How to Age Well with Amy Kaszak

About How to Age Well with Amy Kaszak

Welcome to How to Age Well with Amy Kaszak—the show for Gen Xers and Boomers seeking to navigate real-world aging decisions with clarity and confidence. I’m Amy Kaszak, your host and fellow traveler as we tackle the legal, financial, health, lifestyle, and family dynamics that shape how we age. Each week, you’ll get fact-based, practical takeaways—not theory, not fluff—to help you move from unsure and overwhelmed to prepared, empowered, and connected. Aging isn’t something that happens to you. It’s something you can navigate with a blueprint. Let’s get started. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy (https://acast.com/privacy) for more information.

Publisher

Amy Kaszak

Category

education · health & fitness · kids & family

Language

en

Explicit

No

First episode

9 Jul 2026

Latest episode

19 Oct 2026

Latest episodes

14 episodes in the feed.

1. 

   19 Oct 2026

   Playbook, not Panic. Why I started How to Age Well.

   Most families don’t plan for aging until a crisis forces the conversation. A broken hip, a dementia diagnosis, or a sudden hospitalization hits, and everyone is scrambling. In this solo episode, host Amy Kaszak shares why she created How to Age Well and answers the seven questions she hears most from peers, listeners, and families, so you have a playbook instead of panic. In this episode: Why Amy started the podcast, and why she knows she’s one of the lucky ones Why women, especially Gen X and millennial women, carry most of the caregiving load Why aging well is about more than healthcare: home, safety, finances, relationships, and purpose The seven questions keeping families up at night, with practical first steps for each Timestamps: 00:00 Welcome and what this episode is about 00:52 Amy’s story: a Gen X daughter, and parents who planned ahead 02:54 Why women are the primary caregivers, and what it costs them 07:10 Q1: How do I know when my parent needs help? 09:44 Q2: What should I do first when a parent starts needing care? 12:16 Q3: How do I get a loved one to accept help? 14:02 Q4: How do I start a conversation about care? 14:53 Q5: Assisted living, memory care, skilled nursing, and independent living: what’s the difference? 18:04 Q6: What legal documents do we need? 19:34 Q7: How do I talk about driving, safety, and living arrangements? 23:06 Closing thoughts: preparation, clarity, and confidence Episodes mentioned: Episode 1: Dr. Tony Gamboa: hospitalization planning Episode 6 and Episode 8: Diane Omdahl and Gretchen Jacobson: Medicare decisions Episode 3: Harry Margolis: legal documents and what to have ready Episode 4: Dayna Steele: hard conversations about accepting help Episode 10: Jennifer Pryor: assisted living Your starter checklist: doctors and care team, full medication list (including supplements and vitamins), important passwords, financial accounts, legal documents, and a prioritized list of emergency contacts that every sibling knows how to find. Follow along: Subscribe to How to Age Well so you never miss an episode. If this one helped, share it with someone who’s in the middle of caregiving, and leave a rating or review to help other families find the show. Connect with Amy on Instagram @howtoagewell_podcast and on LinkedIn (Amy Kaszak | LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/in/amy-kaszak-6702963/?isSelfProfile=true)) Learn more about Naborforce at www.naborforce.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy (https://acast.com/privacy) for more information.

2. 

   12 Oct 2026

   Loneliness, Purpose, and Good Days

   Loneliness isn’t just a feeling. It’s a measurable health risk. Nearly 1 in 3 adults aged 50 to 80 report lacking companionship, and loneliness raises the risk of premature death by more than 30%. It’s also linked to higher rates of dementia, depression, heart disease and stroke. In this episode, Amy talks with Dr. Timothy Puri, Chief Medical Officer of Population Health at Curana Health, about what he sees when he looks at patterns across thousands of seniors. Loneliness shows up in the data as a clinical risk factor, and purpose can work as an intervention. Dr. Puri explains how loneliness differs from isolation, which small withdrawals families often miss, and how one simple question can open a conversation: “What does a good day look like for you?” In this episode: Why loneliness is a clinical risk factor, and what it costs the health care system Loneliness vs. isolation: “the gap between the connections you have and the connections you want” Early warning signs: shorter phone calls, skipped hair appointments and card games, mail piling up, eating less High-risk moments to check in more often: the death of a spouse or friend, giving up driving, a move, hearing or vision changes How purpose reduces loneliness, even through solitary activities Why caregivers drop their own activities first, and why loneliness can peak after caregiving ends How to offer specific help, such as “I’ll sit with Dad Thursday from 2 to 5,” instead of “let me know if you need anything” Where technology helps (video calls, rides, activity baselines) and why it can’t replace human connection When to raise loneliness with your doctor, and how Medicare and ACOs are starting to measure it Dr. Puri’s one step for this week: ask your loved one what a good day looks like, then help make one happen Chapters: 0:00 Loneliness as a health risk 1:42 Meet Dr. Timothy Puri 2:51 What “population management” means 6:00 When loneliness became personal 7:15 Loneliness vs. isolation 8:12 Early warning signs families miss 10:42 Purpose as a health intervention 12:27 The “good day” question 17:27 Caregivers and loneliness 22:00 Technology, rides and connection 24:06 When to talk to a doctor 25:20 Medicare and social factors 25:52 One simple step this week 26:30 What aging well means to Dr. Puri About our guest: Timothy Puri, MD, is a board-certified internist and a graduate of the Stanford Graduate School of Business Executive Program. He has spent more than a decade in value-based care and senior care at scale. As Chief Medical Officer of Population Health at Curana Health, he sets the clinical direction for a national senior care platform operating in more than 30 states. Earlier in his career he held clinical leadership roles at Landmark Health and ConcertoCare. Resources: Visit Curana Health at www.curanahealth.com (https://www.curanahealth.com) to learn more about Dr. Puri’s work and Curana Health. Naborforce provides light support, social connection and companionship for older adults and respite for caregivers: www.naborforce.com (https://www.naborforce.com) If this episode helped you, please share it with someone who needs it, and follow, rate and review How to Age Well wherever you listen. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy (https://acast.com/privacy) for more information.

3. 

   5 Oct 2026

   Long-Distance Caregiving: Can AI Help?

   Caring for an aging parent from another state can feel like a second job. Jill Sumner has spent 20+ years in senior care and population health, yet when her own parent began showing signs of memory loss, she still felt like a failure. She ended up juggling AirTags, a medication dispenser, motion sensors, and a smart display, and switching between all of them to see how her parent was doing. This week, Jill and health tech entrepreneur Ernie Ianace join Amy to talk about why caregiving technology is so fragmented, whether AI can actually help, and what every family should ask before trusting a tool with a parent's health data. In this episode: Jill's story of caring for a parent with memory loss from afar, and why working in senior care didn't make it easier The sandwich generation squeeze: kids, a job, and aging parents at once Three problems Ernie sees over and over: too many disconnected systems, data locked in silos, and tools seniors won't keep using What "agentic AI" means in plain English Why general-purpose AI isn't built for health information, and why purpose-built, private systems matter What to demand from any caregiving tech: a written promise not to use or share your data, strong security, and a clear answer on how your information is used Why Jill's Medicare Advantage plan didn't have the dementia care program she enrolled for, and how to verify before you commit How to find local resources, and how to ask whether a referral service is neutral or paid by the facility Why a local geriatric care manager can make a big difference Jill's advice for long-distance caregivers: keep trying What aging well means to each guest Guests: Jill Sumner is the Founder and Principal of Lyle Health Advisors. She has more than 20 years of experience in payer and provider organizations, with a focus on long-term care, special needs plans, and value-based care. Connect with Jill at Jill Sumner | LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/in/jilllylesumner/?isSelfProfile=false) Ernie Ianace is Co-Founder and CEO of CareAlly, an AI orchestration platform for institutional healthcare, and Co-Founder and Chief Commercial Officer of InsightAlly.ai. Learn more at AI Family Engagement for Senior Living | AgeWell | CareAlly (https://www.careally.ai/agewell) Want more on Medicare, Medicare Advantage, and special needs plans? Listen to our Medicare Month series, earlier in the feed. This episode is sponsored by Naborforce, which connects older adults with vetted, caring neighbors for rides, errands, companionship, and check-ins. Learn more at naborforce.com. Follow How to Age Well with Amy Kaszak on Instagram @howtoagewell_podcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy (https://acast.com/privacy) for more information.

4. 

   28 Sept 2026

   What Is Assisted Living? Signs It's Time and How to Know.

   Assisted living sits in a confusing middle space — not independent living, not skilled nursing — and most families don't know what it actually includes, what it costs, or how to know when the time is right. This week, Amy sits down with gerontologist and licensed assisted living administrator Jennifer Yañez-Pryor to break down what assisted living really looks like day to day, what drives the wide range in cost, and how to check whether a facility is actually safe before you move a loved one in. In this episode: What assisted living actually looks like day to day, and how personalization helps the transition Whether couples can move in together, and what happens if one partner later needs memory care How assisted living differs from independent living and skilled nursing Why the cost of assisted living varies so widely by state and by facility, and what's usually included vs. billed extra Signs it may be time to consider a move — and the risk of moving in too early How to check whether a facility is safe using state inspection reports (and the limits of online reviews) Where the industry is headed, including new technology and evolving regulation Guest: Jennifer Yañez-Pryor is the graduate program director for the Department of Gerontology at Virginia Commonwealth University and a licensed assisted living administrator in Virginia since 2014. She co-hosts the Aging for All podcast. Episode Sponsor: Need some neighborly help? Visit On-demand, trusted home help for Seniors | Naborforce (https://naborforce.com/) Resources mentioned: CareScout Cost of Care Survey: https://www.carescout.com/cost-of-care (https://www.carescout.com/cost-of-care) Eldercare Locator (find your local Area Agency on Aging): https://eldercare.acl.gov (https://eldercare.acl.gov) Virginia Assisted Living Facility Search: https://www.dss.virginia.gov/facility/search/alf.cgi (https://www.dss.virginia.gov/facility/search/alf.cgi) NAB (National Association of Long Term Care Administrator Boards): https://www.nabweb.org (https://www.nabweb.org) Aging for All podcast: https://blogs.vcu.edu/pryorjm/ (https://blogs.vcu.edu/pryorjm/) Follow How to Age Well with Amy Kaszak on Instagram @howtoagewell_podcast Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/howtoagewell_podcast/) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy (https://acast.com/privacy) for more information.

5. 

   21 Sept 2026

   Medicare's Best-Kept Secret-Special Needs Plans

   If you or someone you love is managing a serious chronic condition, living in a nursing facility, or juggling both Medicare and Medicaid, there's a corner of Medicare Advantage built specifically for you — and almost nobody knows it exists. In the fourth episode of the Medicare Survival Guide series, Amy sits down with Mike Cheek, President and CEO of the SNP Alliance, to demystify Medicare Advantage Special Needs Plans (SNPs). They break down the three types of SNPs (chronic condition, institutional, and dual-eligible), who qualifies for each, the "extra, extra" benefits that go beyond regular Medicare Advantage plans — from grocery assistance to in-home personal care — and why SNPs come with enrollment flexibility most people don't realize they have. IN THIS EPISODE 00:00 – Intro & why SNPs matter 01:21 – Meet Mike Cheek, President & CEO of the SNP Alliance 02:12 – What is a Medicare Advantage Special Needs Plan? 02:58 – The three types of SNPs: chronic condition, institutional, and dual-eligible 05:26 – C-SNP eligibility: which chronic conditions qualify 07:18 – D-SNP eligibility: partial vs. full dual (Medicare + Medicaid) 09:55 – I-SNP eligibility: nursing home and assisted living settings 11:16 – Coordinating Medicare and Medicaid benefits together 13:32 – Individualized care plans and building your own care team 16:35 – "Extra, extra" benefits: groceries, chores, housing help & more 21:23 – A word from our sponsor, Naborforce 22:34 – Enrollment periods: why SNPs don't wait for fall open enrollment 28:01 – Enrolling in a SNP as a new Medicare beneficiary 29:10 – Using Medicare Plan Finder to find plans in your area 31:01 – How common are SNPs? (and where they're hard to find) 33:38 – Getting help from your SHIP or Area Agency on Aging 34:08 – Common mistakes: choosing the right SNP for your needs 39:14 – What's next for SNPs at the federal level 41:05 – Closing thoughts ABOUT MIKE CHEEK Mike Cheek is President and CEO of the SNP Alliance, the national organization representing Medicare Special Needs Plans. He previously served as Senior Vice President for Reimbursement and Market Strategy at the American Health Care Association/National Center for Assisted Living (AHCA/NCAL), and as Director of Medicaid Long Term Care for the District of Columbia's Medicaid agency. Mike has also worked with three state government associations focused on Medicaid, developmental disabilities, and aging, and spent several years as a consultant at The Lewin Group and Avalere Health advising states, health plans, and long-term care providers. RESOURCES MENTIONED • SNP Alliance — https://www.snpalliance.org • Medicare Plan Finder — https://www.medicare.gov/plan-compare • State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) — https://acl.gov/programs/connecting-people-services/state-health-insurance-assistance-program-ship • Eldercare Locator / Area Agency on Aging — https://eldercare.acl.gov This episode is brought to you by Naborforce, connecting older adults with compassionate, vetted neighbors for rides, companionship, and everyday help. Learn more at naborforce.com. Follow How to Age Well with Amy Kaszak: Instagram: instagram.com/howtoagewell_podcast/ LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/amy-kaszak-6702963/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy (https://acast.com/privacy) for more information.

6. 

   14 Sept 2026

   Free Kayaks, Hidden Costs: Medicare Advantage Truths and Trade-Offs

   Over half of everyone on Medicare is now enrolled in a Medicare Advantage plan — roughly 35 million people. In this third episode of the Medicare Season Survival Guide series, Amy sits down with Medicare policy expert Gretchen Jacobson, PhD (Commonwealth Fund) to cut through the TV ads and "$0 premium" promises and explain what Medicare Advantage actually is, how it works, and the trade-offs involved — from prior authorizations to the truth about extras like dental care, transportation, and in some cases, even kayaks. KEY TAKEAWAYS • Medicare Advantage plans are private insurance plans paid by the federal government — and private plans have been part of Medicare almost since it began in 1965. • Despite the original promise of cost savings, Medicare Advantage has never cost the federal government less than original Medicare. • Extra benefits (dental, vision, hearing, transportation, even sports equipment) can be genuinely valuable — but about 1 in 3 people in Medicare Advantage say they didn't use any of their plan's extra benefits last year. • Medicare Advantage plans use managed care tools — provider networks, referrals, and prior authorization — that original Medicare doesn't require. • A "$0 premium" plan still means you pay your Part B premium; it just means no additional premium on top of that. • You cannot pair a Medigap plan with Medicare Advantage. • Long-term care isn't covered by Medicare Advantage (or original Medicare) — only short-term, rehabilitative nursing home stays are. • You keep the same rights and appeal protections under Medicare Advantage as under original Medicare. • Plans and provider networks can change every year — review your plan each Open Enrollment, even if you're happy with it. • Gretchen's checklist: confirm your doctors/hospitals are covered, check drug coverage and costs, verify the extras are ones you'll use, and look at the out-of-pocket limit. IN THIS EPISODE 00:00 Welcome — why this episode matters before the ads start 00:59 Meet Gretchen Jacobson, PhD 02:44 What is Medicare Advantage, in plain English? 03:38 A brief history: private plans since the 1970s 04:30 Did Medicare Advantage deliver on its cost-control promise? 06:10 The "extras": dental, vision, hearing... and kayaks 08:52 Prior authorizations and referrals: the real trade-off 09:44 Weighing the trade-offs: who is MA right for? 11:32 Why your county matters — plans vary by geography 13:10 Part D and drug coverage inside MA plans 15:49 The truth about "$0 premium" plans 18:36 Surprising stat: 1 in 3 never use their extra benefits 19:33 Can you pair Medigap with Medicare Advantage? 20:33 Hidden costs: long-term care and cost-sharing 22:29 When Medicare Advantage really doesn't make sense 23:35 Where to get unbiased help: your SHIP 25:22 Buyer beware: how brokers get paid 27:56 Can you switch plans if you feel misled? 28:48 Gretchen's pre-enrollment checklist 30:36 The "hustle factor" no one can easily measure 31:18 Why plans and networks change every year 33:53 Gretchen's #1 piece of advice for families 34:59 Amy's closing thoughts: it's a set of trade-offs RESOURCES MENTIONED • Commonwealth Fund: Medicare Advantage Policy Primer — https://www.commonwealthfund.org/publications/explainer/2024/jan/medicare-advantage-policy-primer • State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) — https://acl.gov/programs/connecting-people-services/state-health-insurance-assistance-program-ship • Learn more about Gretchen's work or get in touch — https://www.commonwealthfund.org/person/gretchen-jacobson THIS EPISODE IS BROUGHT TO YOU BY Naborforce — connecting older adults with kind, vetted neighbors who help with rides, errands, companionship, tech help, and more. Learn more at naborforce.com FOLLOW HOW TO AGE WELL WITH AMY KASZAK Instagram: instagram.com/howtoagewell_podcast/ Amy on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/amy-kaszak-6702963/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy (https://acast.com/privacy) for more information.

7. 

   7 Sept 2026

   Direct Primary Care--Your Medicare Survival Guide Part 2

   If you've ever felt rushed through a seven-minute appointment, struggled to find a doctor who accepts Medicare, or waited weeks to be seen, this episode is for you. Part 2 of our Medicare Month series explores direct primary care (DPC), a fast-growing membership model where you pay your doctor directly for unlimited primary care, with no insurance billing, no co-pays, and a real relationship with your physician. Amy's guest is her dad, Dr. Crawford Allison, a family physician with more than 40 years of experience in the U.S. Army, rural Texas, and Waco. After three decades of fee-for-service medicine, he founded Patient First Direct Primary Care in Waco to bring back the personal, relationship-based care he grew up with. Together they break down how DPC works alongside Medicare, what it costs, how to find and vet a practice, and why--in addition to being a great option for Medicare enrollees-- it also can be a fit for early retirees, working adults, and employers too. IN THIS EPISODE, YOU'LL LEARN • What direct primary care is and how it differs from concierge medicine • How DPC works with Medicare Parts A, B, and D (you keep all of your coverage) • What a membership typically covers, and what still gets billed to Medicare • What DPC costs compared with concierge care • How to find a DPC practice near you and what to look for before you join • Why DPC pairs well with high-deductible plans and early retirement • The 2026 change that lets you pay DPC fees with your HSA • How employers are using DPC as an employee benefit TIMESTAMPS 00:00 – Why DPC belongs in your Medicare decision 02:26 – What is direct primary care, and where did it start? 04:44 – 3,193 DPC practices and counting 05:52 – The moment Dr. Allison knew there had to be a better way 07:09 – Concierge medicine vs. DPC, and how Medicare direct contracting works 09:25 – A relationship with a doctor, not a health system 10:28 – What DPC costs, and access by phone, text, and video 11:30 – "If I get sick, who's responsible?" 12:29 – Recap: what you keep under Medicare and what the membership covers 15:45 – No visit limits, home visits, and nursing home check-ins 16:40 – Same-day care and what patients say they love most 18:15 – A word from Naborforce 18:50 – Where to start: DPC Frontier and the practice mapper 20:20 – How to vet a DPC practice: credentials, free visits, and money-back trials 23:07 – Ask for the "what's covered" list 24:50 – Early retirees, high-deductible plans, and the uninsured 27:11 – New for 2026: paying your DPC membership with an HSA 28:20 – Employers, DPC benefits, and workers' comp first aid 30:41 – What's next for direct primary care 31:20 – Key takeaways RESOURCES MENTIONED • Patient First Direct Primary Care (Waco, TX) – Dr. Allison's practice: https://www.patientfirstdirect.com • Meet Dr. Crawford Allison: https://www.patientfirstdirect.com/dr-crawford-allison/ • DPC Frontier – find a direct primary care practice near you: https://www.dpcfrontier.com • DPC Alliance – standards and information on direct primary care: https://www.dpcalliance.org SPONSOR This episode is sponsored by Naborforce, connecting older adults with vetted, caring companions for rides, errands, tech help, and more. Learn more at https://naborforce.com FOLLOW HOW TO AGE WELL WITH AMY KASZAK • Instagram: https://instagram.com/howtoagewell_podcast/ • Amy on LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/amy-kaszak-6702963/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy (https://acast.com/privacy) for more information.

8. 

   31 Aug 2026

   Your Medicare Season Survival Guide Part 1

   YOUR MEDICARE SEASON SURVIVAL GUIDE: PART 1 — ORIGINAL MEDICARE Medicare touches nearly 70 million Americans, but it's shockingly easy to get lost in its rules, deadlines, and penalties. This episode kicks off a 4-part Medicare Month series to help you navigate it with confidence. Amy sits down with Diane Omdahl, RN, MS — a registered nurse and Medicare expert with more than 30 years of experience, co-founder of 65 Incorporated and creator of the i65 Medicare guidance software. Diane breaks down the basics of Original Medicare: what it covers, who qualifies, the enrollment windows that can make or break your budget, and the penalties that follow you for life if you miss them. In this episode, you'll learn: • What Medicare is and how it differs from Medicaid • Who qualifies for Medicare and at what age • What Original Medicare covers — and the big things it doesn't • The ABCs (and D) of Medicare: Parts A, B, C, and D explained • Why your Initial Enrollment Period matters and how to calculate yours • The late enrollment penalties that can follow you for life • What Medicare actually costs — because "zero premium" doesn't mean free • Where to find free, unbiased help if you get stuck Timestamps: 00:00 – Why Medicare matters and what this series will cover 02:32 – What is Medicare, and how is it different from Medicaid? 03:33 – Who qualifies for Medicare, and at what age? 04:38 – What Medicare covers — and what it doesn't 05:47 – The ABCs (and D) of Medicare: Parts A, B, C, and D explained 09:08 – How to enroll in Medicare and your additional coverage options 11:08 – Your Initial Enrollment Period and how to calculate it 13:15 – Late enrollment penalties and what triggers them 17:29 – What Medicare actually costs — zero premium doesn't mean free 21:25 – Where to find free, unbiased help (SHIP counselors) 25:18 – The biggest tip Diane gives every new Medicare enrollee 27:02 – Open enrollment: what current beneficiaries need to do every year 34:12 – Key takeaways Resources mentioned: • 65 Incorporated — unbiased, expert Medicare guidance from Diane and her team: https://www.65incorporated.com • Free Medicare Initial Enrollment Period Calculator: https://www.65incorporated.com/when_can_i_sign_up_for_medicare/ • State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) — free, unbiased Medicare counseling in your state: https://acl.gov/programs/connecting-people-services/state-health-insurance-assistance-program-ship This episode is sponsored by Naborforce, connecting older adults with vetted, caring companions for rides, errands, tech help, and more. Learn more at naborforce.com. Follow How to Age Well with Amy Kaszak: Instagram: instagram.com/howtoagewell_podcast/ Amy on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/amy-kaszak-6702963/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy (https://acast.com/privacy) for more information.

9. 

   24 Aug 2026

   The Owner's Manual for Your Brain:

   What if the key to your next chapter isn't something new you need to learn, but something you were born with and simply forgot to use? In this episode, Amy sits down with Betsy Wills, co-founder of YouScience and author of Your Hidden Genius, to explore the science of aptitudes: the innate, hardwired abilities that shape how you think, solve problems, connect with others, and find joy. Unlike skills or interests, aptitudes don't change after age 17, which means they're just as relevant at 30 as they are at 60, 70, and beyond. Betsy breaks down what aptitudes actually are, how they're measured, and why understanding yours can unlock new hobbies, deepen relationships, and give you a fresh sense of purpose in this stage of life. WHAT WE COVER - What aptitudes are and how they differ from personality tests like Myers-Briggs or StrengthsFinder - Why aptitudes are set by age 17 and never change, even as skills and interests do - The difference between "generalists" and "specialists," and what that means for your relationships and career - Why so many people mistakenly believe they're "not a numbers person" or "not creative" - How understanding your aptitudes can point you toward new hobbies in retirement - Real stories: a bond trader turned volunteer EMT, and a graphic designer turned quilter - New tools that connect your aptitude results to local classes, clubs, and travel opportunities - How sharing your results with a spouse, partner, or adult children can build empathy and understanding - The story of Betsy's daughter, and the danger of pigeonholing kids based on early interests TIMESTAMPS 00:00 - Introduction to aptitudes and why they matter for aging well 02:32 - What aptitudes are (and how they differ from self-reported personality tests) 03:56 - There are 52+ aptitudes, from spatial ability to hue discrimination 08:54 - Generalists vs. specialists: what your score means for work and relationships 11:42 - Numerical reasoning and letting go of "I'm not a math person" 13:37 - Spatial ability, space planning, and matching hobbies to your wiring 14:49 - How Betsy started YouScience and why she wrote Your Hidden Genius 17:22 - Purpose, cognitive health, and why aptitudes matter more as we age 18:12 - Story: a bond trader's forced retirement leads to a new life as a volunteer EMT 20:10 - Story: a graphic designer rediscovers her tactile aptitude through quilting 23:08 - New tools connecting your results to local hobbies, clubs, and travel 25:41 - Using your results to understand your spouse, partner, or adult children 28:23 - Betsy's daughter, the "future orthodontist" who became a linguist at Amazon 31:00 - Final thoughts and how to get started RESOURCES MENTIONED - Your Hidden Genius by Betsy Wills: https://www.yourhiddengenius.com - YouScience aptitude assessment: https://www.youscience.com - Your Hidden Genius book on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Your-Hidden-Genius-Science-Backed-Uncovering/dp/0063289873 THIS EPISODE IS SUPPORTED BY Naborforce, connecting older adults with compassionate neighbors for rides, errands, companionship, and everyday support. Learn more at https://www.naborforce.com CONNECT WITH AMY Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/howtoagewell_podcast/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amy-kaszak-6702963/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy (https://acast.com/privacy) for more information.

10. 

    17 Aug 2026

    Dementia Doesn't Wait

    Dementia doesn't wait until you're ready. It doesn't show up with a manual, and it doesn't care how busy your life already is. Every family should have this conversation before a crisis, not during one. In this episode, Amy sits down with Dayna Steele, a Hall of Fame rock radio legend turned nationally recognized dementia advocate, for a practical, no-nonsense look at what to do now: the early signs of dementia families often overlook, the questions every family should answer while everyone is still healthy, and simple daily habits that support brain health at any age. Dayna also shares "the Talk," her free 30-question guide built for exactly this, a tool for having the hard conversation early, whether or not dementia has entered the picture yet. Dayna cared for her own mother through Alzheimer's, chronicling the journey in real time on Facebook, then turning that painful, beautiful experience into a book and a stage play, The Woman in the Mirror, now earning glowing reviews at the 2026 Edinburgh Festival Fringe. Her honesty is startling: the signs she missed, the guilt she carried, the humor that kept her afloat. "Whatever you're doing is right. Period." This is not just a conversation. It's preparation, permission, and power. Above all, Dayna's message is simple: you are not alone. In this episode you'll learn: [02:32] From Houston rock radio legend to leading dementia advocate, Dayna's unlikely path [05:21] How Facebook unexpectedly became Dayna's support group [07:20] The earliest signs of dementia families often overlook [09:03] The moment in Vegas that revealed her mother couldn't remember their shared past [11:20] "The Talk," the free 30-question guide every family should have before a crisis hits, not after [15:50] The guilt of moving a parent, and the messy, unpredictable reality of dementia behavior [20:03] How her mother's story became the stage play The Woman in the Mirror [23:48] Understanding dementia as an "umbrella" that covers Alzheimer's, Lewy body, vascular, and more [27:04] Practical brain-health habits you can start today, no matter your age About Dayna Steele: Dayna Steele is a Rock Radio Hall of Famer, author, and nationally recognized dementia advocate. After caring for her mother through Alzheimer's, she wrote Surviving Alzheimer's with Friends, Facebook, and a Really Big Glass of Wine and created The Woman in the Mirror, an award-winning stage play based on her family's story, now earning glowing reviews at the 2026 Edinburgh Festival Fringe. She's also the host of the #survivingalzheimers podcast. Resources Mentioned: Dayna's Website: https://www.daynasteele.com The Talk (free resource): https://www.daynasteele.com/the-talk Dayna's Book: https://www.amazon.com/Surviving-Alzheimers-Friends-Facebook-Really/dp/1519370849 The Woman in the Mirror (tickets & info): https://www.daynasteele.com/play #survivingalzheimers Podcast: https://www.daynasteele.com/survivingalzheimerspodcast Connect with Dayna Steele: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/daynasteele/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/daynasteele Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/daynasteele/ This episode is sponsored by Naborforce, connecting older adults with caring, vetted neighbors for rides, company, and everyday help. Learn more at https://www.naborforce.com Connect with Amy Kaszak: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amy-kaszak-6702963/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amykaszak/ How to Age Well Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/howtoagewell_podcast/ Topics: Alzheimer's, dementia, dementia caregiving, caregiver support, early signs of dementia, family conversations, The Woman in the Mirror, Dayna Steele, brain health, caregiver burnout, memory care, aging well Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy (https://acast.com/privacy) for more information.

11. 

    10 Aug 2026

    The $130,000 Question

    More than half of Americans over 85 will need some form of long-term care, and most of us have no idea what that actually costs, who pays for it, or what documents we need before we get there. In this episode, Amy sits down with Harry Margolis, one of the country's most respected elder law attorneys, to unpack what it really takes to plan for the decades after retirement. Harry has been practicing elder law since 1987, is the founder of Margolis Bloom & D'Agostino, and has spent nearly 40 years helping families navigate long-term care, blended families, incapacity, and estate planning. He and Amy cover the handful of documents every adult should have (regardless of age or net worth), what happens when families skip them, why "estate planning" is not just for the wealthy, what long-term care really costs, why Medicare doesn't cover it, and how trusts can protect you and your family long before anyone passes away. If you've been telling yourself "I already planned for retirement, I'm good," this episode is your wake-up call. In this episode you'll learn: [03:16] What "estate planning" actually means, and why it's not just for the wealthy [07:02] The must-have legal documents every adult needs, even in your 40s and 50s [10:19] What happens (and what it costs) if you don't have a power of attorney in place [15:26] Blended families and remarriage: protecting your kids' inheritance and avoiding conflict [21:30] What long-term care really costs, and the number every 65-year-old should know [23:12] Why Medicare does not cover long-term care, a misconception that catches people off guard [24:50] How Medicaid planning works, and where to start if you're running out of funds [26:54] How trusts work for incapacity planning, and why nearly everyone should consider one [30:41] Harry's advice for starting the "hard conversation" with your family About Harry Margolis: Harry Margolis is an elder law attorney and founder of Margolis Bloom & D'Agostino, practicing since 1987. He's the author of Get Your Ducks in a Row and The Baby Boomer's Guide to Trusts, founder of ElderLawAnswers.com and SpecialNeedsAnswers.com, and the voice behind the Substack and podcast Risking Old Age in America. He also advises Harvard Law students in the school's legal services clinic. Resources Mentioned: Harry's Firm: https://margolisbloom.com/ Ask Harry (free Q&A): https://askharry.info/ Risking Old Age in America (Substack & podcast): https://okayboomer.substack.com/ Harry's Books: Get Your Ducks in a Row and The Baby Boomer's Guide to Trusts (available wherever books are sold) This episode is sponsored by Naborforce, connecting older adults with caring, vetted neighbors for rides, company, and everyday help. Learn more at https://www.naborforce.com Connect with Amy Kaszak: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amy-kaszak-6702963/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amykaszak/ How to Age Well Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/howtoagewell_podcast/ Topics: estate planning, elder law, long-term care planning, power of attorney, healthcare proxy, HIPAA release, advance directives, trusts, Medicaid planning, Medicare, blended families, prenuptial agreements, incapacity planning, retirement planning, aging well Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy (https://acast.com/privacy) for more information.

12. 

    3 Aug 2026

    The Forever Home Myth

    Where you live may be one of the biggest levers you have for aging well — bigger than genetics, and bigger than most of us realize. In this episode, Amy sits down with Ryan Frederick, author of Right Place, Right Time and founder of here.life, to break down why "place" shapes health, happiness, and longevity — and why the idea of a "forever home" is often a myth. Genetics account for only about 20% of how long and how well we live. The rest comes down to lifestyle and environment. Ryan walks through his four-quadrant framework — Environment, Health, Community, and Finances — for evaluating any home, including the one you're in right now. Amy and Ryan also unpack the real differences between aging in place, downsizing, and senior living (active adult, independent living, assisted living, and life plan communities), what those options actually cost, and how to navigate family expectations along the way. They close with a look at where aging-friendly design is headed next, from ADUs to self-driving cars to the rise of "longevity planning." In this episode you'll learn: [02:09] Why genetics account for only ~20% of longevity, and what drives the other 80% [05:53] The Harvard study linking relationship quality in your 50s and 60s to healthy aging at 80 [09:48] How to navigate family expectations around moving closer to (or away from) loved ones [12:21] Ryan's four-quadrant framework for evaluating any place you might live [15:59] Why the "forever home" is often a myth, and how to plan for a home that evolves with you [16:53] Why aging well requires a "place plan," not just a financial plan [24:00] A plain-English breakdown of senior living options and what they typically cost [25:27] What NORCs (Naturally Occurring Retirement Communities) are [31:36] Ryan's predictions for the future of aging-friendly living About Ryan Frederick: Ryan Frederick is an internationally recognized thought leader, consultant, and author of Right Place, Right Time. He's the founder of here.life and serves on the advisory council for the Stanford Center on Longevity. Resources Mentioned: Ryan's Book: Right Place, Right Time (available wherever books are sold) Ryan's Website: https://www.ryanfrederick.life/ Place Planning Tools & Resources: https://www.here.life/resources Connect with Ryan Frederick: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ryanefrederick/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryanefrederick/ Connect with Amy Kaszak: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amy-kaszak-6702963/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amykaszak/ How to Age Well Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/howtoagewell_podcast/ This episode is sponsored by Naborforce, connecting older adults with caring, vetted neighbors for rides, company, and everyday help. Learn more at https://www.naborforce.com Topics: longevity, aging in place, place planning, senior living, downsizing, retirement planning, NORC, independent living, assisted living, life plan community, healthy aging, longevity planning Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy (https://acast.com/privacy) for more information.

13. 

    27 Jul 2026

    Hospital 911

    This episode is your wake‑up call. If you think a hospital stay is something you’ll figure out when it happens, think again. A hospital can save your life and still leave you weaker, confused, or less independent than when you arrived. And the truth is, most families don’t know the questions to ask, the decisions that matter, or the traps that lead to avoidable complications. Dr. Antonio “Tony” Gamboa—hospitalist, physician executive, and someone who has lived this journey as both a clinician and a grandson—joins Amy to break down the real hospital playbook. You’ll learn the exact steps to take before, during, and after a hospital stay so you can protect your loved one’s safety, independence, and recovery. This isn’t just an episode. It’s a roadmap that can change outcomes—and maybe even save a life. What You'll Learn: Why hospitals are built for acute medical care, not for preserving independence, cognition, or mobility The hidden risks older adults face during hospitalization: delirium, infections, falls, sleep disruption, and rapid muscle loss What post‑hospital syndrome is — and why the days after discharge are the most vulnerable The four things you must prepare before a hospital stay: Advanced directives A complete medication list (including supplements) Your designated medical decision‑maker A basic understanding of your insurance coverage How to identify your hospitalist — the “quarterback” of your care — and why they matter more than any specialist The exact questions to ask on Day One to avoid delays, confusion, and unsafe discharges What to expect after discharge: home health, rehab hospitals, skilled nursing, LTACs, and other post‑acute care options How insurance and medical criteria determine which post‑acute care setting you qualify for Red flags to watch for at home: delirium, weakness, medication issues, and signs of decline How to advocate for yourself or a loved one in a system that moves fast and often feels overwhelming Thanks to our Episode Sponsor Naborforce — Human connection that shows up when life changes. Companionship, errands, help at home, post‑hospital support, and caregiver breathing room. 👉 www.naborforce.com (https://www.naborforce.com/?utm_source=copilot.com) Chapters & Time Stamps 00:00 — Welcome & Why Hospital 911 Matters 01:01 — Meet Dr. Antonio ‘Tony’ Gamboa 02:13 — The Hidden Risks Inside Hospitals 04:33 — Preparing Before a Hospital Stay 09:35 — Who’s Actually in Charge of Your Care? 12:16 — The Hospitalist as Your Quarterback 17:12 — Why Day One Is the Most Important Day 19:48 — Sponsor Break — Naborforce 20:39 — Post‑Acute Care: The Maze No One Warns You About 27:58 — Tony’s Personal Story: When the Doctor Becomes the Family Member 29:40 — Insurance Realities & Why Coverage Dictates Options 31:00 — Rehab vs. Skilled Nursing: Clearing Up the Confusion 34:06 — Red Flags After Discharge 37:24 — The Non‑Negotiable Questions to Ask Before Leaving the Hospital 39:07 — Final Takeaways: Your Power in the Process Links and Resources: Connect with Amy LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/amy-kaszak-6702963 (https://www.linkedin.com/in/amy-kaszak-6702963/) Instagram: https://instagram.com/howtoagewell_podcast/ (https://instagram.com/howtoagewell_podcast/) Connect with Dr. Antonio “Tony” Gamboa Arkeion Partners: https://arkeionpartners.com/ (https://arkeionpartners.com/?utm_source=copilot.com) Helpful Links Your discharge planning checklist (https://www.medicare.gov/publications/11376-your-discharge-planning-checklist.pdf) Guide to Choosing a Hospital (https://www.medicare.gov/publications/10181guidetochoosing-ahospital.pdf) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy (https://acast.com/privacy) for more information.

14. 

    9 Jul 2026

    Season 1 Trailer

    Welcome to How to Age Well with Amy Kaszak—the show for Gen Xers and Boomers seeking to navigate real-world aging decisions with clarity and confidence. I’m Amy Kaszak, your host and fellow traveler as we tackle the legal, financial, health, lifestyle, and family dynamics that shape how we age. Each week, you’ll get fact-based, practical takeaways—not theory, not fluff—to help you move from unsure and overwhelmed to prepared, empowered, and connected. Aging isn’t something that happens to you. It’s something you can navigate with a blueprint. Let’s get started. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy (https://acast.com/privacy) for more information.

Reach and audience

Public platform figures. Ratings count people who left a rating, not total listeners.

Apple Podcasts (US)

5.0 / 5

20 ratings

Spotify

5.0 / 5

2 ratings

Contact How to Age Well with Amy Kaszak

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Books guests

Based on episode analysis; this does not confirm that the show is currently accepting guests.

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