.com to book a free consultation and explore a better way to stay active, mobile, and independent—on your own terms.✨ Looking for more heart-centered support as you navigate aging or help a loved one plan their next chapter?Visit www.dovetailcompanies.com to learn how our expert team helps older adults and families simplify transitions with compassion, clarity, and ease.

Tune into a crucial episode of the Engaging Aging podcast, hosted by Lauren Watts. This session features financial experts Tom Alessi and Craig Richardson from the Aries Foundation, offering their insights into financial planning and preparing for the future. Aimed specifically at older adults, this discussion covers essential topics such as retirement planning, estate management, and securing financial health. Join us as Tom and Craig provide valuable advice and strategies to help you navigate the complexities of your financial journey, ensuring a secure and thriving future.https://www.ariesfoundation.org/

In this eye-opening podcast, we dive into a crucial yet often overlooked topic: pelvic floor health. Join us as we break down the myths, misunderstandings, and stigmas that have kept this essential conversation in the shadows for far too long. From understanding what the pelvic floor is and why it's so important for both men and women to addressing common issues like incontinence, pain, and prolapse, we aim to shed light on how maintaining pelvic floor health can enhance your overall well-being.Our expert guest, Miranda Duffany of Fitzgerald Physical Therapy Associates will provide actionable advice and empower you to prioritize your pelvic health. Together, we'll discuss the social stigmas that prevent open conversations, explore how these misconceptions impact daily life, and offer ways to embrace a proactive and informed approach to pelvic care.It's time to break the silence and start talking about pelvic floor health, removing the shame and misinformation that often surround it. Whether you're experiencing symptoms or simply curious to learn more, this podcast will give you the tools and knowledge to take charge of your health with confidence.

For many older adults, their wealth and largest investment is their  long-time home. Erin DiCarlo welcomes Elder Law and Estate Planning Attorney, Zach Smolkin, along with Matt Lazowski, Home Equity Conversion Mortgage (HECM) specialist at Fairway Mortgage to demystify reverse mortgages. Join the conversation as Erin, Zach, and Matt look at the traditional reverse mortgage product, a HECM to purchase, and how a HECM can truly help older adults  access the equity in their home and allow for some significant estate planning to be done, ensuring their needs are being met later in life. 

Join Lauren Watts and Joe Scott, Director of Move Management,  at Dovetail Companies as they welcome Kirk Woodring to the podcast. Kirk is the Director of Behavioral Integration with AgeSpan, the Elder Services of Merrimack Valley and North Shore in Massachusetts. Kirk speaks out on suicide amongst older adults, aging, and its impact on LGBTQIA+ community. There are many factors that contribute to death by suicide among older adults, including: isolation, depression, loneliness, profound loss, and lack of family/supportive communities. Help us raise awareness and start the conversation.

Many older adults want and NEED to sell their homes for top dollar, ensuring their hard-earned equity ends up in their own pockets and not those of investors or others looking to make a profit. As the real estate market continues to change our process of supporting mature sellers stays the same: putting YOU at the center of the equation. Lauren and Erin discuss the factors needed for a successful transition and ultimate home sale for older adults and why the various techniques used matter greatly.

The first step to thriving later in life is to identify what areas of your life are holding you back, where you want to go and what action items must be taken to get you there. Many people feel that “something” isn’t working but aren’t always able to identify what it is. In this episode, Erin and Lauren highlight how aligning your actions with your ultimate goals allows you to shift your mind-set and create real change in your life.

GET IT OFF YOUR CHEST! You can’t go over it, you can’t go under it, you must go through it. Whatever is holding you back from moving forward in your life it’s time to bring it to the surface and process it in-order-to move past it. Finding your supportive tribe is the first step in establishing the trust needed to begin your cathartic experience. Tap into your inner knowing to gain the answers within yourself.

When you have fallen from the grace of patience, know you are not alone! It is not so easy to be patient with ourselves and others, especially as we age, and life brings a variety of new challenges. Join Erin and Lauren as they dive into patience, how to make small shifts in your daily life and share tips on how to take a breath, moving forward with clarity and ease.

Too much information is not only overwhelming, but it can oftentimes be debilitating and hinder the process of moving forward. Join Erin and Lauren as they simplify the experience of gaining the pertinent information needed to make the best decision for your unique situation.

Life is messy! We all bring our previous experiences and relationships into our current situation. “Perception is reality” and our perceptions vary greatly from one another. Join us as we share the reality of family dynamics through real-life examples and offer simple solutions for families facing similar challenging dynamics.

Older adults are making major life decisions, sometimes with limited information, creating indecisiveness or confusion. Join Erin DiCarlo and Joe Scott as they touch upon the various funding options available to pay for senior living.

Moving is one of the top three most stressful life events. The older we become the more challenges we often face. From logistics to emotions and family dynamics, we address them all in this episode! Change Can Be Difficult. Moving Doesn’t Have to Be.

The need for deep human connection and physical touch doesn’t go away as we age, if anything they grow in importance as our social circles and relationships dwindle. The power of a gentle touch or embrace, a kind and heartfelt note, an intimate meal shared with a loved one; these small yet powerful moments are all beyond measure when it pertains to our well-being. Let’s talk!

Are your kids hovering over you, taking away your independence? Or are you an adult child who feels they need to be constantly overseeing your aging parent? Join Erin and Lauren as they take a deep dive into this common scenario experienced by many families. No one is to blame! Learn the small shifts you can make to ensure everyone’s safety and improve your relationship.