The Age Guide: Perspectives on the Aging Journey

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Aug 2026

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About the show

Welcome to the Age Guide podcast highlighting perspectives on the aging journey. We are here to be your personal Age Guide and enhance your quality of life on the road ahead. This podcast is about putting a face on aging and giving a voice to older adults and caregivers by highlighting their experiences and stories. We want to provide a window into the struggles and joys of aging, to dispel myths and combat ageism. This podcast is hosted by AgeGuide Northeastern Illinois, an Area Agency on Aging in Northeastern Illinois. At AgeGuide, it is our mission to be a vital resource and advocate for people as we age by providing thoughtful guidance, supportive services, and meaningful connections.

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53 recent

August 26, 2026Episode 1145 min

Aging Well: How to Outsmart Scammers - with Courtney Hedderman

In this episode of Aging Well, Gretchen Knowlton welcomes Courtney Hedderman, Senior Associate Director for Advocacy and Outreach at AARP Illinois, and a leading voice in fraud prevention. As scams become increasingly sophisticated and costly, Courtney shares why fraud can happen to anyone and how criminals are using technology, artificial intelligence, emotional manipulation, and impersonation tactics to target people of all ages. Listeners will learn about the most common scams today, including imposter scams, romance scams, tech support fraud, and cryptocurrency-related schemes. Courtney explains the warning signs to watch for, why scammers create a false sense of urgency, and how simple strategies like "stop and verify" can help protect your finances and personal information. The conversation also explores the emotional toll of fraud, including embarrassment, loss of trust, and threats to independence, particularly for older adults. Courtney shares practical steps for reporting scams, protecting loved ones, and staying informed through trusted resources. Whether you've encountered fraud yourself, are concerned about a loved one's vulnerability, or simply want to stay ahead of evolving fraud trends, this episode offers practical tools and expert insights to help you stay vigilant and safe. Resources: AARP Illinois Fraud Fighting Fraudlettes YouTube Series Report fraud: AARP Fraud Watch Helpline: 877-908-3360 Find and Report a Scam | Better Business Bureau Illinois Secretary of State Securities Department Illinois Attorney General Consumer Protection Division FBI Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) Federal Trade Commission Fraud Reporting Reach out to Courtney: Chedderman@aarp.org Facebook: facebook.com/AgeGuide Twitter: twitter.com/AgeGuide Instagram: instagram.com/theageguidepodcast Podcast: ageguide.org/the-age-guide-podcast Website: ageguide.org

July 16, 202631 min

Aging Well: Stories That Shift Perspectives - with Christina Peoples

In this episode of Aging Well, we have Christina Peoples, a gerontologist, educator, speaker, health promotion coordinator, and founder of Gero-What?, a digital platform making conversations about aging more relatable, inclusive, and accessible. Through her work, Christina challenges ageism, amplifies historically marginalized voices, and centers the experiences and wisdom of Black elders. Christina explains how our physical health, emotional well-being, relationships, environments, identities, and lifelong experiences all influence the way we age. This episode also explores the intersection of aging and disability, the importance of embracing supportive tools without shame, and how racism, discrimination, health inequities, and limited access to resources can shape the aging experiences of Black and other marginalized communities. The conversation also highlights Christina’s Black Elder Truths storytelling project and the power of sharing older adults’ experiences, lessons, challenges, and sources of joy. Christina encourages listeners of every age to become more aware of the language they use, question ageist messages, and replace fear of growing older with curiosity, preparation, and a more positive vision of aging. Resources: Christina Peoples, MS Bio GeroWhat | The Aging Experience Area Agency on Aging | Piedmont Triad Regional Council, NC Transforming Advocacy into Action - ASA Generations Aging Well in Action: Evidence-Based Programs + Beyond Facebook: facebook.com/AgeGuide Twitter: twitter.com/AgeGuide Instagram: instagram.com/theageguidepodcast Podcast: ageguide.org/the-age-guide-podcast Website: ageguide.org

June 23, 2026Episode 943 min

Aging Well: The LGBTQIA+ Aging Experience - with Billy Rogers

In this episode of Aging Well , host Gretchen Knowlton talks with Billy Rogers, the President of Golden Rainbows of Illinois South and a longtime advocate for the LQBTQ+ community. Drawing on more than 40 years of experience, Billy shares powerful insights into the realities LGBTQ+ older adults face today, from isolation and healthcare distrust to the ongoing need for safe, welcoming spaces. Listeners will learn why many LGBTQ+ older adults may “go back into the closet” when seeking care, how barriers like transportation and lack of family support impact aging, and why building trust in services is critical. Billy also highlights the importance of intergenerational relationships, emphasizing how younger and older communities can learn from and support one another. This conversation offers practical examples of creating inclusive environments with curiosity and simple signals, to larger systemic challenges in housing, healthcare, and food access. Whether you’re an older adult, caregiver, professional, or ally, this episode provides meaningful ways to foster connection, dignity, and belonging as we age. Resources: Golden Rainbows of Illinois South Illinois LGBTQ Aging Commission Report Disrupting Disparities Report SAGE (Services & Advocacy for LGBTQ+ Elders) Area Agencies on Aging services & Eldercare Locator Adult Protective Services (APS) SNAP food assistance LIHEAP (Energy Assistance Program) Farmers Market Nutrition Programs Rainbow Cafe LGBTQ support Facebook: facebook.com/AgeGuide Twitter: twitter.com/AgeGuide Instagram: instagram.com/theageguidepodcast Podcast: ageguide.org/the-age-guide-podcast Website: ageguide.org

May 27, 2026Episode 841 min

Aging Well: Breaking the Silence Around Mental Health and Aging - with Robyn Golden and Caryn Blanton

As we age, mental health becomes just as important as physical health, yet it’s often overlooked, misunderstood, or dismissed as a normal part of getting older. In this episode of Aging Well , we hear from Robyn Golden, Associate Vice President of Social Work and Community Health at Rush University Medical Center and Caryn Blanton, Program Manager at the E4 Center of Excellence for Behavioral Health Disparities in Aging, to explore the realities of mental health and aging, and why connection, purpose, and support are critical to aging well. Robyn and Caryn share powerful insights on ageism in healthcare, the emotional impact of social isolation, caregiver stress, depression, anxiety, and the importance of treating mental health with the same urgency and compassion as physical health. The conversation also dives into the growing need for education and advocacy around behavioral health for older adults, including the work being done through the E4 Center of Excellence and innovative programs that help identify and support older adults before they reach a crisis point. Whether you’re an older adult, caregiver, healthcare professional, or simply someone looking to better support the people around you, this episode offers meaningful perspective, practical advice, and an important reminder: it is never too late to care for your mental health, ask for help, and stay connected. Resources: Social Work and Community Health Services | Rush E4 Center – Rush Center for Excellence in Behavioral Health Disparities in Aging E4 Center Toolkits 4Ms Behavioral Health – E4 Center Longevity increased by positive self-perceptions of aging - PubMed The 8 Limbs of Yoga and Why They Matter to Your Practice – Sri Sri School of Yoga A Decolonized Guide to the 8 Limbs of Yoga Gatekeeper Program | Washington County, OR Bowling Alone Facebook: facebook.com/AgeGuide Twitter: twitter.com/AgeGuide Instagram: instagram.com/theageguidepodcast Podcast: ageguide.org/the-age-guide-podcast Website: ageguide.org

April 30, 2026Episode 724 min

Aging Well: The Cost of Growing Older in America - with Ramsey Alwin

As Americans live longer than ever, too many are aging without financial security, health supports, or clear pathways to thrive. To continue exploring what it truly means to age well, we’re joined by Ramsey Alwin, President and CEO of the National Council on Aging, and a leading national voice on aging policy, economic security, and equity. In this episode, Ramsey unpacks why longevity is one of the most consequential megatrends of our time and how longer lives are reshaping work, caregiving, health, and community life across America. Gretchen and Ramsey explore the growing challenge of economic insecurity among older adults, the deep links between financial stability and health, and why aging well must be treated as a right, not a privilege. Ramsey also shares why the Older Americans Act remains a cornerstone of healthy aging, and why increased funding and reauthorization is essential as demographics continue to shift. The conversation highlights empowering tools like BenefitsCheckUp®, evidence-based health programs, and the power of community-based organizations to help older adults and caregivers age with dignity, security, and connection. Whether you’re planning your own future, caring for a loved one, or advocating for stronger aging policies in your community, this episode offers both practical resources and a compelling call to action. Resources: NCOA UMass Boston's Elder Index: Measure of Economic Security UMass Boston's Gerontology Institute "Living Between the Lines: Economic Insecurity and Older Americans" Older Americans Act: Overview and Funding | Congress.gov | Library of Congress Evidence-Based Program: Tai Ji Quan: Moving for Better Balance® Caregiving in the US 2025: Key Trends, Strains, and Policy Needs Visit BenefitsCheckUp.org or call 1-800-794-6559 Facebook: facebook.com/AgeGuide Twitter: twitter.com/AgeGuide Instagram: instagram.com/theageguidepodcast Podcast: ageguide.org/the-age-guide-podcast Website: ageguide.org

March 24, 2026Episode 638 min

Aging Well: Connecting Policy, Nutrition, and Community – with Bob Blancato

In this episode of Aging Well , Bob Blancato, national advocate for older adults and expert in nutrition and aging policy, explores the critical role nutrition plays in supporting healthy aging and strengthening communities. This episode examines how nutrition intersects healthcare, social services, and public policy, and why improving access to healthy food is essential for preventing chronic disease and promoting well-being among older adults. Listeners will gain insight into the growing “Food as Medicine” movement, the importance of nutrition security, and how programs like the Older Americans Act nutrition services help address both health and social isolation for older adults. Bob also shares perspectives on current policy developments, including efforts to expand medical nutrition therapy, strengthen community nutrition programs, and integrate social care services into healthcare systems. Throughout the conversation, he highlights how advocacy, education, and community engagement can help shape stronger nutrition policies and better outcomes for older adults. This conversation offers a thoughtful look at how better nutrition, stronger policy, and community advocacy can help ensure older adults have the support they need to age well. Resources: National Association of Nutrition and Aging Services Programs - PODCAST Blog: Nutrition and Healthy Aging Featuring Bob Blancato - Alliance for Aging Research Basics of Congregate Nutrition Programs | acl.gov Basics of Home Delivered Meal Program | acl.gov Food Is Medicine | odphp.health.gov Food and Nutrition Security Food Assistance - SNAP Benefits for Older Adults Food Paradigm Older Americans Act Nutrition Programs Older Americans Act: Summary in Brief | Congress.gov | Library of Congress Dietary Guidelines for Americans, 2025–2030 Innovation Insight: RFI Now Open for Comments on Potential Improvements to Medicare Advantage | CMS Make America Healthy Again (MAHA) | HHS.gov Medical Nutrition Therapy Act of 2025 | Congress.gov | Library of Congress Treat and Reduce Obesity Act of 2025 | Congress.gov | Library of Congress Find a Federally Qualified Health Center Adult Obesity Facts | Obesity | CDC Facebook: facebook.com/AgeGuide Twitter: twitter.com/AgeGuide Instagram: instagram.com/theageguidepodcast Podcast: ageguide.org/the-age-guide-podcast Website: ageguide.org

February 26, 2026Episode 531 min

Aging Well: Building Better Aging Policy - with Ryann Hill

In this episode of Aging Well, Ryann Hill, Aging Policy and Advocacy Expert, shares the realities facing older adults and caregivers today and offers guidance on how listeners can take meaningful action. This episode explores how aging policy brings people together across party lines, how to effectively and confidently engage your legislators, and why the Older Americans Act continues to serve as the backbone of community-based supports for older adults. Participants will also gain a clear understanding of the difference between authorization and funding, and why both matter, along with practical, real-world strategies for advocating locally, sharing impactful stories, and strengthening support for aging services. This conversation offers a grounded and hopeful look at what it takes for communities to ensure that people can age with dignity, stability, and support. Resources: Older Americans Act: Overview and Funding | Congress.gov | Library of Congress Administration for Community Living - Older Americans Act USAging - Older Americans Act Indigo Hill Strategies Mic’d Up podcast Eldercare Locator Find and contact elected officials | USAGov Best-Practices-Meeting-with-a-Congressional-Office-February-2025.pdf Here’s a look at federal agencies’ shutdown contingency plans | Federal News Network U.S. House of Representatives Facebook: facebook.com/AgeGuide Twitter: twitter.com/AgeGuide Instagram: instagram.com/theageguidepodcast Podcast: ageguide.org/the-age-guide-podcast Website: ageguide.org

January 29, 2026Episode 436 min

Aging Well: Rethinking Aging and Healthcare - with Kris Geerken

In this episode of Aging Well , we talk with advocate and researcher Kris Geerken about how ageism and ableism shape the way we experience aging and healthcare. Drawing on her hospice work, her research at Virginia Commonwealth University, and advocacy with Changing the Narrative, Kris explores how age bias often goes unnoticed in medical settings and why stronger gerontology training is essential to improving care. She highlights the impact of unacknowledged grief, the high-cost ageism has on our society, and the need for person‑centered systems that honor the values and goals of people at every age. Also, Alaine makes her Medicare Minute debut to explain that Illinois allows self‑referral to physical therapy without a physician’s prescription. This conversation offers practical insights and encouragement for navigating care, challenging age bias, and aging well at every stage of life. Resources: Reach out to Kris: geerkenk@vcu.edu Disrupting Ageism | ScienceDirect Antidotes for Ageism - Changing the Narrative Age-Friendly Healthcare – Changing the Narrative Ageism in health care found to cost $63 billion annually | Yale Daily News The Conversation Project - Have You Had The Conversation? National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health Aging Unfiltered: Flipping the Script on Ageism Facebook: facebook.com/AgeGuide Twitter: twitter.com/AgeGuide Instagram: instagram.com/theageguidepodcast Podcast: ageguide.org/the-age-guide-podcast Website: ageguide.org

December 23, 2025Episode 333 min

Aging Well: Aging as a Continuum, Not a Crisis - with Dr. Israel Cross

In this episode of Aging Well , we sit down with Dr. Israel Cross, Public Health Gerontologist and President of the National Aging in Place Council. Drawing on his experience as both an aging network professional and family caregiver, Dr. Cross reframes aging as a natural continuum rather than a crisis and highlights why caregivers are essential partners in our aging infrastructure. We explore the evolving concept of aging in place and discuss why early conversations about care and autonomy matter. Dr. Cross also introduces the latest edition of Aging in Place Conversations: The Caregiver’s Edition , a guide filled with real stories, tips, and tools for navigating caregiving challenges. Tune in for a conversation that centers compassion and offers a hopeful roadmap for building systems that prioritize dignity, choice, and collaboration. Resources: Israel Cross LinkedIn Page Aging in Place Conversations - The Caregiver's Edition Amazon Kindle copy Aging in Place Conversations - The Caregiver's Edition: Stories, Strategies, and Support for Aging in Your Community by Sean Fitzgerald, Fritzi Gros-Daillon, Mary Lynch, Paperback | Barnes & Noble® National Aging in Place Council Website Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services | CMS National Institute on Aging Certified Aging-in-Place Specialist (CAPS) | NAHB Online Courses - USC Home Modification Grab Bar and Zero Degree Shower The Sandwich Generation Facebook: facebook.com/AgeGuide Twitter: twitter.com/AgeGuide Instagram: instagram.com/theageguidepodcast Podcast: ageguide.org/the-age-guide-podcast Website: ageguide.org

November 21, 2025Episode 247 min

Aging Well: Creating a Sense of Belonging - with Dr. Raj Shah

In this episode, we get the opportunity to take a deep dive with Dr. Raj Shah of Rush University Medical Center exploring ideas revolving around brain health, caregiving, and what it truly means to age well. Drawing from decades of dementia research and community-based work, Dr. Shah reflects on the power of connection, the role of care partners, and how belonging shapes our health across the lifespan. Together, they unpack the small, meaningful actions at home, in clinics, and throughout our communities that can make aging a more supported, inclusive, and thriving experience. Resources: Dementia Friends Illinois - Illinois Cognitive Resources Network Dementia Friendly America Dementia Friendly Illinois Monthly Meetings - Illinois Cognitive Resources Network Dementia Friendly Initiative – AgeGuide Dementia Friendly Efforts in Illinois Raj Shah | LinkedIn Design For Belonging Initiative Memory Cafe Directory 2025 Walk to End Alzheimer's | Alzheimer's Association How the CARE Act Helps Caregivers Facebook: facebook.com/AgeGuide Twitter: twitter.com/AgeGuide Instagram: instagram.com/theageguidepodcast Podcast: ageguide.org/the-age-guide-podcast Website: ageguide.org