Épisodes

  • 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 min
  • 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 min
  • 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 min
  • 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 min
  • 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 min
  • Episode 295- Navigating Dementia Care with Clarity

    Episode 295- Navigating Dementia Care with Clarity
    Oct 29 2025
    Caring for a loved one with dementia can be overwhelming — but you don’t have to do it alone. In this episode, Elder Care Coordinator Debra King. LCSW is joined by Keita Cole from the Tennessee Dementia Navigator Program — a powerful (and free) resource helping families across Tennessee find the support, guidance, and services they need. 💬 In this conversation, we cover: ✔️ What the Dementia Navigator Program is & how it works ✔️ Real ways it supports caregivers and individuals with dementia ✔️ How to access these services — and who qualifies ✔️ Why early connection to resources can change everything If you or someone you love is facing the challenges of dementia, this episode is essential listening.
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    23 min
  • Episode 294 - Protecting Yourself from Digital Scams with Safe Senior Tennessee

    Episode 294 - Protecting Yourself from Digital Scams with Safe Senior Tennessee
    Oct 22 2025
    Scammers are getting smarter — but so are we. In our latest episode, Elder Care Coordinator Debra King, LCSW of Johnson McGinnis Elder Care Law & Estate Planning sits down with Chris Ramage, Special Agent-in-Charge at the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation, to explore Safe Senior TN, a powerful initiative helping protect older adults from online and offline threats. 🎙️ Tune in to learn: ✅ The most common scams targeting seniors today ✅ Cell phone & email safety tips for older adults ✅ How to stay safe on social media ✅ Free education & resources available through Safe Senior TN ✅ How YOU can help spread awareness Whether you're a senior, caregiver, or advocate — this episode is a must-listen.
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    27 min
  • Episode 293 - Silver Alerts and the TBI Find App

    Episode 293 - Silver Alerts and the TBI Find App
    Oct 15 2025
    Outreach coordinator Dana Hentschel is joined by Shelly Smitherman, Assistant Special Agent in Charge at the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation, to talk about the TBI Find App—a game-changing tool for families and caregivers of vulnerable adults across Tennessee. If you care for someone with dementia, Alzheimer’s, or another cognitive condition—you need to hear this.
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    21 min