Unlocking Senior Resources Presented By: Leave the Key

Leave The Key

Hosted by Larry Wagner, who brings over 30 years of experience as a certified senior advisor and Senior Transition specialist, this podcast is dedicated to seniors, their loved ones, and professionals working in the senior community. In each episode, Larry invites experts who are committed to enhancing the lives of seniors, providing listeners with valuable insights and resources to support senior transitions and well-being. Tune in to unlock the essential resources and information you need to navigate the challenges and opportunities of aging.

  1. 6D AGO

    How YHP Cares Helps Seniors Stay at Home, Not in Nursing Homes with Samantha Lawson

    In today’s episode, I sit down with Samantha Lawson, President of YHP Cares, a New York State service coordination agency. Samantha and her team help individuals who qualify for nursing-level care remain at home through Medicaid’s waiver program, ensuring they receive the support they need while staying connected to family and community. Throughout the conversation, Samantha shares her personal journey - from caring for her grandfather as a child to building a career in psychology, counseling, and ultimately founding YHP Cares. She opens up about the challenges of starting a business, the importance of empathy and boundaries in caregiving, and why her core message to every client is simple but powerful: you are not alone. 5 Key Takeaways - YHP Cares provides case management under New York State’s Medicaid waiver program, helping people who qualify for nursing-level care stay in their homes instead. - Samantha’s caregiving roots began young, inspired by caring for her grandfather with a severe illness, which later influenced her career path. - She transitioned from marketing to mental health, earning degrees in psychology and counseling before founding YHP Cares in 2022. - The business grew quickly, from just two clients in its first months to more than 20 within the year, thanks to strong community ties and advocacy. - Her philosophy combines empathy with boundaries, ensuring clients feel supported while staff remain protected and professional. Links & Resources Website: https://www.yhpcares.com/  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/samlawson0607/  Call Samantha: (631) 357-7223 Leave The Key Homebuyers: (631) 388-7771 Leave The Key website: leavethekey.com/seniors  Final Thoughts If this conversation with Samantha Lawson was as inspiring to you as it was to us, please take a moment to subscribe, review, and share this podcast. This episode with Samantha Lawson highlights how personal experiences can grow into powerful missions. Through YHP Cares, Samantha helps individuals with serious health challenges remain in their communities, supported by compassionate and professional care. Her story underscores resilience, community connection, and the reminder that in even the most difficult times - you are not alone.

    44 min

  2. AUG 14

    Helping Seniors Downsize with Dignity with Andrea Martone

    In this episode of Unlocking Senior Resources presented by Leave the Key, I sit down with Andrea Martone from Moves for Seniors to talk about something we all eventually face - moving. But this isn’t your typical relocation chat. Andrea brings heart, humor, and hands-on experience to the challenges seniors and their families encounter during transitions to assisted living, independent housing, or even cross-country moves. We dive into what truly makes senior moves unique, from downsizing emotional belongings to understanding facility protocols, and why having someone like Andrea can make all the difference in this critical experience. Her stories and strategies reveal how important it is to have support that’s compassionate, informed, and grounded in real-life logistics. 5 Key Takeaways Senior moves are emotionally complex. It’s not just about furniture, it’s about letting go, adjusting, and maintaining dignity through transition. Families don’t need to do it all. Children of aging parents often feel responsible for everything, but hiring trusted help can lighten the load significantly. Compassionate coordination makes a difference. From scheduling elevators to calming nerves, Andrea's role bridges logistics and emotional support. Technology supports personalized service. With AI-powered room scanning and in-person consultations, Moves for Seniors delivers accurate estimates and flexible solutions. Specialty items need specialty movers. Whether it’s a grandfather clock or golf cart, Andrea’s team has the resources and partnerships to handle delicate or oversized belongings with care. Links & Resources Website: https://www.movesforseniors.com  LinkedIn: Search Andrea Martone Email: AndreaM@MovesForSeniors.com  Call Andrea: (631) 379-9107  Leave The Key Homebuyers: (631) 388-7771  Leave The Key website: leavethekey.com/seniors  Final Thoughts If you or someone you love is facing a senior move - whether across town or across the country, Andrea and her team offer more than just boxes and trucks. They bring calm, compassion, and coordination to a process that often feels overwhelming. If this episode gave you peace of mind or even a good laugh, please follow, rate, and review the show. And don’t forget to share it with someone who could use a little less stress in their moving journey.

    37 min

  3. JUL 31

    The Rise of Life Plan Communities with Stuart B. Almer, FACHE

    In this episode of Unlocking Senior Resources, I sit down with Stuart Almer, president and CEO of Gurwin Healthcare System, to discuss the evolving landscape of senior care and how Gurwin has grown from a single nursing home into a comprehensive, mission-driven organization. Stuart shares the story of how Gurwin’s Life Plan Community, Fountaingate Gardens, came to life - and why it's reshaping the future for seniors on Long Island by offering not only care but community, independence, and security. We explore the concept of aging in place with dignity, how planning before a crisis changes everything, and why nonprofit senior care facilities can offer advantages not found in traditional models. From pickleball courts and pet-friendly living to seamless transitions between levels of care, this episode is filled with insight, inspiration, and practical takeaways for anyone considering what comes next in the aging journey. 5 Key Takeaways Start Planning Before a Crisis Stuart emphasizes that making decisions while healthy is the best way to ensure a smooth and stress-free transition into senior living. Not Just a Place to Live - A Community to Thrive In Fountaingate fosters meaningful social connection with clubs, activities, and shared interests, helping residents build relationships and purpose. A Seamless Continuum of Care With independent living, assisted living, rehab, and skilled nursing all on one campus, couples and individuals never have to leave the community they call home. Nonprofit with a Mission Gurwin stands out for its nonprofit model, which centers on care, dignity, and community impact - not profit margins. All-Inclusive Living, Tailored to You From on-site therapy to pickleball courts to a full-service bistro and pub, residents enjoy robust amenities and services that support both independence and wellbeing. Links & Resources Website: https://www.fountaingateli.org/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GurwinNursingRehab & https://www.facebook.com/FountaingateGardensLI Call Gurwin: (631) 715-2693 Leave The Key Homebuyers: (631) 388-7771  Leave The Key website: leavethekey.com/seniors Final Thoughts If this conversation with Stuart Almer opened your eyes to the power of planning ahead - and the beauty of a vibrant, connected community like Fountaingate - please take a moment to subscribe, review, and share this podcast. Gurwin’s model of compassionate, mission-based care is setting a powerful example for what senior living can be. Share this with someone who could benefit from knowing there’s a better way to age in place - surrounded by support, dignity, and joy.

    44 min

  4. JUL 17

    Eat Well, Think Well, Live Well: A Holistic Approach to Aging with Natalie Zolotareva

    In this episode of Unlocking Senior Resources, I sit down with Natalie Zolotareva, founder of Mind Your Wellness and a board-certified nurse coach, to explore the powerful intersection of mindfulness, health, and disease prevention. Drawing from over two decades in ICU nursing and a deep passion for holistic healing, Natalie shares how simple lifestyle changes—especially around nutrition and mindset—can lead to dramatic improvements in health outcomes, even for those with chronic illnesses like diabetes and heart disease. We talk about the impact of mindfulness on aging, the hidden dangers in our food system, and how beliefs and language can shape our health trajectory. Whether you’re a caregiver, a senior, or someone navigating your own wellness journey, this episode is packed with eye-opening insights and practical tips that could transform the way you live and age. Episode Highlights [0:00] Introduction [1:01] Natalie shares her journey from ICU nurse to board-certified health coach [2:38] The role and unique advantage of being a nurse coach with a medical background [3:45] Why mindfulness is at the core of lasting behavior change [6:16] How music can awaken memories and spark emotional breakthroughs in seniors [10:08] How Natalie supports women over 40 with weight loss through a holistic, flexible approach [11:56] The importance of whole foods and reading labels for long-term wellness [19:04] How having a purpose can directly improve physical and emotional health [23:16] Stories of disease reversal through small, sustainable lifestyle changes [31:20] Risks of microplastics in fish and reconsidering “healthy” animal products [35:54] Gut health, the microbiome, and their impact on mental health and focus [41:10] Stress isn’t always bad—how to reframe and use it for personal growth [44:45] What mindfulness truly means and how to practice it without extra time or tools 5 Key Takeaways Prevention beats treatment – Keeping people healthy before they end up in the ICU is more impactful than treating them at their sickest. Mindfulness is powerful medicine – Being present and intentional can reshape habits, improve brain health, and even slow aging. Nutrition is key to disease reversal – A Whole Foods, plant-forward diet can significantly improve or even reverse chronic conditions like diabetes and heart disease. Small steps lead to big results – Natalie emphasizes progress over perfection, showing how incremental changes can create lasting transformation. You don’t have to outsource your health – With the right knowledge and support, you can take control of your well-being and live with greater vitality and purpose. Links & Resources Resources on plant-based eating: Forks Over Knives, Dr. Dean Ornish, Dr. Caldwell Esselstyn Book mentioned: Erroneous Zones by Wayne Dyer Insight into the Blue Zones longevity research Enjoyed the Episode? If this episode helped unlock new insights for you or someone you care about, please take a moment to rate, follow, and review the podcast. It helps us reach more listeners and continue bringing on impactful guests like Natalie. And of course—share it with a friend who could use a wellness boost

    59 min

  5. JUL 3

    The Key to Aging Well & Inside Care Management with Dana Williams & Rebecca Lippel

    Welcome the Unlocking Senior Resources podcast! I’m Larry Wagner, and today I sit down with Rebecca and Dana from Livewell Care Management for an eye-opening conversation about individualized concierge care for seniors. We unpack how care managers can help families navigate the overwhelming complexities of aging, from crisis moments to proactive planning — and everything in between. Have you ever wondered when’s the right time to seek professional care management? Or what exactly a care manager does? This episode tackles those questions head-on. We talk candidly about the challenges of caregiving, the emotional roadblocks that come with aging, and why even a little bit of help can preserve so much independence. Whether you’re a senior yourself or supporting someone you love, this episode is packed with practical insights and compassionate advice. Timeline Summary: [0:51] – Meet Rebecca and Dana from Livewell Care Management and hear what brought them into senior care. [1:30] – Rebecca explains what a social gerontologist is — and why individualized, white-glove care makes a difference. [3:07] – Dana shares her journey as an occupational therapist moving from crisis care to proactive, holistic senior support. [4:12] – We explore why families often wait for a crisis before seeking help, and how planning ahead can prevent chaos. [5:40] – A frank discussion about caregiver burnout and the unique pressures faced by family caregivers, especially women in the “sandwich generation.” [8:15] – Rebecca breaks down what care management really involves — from coordinating doctors to home safety assessments — and why their team’s collaborative, interdisciplinary approach sets them apart. [14:10] – The importance of having a boots-on-the-ground ally when adult children live far from aging parents. [18:10] – Stories of resistance seniors show when facing change, and how objective professionals can mediate family dynamics while maintaining autonomy and dignity. [22:11] – Why spending money on care should be seen as an investment in quality of life — and overcoming the stigma around using resources meant for seniors’ own well-being. [26:09] – How even small concessions, like letting someone help set up medications, can help seniors retain independence longer. [41:42] – A powerful takeaway: there’s no wrong time to engage care management. Livewell’s team is ready to support seniors and families 24/7. 3 Key Takeaways: 1. Proactive Planning Prevents Crisis — Most families wait until something goes wrong to seek help. Starting early gives seniors and their loved ones more options and peace of mind. 2. Caregiver Burnout is Real — Providing care without support often leads to exhaustion, resentment, and mistakes. Even small amounts of professional assistance can dramatically reduce caregiver stress. 3. Maintaining Independence Requires Teamwork — Accepting a little help now — like medication management or home safety updates — can help seniors stay independent longer, while balancing safety and autonomy. Links & Resources Livewell Care Management: Reach out for a complimentary consultation or to learn more about their services. Email: Dana Williams at danawilliams@livewellcm.com Leave the Key Home Buyers: For seniors considering selling their home without the hassle, visit leavethekey.com or call (631) 388-7771. Thank you for tuning in to this episode of Unlocking Senior Resources. If you found our conversation helpful, please subscribe, rate, and share the podcast. Your support helps us reach more families navigating the challenges and opportunities of aging. Until next time, take care!

    45 min

  6. JUN 19

    Proactive Home Care Planning with Melanie Stephen

    In this insightful episode of Unlocking Senior Resources, I chat with Melanie Stephen from Allegiant Homecare—a seasoned professional with over a decade of experience in the senior care industry. Melanie shares the essentials of navigating the complex world of home care in New York, offering clarity on everything from choosing the right type of agency to understanding payment options like Medicaid, VA benefits, and long-term care insurance. We explore what makes Allegiant Homecare stand out: their caregiver training programs in dementia and PTSD care, their proactive approach to prevent hospitalizations, and their commitment to serving not just seniors, but also younger adults with traumatic brain injuries. Whether you’re a family member facing a care crisis or planning ahead for a loved one, Melanie’s practical tips and heartfelt passion shine throughout this episode. Episode Highlights: [0:00] – Introduction [1:01] – Melanie’s career journey from IVF to senior home care [2:54] – The relationship between Allegiant Homecare and AccordCare [4:53] – Breaking down certified, licensed, and companion care services [9:23] – What makes Allegiant different: training, flexibility, and heart [10:37] – How Allegiant prevents avoidable hospitalizations through early intervention [14:50] – The common but serious risk of UTIs in seniors and how they respond [18:05] – Melanie’s role: managing professional outreach and direct family intake [21:11] – Her involvement with Gerontology Professionals of NY and community support [24:20] – Providing care in assisted living and skilled nursing settings [26:11] – Why Allegiant doesn’t struggle with caregiver shortages [27:12] – Understanding live-in vs. 24-hour home care [30:21] – Allegiant’s specialized caregiver training beyond state certification [32:28] – What families should ask when choosing a provider [34:04] – Payment options: Medicaid, MLTCs, long-term care insurance, and more [38:03] – No long-term contracts, just transparent service agreements [40:50] – The importance of planning ahead for care [45:00] – Melanie’s closing advice for adult children and caregivers Key Takeaways: Know the Difference – Understanding whether an agency is licensed or certified (and what that means) is crucial when choosing care for a loved one. Ask the Right Questions – Always ask if the agency is licensed by the NY State Department of Health, what their minimum service hours are, and how they train caregivers. Payment Matters – Explore all funding options available—Medicaid, MLTCs, long-term care insurance, VA benefits—to avoid out-of-pocket surprises. Proactive Care Prevents Crisis – Allegiant’s symptom-based caregiver checklists help families catch issues like UTIs and falls before they become emergencies. Prepare Before You Need It – Create a care plan early, including preferred providers and key documents like POAs and HIPAA releases, to avoid making decisions in crisis mode. Links & Resources Mentioned: Allegiant Homecare: www.allegiant-homecare.com Contact Melanie Stephen: (516) 385-2836 or melanie.stephen@allegiant-homecare.com Gerontology Professionals of NY (GPNY): www.gpny.org Leave the Key Homebuyers: www.leavethekey.com If you found this episode valuable, please follow, rate, and review Unlocking Senior Resources. And don’t forget to share it with someone navigating the senior care journey—they’ll thank you!

    49 min

  7. JUN 5

    How a Geriatric Care Manager Helps Seniors Thrive at Home and in Facilities with Amy O’Connor

    In this episode of Unlocking Senior Resources, I chat with Amy O’Connor, a licensed social worker and seasoned geriatric care manager from Long Island. Amy brings decades of wisdom, wit, and practical know-how to the table. Whether she’s helping families navigate a sudden hospitalization, guiding someone through the Medicaid maze, or learning to troubleshoot a senior’s printer or car—Amy’s role is as dynamic as the needs of the people she serves. We dive deep into the real, raw challenges of aging care—from long-term care insurance surprises and Medicare miscommunications to the emotional tug-of-war between seniors and their adult children. Amy’s stories will have you laughing, nodding in recognition, and most of all, better equipped to support the seniors in your life. Timeline Summary: [0:00] – Introduction [1:06] – How personal family experience inspired Amy’s career in care management [3:07] – The flexible, “meet-them-where-they-are” model of geriatric care [5:04] – Advocating for seniors post-discharge when the system drops the ball [9:06] – Why Amy always puts the client’s voice above the family’s expectations [10:02] – Diabetic dilemmas and the limits of control in family caregiving [12:53] – Providing companionship, advocacy, and even printer support [14:10] – Helping clients master technology, from printers to modern vehicles [18:14] – Expanding her scope: working with clients in their 50s with disabilities [23:05] – Understanding what you can and shouldn’t expect from Medicare [29:26] – What an in-home assessment really looks like and why it matters [32:52] – Dementia and denial: how awareness fades before capabilities [35:24] – Long-term care insurance frustrations and the battle to appeal [40:02] – Why “35 hours of Medicare home care” is mostly a myth [44:09] – Medicaid strategies, timelines, and the value of knowing the system [48:04] – Penalties for late Medicare enrollment—and other surprise rules [49:29] – The most important lesson: don’t go through this process alone 5 Key Takeaways: You don’t have to—and shouldn’t—do this alone. Navigating senior care is too complex to tackle without experienced support. The client comes first. Amy prioritizes the senior’s wishes and well-being, even when families push for control. Medicare and Medicaid are not intuitive. Many benefits are misunderstood or misrepresented, and the appeals process requires advocacy. It’s not just for seniors. Amy works with younger clients too, including those with disabilities or mental health needs. The “little things” matter. From helping someone learn to use a car to fixing a printer, care management goes far beyond medical needs. Links & Resources: Aging Life Care Association – Where you can find credentialed care managers like Amy Leave the Key Homebuyers – Simplifying home sales for seniors in transition If this episode gave you clarity or even just a laugh, please follow, rate, and review the show. And share it with someone who needs to hear it—because senior care is a journey no one should walk alone.

    53 min

  8. MAY 22

    Why Choosing the Right Assisted Living Facility Is Harder Than You Think with Adam Flattau

    In this heartwarming and eye-opening episode, I’m joined by Adam Flattau of Senior Care Authority, a trusted guide for families navigating senior living options. Adam shares his deeply personal story of transitioning from a high-powered corporate career to dedicating his life to helping seniors and their families find the right care environment. We discuss the emotional and logistical complexities of senior placement, how Adam’s hands-on, compassionate approach makes a difference, and why it’s so important to work with someone who knows the local landscape of senior living communities. We also talk about his extensive work with organizations like the Alzheimer’s Association and GHNY, which further showcase his passion for service and advocacy in the senior care space. Whether you’re currently helping a loved one transition or just want to be prepared for the future, this episode is filled with invaluable insights, practical tips, and inspiring moments that will leave you better equipped—and feeling a little more hopeful. Timeline Summary [0:00] - Introduction [0:55] - Adam recounts the caregiving journey that changed the course of his career. [4:38] - Managing a massive territory across Nassau and Suffolk Counties—how Adam stays available 24/7. [6:15] - Why Adam has no regrets—except not starting this work earlier. [7:25] - Inside GHNY: Building a collaborative community of senior care professionals. [9:15] - “The Organized Guy” and other resource partners—how Adam connects the dots for families. [10:03] - How Senior Care Authority’s placement services work (and why families don’t pay for them). [12:46] - Choosing the “right” facility: Why it’s about fit, not favorites. [14:09] - Hidden gems: Smaller, lesser-known residential options on Long Island. [18:26] - Adam’s leadership in the Alzheimer’s Association and his rise to Chair of the Board. [22:03] - The role of respite care and why caregiver burnout is real and dangerous. [24:12] - Awards and recognition: How Adam’s impact goes beyond his business. [27:20] - What truly sets Adam apart: Deep personal involvement with every single client. [30:09] - Why geography matters—but personality match matters more. [36:14] - Why having an advocate on the tour makes all the difference. [39:09] - The placement timeline: How long it takes and what to expect. [43:05] - Assisted living vs. nursing homes: Why understanding the difference is critical. [44:59] - The emotional weight of downsizing and how Adam connects families to expert help. [48:35] - The biggest takeaway: Why going it alone often leads to avoidable mistakes. 5 Key Takeaways You Don’t Have to Navigate It Alone Adam’s services are free to families and offer guidance, support, and access to options most people don’t know exist. Placement Is Personal Finding the right senior community is about more than cost and care levels—it’s about personality, preferences, and lifestyle fit. Time and Stress Saved Are Invaluable Working with an expert like Adam saves families countless hours, reduces overwhelm, and prevents costly missteps. Being an Advocate Is Key From attending facility tours to helping with negotiations and medical paperwork, Adam acts as a true partner in the process. Community Involvement Builds Trust Adam’s deep work with the Alzheimer’s Association, GHNY, and other local groups shows his long-term commitment to the senior community beyond business. Links & Resources ⁠https://www.seniorcareauthority.com/locations/long-island-ny/⁠ Email: Adam@seniorcareauthority.com Call or text Adam: (516) 695-5159 Final Thoughts If you’re helping a loved one transition into a new living environment—or simply want to understand your options better—this episode is for you.

    52 min
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About

Hosted by Larry Wagner, who brings over 30 years of experience as a certified senior advisor and Senior Transition specialist, this podcast is dedicated to seniors, their loved ones, and professionals working in the senior community. In each episode, Larry invites experts who are committed to enhancing the lives of seniors, providing listeners with valuable insights and resources to support senior transitions and well-being. Tune in to unlock the essential resources and information you need to navigate the challenges and opportunities of aging.

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