Aging Starts Now

Johnson McGinnis Elder Care Law & Estate Planning
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On this weekly podcast, members of the Johnson McGinnis Elder Care Law & Estate Planning team discuss the tools, techniques, strategies, and services that will help you respond with confidence to the legal, financial, and personal challenges created by long life, chronic illness, and disability.

  1. 2d ago

    Episode 338: What To Do After a Loved One Passes Away - Checklist for Families

    Losing a loved one is difficult enough. Figuring out what needs to happen next can make an already overwhelming time even harder. In this episode of Aging Starts Now, host Dana Hentschel, Outreach Coordinator at Johnson McGinnis Elder Care Law & Estate Planning, sits down with attorney Josh Hunter to discuss the practical steps families should take after a loved one passes away. From what to prioritize in the first 24 to 48 hours to notifying Social Security, locating the original will and other estate planning documents, handling bills and determining whether probate may be necessary, Josh walks listeners through some of the important decisions families may face. They also discuss common mistakes that can create unnecessary legal or financial complications—and why taking the time to create a thoughtful estate plan now can make things easier for the people you love later. If you’ve recently lost a loved one, are helping someone settle an estate, or simply want to be better prepared for the future, this episode offers practical information to help you know where to begin. Learn more about Johnson McGinnis Elder Care Law & Estate Planning and find additional resources at tn-elderlaw.com.

    Episode 338: What To Do After a Loved One Passes Away - Checklist for Families

  2. 2d ago

    Episode 337: Common Questions about Probate

    Probate can be confusing—especially when a family is already dealing with the loss of a loved one. What actually goes through probate? Who pays the bills? What happens to debts? And what should a family do first? In this episode of Aging Starts Now, Outreach Coordinator Dana Hentschel is joined by Johnson McGinnis Elder Care Law & Estate Planning attorney Ryan Hicks to answer some of the most common questions families have about the probate process. Ryan explains what probate is, which assets may avoid probate, how funeral expenses and other bills can be handled, how creditor claims work, and what happens when an estate doesn’t have enough money to fulfill every gift in a will. He also discusses probate costs, revocable living trusts, and several common mistakes families should avoid after a loved one passes away. Most importantly, Ryan shares some of the first steps families should take before making major legal or financial decisions. If you’re settling a loved one’s estate—or thinking ahead about how to make things easier for your own family—this episode offers practical information to help you better understand the process. Learn more or schedule a consultation with Johnson McGinnis Elder Care Law & Estate Planning at www.tn-elderlaw.com or call 615-824-2571. Subscribe to Aging Starts Now and share this episode with someone who may benefit from the conversation.

    Episode 337: Common Questions about Probate

  3. Aug 12

    Episode 336: Caregivers Need Care, Too: Finding Connection and Support with Empaira

    Caregiving can be rewarding, but it can also feel incredibly isolating. When the responsibility of caring for someone you love becomes overwhelming, where can you turn to connect with someone who truly understands? In this episode of Aging Starts Now, host Dana Henschel talks with Tim Otis, founder of Empaira, an emotional support network created to help caregivers connect with other caregivers in a safe, anonymous space. Drawing from his own experiences caring for his mother and later his father following a Parkinson’s diagnosis, Tim shares why he created Empaira and how peer-to-peer support can help caregivers feel seen, heard, and less alone. Dana and Tim discuss caregiver burnout and isolation, the importance of emotional support, Empaira's anonymous and personalized communities, quick “Moments” designed to help caregivers manage the emotional weight of caregiving, and the need for accessible, localized resources. Most importantly, this conversation offers a reminder every caregiver needs to hear: caring for yourself matters, too. Learn more about the resources available from Johnson McGinnis Elder Care Law & Estate Planning at tn-elderlaw.com. Subscribe to Aging Starts Now and share this episode with someone navigating the challenges of caregiving, aging, disability, or unexpected illness.

  4. Aug 5

    Episode 335: The Importance of Strong Passwords

    Are your passwords protecting you—or putting you at risk? In this episode of Aging Starts Now, Outreach Coordinator Dana Hentschel sits down with Jim Hughes of Senior Risk Solutions to discuss one of the most overlooked aspects of personal safety: password security. Older adults are increasingly targeted by online scams, identity theft, and financial fraud. Jim explains why using the same password across multiple accounts can leave you vulnerable, how to create strong passwords you can actually remember, and when to use passkeys and two-factor authentication. He also shares practical tips to help you recognize scams, avoid common online mistakes, and protect your financial and personal information. Whether you're an older adult, a caregiver, or simply want to strengthen your online security, this episode is filled with practical advice you can put into action today. In this episode you'll learn: Why every account needs a unique password What makes a password truly secure The pros and cons of password managers How passkeys and two-factor authentication improve security Simple habits that can help prevent online scams and identity theft Why speed matters if you think you've been targeted by fraud Don't miss this important conversation about protecting yourself and the people you love in today's digital world. As a FREE gift to our listeners, Jim Hughes is offering "Strong Passwords Made Easy" Ultimate Guide PDF (a $27 value.) Click here: https://business-risk-solutions.kit.com/6bebbd373e You can reach out to Jim Hughes at Senior Risk Solutions at 847-710-1030 or jim@seniorrisksolutions.net

  5. Jul 29

    Episode 334: Home Sweet Home: Smart Mortgage Strategies for Older Adults

    Whether you're downsizing, relocating closer to family, building a mother-in-law suite, or wondering if paying cash is really the best option, this episode is packed with practical advice for older adults and their families. Host Chris Johnson, Attorney and Partner at Johnson McGinnis Elder Care Law & Estate Planning, is joined by Anna Cook, Originating Branch Manager with CrossCountry Mortgage, to discuss the financial strategies that can help make housing decisions support your long-term goals. Together, they explore financing options for retirees, purchasing a home before selling your current one, multi-generational home buying, adding accessory dwelling units, and common mistakes to avoid during the downsizing process. If you're planning your next move—or helping an aging parent with theirs—this conversation offers valuable insights to help you make informed decisions with confidence.

  6. Jul 22

    Episode 333: Donor Advised Funds: A Smarter Way to Give Back

    Can charitable giving be part of a smart estate plan? Absolutely. In this episode of Aging Starts Now, host Janel Heflin, Elder Care Coordinator at Johnson McGinnis Elder Care Law & Estate Planning, welcomes Cathy Sheffield, Director of Philanthropic Partnerships with The Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee, to discuss the many benefits of Donor Advised Funds (DAFs). You'll learn: What a Donor Advised Fund is and how it works Why DAFs aren't just for wealthy families The tax advantages of charitable giving How DAFs can simplify and maximize your philanthropy Why many families include charitable giving in their estate plans How The Community Foundation helps donors create a lasting impact in Middle Tennessee Whether you're passionate about supporting your favorite nonprofit, looking for tax-efficient giving strategies, or thinking about the legacy you want to leave, this conversation offers practical guidance to help you make informed decisions. To learn more about The Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee, visit cfmt.org. For more information about estate planning, life care planning, and protecting what matters most, visit www.tn-elderlaw.com

  7. Jul 15

    Episode 332: Suicide Prevention Among Older Adults: Recognizing the Signs and Saving Lives

    Suicide among older adults is a difficult topic—but it's one we cannot afford to ignore. Many older adults face challenges such as grief, chronic illness, isolation, and depression, yet the warning signs are often misunderstood or overlooked. In this episode of Aging Starts Now, Elder Care Coordinator Erin Keogh-Rankin speaks with Fiona Hoehn, Mental Health Training Coordinator for Mental Health America of Middle Tennessee, about how families, caregivers, and friends can recognize the signs of suicidal ideation and provide meaningful support. In this conversation, you'll learn: Why older adults are at increased risk for suicide Common warning signs and behavioral changes to watch for The difference between grief, depression, and suicidal thoughts How to start a conversation with someone you are concerned about When a situation requires immediate intervention Resources available for older adults and their families Whether you're caring for an aging parent, working with older adults professionally, or simply want to be better prepared to help someone in need, this episode offers practical guidance and hope. If you or someone you know is experiencing a mental health crisis or having thoughts of suicide, don't wait to seek help. Resources are available, and support can make all the difference. To learn more about Johnson McGinnis Elder Care Law & Estate Planning, visit www.tn-elderlaw.com.

  8. Jul 8

    Episode 331: Home Maintenance & Aging in Place: Protecting Independence One Repair at a Time

    Most older adults want to remain in the homes they love—but aging in place requires more than simply staying put. A safe, well-maintained home is essential for preserving independence and preventing costly accidents. In this episode of Aging Starts Now, Elder Care Coordinator Erin Keogh-Rankin sits down with Mark Hill, President of Tandem Handyman Services, to discuss how proactive home maintenance can help older adults live safely at home for years to come. Together they explore: The most common home safety hazards for older adults Preventative maintenance that can help avoid expensive repairs How adult children can support aging parents—especially from a distance The benefits of regular home maintenance versus waiting for something to break Affordable ways to improve safety and maintain independence Whether you're an older adult hoping to age in place or an adult child helping a loved one remain safely at home, this episode is filled with practical advice you can put into action today. Learn more about Johnson McGinnis Elder Care Law & Estate Planning at tn-elderlaw.com.

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About

On this weekly podcast, members of the Johnson McGinnis Elder Care Law & Estate Planning team discuss the tools, techniques, strategies, and services that will help you respond with confidence to the legal, financial, and personal challenges created by long life, chronic illness, and disability.

Information

  • Creator
    Johnson McGinnis Elder Care Law & Estate Planning
  • Years Active
    2019 - 2026
  • Episodes
    428
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © All rights reserved
  • Show Website
    Aging Starts Now

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