Aging Together // Unfiltered

Pooja A. Patel, DrOT, OTR/L, BCG, CDP

TL;DR: A podcast for adult children of aging parents and family caregivers who want honest, no-fluff conversations about aging, care, and caregiving. We talk about what’s working, what’s broken, and what needs to change—without sugarcoating or euphemisms. Aging Together // Unfiltered explores the real challenges and hard decisions families face as they support aging loved ones. Hosted by Dr. Pooja A. Patel—a double-board certified occupational therapist and gerontologist, and longtime caregiver advocate—this show moves beyond “proper” conversations and into the realities families are navigating every day. After four seasons of carefully curated, polished discussions, this podcast is now intentionally unfiltered. Not for shock value, but because polite language hasn’t fixed broken systems—or made caregiving easier. Our elders and their families don’t need softer words. They need better care, clearer information, and honest conversations that lead to action. Each episode features clinicians, caregivers, innovators, and leaders who bring both professional expertise and lived experience. Together, we dive into aging in America—what’s working, what’s failing, and where families are being left to figure things out on their own. Topics include: Aging in place and long-term care optionsCare planning, transitions, and crisis momentsMental health, grief, and caregiver burnoutNavigating healthcare systems and resourcesAdvocacy, accountability, and better models of care This podcast is for the sandwich generation, long-distance caregivers, aging adults planning ahead, and professionals working in aging and care who want the truth—not platitudes. 👉 Follow Aging Together // Unfiltered if you’re navigating aging parents, caregiving decisions, or a healthcare system that wasn’t built with families in mind—and you’re ready for real conversations, not polite ones. 🎙️ Available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Music, and YouTube.  A production of Aging Together LLC.

  1. 1d ago

    Hearing Loss & Dementia: A Silent Link & A Whole Lot of Money

    Send us Fan Mail When was the last time you got your hearing checked? If you think hearing loss is just a minor inconvenience, think again. Dr. Pooja A. Patel and Dr. Robert Keefer dive deep into the startling connection between untreated hearing loss and its significant role in accelerating Alzheimer's disease and cognitive decline. This episode is a must-listen for anyone concerned about aging, brain health, and the hidden costs of neglecting hearing health.      Dr. Keefer, an Alzheimer's prevention advocate and former audiology clinic founder, reveals how untreated hearing loss can elevate the risk of dementia by up to 500%. He also discusses why hearing health is often overlooked in medical practice, despite being a modifiable risk factor for cognitive decline. Together with Pooja, they explore the pressing need for annual hearing screenings, much like vision tests, and the barriers that keep many from seeking necessary care.      You'll discover:   - The shocking statistics linking hearing loss to Alzheimer’s—why ignoring it could cost you your mental health.   - The essential steps families should take to safeguard their loved ones’ hearing and cognitive health.   - Why Medicare's policies on hearing aids are outdated and what needs to change for better accessibility.   - Best practices in hearing care and how they can dramatically improve quality of life, independence, and memory preservation.      Understanding the profound impact of hearing loss is crucial not just for individuals but for society at large. Failing to address hearing issues can lead to increased healthcare costs and diminished quality of life, making this conversation vital for everyone, especially as our population ages.      Tune in to hear Dr. Keefer's expert insights and be inspired to advocate for your hearing health and that of your loved ones. Perfect for caregivers, health professionals, and anyone interested in the intersection of sensory health and cognitive vitality. Support the show

  2. Sep 5

    Nobody's Selling Peace of Mind: Why Care Tech Skips Family Caregivers

    Send us Fan Mail In a world where health tech is evolving rapidly, the most overlooked players in the caregiving landscape are the caregivers themselves. Join Pooja A. Patel and seasoned elder care expert Meghan Phelan as they unveil the crucial gaps in care technology that leave family caregivers vulnerable and overwhelmed. If you’re a caregiver feeling the weight of responsibility, this episode is your lifeline.      Pooja and Meghan dive deep into the struggles caregivers face in today’s tech-driven environment. They highlight a startling truth: while innovation in health tech has surged, the tools designed to support caregivers lag far behind. You’ll discover why caregivers are often the unsung heroes in the aging equation and how the current tech landscape fails to address their unique needs.      You'll learn about the financial pitfalls of delaying care and the importance of preventative measures to avoid crisis situations. Pooja and Meghan discuss the emotional and psychological barriers that prevent families from adopting essential technologies that could ease their burdens. You’ll hear surprising insights on how familial ties and traditional caregiving methods often clash with modern solutions.     Why does it matter? The stakes are high: failing to prioritize caregiver support can lead to burnout and deteriorating care quality. The conversation sheds light on the urgent need for tech that empowers caregivers, offering peace of mind and reducing stress in their daily lives.      If you’re part of the sandwich generation or simply want to ensure your loved ones receive the best care possible, this episode is essential listening. Join us to explore how we can bridge the gap in care tech and transform the caregiver experience for the better. Content Type: Interview Primary Goal: Educational Summary: In this episode, Megan Phelan shares her insights on the evolving landscape of care technology, the importance of supporting caregivers, and how to effectively integrate tech solutions to improve aging at home. Key Topics: The evolution of care technology from paper to AIThe critical role of caregivers in the care systemBarriers to technology adoption among older adultsThe importance of trust and simplicity in care techRemote monitoring and proactive health managementThe financial and emotional benefits of preventative careBuilding a culturally competent caregiver networkThe need for a unified care management platformConnect with Meghan:  IG/FB: @meghan_phelan_official IG/FB: @grannynannies_southfloridaSupport the show

  3. Aug 29

    I'm Just Helping: What the Caregiver Identity Crisis Costs Families

    Send us Fan Mail Content Type: Interview Primary goal: Educational Summary: In this episode, we explore the complex world of caregiving, focusing on self-identification, societal perceptions, and systemic support. Our guest, Kunal Parikh, shares insights from his extensive work in digital health and aging, emphasizing the importance of recognizing caregiving roles early and advocating for societal change. Key Topics:  Caregiver self-identification and societal perceptionsImpact of cultural and gender expectations on caregiving rolesSystemic barriers to caregiver support and resourcesThe importance of language and terminology in caregivingThe role of technology and policy in supporting caregiversThe emotional and psychological challenges of caregivingCommunity and societal attitudes towards elder care and nursing homesStrategies for early detection and intervention in caregiving roles About the Guest: Kunal Parikh is a physician-turned-digital health strategist with years of research working with family caregivers. He joins us to share his learnings about why caregivers have such a difficult time with self-identification.  Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to caregiving and societal perceptions07:02 Why caregivers often don't recognize themselves17:12 The impact of language and terminology in caregiving26:57 Cultural influences on caregiving roles and responsibilities37:02 The importance of societal and policy change46:51 Using technology to support caregivers effectively55:02 Closing thoughts and call to actionSupport the show

  4. Aug 22

    Lost in Translation: Why the U.S. Caregiving System Fails South Asian Families

    Send us Fan Mail Content Type: Interview Primary Goal: Discussion Summary: This episode explores the elder care navigation gap faced by immigrant families in the US, highlighting cultural, systemic, and language barriers. Salina Shah shares insights on building culturally grounded support networks to improve elder care outcomes. Key Topics: Elder care navigation gap for immigrant familiesCultural and systemic barriers in US healthcareRole of community and peer networks in elder careLanguage and trust issues in healthcare accessCulturally tailored elder care services and solutionsChapters: 00:00 The Role of Immigrants in American Elder Care 02:52 Cultural Gaps in Elder Care Navigation 06:09 Building Community Support for Immigrant Families 08:51 Understanding the Stigma of Seeking Help 11:55 Lost in Translation: Expectations vs. Reality 15:05 Barriers in the American Caregiving System 26:32 The Importance of Power of Attorney and Family Communication 28:27 Cultural Considerations in Hospital Food and Nutrition 30:38 Community Solutions for Cultural Representation in Care 32:10 The Role of Cultural Communities in Aging 36:25 Navigating Generational Differences in Care Decisions 39:34 The Sandwich Generation: Balancing Care Responsibilities 43:48 Reframing Care as a Privilege 48:07 Building Community Support for Caregivers Learn More: Salina Shah Desi Daughters YT: @desidaughterscommunityIG: @desidaughtersLI: @desidaughters FB: @desidaughtersSupport the show

  5. Aug 1

    The ER Wasn't Built for Seniors: What is Hospital-Level Care at Home?

    Send us Fan Mail summary This episode explores the future of hospital-level care at home, addressing why it hasn't become mainstream yet, and how it can reduce costs, improve patient outcomes, and ease caregiver burdens. Lon Hecht, CEO of Care2U, shares insights on innovative in-home acute care models, insurance coverage, and the impact on healthcare systems. key topics Barriers to hospital at home adoptionCare2U's model of in-home acute careInsurance coverage for hospital at homeImpact on caregivers and familiesCost savings and healthcare system benefits resources Care2UMedicare Hospital at Home Program Value-Based Care Models (CMS Primary Care First) LEED ACO Model Mobile Urgent Care about our guest Lon Hecht, CEO of Care2U, is a healthcare leader with 25+ years in the industry who brings ER-level, hospital-grade acute care directly into patients’ homes. With more than 25 years in healthcare, Lon is a passionate advocate for reimagining how, and where, people receive care. As CEO of Care2U, he leads a mission-driven organization bringing emergency room-level and hospital-grade acute care directly into patients' homes, so families never have to choose between quality care and the comfort and dignity of home. Lon has spent his career at the intersection of patients, providers, and payers, with a deep belief that the best care meets people where they are. His work in Value-Based Care focuses on building models that put the patient experience first, a philosophy that resonates with the millions of family members caring for aging loved ones every day. Before founding Care2U, Lon served as SVP of Growth at Optum Home & Community Care, where he led the strategy and expansion of the full population management solution, giving him a ground-level understanding of the challenges seniors and caregivers face when navigating complex health needs at home. Lon is deeply committed to helping seniors live fuller, more connected lives and to supporting the caregivers who make that possible. He understands that caring for an aging loved one is one of the most meaningful and demanding roles a person can take on. Support the show

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About

TL;DR: A podcast for adult children of aging parents and family caregivers who want honest, no-fluff conversations about aging, care, and caregiving. We talk about what’s working, what’s broken, and what needs to change—without sugarcoating or euphemisms. Aging Together // Unfiltered explores the real challenges and hard decisions families face as they support aging loved ones. Hosted by Dr. Pooja A. Patel—a double-board certified occupational therapist and gerontologist, and longtime caregiver advocate—this show moves beyond “proper” conversations and into the realities families are navigating every day. After four seasons of carefully curated, polished discussions, this podcast is now intentionally unfiltered. Not for shock value, but because polite language hasn’t fixed broken systems—or made caregiving easier. Our elders and their families don’t need softer words. They need better care, clearer information, and honest conversations that lead to action. Each episode features clinicians, caregivers, innovators, and leaders who bring both professional expertise and lived experience. Together, we dive into aging in America—what’s working, what’s failing, and where families are being left to figure things out on their own. Topics include: Aging in place and long-term care optionsCare planning, transitions, and crisis momentsMental health, grief, and caregiver burnoutNavigating healthcare systems and resourcesAdvocacy, accountability, and better models of care This podcast is for the sandwich generation, long-distance caregivers, aging adults planning ahead, and professionals working in aging and care who want the truth—not platitudes. 👉 Follow Aging Together // Unfiltered if you’re navigating aging parents, caregiving decisions, or a healthcare system that wasn’t built with families in mind—and you’re ready for real conversations, not polite ones. 🎙️ Available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Music, and YouTube.  A production of Aging Together LLC.