Real Talk on Aging

About Real Talk on Aging

When parents grow older, everything shifts. Real Talk on Aging is your source for real talk, practical insight, and steady perspective as you navigate the journey of caring for an aging parent—or prepare for what's next. Join us for honest conversations that cut through the confusion and offer actionable guidance on the challenges, emotions, and decisions that come with this life stage. Whether you're already a caregiver or looking ahead, this podcast provides the clarity and support you need.

Publisher

Visiting Angels

Category

society & culture

Language

en

Explicit

No

First episode

12 Mar 2026

Latest episode

22 Oct 2026

Latest episodes

17 episodes in the feed.

1. 

   22 Oct 2026

   The Bucket List Doesn’t Have to Retire

   The latest research keeps pointing to something families sometimes forget: older adults still need purpose, connection, growth, and experiences to look forward to. Retirement does not have to mean life gets smaller, for many people it can be the season where they finally have space to ask, "What do I still want to do?" In this episode, Barb and Dave talk about why it is never too late to chase a dream, how simple goals can support emotional well-being and connection, and how families can help aging loved ones keep living fully. Whether the bucket list is a big trip, a new hobby, a family memory project, or something as simple as getting back to a favorite place. Tell us your story: https://real-talk-on-aging-staging.web.app/ (https://real-talk-on-aging-staging.web.app/) What you’ll learn in this episode: Why purpose, connection and having something to look forward to still matter as we age How retirement can be a season of growth, not a time when life gets smaller How simple, achievable goals can support emotional well-being Bucket list ideas at every scale, from a big trip or new hobby to a family memory project or a visit to a favorite place How families can help an aging loved one figure out what they still want to do, and help them do it

2. 

   8 Oct 2026

   The Scammers Are Coming For Grandma!

   In 2025, older Americans reported losing more than $7.7 billion to fraud — with reported losses jumping 59% in a single year. And the FBI says shame, confusion, and unfamiliarity with reporting channels can keep many victims from ever speaking up. The scams targeting seniors are sophisticated, emotionally manipulative, and increasingly hard to spot. The grandparent scam. Romance scams. Tech support fraud. Investment cons. IRS and utility impersonation. They all have one thing in common: they are designed to create panic, build trust, and get money moving before anyone has time to slow down. Tell us your story: https://real-talk-on-aging-staging.web.app/ (https://real-talk-on-aging-staging.web.app/) What You'll Learn in This Episode The scams currently taking the most money from older adults — and why they're not always the ones families expect How each scam is designed to create panic or build trust to override judgment Real examples of how these scams play out A red-flag checklist families can use today What to do if a parent has already been targeted How to have the scam conversation without being dismissive or condescending

3. 

   24 Sept 2026

   Why Loneliness Is the Silent Epidemic Facing Seniors

   Loneliness in older adults is easy to miss because it rarely looks like a crisis. It can look like a parent who stops going out, a spouse who no longer drives, or someone whose world quietly gets smaller after retirement, illness, or loss. But the health impact can be serious. In 2025, the World Health Organization reinforced that loneliness and social isolation are major health risks, especially for older adults. Social isolation may affect up to one in three seniors, while loneliness affects more than one in four older adults worldwide. Both are linked to higher risks of heart disease, stroke, cognitive decline, depression, and earlier death. In this episode, Barb and Dave explore why seniors are especially vulnerable, the subtle signs families may miss, and what meaningful connection can look like in everyday life. They also discuss how Visiting Angels can help through companion care, regular social interaction, support with routines and outings, and a consistent presence for older adults aging at home. Tell us your story: https://real-talk-on-aging-staging.web.app/ (https://real-talk-on-aging-staging.web.app/) What You'll Learn in This Episode What the latest research says about loneliness and social isolation in older adults Why seniors are especially vulnerable to becoming isolated The health risks tied to prolonged loneliness How to recognize the quieter signs of isolation in an aging parent Practical ways to help an older loved one stay connected How Visiting Angels companion care can provide connection, routine, and support at home

4. 

   10 Sept 2026

   Why the Sandwich Generation Always Burns Out First

   Caring for an aging parent comes with a task list anyone can see: appointments, medications, finances. So when an adult child burns out, the advice is almost always the same — get more organized, build better systems, find more help. But a recent study found something that flips that advice on its head. The strongest predictor of caregiver burnout wasn't the number of hours spent caregiving. It was the quality of the relationship with the parent being cared for. That's the invisible load. Not the scheduling — the relationship. The lifetime of history that doesn't disappear just because someone now needs help. In this episode, Barb and Dave dig into why two caregivers can put in identical hours and only one breaks down, why "do more, do better" is exactly the wrong advice for the people who need it most, and what families can actually do when the dynamic — not the task list — is the real source of the strain. Tell us your story: https://real-talk-on-aging-staging.web.app/ (https://real-talk-on-aging-staging.web.app/) What You'll Learn in This Episode Why burnout tracks with your relationship with your parent, not the hours you put in The difference between a parent who needs more care and a parent who's simply difficult — and why that distinction changes everything How to set boundaries with a difficult parent without guilt When the family dynamic, not the workload, is the problem you actually need to solve Where to turn for support when the relationship is what's wearing you down

5. 

   27 Aug 2026

   How to Talk to Aging Parents About Money

   Financial strain around aging rarely starts with one big moment. It usually begins with smaller signs. Bills stacking up. Missed payments. Confusion around accounts. Delayed decisions because no one wants to talk about cost. These issues can feel uncomfortable to bring up, but avoiding them often makes caregiving more stressful, more reactive, and more expensive over time. In this episode, we break down why financial conversations are one of the most important parts of aging planning and why families should start them earlier than they think. We discuss the emotional side of money, how denial and discomfort delay good decisions, and the practical steps families can take to better understand care costs, available resources, and what questions to ask before a situation becomes urgent. What you'll learn in this episode: Why financial planning for aging often gets delayed until a crisis How avoiding money conversations creates stress and limits options The common financial blind spots families miss when care begin to change Why early planning gives families more flexibility and control How care decisions are affected by budget, timing, and family communication What families should understand about paying for care at home How to start a financial conversation without making a loved one feel threatened Why clarity around finances can protect dignity, independence, and peace of mind Whether you are currently helping a loved one or simply trying to plan ahead, this episode offers practical ways to think about the financial realities of aging with more honesty, less fear, and better preparation. Financial planning is not only about numbers. It is about reducing pressure, protecting choices, and making sure families can respond with confidence when support is needed.

6. 

   13 Aug 2026

   Movement, Mobility, and Why Staying Active Protects Independence

   Mobility doesn’t usually decline all at once. It starts with small changes. Walking a little slower. Avoiding stairs. Sitting more often. Needing help getting up. These shifts can feel minor, but over time they directly impact independence, safety, and confidence at home. Movement is not just exercise. It is one of the strongest predictors of whether an older adult can continue living comfortably in their own environment. In this episode, Barb & Dave break down why mobility matters more than families realize and how small, consistent movement can help maintain strength, balance, and confidence. We also discuss what happens when activity decreases, how fear of falling accelerates decline, and the simple ways families and caregivers can encourage safe movement throughout the day. What you'll learn in this episode: Why mobility loss often starts with small, easy-to-miss changes How reduced movement leads to faster strength and balance decline The connection between mobility, confidence, and fall risk Why fear of falling often causes more decline than the fall itself Simple ways to incorporate safe movement into daily routines How caregivers can encourage mobility without overwhelming older adults What families should watch for as mobility begins to change How staying active supports independence at home longer Whether you are supporting a loved one at home or planning ahead for long-term independence, this episode offers practical ways to think about movement as part of everyday care. Staying active does not require a gym, a strict routine, or major changes. Small, consistent movements can protect independence, reduce fall risk, and help older adults stay engaged in daily life longer.

7. 

   30 Jul 2026

   How Alzheimer's Families Avoid Burning Out Completely

   Alzheimer’s research is evolving, but many families are still navigating the disease with outdated expectations. From earlier detection to a better understanding of progression, new insights are reshaping how families prepare, communicate, and provide care. The challenge is not just understanding the science, it is knowing what actually matters in daily life. In this episode, Dave Ritterling and Barb Faust discuss what current Alzheimer’s research is revealing and how it should influence the way families approach caregiving. They explore how the disease progresses, why symptoms vary from person to person, and what families can do earlier to create a more supportive and stable environment. What you'll learn in this episode: Why Alzheimer’s often begins long before symptoms are noticeable How progression varies and why families should not expect a straight line The difference between normal aging and cognitive decline How environment and routine influence behavior and confusion Why early planning changes the caregiving experience later What families misunderstand about independence and safety How communication strategies should evolve as cognition changes What caregivers and home care professionals can do to quality of life throughout the journey Whether you are supporting a loved one after a recent diagnosis or trying to understand early signs, this episode provides practical guidance grounded in what current Alzheimer’s research is telling us. Alzheimer’s may be progressive, but families are not powerless. Learn how to prepare earlier, respond more effectively, and support your loved one with confidence.

8. 

   16 Jul 2026

   Intimacy Doesn't End When You Age

   When families focus on the logistics of care, the schedules, the medications, the appointments, something quieter slips away: the connection that makes life feel worth living. In this episode, Dave and Barb open up the full range of intimacy in aging, from a simple hand on the shoulder to the physical and romantic closeness that, contrary to the myth, doesn't end with age. Drawing on real stories from hospice and assisted-living care, they explore why older adults withdraw, how families can draw them back in, and why touch, honesty, and being truly seen are a core part of care not an afterthought. What you'll learn in this episode: Why families unintentionally pull back from physical touch with aging parents, and what that withdrawal actually costs How the absence of intimacy contributes directly to loneliness and depression in older adults What caregivers and home care professionals can do to support intimacy as part of holistic care Whether you're trying to stay close to an aging parent through a hard season, or you're a care professional serving the whole person and not just the clinical need, this one gives you a way to treat connection as core to care — not an afterthought. Loneliness in later life isn't inevitable. Learn to spot the signs, restore real intimacy, and make sure the person you love never feels like a bystander in their own care.

9. 

   2 Jul 2026

   What Families Get Wrong When a Parent Needs Care

   When a parent needs care, family conflict doesn't just show up. It explodes. Siblings who haven't spoken in years suddenly have opinions, the child who has been present resents the one who disappeared, and the person who just wants what's best for mom or dad gets caught in the crossfire of decades-old family wounds. In this episode, Dave Ritterling and Barb Faust pull from years of real casework to show you exactly how family conflict surfaces in home care situations and what you can actually do about it. What you'll learn in this episode: Why the sibling who was never around suddenly wants the loudest voice and how to handle it without blowing up the family How personality types like the choleric "controller" and the quiet melancholy create predictable conflict patterns and how to work with them, not against them The dangerous dynamic of "polarity of distance" and why guilt-driven, long-absent family members often overcompensate and derail care decisions What happens when finances start driving the conversation more than actual care and how home care professionals learn to recognize and navigate it How the one person carrying the load, usually a daughter, usually exhausted, can protect themselves legally and emotionally when siblings push back When family conflict crosses into legal territory and why home care companies need to know when to walk away How to keep the care recipient, mom or dad, from becoming invisible while the family fights around them Whether you are the sibling doing all the work and getting no credit, or a home care professional trying to manage a family that arrived to the table already at war, this episode gives you real frameworks, real stories, and real tools. Don't let unresolved family tension become your parent's biggest obstacle to getting the care they need. Learn how to recognize conflict patterns before they escalate, get the right people in the right roles, and keep the focus where it belongs on the person who needs help.

10. 

    18 Jun 2026

    The Family Meeting Every Adult Child Needs to Have

    Talking about aging parents is one of the hardest conversations families will ever have. But avoiding the conversation about aging parents often leads to confusion, family conflict, and rushed decisions during a crisis. In this episode, Dave Ritterling and Barb Faust break down how to hold the first family meeting about aging parents—without turning it into a fight. Many families wait until something goes wrong—a fall, a hospital visit, or a sudden health decline—before they start talking about caregiving decisions. By then, emotions are high, siblings disagree, and no one has a clear plan. That’s when stress, resentment, and guilt start to take over.The truth is, the earlier you start the conversation about aging parents, the easier it becomes. In this episode, we walk through how to start the conversation in a calm, respectful way that keeps everyone focused on the same goal: making sure your parents age safely and with dignity. You’ll learn how to: Start the first family meeting about aging parents without triggering defensiveness Get siblings aligned around roles, responsibilities, and expectations Identify early warning signs that your parents may need help Keep the conversation focused on planning instead of blame Avoid the most common mistakes families make when discussing caregiving We’ll also share real-world examples from decades of working with families navigating aging and caregiving decisions. From difficult conversations about driving and independence to navigating sibling disagreements, this episode offers practical strategies that families can use immediately. If your parents are in their 60s, 70s, or 80s, this conversation is coming whether you plan for it or not. The families who handle it best are the ones who start early—before stress and crisis force decisions. Because the goal isn’t just to talk about aging. The goal is to protect your family relationships while planning for the future. Whether you're an adult child starting to notice small changes, a caregiver already feeling overwhelmed, or someone trying to keep siblings on the same page, this episode will give you a simple framework for having the conversation that every family eventually needs.

11. 

    4 Jun 2026

    The Driving Conversation: How to Know When It's Time

    Driving and dementia is one of the most difficult conversations families will ever face. In this episode of Real Talk on Aging, Dave Ritterling and Barb Faust share practical guidance on how to recognize the warning signs that an aging parent may no longer be safe behind the wheel—and how to have the driving conversation before a crash, injury, or crisis forces the issue. Learn how to spot early red flags, assess driving safety, and approach the topic with empathy instead of conflict. Drawing from personal experiences, caregiving expertise, and real-life dementia journeys, Dave and Barb discuss why driving represents independence, identity, and freedom for older adults. They explain how to conduct ride-alongs, identify concerning changes in judgment and reaction time, involve healthcare professionals when needed, and build a transportation plan that preserves dignity while keeping everyone safe. Whether you're caring for a parent with dementia or simply noticing age-related driving concerns, this episode provides actionable steps to help you make informed decisions with confidence and compassion. In this episode, you'll learn: How to recognize early warning signs that an older adult may no longer be safe to drive Why families should address driving concerns before an accident occurs Strategies for having productive, compassionate conversations about giving up the keys How dementia, aging, vision changes, and slower reaction times affect driving ability Transportation alternatives and community resources that can help maintain independence Don't risk waiting until an accident, injury, or emergency forces the decision. Learn how to identify the signs early, protect your loved one's independence, and navigate the driving transition with confidence and care.

12. 

    21 May 2026

    Cognition Changes vs Dementia: What Families Miss

    Dementia and Alzheimer’s disease affect millions of families, but most people are unprepared for the emotional, behavioral, and communication changes that come with cognitive decline. In this episode, Dave Ritterling and Barb Faust have an honest conversation about dementia caregiving, early warning signs, communication breakdowns, family dynamics, and how to support aging parents with dignity and compassion. You’ll learn the difference between normal aging and dementia, how Alzheimer’s progresses, and practical ways families can better navigate memory loss, confusion, aggression, and grief. Through deeply personal stories and expert insight, this episode explores what it really feels like to “lose someone before they’re gone” and why dementia is often called a family disease. Dave Ritterling and Barb Faust discuss the seven stages of Alzheimer’s, how different types of dementia present differently, how to communicate without creating shame, and why staying present matters even when recognition fades. Whether you’re caring for a parent with dementia, worried about cognitive decline, or planning ahead for your family’s future, this conversation offers practical guidance, emotional reassurance, and actionable caregiving strategies. Learn the difference between normal aging and dementia symptoms Understand how Alzheimer’s and other dementias progress over time Discover practical communication strategies for dementia caregiving Recognize subtle behavioral and cognitive warning signs early Learn how families can preserve dignity, connection, and independence Don’t risk waiting until a crisis to start the conversation. Learn how to recognize the signs of dementia early, support loved ones with compassion, and prepare your family for the road ahead.

13. 

    7 May 2026

    Understanding Falls: Causes, Risks, and Prevention

    Senior fall prevention isn’t just about avoiding accidents—it’s about preserving independence, confidence, and quality of life. In this episode of Real Talk on Aging, senior fall prevention takes center stage as hosts Dave Ritterling and Barb Faust unpack why even one fall can signal a turning point. If you’re caring for aging parents—or noticing changes yourself—this conversation will help you understand the risks, the warning signs, and how to stay ahead of them. Dave Ritterling and Barb Faust explore the physical, emotional, and environmental factors behind senior falls, from muscle loss and mobility challenges to fear, isolation, and overlooked home hazards. They break down common myths (like “it’s no big deal if they weren’t hurt”) and offer practical, real-world strategies to prevent falls before they happen. Whether you're supporting a loved one or planning for your own future, you’ll walk away with a clearer understanding of how to reduce risk, build confidence, and create a safer, more supportive environment for aging well. What you’ll learn: Why one fall significantly increases the risk of future falls How fear and loss of confidence accelerate physical decline The most common (and overlooked) fall risks inside the home Practical ways to improve strength, balance, and daily mobility How families can respond supportively without creating shame or resistance Don’t risk waiting until a fall becomes a crisis—learn how to recognize the signs early and take action to protect independence and quality of life. 🔔 Love the podcast? Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe!

14. 

    23 Apr 2026

    Early Signs Families Ignore (and Why They Matter)

    Early signs of dementia often don’t look serious—they look explainable. In this episode, Dave Ritterling and Barb Faust break down the early signs of dementia families ignore and why recognizing patterns early can change everything. If you’ve ever wondered whether “it’s just aging” or something more, this conversation will help you spot the difference before it’s too late. On this episode of Real Talk on Aging, we draw from decades of caregiving and clinical experience to unpack the subtle emotional, behavioral, and cognitive shifts that often go unnoticed. From repeated small memory lapses to withdrawal, fear, and broken routines, they explain how isolated incidents become meaningful patterns—and why families often dismiss them. You’ll learn how to move from passive concern to proactive care, have better conversations with loved ones, and know when it’s time to involve professional support. What you’ll learn: How to distinguish normal aging from early warning signs of dementia The emotional and behavioral changes families often overlook Why patterns matter more than one-off incidents How fear, denial, and family dynamics delay action When and how to step in, start conversations, and seek help Don’t risk missing the signs that matter most. Learn how to recognize changes early and take action with clarity and confidence. 🔔 Love the podcast? Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe!

15. 

    9 Apr 2026

    How to Prepare Before a Crisis Forces Your Hand

    Are you prepared for an aging parent crisis before it happens? Aging parent planning is the conversation most families avoid—until a fall, a health scare, or a sudden change forces decisions fast. In this episode of Real Talk on Aging, you’ll learn how to avoid an aging parent crisis, recognize risks inside the home, and start planning before “everything seems fine” turns into something urgent. Hosted by Dave Ritterling and Barb Faust, this episode breaks down what an aging parent crisis actually looks like—from hidden dangers in the home and overlooked warning signs to the emotional and family dynamics that delay action. Drawing on decades of experience in senior care, Dave and Barb share how to spot risks early, navigate tough conversations with empathy, and create a proactive plan that keeps your loved ones safe while preserving their independence. In this episode, you’ll learn how to: Identify hidden safety risks inside your parents’ home Recognize early warning signs before a crisis happens Start the aging conversation without causing resistance Create a simple 5-year plan for aging parent care Navigate family roles and avoid conflict during decision-making Don’t risk waiting for a crisis to make decisions for you—learn how to plan ahead, reduce risk, and support your aging parents with confidence. 🔔 Love the podcast? Don’t forget to follow and rate us!

16. 

    26 Mar 2026

    The Aging Curve: What’s Coming and When?

    Real Talk on Aging reveals why families fall behind the aging curve—and how to stay ahead before a crisis hits. In this episode of Real Talk on Aging, you’ll learn how subtle changes in your loved ones signal bigger shifts, and why waiting for “something major” can cost you time, options, and peace of mind. If you’ve ever felt unsure about what to look for or when to step in, this conversation gives you the clarity and confidence to act early. Hosted by Dave Ritterling, SVP Global Operations at Visiting Angels, and Barb Faust, RN and Director of Program Development at Visiting Angels, this episode breaks down the reality of the aging curve—from overlooked warning signs and family denial to the importance of building a care team before emergencies happen. You’ll hear real examples from decades of experience in senior care, along with practical ways to recognize change, navigate tough conversations, and support your loved ones without overreacting. Whether you’re seeing your parents every day or only a few times a year, this episode will help you prepare for what’s ahead and protect the people you love. In this episode, you’ll learn how to: Recognize early signs you’re already behind the aging curve Spot subtle changes most families overlook Navigate family dynamics and denial around aging Build a care team before a crisis forces decisions Support independence while reducing risk Don’t risk waiting for a crisis to make decisions for you—learn how to stay ahead of the aging curve and take action with confidence. 🔔 Love the podcast? Don’t forget to like, comment, and follow!

17. 

    12 Mar 2026

    Welcome to Real Talk on Aging

    Real Talk on Aging is a podcast about the moments, decisions, and emotions that come with caring for an aging parent or loved one. Hosted by Barb Faust, RN and Director of Program Development at Visiting Angels, and Dave Ritterling, Senior Vice President of Global Operations, the show brings thoughtful conversations with people who understand the realities of caregiving and the opportunity it creates to show up with compassion and presence.

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

Apple Podcasts (US)

5.0 / 5

15 ratings

Spotify

5.0 / 5

11 ratings

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Guest appearances

Does not typically book guests

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