Episodes

  • Episode 303 - Signs that Your Parents May Need More Help

    Episode 303 - Signs that Your Parents May Need More Help
    Dec 19 2025
    Did your holiday visit with your parents leave you feeling a little uneasy? 🎄 Stacks of unopened mail. Expired food in the fridge. Changes in mood, memory, or hygiene. Those small moments can raise a big question: Is it time for more help at home? In this episode of 🎙️ Aging Starts Now, Outreach Coordinator Dana Hentschel sits down with Elder Care Coordinator Erin Keogh-Rankin of Johnson McGinnis Elder Care Law & Estate Planning to talk through the subtle—and not-so-subtle—red flags families often notice during holiday visits. We cover: ✔️ Common warning signs in the home environment ✔️ Changes in memory, behavior, mobility, and self-care ✔️ How to know when it’s time to intervene ✔️ First steps to take—without guilt or panic ✔️ How to support aging parents while respecting dignity and independence If you noticed changes and aren’t sure what they mean, you’re not alone—and you don’t have to figure it out by yourself.
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    22 mins
  • Episode 302: Dementia and the Holidays

    Episode 302: Dementia and the Holidays
    Dec 17 2025
    The holidays are often filled with tradition and togetherness—but for families caring for a loved one with dementia, they can also bring unexpected challenges. In this episode of Aging Starts Now, Outreach Coordinator Dana Hentschel is joined by Lynn Wood, Caregiver Support Coordinator for Mental Health America of the MidSouth. Together, they explore why the holiday season can be particularly overwhelming for individuals living with dementia and those who care for them. Listeners will learn how to recognize early signs of distress, navigate changes in routine, and thoughtfully adapt traditions to create meaningful, supportive holiday experiences rooted in compassion and understanding. 🎧 Listen now and share with someone who may need encouragement this season.
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    23 mins
  • Episode 301 - Night to Shine: A Celebration of Love, Dignity & Community

    Episode 301 - Night to Shine: A Celebration of Love, Dignity & Community
    Dec 10 2025
    In this episode, elder care coordinator Katlyn Green sits down with Lisa Dotson of Northfield Church to explore the heart and impact of Night to Shine—a worldwide prom experience, sponsored by the Tim Tebow Foundation, created especially for individuals with special needs. We walk through: The mission and purpose of Night to Shine Northfield Church’s years of involvement What honored guests can expect on this unforgettable evening How volunteers make the event come alive The meaningful ways Night to Shine strengthens families and the community And how YOU can get involved—whether by attending, volunteering, or supporting in other ways This conversation is a beautiful reminder of what happens when a community comes together to celebrate every person’s worth. A huge thank you to Northfield Church, the volunteers, caregivers, families, and honored guests who make this night so extraordinary each year. If you’re inspired by today’s episode, we encourage you to get involved or help spread the word. Every bit of support matters. Learn more here- https://www.nfnighttoshine.com/ Johnson McGinnis Elder Care Law & Estate Planning is a Life Care Planning Law Firm helping families navigate the legal, financial, and health care challenges of aging.
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    19 mins
  • Episode 300- Special Needs Planning Part Two - Special Needs Trusts as an Asset Protection Tool as part of a Comprehensive Estate Plan

    Episode 300- Special Needs Planning Part Two - Special Needs Trusts as an Asset Protection Tool as part of a Comprehensive Estate Plan
    Dec 3 2025
    We’re back with Part 2 of our series on Special Needs Trusts — and this week, we’re looking beyond public benefits. In this episode, we explore how a Special Needs Trust can also play a powerful role in asset protection and strengthen your overall estate plan. Attorney Josh Hunter of Johnson McGinnis Elder Care Law & Estate Planning returns to share practical insight and guidance every family should hear.
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    15 mins
  • Episode 299 - Special Needs Planning Part One - How to Manage an Inheritance or Settlement While on Public Benefits

    Episode 299 - Special Needs Planning Part One - How to Manage an Inheritance or Settlement While on Public Benefits
    Nov 25 2025
    When you’re caring for someone who depends on ongoing support, every decision matters — especially the financial ones. What many families don’t realize is that even the most well-meaning gift or inheritance can unintentionally jeopardize vital benefits like Medicaid or SSI. In today’s episode, we’re diving into a topic that can truly shape a loved one’s future: special needs trusts. Joining us is Attorney Josh Hunter of Johnson McGinnis Elder Care Law & Estate Planning, who breaks down how these trusts work, why they’re so important, and how they can safeguard long-term care and financial stability.
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    19 mins
  • Episode 298 - Denial is Dangerous

    Episode 298 - Denial is Dangerous
    Nov 19 2025
    Denial & Dementia: Why Waiting Can Lead to Crisis In this episode of Aging Starts Now, Outreach Coordinator Dana Hentschel sits down with Certified Elder Law Attorney Barbara McGinnis to talk about one of the most difficult—and most overlooked—parts of dementia: denial. Families often explain away the early signs… the confusion, the personality changes, the small mistakes. But when warning signs are ignored, the consequences can quickly escalate. Dana and Barbara share the real story of a family who struggled to accept their father’s dementia until it led to a heartbreaking crisis. Together, they break down: Why denial is such a powerful force How to recognize when “normal aging” may be something more The risks of delaying action What families can do to move toward acceptance and safety Whether you’re caring for an aging loved one or want to better understand dementia, this is a meaningful and eye-opening conversation you won’t want to miss.
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    23 mins
  • Episode 297- When Your Parents Don't Want to Move to An Assisted Living Community

    Episode 297- When Your Parents Don't Want to Move to An Assisted Living Community
    Nov 10 2025
    When aging parents say, “I’m fine right here,” or “I don’t need help,” — what do you do next? In this week’s episode of Aging Starts Now, host Debra King, Elder Care Coordinator and Licensed Clinical Social Worker at Johnson McGinnis Elder Care Law & Estate Planning, dives into one of the toughest family conversations: when loved ones resist the idea of moving to an assisted living community. Joined by fellow elder care coordinator Pati Bedwell, Debra explores: 💬 Why older adults often resist assisted living 💬 How to start the conversation with empathy — not pressure 💬 The role of neutral professionals in easing tension 💬 Bridge steps families can take before making a big move 💬 Real success stories of families who found peace and balance Whether you’re just beginning this journey or in the middle of difficult decisions, this episode offers compassionate, practical guidance to help you move forward — together.
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    23 mins
  • Episode 296 - Setting Realistic Expectations when Moving to an Assisted Living

    Episode 296 - Setting Realistic Expectations when Moving to an Assisted Living
    Nov 5 2025
    Thinking about moving a parent into assisted living? You’re not alone — and it’s okay to feel overwhelmed. On the latest episode of Aging Starts Now, Elder Care Coordinators Pati Bedwell and Debra King share what to expect — emotionally, practically, and financially — so you can make confident, compassionate choices.
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    22 mins