In this episode of Not Ready Yet: Curating Conversations for the Aging Journey, Lisa Harper engages in a profound conversation with C. Vicki Gold, PT, MA, a semi-retired physical therapist, about the aging journey. At 81 years young, Vicki truly is a lifelong student of transformation. She has woven together science, movement, and personal growth in such a unique way. Vicki shares her insights on the importance of learning the ABCs of aging, which encompass alignment, breathing, and centering. She emphasizes the significance of self-talk, intentional living, and the role of feet in maintaining balance. Vicki also discusses her personal experiences with aging and offers practical advice for adult children on how to communicate effectively with their aging loved ones. The conversation is rich with strategies for enhancing quality of life as we age, encouraging listeners to embrace the journey with curiosity and resilience.

Takeaways

• Aging is a journey that can be embraced with curiosity.
• The ABCs of aging include alignment, breathing, and centering.
• Self-talk significantly impacts our mindset and actions.
• Feet play a crucial role in maintaining balance as we age.
• Intentional living is essential for a fulfilling life.
• Communication with aging loved ones should be open and respectful.
• Small, consistent actions can lead to significant changes.
• Aging can bring a sense of freedom and opportunity.
• It's important to challenge negative beliefs about aging.
• Practicing mindfulness and awareness can enhance quality of life.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Aging Conversations
01:43 The ABCs of Aging Safely
05:21 Mind-Body Connection in Aging
07:27 The Importance of Self-Talk
11:45 Challenging Aging Myths
16:27 The Power of Intention and Visualization
21:27 Understanding the Alexander Technique
25:09 The Central Cylinder and Postural Alignment
28:40 The Importance of Conscious Breathing
31:45 Breathing Techniques for Better Health
33:54 Embracing Aging and Personal Freedom
37:06 Effective Communication with Aging Parents
39:18 Encouraging Active Lifestyles in Loved Ones
41:10 The Book and Its Benefits

Resources

Link to Book: https://thera-fitness.com/the-book/

Email Vicki: vicki@thera-fitness.com

Social Media Links:
o Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheraFitness
o LINKEDIN: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cvickigoldptma/
o Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/c.vicki.gold/

© 2025 Lisa M. Harper. All rights reserved. “Not Ready Yet: Curating Conversations for the Aging Journey” is a trademark of Lisa M. Harper.

In this episode of Not Ready Yet: Curating Conversations for the Aging Journey podcast, host Lisa Harper speaks with Scott Fischer, a leader in senior care, about the complexities of aging and the importance of having open conversations about senior living options. Scott shares his personal journey into the field, the nuances of placement in senior living, and the critical need for families to engage in discussions about aging before crises arise. The conversation emphasizes acceptance, preparation, and the emotional challenges families face as they navigate the aging process together.

Takeaways

• Scott Fischer has over 30 years of experience in healthcare and senior care.
• Placement professionals help families find suitable senior living options.
• Senior living encompasses various types of care, including independent and assisted living.
• CCRCs require a significant upfront fee for future healthcare needs.
• Families should start conversations about aging before a crisis occurs.
• Acceptance of aging is crucial for families to navigate the process.
• The importance of understanding the financial implications of senior living options.
• Families often face emotional challenges when discussing aging and care.
• It's essential to have a plan for aging to avoid urgent crises.
• Scott emphasizes the need for compassion and ethics in senior care.

Resources

Options for Senior Living

National Placement and Referral Alliance (NPRA)

Contact Scott

© 2025 Lisa M. Harper. All rights reserved. “Not Ready Yet: Curating Conversations for the Aging Journey” is a trademark of Lisa M. Harper.

In this episode of Not Ready Yet: Curating Conversations for the Aging Journey podcast, host Lisa Harper speaks with Melanie Henry, Founder and CEO of the Driver Cognitive Assessment Center (DCAC), and co-author of two books. They discuss the critical need for compassionate and objective assessments of older drivers, especially those experiencing cognitive decline. Melanie shares her personal journey into this field, the technology used for driver assessments, and practical tips for families to navigate the sensitive conversations around driving and aging. The episode emphasizes the importance of family involvement, recognizing cognitive and physical changes, and planning for transportation needs to ensure safety and dignity for aging loved ones.

Takeaways

• Melanie Henry founded the Driver Cognitive Assessment Center (DCAC) to address the gap in driver evaluations for older adults.
• Many families avoid discussing driving safety due to emotional challenges.
• Technology can play a role in assessing cognitive abilities related to driving.
• Family involvement is essential in recognizing changes in driving skills.
• Regular vision and hearing exams are vital for safe driving.
• Ride-alongs can provide valuable insights into an older adult's driving abilities.
• It's important to approach driving conversations with compassion and understanding.
• Isolation after losing driving privileges can significantly impact mental health.
• Planning for transportation needs can ease the transition away from driving.
• Age alone does not determine driving safety; cognitive and physical health are key factors.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Aging Conversations
01:37 Melanie's Journey into Driver Evaluation
03:32 Understanding Driver Assessment Technology
06:48 Navigating Difficult Conversations about Driving
15:21 Strategies for Family Conversations on Driving Safety
18:47 Understanding Cognitive Impairment and Driving
23:04 The Role of Vision and Cognition in Safe Driving
25:25 Assessing Physical Abilities for Driving
26:32 Planning for Transportation Needs
29:20 Fostering Independence and Community Engagement

Resources

Connect with Melanie Henry | melanie@dcacbayarea.com

Warning Signs Checklist

NAIPC 3rd book - Aging in Place Conversations - The Caregiver's Edition: Stories, Strategies, and Support for Aging in Your Community

Driver Cognitive Assessment Center

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© 2025 Lisa M. Harper. All rights reserved. “Not Ready Yet: Curating Conversations for the Aging Journey” is a trademark of Lisa M. Harper.