Elevate Eldercare
Let’s Elevate Eldercare Together! Every great eldercare community has a unique story, and there are many paths toward providing high-quality, person-directed services and supports for older adults. That’s why we launched Elevate Eldercare—to bring together thought leaders, activists, and advocates in the field of aging services and give them a space where thoughtful discourse and diverse perspectives flow freely. Join Susan Ryan, CEO of AgingIN (formerly Center for Innovation), every Wednesday for enlightening, provocative, and sometimes uncomfortable conversations. Together, the hosts and guests explore opportunities and challenges in person-directed living and empowered cultures in the community of one's choice.
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Research That Actually Makes a Difference, with Liza Behrens, et. al.
08/05/2026
Research That Actually Makes a Difference, with Liza Behrens, et. al.
What happens when nursing home residents, direct care workers, administrators, clinicians, and researchers all have an equal seat at the table? In this episode of Elevate Eldercare, host Susan Ryan welcomes Liza Behrens, assistant professor at Penn State University, along with members of the Empowering U.S. Nursing Homes Community Advisory Board explore how person-centered research can transform the future of long-term care. Funded by the Patient-Centered Outcomes Research Institute (PCORI), the project is working to increase the capacity of nursing homes to participate in meaningful clinical research shaped by the people who live and work in these communities every day. Joining the conversation are resident Lorraine Bingman, certified nursing assistant Troy Alexander, nursing home administrator Allison Myers, and geriatrician Nicole Osevala, MD. Together, they share how diverse perspectives are strengthening research, breaking down barriers created by technical language, and ensuring that innovation reflects the real experiences of residents and caregivers. More about the Empowering U.S. Nursing Homes project here: https://www.nursing.psu.edu/empoweringus/ More about AgingIN’s upcoming purpose-driven conference here: https://aginginnovationconference.org/
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Redefining Long-Term Care for Complex Populations, with David Skoczulek
07/29/2026
Redefining Long-Term Care for Complex Populations, with David Skoczulek
In this episode of Elevate Eldercare, AgingIN CEO Susan Ryan welcomes David Skoczulek, vice president of business development and communications at iCare Health Network, for a conversation about providing compassionate care to some of the most underserved populations in long-term care. Drawing on his background as a paramedic, David shares how empathy, communication, and human connection have shaped his approach to serving older adults with complex medical, behavioral health, and social needs. David discusses iCare’s innovative care model, including its nationally recognized MissionCare Health, which provides long-term care for justice-involved and difficult-to-place individuals. The conversation explores the importance of person-centered care, leadership, workforce development, and reducing the stigma surrounding these populations. This is a powerful conversation about dignity, second chances, and courage to lean in and think differently. More about iCare and MissionCare here: More about AgingIN’s upcoming purpose-driven conference here:
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A Bit About World Brain Day and Screening for Brain Health, with Kelly Tremblay, PhD
07/24/2026
A Bit About World Brain Day and Screening for Brain Health, with Kelly Tremblay, PhD
In recognition of World Brain Day, Dr. Kelly Tremblay explores why brain health requires a whole-person approach. She explains how hearing, vision, nutrition, mobility, and social connection all play critical roles in cognitive health, and why addressing these factors early can reduce the risk of dementia, falls, and other age-related challenges. Kelly also introduces the World Health Organization's free Integrated Care of Older People (ICOPE) screening tools, which empower individuals and communities to monitor brain and overall health through easy-to-use, multilingual assessments. Tune in to learn how proactive screening and integrated care can help extend not just lifespan, but healthspan, while supporting independence and quality of life. To learn more, join us at our AgingIN conference and discover what the World Health Organization and your peer communities are doing to make aging better: More about ICOPE here:
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Bridging the Caregiving Divide, with Robert Espinoza
07/22/2026
Bridging the Caregiving Divide, with Robert Espinoza
What will it take to build a long-term care system that truly works for everyone? In this episode, AgingIN CEO Susan Ryan welcomes Robert Espinoza, founder of the CareWorks Project, for a thought-provoking conversation about reimagining care through innovation, equity, and collaboration. Robert shares the personal experiences that shaped his career and introduces the concept of the “caregiving divide,” the growing gap between the care people need and the care they actually receive. Together, Susan and Robert explore the urgent need for person-centered and worker-centered solutions, including a universal direct care workforce framework, the promise of artificial intelligence in home care, and the role of public-private partnerships in transforming the future of aging. This episode offers a deeper understanding of the systemic challenges facing long-term care and the bold ideas and collaborative approaches that can help create a more compassionate, sustainable future for older adults, caregivers, and the workforce that supports them. More information about the CareWorks Project here: https://www.careworksproject.co/ More information about AgingIN’s upcoming conference here: https://aginginnovationconference.org
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How Aging Forward Is Redefining Aging Through Community, with Sarah Cheney
07/15/2026
How Aging Forward Is Redefining Aging Through Community, with Sarah Cheney
What does it take to build communities where older adults can continue learning, connecting, and thriving? In this week’s episode, AgingIN CEO Susan Ryan sits down with Sarah Cheney, Executive Director of Aging Forward, to explore how the organization is empowering older adults through lifelong learning, volunteer services, and neighbor-to-neighbor support. Sarah shares the personal experiences that shaped her passion for aging services and explains how Aging Forward—formerly Shepherd Centers—has spent the past 50 years helping older adults remain engaged, independent, and connected in their communities. Together, Susan and Sarah discuss the power of purpose, the importance of social connection, and why community-based collaboration is essential to changing the narrative around aging. More information about Aging Forward here: Learn about AgingIN’s upcoming national conference here:
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Why Philanthropy Matters to the Future of Aging, with Peter Kaldes
07/08/2026
Why Philanthropy Matters to the Future of Aging, with Peter Kaldes
AgingIN CEO Susan Ryan sits down with Peter Kaldes, president and CEO of the Next50 Foundation, to explore how philanthropy can help transform the future of aging. Peter shares his unconventional journey from attorney and public policy leader to one of the nation's leading advocates for older adults. He discusses Next50's mission to end ageism while investing in innovative solutions that help people age well. Their conversation examines the critical role philanthropy plays in advancing aging services, the need for greater investment in digital inclusion, housing, and community-based supports, and why only a small fraction of charitable giving currently benefits older adults. Peter also reflects on his personal caregiving experiences, the importance of reimagining systems that support aging, and the launch of his podcast, “The Future Is Old,” which challenges outdated stereotypes and celebrates the opportunities of an aging society. More details about the Next50 Foundation here:
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The Next Generation of Eldercare, with Francis LeGasse Jr.
07/01/2026
The Next Generation of Eldercare, with Francis LeGasse Jr.
In this episode of Elevate Eldercare, AgingIN CEO Susan Ryan welcomes Francis LeGasse Jr, co-founder and managing partner of Assured Senior Living, a growing network of small homes in Colorado, to discuss how intimate, relationship-centered living environments are transforming eldercare. Francis shares his personal journey into aging services, inspired by his family's experiences with dementia and caregiving, and explains why he transitioned from home care to the small house model. He describes how thoughtfully designed homes, each serving just nine residents, create opportunities for meaningful relationships, greater independence, and improved quality of life. The conversation also explores caring for people living with dementia and brain injuries, the surprising benefits of shared living spaces, workforce retention, and the challenges of financing high-quality care. More about Assured Senior Living here:
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A Bit About Depression, with Kelly Tremblay, PhD
06/26/2026
A Bit About Depression, with Kelly Tremblay, PhD
Feeling sad after a loss, health change, or major life transition is a normal part of life. But depression is not a normal part of aging. In this episode of Brain Bytes, Kelly Tremblay, PhD, explores how to distinguish between temporary low mood and clinical depression, highlighting common symptoms such as persistent sadness, loss of interest in activities, changes in sleep or appetite, and social withdrawal. Dr. Kelly also discusses the important role of social connection in protecting emotional well-being and reviews evidence-based approaches that can help, including cognitive behavioral strategies, community engagement, and emerging research on wisdom-enhanced narrative therapy. Tune in to learn why recognizing the signs of depression early can make a meaningful difference in supporting mental health, brain health, and overall quality of life as we age. To learn more, join us at our AgingIN conference and discover what the World Health Organization and your peer communities are doing to make aging better. Here is a link to the study cited in the episode:
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Reimagining Assisted Living Through the Small House Model, with George Kutnerian
06/24/2026
Reimagining Assisted Living Through the Small House Model, with George Kutnerian
In this episode, AgingIN CEO Susan Ryan sits down with George Kutnerian, second-generation operator and co-founder of WellPointe, a California-based organization operating 67 licensed small house assisted living locations. George shares the remarkable story of how his parents pioneered the residential assisted living model in Fresno, Calif., in 1984 and how their vision has evolved into a scalable, person-centered approach to housing and care. Susan and George explore the operational realities behind the model, including adaptive reuse of single-family homes, co-located operations for efficiency, workforce strategies, and the importance of maintaining meaningful resident-staff relationships. Throughout the episode, George challenges listeners to rethink assumptions about aging, housing, and care—and to focus on the fundamental question of what "home" truly means. He offers a compelling vision for the future of eldercare: one where home, community, dignity, and choice are at the center of every decision. The small house model will be featured at the AgingINnovation 2026 annual conference this August. Learn more about it here:
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Healthspan, Purpose, and the AgingIN 2026 Conference, with Kelly Tremblay, PhD
06/17/2026
Healthspan, Purpose, and the AgingIN 2026 Conference, with Kelly Tremblay, PhD
In today’s episode, AgingIN CEO Susan Ryan welcomes neuroscientist, audiologist, and educator Kelly Tremblay, PhD, for a conversation about healthy aging, brain health, and the science behind longevity. Susan and Dr. Kelly also preview the upcoming AgingIN Conference 2026 and its highly anticipated Longevity Summit, where participants will explore the importance of knowing the difference between lifespan and healthspan. Dr. Kelly explains how the World Health Organization Integrated Care for Older People (ICOPE) framework offers a practical roadmap for supporting older adults through a holistic focus on mobility, cognition, communication, mental well-being, and meaningful participation in daily life. The conversation also highlights emerging technologies, community-based solutions, leadership lessons, and the importance of breaking down silos to create an ecosystem that supports people as they age. Learn about the AgingINnovation 2026 annual conference here:
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The Future of Post-Acute & Long-Term Care, with Leslie Eber, MD
06/10/2026
The Future of Post-Acute & Long-Term Care, with Leslie Eber, MD
For this week’s episode, AgingIN CEO Susan Ryan sits down with Leslie Eber, MD, a board-certified internal medicine physician, certified medical director, and president of the Society for Post-Acute and Long-Term Care Medicine (PALTmed). Her journey into the field of geriatrics was inspired by her father’s commitment to humanitarian service. Her role with PALTmed is helping to shape the future of post-acute and long-term carethrough education, advocacy, and interdisciplinary collaboration. In addition to sharing what it truly means to be a medical director in today’s care environment, Dr. Eber explains why deeply knowing the person behind diagnosischanges everything. She also explores with Susan some impactful PALTmed initiatives, like “Drive to Deprescribe,” as well as tools to improve quality of life and reduce unnecessary interventions. Ultimately, Lesley paints hopeful vision for the future, where elder communities are fully integrated into society, where intergenerational connections thrive, and where ageism is confronted by recognizing the wisdom and value of those who came before us. More information about PALTmed here: Learn about the AgingINnovation 2026 annual conference here:
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Reimagining Dementia Care Through Real Homes and Real Lives, with Eloy van Hal
06/03/2026
Reimagining Dementia Care Through Real Homes and Real Lives, with Eloy van Hal
What happens when we stop designing care around institutions and start designing it around people? In this week’s episode, AgingIN CEO Susan Ryan sits down with internationally recognized dementia care innovator Eloy van Hal, to answer this question. Drawing on decades of experience in the Netherlands, Eloy tells Susan how he helped move residents from traditional high-rise nursing homes into small, neighborhood-style homes where daily life feels familiar, meaningful, and human. As founder of the groundbreaking Hogeweyk model of dementia village in the Netherlands, van Hal discusses the philosophy behind it and the broader movement toward relationship-based, person-directed dementia care. Their conversation explores the importance of trust, family education, staff development, and stakeholder collaboration in creating cultures of care that honor the person beyond the diagnosis. More about Hogewyk here: Learn about the AgingINnovation 2026 annual conference here:
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A Bit About Balance With Kelly Tremblay, PhD
05/29/2026
A Bit About Balance With Kelly Tremblay, PhD
On this episode of Brain Bytes, Kelly Tremblay, PhD, explores the critical connection between balance, mobility, falls, and brain health. With falls ranking as the second leading cause of unintentional injury deaths globally, especially among older adults, Dr. Kelly explains why prevention starts long before a fall occurs. The conversation highlights how physical activity in midlife and beyond supports muscle strength, circulation, and brain function, while also reducing dementia risk. Dr. Kelly discusses how movement strengthens the communication between the brain and muscles, improving reaction time, coordination, and stability. Listeners will also learn how the eyes, ears, and proprioceptive system work together to help us navigate the world safely. Following are links and resources for this episode: • The World Health Organization’s key facts on falls: • The AgingINnovation 2026 Annual Conference:
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The Evolution of Aging Services with Otis Woods, with Otis Woods
05/27/2026
The Evolution of Aging Services with Otis Woods, with Otis Woods
In this episode of Elevate Eldercare, AgingIN CEO Susan sits down with Otis Woods for a candid and insightful conversation about the evolution of aging services, culture change, and the future of long-term care. Drawing from decades of leadership experience—from supporting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities to directing the Wisconsin Department of Health Services, Woods shares how his journey shaped his commitment to person-centered care. Their discussion explores the dramatic growth of assisted living, the ongoing decline in nursing home beds, and the urgent need for clearer regulations. Woods also reflects on the lessons learned during the pandemic, the importance of collaboration between regulators and providers, and the critical role of workforce development in ensuring quality care for older adults. Susan and Otis dive into topics including culture change in eldercare, the Civil Monetary Penalty (CMP) program, transparency in regulation, and the growing influence of private equity and REITs in aging services. This episode is a thoughtful look at where eldercare has been, and where it must go next, to better support frail elders, individuals with disabilities, and the workforce that cares for them. Learn more about AgingIN’s upcoming 2026 annual conference here: .
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Building Bridges Between Generations, with Mary Munoz
05/20/2026
Building Bridges Between Generations, with Mary Munoz
This week on the podcast, Mary Munoz sits down with AgingIN CEO Susan Ryan to share her extraordinary journey from a childhood shaped by incredible hardship to a successful 26-year career at Ziegler, and, ultimately, to launching a mission-driven nonprofit focused on intergenerational connection and opportunity. Mary’s journey reflects both personal courage and a deep commitment to helping others. She describes the inspiration behind Foster Connections, a nonprofit that creates housing, mentorship, and workforce pathways for foster youth within senior living communities. Through intergenerational engagement and meaningful employment opportunities, the concept partners Glencroft Senior Living in and Thrive, an organization that supports youth in foster care. The conversation also explores Mary’s personal healing journey, her transition into retirement and purpose-driven work, and her vision for expanding intergenerational living models across the aging services sector. This episode is a powerful reminder of how compassion, mentorship, and community can transform lives across generations. Find out more about Foster Connections here: Learn about AgingIN’s 2026 conference here:
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How PACE Canada Is Transforming Community Care, with Paul Sharman
05/13/2026
How PACE Canada Is Transforming Community Care, with Paul Sharman
AgingIN CEO Susan Ryan sits down with Paul Sharman, founder and president of PACE Canada, to explore how integrated, community-based care can transform aging services. Paul shares his journey from engineering and corporate leadership to public service and eldercare innovation after his mother’s experience with dementia reshaped his perspective. Inspired by a visit to a Detroit PACE site, Paul launched PACE Canada in Ontario to bring collaborative, relationship-based care to older adults living in community housing. In addition to discussing the challenges of adapting the model to Canada, he examines the importance of trust and cross-sector collaboration. Paul also shares his bold vision for the future: connecting up to one million Canadians to integrated care systems powered by technology, predictive analytics, and community partnerships—all designed to help older adults age with dignity, connection, and support. More about PACE Canada here: Learn about AgingIN’s 2026 conference here:
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Harmony and Hope: Inside the Second Verse Choir, with Anne Rigley and Kris Boggs
05/06/2026
Harmony and Hope: Inside the Second Verse Choir, with Anne Rigley and Kris Boggs
Music isn’t just an activity; it’s a powerful tool for connection, dignity, and redefining what’s possible for people living with dementia. This has been proven by Second Verse Choir, a community choir created for people living with dementia and their care partners, and the subject of this week’s episode. AgingIN CEO Susan Ryan sits down with Second Verse Co-Founders Anne Rigley and Kris Boggs to discuss their impetus for creating the choir and how it has grown from a small group of 13 into a thriving choir of 20 members who meet weekly and perform for the community. Anne’s background in social work, combined with Kris’ lifelong passion for music and advocacy, has culminated into a program that fosters joy, connection, and belonging. The two share how music supports cognitive engagement, strengthens social bonds, and challenges the stigma surrounding dementia and aging. From early inspiration to their first “magical” performance, they reflect on the meaningful impact the choir has had on participants and their families. The conversation also explores the practical side of launching a dementia-friendly choir, from logistics and partnerships to person-centered approaches that meet participants where they are. Looking ahead, Anne and Kris are focused on expanding the model and bringing the power of music to more communities. More information about Second Verse here:
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A Human Rights Approach to Dementia Care, with Jennifer Carson, PhD, and Allen Power, MD
04/29/2026
A Human Rights Approach to Dementia Care, with Jennifer Carson, PhD, and Allen Power, MD
In this episode of Elevate Eldercare, AgingIN CEO Susan Ryan interviews two of the top experts in dementia, Jennifer Carson, PhD, and Al Power, MD. Together, they examine some of the most entrenched and damaging practices in dementia care and what can be done to eliminate them. Drawing from clinical experience, research, and personal caregiving journeys, they unpack how the overuse of antipsychotics often mask deeper systemic failures, from under-resourced environments to inadequate training. Dr. Carson highlights the serious risks, including increased mortality, while Der. Power calls for a fundamental reframing of dementia away from “managing behaviors” and toward supporting well-being, inclusion, and human rights. Together, they advocate for relationship-centered care, stronger enforcement of existing protections, and practical tools to help organizations assess and create conditions for optimal living. Their conversation also previews their forthcoming book on dementia inclusion, aimed at offering actionable pathways for real system change, including a call for non-segregated and unlocked dementia care communities. This episode is both a critique of the status quo and a hopeful call to redesign dementia care around dignity, equity, and true support. Find more about Dr. Power’s work here: Find out more about Dr. Caron’s work here:
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A Bit About Vision Loss With Kelly Tremblay, PhD
04/27/2026
A Bit About Vision Loss With Kelly Tremblay, PhD
In this episode of Brain Bytes, host Kelly Tremblay, PhD, neuroscientist and hearing and brain health expert, examines the truth about screen time and eye health—what it does and doesn’t do to your vision. She explains why digital devices won’t permanently damage the eyes, but can still cause real discomfort in the short term. The conversation expands into aging and vision loss, challenging the common belief that serious eye conditions are inevitable. Dr. Kelly highlights how lifestyle, health, and early intervention play a critical role in protecting vision over time. Most importantly, she connects vision to brain health, revealing how impaired eyesight can increase cognitive strain and even elevate dementia risk—making routine eye care more essential than many people realize. Following are links and resources for this episode: • National Eye Institute: • The Lancet Risk Factors for Dementia: • “Association of cataract extraction and the risk of dementia—A systematic review and meta-analysis”:
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From Activism to Innovation: The Story of OATs, with Tom Kamber
04/22/2026
From Activism to Innovation: The Story of OATs, with Tom Kamber
This week on Elevate Eldercare, AgingIN CEO Susan Ryan sits down with Tom Kamber, founder of Older Adults Technology Services (OATS) and Senior Planet, to explore how technology can empower older adults. Tom shares his journey from a young activist inspired by his father’s library to a national leader in digital inclusion. After 9/11, he shifted his focus toward technology as a tool for social change—sparked by a transformative experience with an 80-year-old woman named Pearl learning to use tech for the first time. From humble beginnings teaching classes in senior centers, OATS has grown into a national movement. Through Senior Planet and a powerful partnership with AARP, the organization reached over 845,000 older adults last year—and is on track to impact one million. This conversation highlights the urgent need to make technology accessible, inclusive, and inspiring for all older adults—and the role innovation, community, and activism play in shaping the future of aging.
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Ethical AI in Eldercare, with Mohammad Mahoor, Phd
04/15/2026
Ethical AI in Eldercare, with Mohammad Mahoor, Phd
This week’s episode features Mohammad Mahoor, professor of computer science at the University of Denver, where he leads research in artificial intelligence, computer vision, and social robotics. AgingIN CEO sits down with Mohammad to explore how artificial intelligence can support emotional well-being and cognitive health in aging. With a unique background spanning computer science, biomedical engineering, and psychology, Mohammad shares how his early work with children with autism evolved into a focus on addressing loneliness, social isolation, and early-stage dementia in older adults.A Mohammad is also Founder & CEO of DreamFace Technologies, a company developing AI-powered wellness robots for older adults. At the center of this work is “Ryan,” a socially assistive robot designed to engage residents in meaningful interaction. Using AI to recognize emotion, personalize conversation, and encourage cognitive and physical activity, Ryan has shown promising impact in senior living settings—helping residents feel more connected while also supporting staff capacity. The conversation also tackles the ethical complexities of AI in eldercare, including privacy, bias, and transparency. Mahoor underscores the importance of building trust through clear communication about how technology works and ensuring that systems are designed with dignity and consent at the forefront. Looking ahead, Mahoor envisions a future where technology is deeply personalized, collaborative, and human-centered. He calls on providers to engage older adults in the design process and to adopt innovation responsibly by leveraging tools like Ryan to enhance connection, not replace it. More about Ryan and Dream Face here:
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Rewiring Brain Health: From Memory Care to Neuro Wellness, with Sue Paul
04/08/2026
Rewiring Brain Health: From Memory Care to Neuro Wellness, with Sue Paul
Sue Paul, an occupational therapist with more than 35 years of experience, joins AgingIN CEO Susan Ryan to share her journey reimagining dementia care through the lens of brain health. Reflecting on a time when Alzheimer’s care was often institutional and limiting, Sue, who is senior director of well being and brain health for Asbury Communities, developed a more proactive, person-centered framework focused on prevention, dignity, and understanding the trajectory of cognitive change. Her work has evolved into a strong emphasis on lifestyle-based interventions—movement, cognitive engagement, stress management, and social connection—as powerful tools to support and even improve brain health. At Asbury, Sue brought this philosophy to life through the Rosborough Wellness and Brain Health Center, an innovative space featuring everything from a rock-climbing wall to a boxing studio and tech lab, all designed to make brain health visible, engaging, and stigma-free for more than 380 residents. Central to her approach is the Kinnections program with compelling results showing that 90 percent of participants maintaining or improving cognitive function and half of those with mild cognitive impairment returning to normal cognition. Sue is also leading a shift in language and mindset, encouraging providers to move away from “memory care” toward a more holistic concept of “neuro health.” Beyond campus walls, Sue is expanding her impact through SeniorScapes, a dementia-friendly park model in Frederick, Md., designed to promote outdoor activity, cognitive engagement, and social connection.
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Listening and Learning as a Long-Term Care Ombudsman
04/01/2026
Listening and Learning as a Long-Term Care Ombudsman
In this week’s episode of Elevate Eldercare, AgingIN CEO Susan Ryan sits down with Beverly Gianna, who recently became a long-term care ombudsman after a three-decade career with the New Orleans Convention and Visitors Bureau, now known as New Orleans & Company. Having earned at least three master’s degrees—one from the USC Leonard Davis School of Gerontology— Beverly has become a passionate advocate for nursing home residents. Her fascinating story takes listeners through personal caregiving experiences and a deepening interest in aging, ultimately leading her to ombudsman work. In today’s episode, she champions the rights, dignity, and voices of residents—ensuring they are heard, respected, and empowered. Among the many valuable lessons Beverly has learned along her journey: listening is one of the most powerful tools in advocacy. As she notes, advocacy starts with listening—helping residents articulate their needs, preferences, and goals.
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A Bit About Hearing Loss and the Brain with Kelly Tremblay, PhD
03/27/2026
A Bit About Hearing Loss and the Brain with Kelly Tremblay, PhD
In this episode of Brain Bytes, host Kelly Tremblay, PhD, neuroscientist and hearing and brain health expert, explores the powerful—and often overlooked—connection between hearing and the brain. In recognition of World Hearing Day on March 3, Dr. Kelly sheds light on why hearing health is critical to overall well-being, especially for older adults. Hearing loss is one of the leading causes of years lived with disability worldwide, affecting one in three adults over 65. But, as Dr. Kelly explains, it’s not simply an inevitable part of aging—lifestyle factors, environmental exposure, and even certain medical treatments can play a significant role. This episode illuminates why hearing loss is closely linked to brain health and cognitive decline, how untreated hearing loss can contribute to social isolation and increased dementia risk, and how to recognize early signs of hearing loss. Dr. Kelly examines how hearing is not just about the ears, it’s a brain function, and why early detection and intervention can significantly improve quality of life, communication, and cognitive health. Following are link to resources referred to in the episode: Hearing Loss Association of America: WHO Deafness and Hearing Loss Q&A: Ask an Audiologist: AgingIN Annual Conference: We are grateful to Parker Health for their sponsorship of this micro podcast.
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Data-Driven Change in Seniors Housing with Lisa McCracken
03/25/2026
Data-Driven Change in Seniors Housing with Lisa McCracken
In this week’s episode, AgingIN CEO Susan Ryan sits down with industry leader Lisa McCracken to explore how data, innovation, and bold thinking are reshaping the future of eldercare. With more than 26 years of experience spanning Holleran, Ziegler, and now the National Investment Center for Seniors Housing & Care, Lisa shares how research and analytics can drive access, affordability, and meaningful choice for older adults. From the growing urgency of serving the “forgotten middle” to the promise (and noise) of AI, this conversation offers a candid, forward-looking view of where the sector is headed—and what it will take to get there. In addition, with an overwhelming number of tech solutions entering the market, Lisa notes that NIC is working to evaluate and vet tools—especially through partnerships that help providers make smarter decisions. The future of eldercare will require innovation, partnerships, and a willingness to challenge traditional models—especially to meet the needs of a rapidly aging population. More about NIC here:
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Rethinking Affordable Housing for Older Adults with Amy Schectman
03/18/2026
Rethinking Affordable Housing for Older Adults with Amy Schectman
In this week’s episode AgingIN CEO Susan Ryan sits down with Amy Schectman, CEO of 2Life Communities, to explore how affordable housing, community connection, and supportive services can transform the experience of aging. She shares insights into how innovative housing models are helping older adults thrive while remaining connected to their communities. Amy reflects on her path to leadership—from early volunteer work in Baltimore to her professional beginnings at Massachusetts Institute of Technology during the administration of Michael Dukakis—and how those experiences shaped her commitment to equity, public service, and aging with dignity. Today, she leads 2Life Communities, an organization dedicated to creating affordable, supportive housing environments where older adults can live with purpose, connection, and security.To make housing possible, 2Life combines federal housing vouchers, the low-income housing tax credit program, and philanthropic support These funding sources allow 2Life Communities to keep rents affordable while also funding vital programs like arts, lifelong learning, and wellness. More about 2Life Communities here: .
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Building Communities Where Aging Thrives with Christie Hinrichs
03/11/2026
Building Communities Where Aging Thrives with Christie Hinrichs
In this week’s episode, AgingIN CEO Susan Ryan sits down with Christie Hinrichs, president and CEO of Frasier, a life plan community in Boulder, Colo., who shares her journey from growing up on a farm in rural Nebraska to pioneering the Green House model at Tabitha, a senior living community in Omaha, Neb. Throughout their conversation, Christie reflects on the experiences that shaped her commitment to older adults—from childhood visits with “adopted grandparents” to her early work in hospice social work. Now leading Frasier, Christie describes a thriving community that offers a range of services where residents drive programming and engagement—so much so that the community has an 800-person waitlist. She shares why curiosity, respect, and accountability are core to building vibrant elder communities. As board chair of LeadingAge, Christie also addresses the urgent workforce crisis in aging services and calls for greater collaboration across organizations and states to meet the needs of a rapidly aging population. As Ryan points out, this is a conversation about intentional community, collective responsibility, and the courage to reimage what aging can look like when we truly listen. For more information about Frasier: Vimeo channel: Website:
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Healing Workplace Culture Through Nature-Inspired Leadership with MaryCay Durrant
03/04/2026
Healing Workplace Culture Through Nature-Inspired Leadership with MaryCay Durrant
In this week’s episode, AgingIN CEO Susan Ryan sits down with MaryCay Durrant, founder of Leading Naturally. In this enlightening discussion, MaryCay shares her journey from corporate leadership to developing nature-inspired practices that help organizations thrive. Drawing from her upbringing in North Dakota and a transformative personal awakening, MarCay challenges transactional workplace models and instead looks to ecosystems as a guide for cooperation, resilience, and trust. She introduces her WORK framework — Wake Up, Orient, Reimagine partnering, and Keepnourishing what matters — and the concept of Return on Energy (ROE), encouraging leaders to measure vitality and alignment, not just ROI. Through approaches such as equine-assisted learning, MaryCay helps organizations reduce burnout, strengthen connection, and build sustainable cultures grounded in partnership. More about MaryCay here:
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A Bit About Dementia: Introducing “Brain Bytes”
02/27/2026
A Bit About Dementia: Introducing “Brain Bytes”
Introducing Brain Bytes, a new micro-cast hosted by Kelly Tremblay, PhD, neuroscientist, World Health Organization advisor, NIH grant reviewer, advocate, and professor. Brain Bytes features “byte”-sized nuggets of knowledge aimed at making neuroscience accessible for the senior living world. In each episode, which will air on the fourth Friday of each month, Dr. Tremblay will share research-backed information related to aging and brain health. This week, she explores the different types of dementia and examines what evidence-based researchtells us about it. While encouraging listeners to take practical steps to support healthy aging, Dr. Tremblay explains that a significant portion of dementia risk may be modifiable. Factors such as education, physical activity, cardiovascular health, hearing and vision care, and social connection all play a role in supporting brain health across the lifespan. The following links accompany today’s episode: • • • We are grateful to Parker Health for their sponsorship of this micro-cast.
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The Power of Making Brain Science Accessible with Dr. Kelly Tremblay
02/25/2026
The Power of Making Brain Science Accessible with Dr. Kelly Tremblay
This week on the podcast, AgingIN CEO, Susan Ryan, welcomes Kelly Tremblay, PhD, a neuroscientist, World Health Organization advisor, NIH grant reviewer, advocate, and professor. As a first-generation college student, Kelly’s path was shaped by lived experience. Growing up with a father who had multiple sclerosis, she became an early advocate for accessibility and healthcare equity. At the University of Washington, Kelly led research focused on the aging brain and collaborated with the National Institutes of Health and the World Health Organization to help translate science into global health strategies. In this wide-ranging conversation, Susan and Kelly discuss health literacy and Kelly’s desire to bridge the gap between research and real life by making science accessible, practical, and actionable. This goal comes to life in the launch of Brain Bytes, a new monthly micro-cast debuting Friday, Feb. 27, with new episodes dropping on the fourth Friday of each month. Designed to deliver bite-sized, evidence-based insights, Brain Bytes will focus on six key areas of brain health: nutrition, hearing loss, vision loss, mood, cognition, and balance Throughout the episode, Kelly reminds us that knowledge is power—but only if it’s accessible. Brain Bytes aims to empower listeners with clear, plain-language information that supports better decisions, stronger advocacy, and healthier aging.
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