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. 6 NGÀY TRƯỚC

    A Concierge Approach to Senior Care with Michelle Smith

    In today’s episode, I sit down with Michelle Smith, of Touching Hearts at Home on Long Island. Michelle describes her company as offering a “concierge approach to home care,” providing flexible, personalized services that help seniors remain connected to their communities while staying safe and supported at home. Throughout our conversation, Michelle shares her personal journey into caregiving, her experiences growing a franchise, and the importance of building a team of compassionate caregivers. She explains how Touching Hearts at Home goes beyond traditional care by emphasizing independence, companionship, and meaningful quality of life for seniors. 5 Key Takeaways Personal Experience Matters: Michelle’s path into caregiving was shaped by her own family’s experience with Alzheimer’s and multigenerational caregiving. Caregiving Is Undervalued Work: Michelle stresses how emotionally and physically taxing caregiving is, yet how deeply rewarding it can be. Unique Concierge Model: Touching Hearts at Home provides flexible care—no minimum hours, one-hour shifts if needed, and a focus on transportation to keep seniors active. Caregiver-Centered Culture: Michelle emphasizes supporting, appreciating, and promoting caregivers to ensure high-quality care and strong client relationships. The Power of Small Gestures: From bringing jelly donuts to holding a client’s hand, the little things often create the most meaningful connections. Links & Resources Website: https://touchinghearts.com/longisland/  Call Touching Hearts, Long Island: 516-737-1618 Leave The Key Homebuyers: (631) 388-7771 Leave The Key website: leavethekey.com/seniors  Final Thoughts If this conversation with Michelle was as inspiring to you as it was to us, please take a moment to subscribe, review, and share this podcast. Michelle’s dedication to compassionate, flexible, and family-centered care shows how powerful it can be when caregivers are treated as the backbone of an organization. Her approach not only preserves independence for seniors but also creates peace of mind for families. I’m grateful for the opportunity to learn from her experiences, and I look forward to continuing these important conversations about senior care.

    50 phút

  2. 18 THG 9

    Retirement Planning: From Social Security to Senior Scams with Peter Janowsky

    In today’s episode, I sit down with Peter Janowsky, a financial advisor and accredited investment fiduciary who runs his own independent practice. With nearly three decades of experience, Peter has helped countless families navigate the complexities of retirement, estate planning, and financial security - always with a focus on independence and client-centered care. Throughout our conversation, Peter shares both his professional expertise and personal experiences that shaped his career. From protecting seniors against scams and financial exploitation, to tackling retirement challenges like Social Security timing, long-term care, and generational wealth transfer, Peter offers practical advice while reminding us that financial planning is as much emotional as it is technical. 5 Key Takeaways Independence Matters: Peter explains how being independent allows him to focus fully on clients without quotas, proprietary products, or firm-imposed restrictions. Protecting Seniors: Through Project SAFE, Peter has spent years helping seniors avoid scams, sharing sobering real-world examples of financial exploitation. Planning Is Emotional: Financial planning isn’t just about returns—it’s about preparing for transitions, family dynamics, and personal well-being. Retirement Realities: From Social Security timing to long-term care costs, Peter emphasizes that there is no one-size-fits-all answer—every case is unique. The $100 Trillion Transfer: Over the next two decades, an unprecedented amount of wealth will pass between generations, bringing both opportunity and new challenges. Links & Resources Website: www.rjfsg.com  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/peter-janowsky-93968a12a/  Call Peter: (516) 719-6396 Leave The Key Homebuyers: (631) 388-7771 Leave The Key website: leavethekey.com/seniors  Final Thoughts If this conversation with Peter was as inspiring to you as it was to us, please take a moment to subscribe, review, and share this podcast. Peter’s perspective as both a financial advisor and someone who has personally navigated caregiving challenges reminds us that money is about more than numbers - it’s about people, preparation, and peace of mind. His insights on scams, retirement planning, and mindful financial strategies are invaluable for seniors and families alike. I’m grateful for the chance to share his expertise with you, and I hope it encourages you to think more deeply about your own financial journey and legacy.

    1 giờ 7 phút

  3. 11 THG 9

    How One Agency Helps People Graduate From Care Programs with Olivier Laurent of Home Care 7twenty6

    In today’s episode, I sit down with Olivier Laurent, founder of Home Care 7twenty6, an agency dedicated to helping people transition out of nursing homes and back into the community. His work focuses on empowering individuals to regain independence by teaching practical skills - everything from budgeting and managing mail to cooking, cleaning, and even learning how to safely cross the street again. Olivier shares how he built his business, the role of faith and family in his journey, and the unique services his agency provides. We dive into the challenges of balancing Medicaid waivers, the realities of home care, and the life-changing impact of giving people the chance to live more independently outside institutional walls. 5 Key Takeaways Home Care 7twenty6 helps individuals transition out of nursing homes by teaching independent living skills and providing support services. Medicaid waivers were designed to save money by reducing the high costs of nursing home care, while still supporting individuals in their communities. Many clients form deep attachments to the program, sometimes resisting graduation because of the comfort and routine it provides. Affordable housing remains a major obstacle, often limiting how many people can leave institutional care. Olivier views the work as a calling, emphasizing both the impact on clients’ lives and the responsibility of leading a staff of 17 people. Links & Resources Website: https://www.7twenty6.com/   Email: management@7twenty6.com  Call 726: (631) 460-5790 Leave The Key Homebuyers: (631) 388-7771 Leave The Key website: leavethekey.com/seniors  Final Thoughts If this conversation with Olivier was as inspiring to you as it was to us, please take a moment to subscribe, review, and share this podcast. Olivier’s dedication to helping people regain independence reminds us that compassionate care and practical support can truly change lives. By guiding clients out of nursing homes and back into the community, he and his team at Home Care 7twenty6 are not only saving the system money, but more importantly, restoring dignity and hope.

    48 phút

  4. 4 THG 9

    Rehab, Nursing, and Compassion: Smithtown’s Approach to Senior Care with Peg Callaghan

    In today’s episode, I sit down with Peg Callaghan, Admissions Liaison at Smithtown Center for Rehabilitation and Nursing Care. Peg works closely with hospitals, families, and social workers to guide seniors through the transition into rehabilitation or long-term care, ensuring they feel supported and welcomed from the very first conversation. Peg shares her path into senior care, inspired by her grandmother and a desire to do meaningful work. She highlights what families should know when exploring care options, the importance of reviews and cleanliness, the role of socialization and activities in a senior’s wellbeing, and why open communication with staff is essential for trust and peace of mind. 5 Key Takeaways Admissions Role – Peg serves as the first point of contact, meeting families in hospitals and guiding them through the decision-making process for rehabilitation or long-term care.Short-Term vs. Long-Term – Smithtown Center offers both, with rehabilitation aimed at recovery and return home, while long-term residents receive ongoing support and activities.Community & Activities – Residents enjoy pet therapy, live music, glamor days, outdoor patios, and a wide range of recreational and therapy services.Quality & Cleanliness – The facility prides itself on strong nursing staff, quick call-bell response, cleanliness, dietary considerations, and active family communication.Compassionate Approach – Whether it’s through rehab, social engagement, or end-of-life comfort care, the focus is on individualized attention, respect, and dignity. Links & Resources Website: https://smithtowncenter.com/   LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/magcal/  Call Smithtown: (631) 361-2020  Call or Text Peg: (631) 347-5363  Leave The Key Homebuyers: (631) 388-7771 Leave The Key website: leavethekey.com/seniors  Final Thoughts If this conversation with Peg Callaghan was as inspiring to you as it was to us, please take a moment to subscribe, review, and share this podcast. This episode highlights the vital role admissions liaisons like Peg play in bridging families with senior care resources. Peg shares her personal journey into the industry, the compassionate mission of Smithtown Center, and practical insights into rehabilitation, long-term care, and family involvement. We’re deeply grateful for her taking the time to join us!

    45 phút

  5. 28 THG 8

    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 phút

  6. 14 THG 8

    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 phút

  7. 31 THG 7

    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 phút

  8. 17 THG 7

    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 phút
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Giới Thiệu

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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