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We’re all getting older. We might as well embrace it. Join Honestly Aging by Friends Life Care VigR® in exploring what it’s like to get older. Host Cheryl Proska walks with you on the winding road of aging. The peaks. The valleys. And everything in between. This is what aging looks like. Real people. Real stories. Real advice. Let’s grow old, together.
Episodes

Wednesday Oct 02, 2024
Nutrition and Aging: Healthful Tips for Older Adults
Wednesday Oct 02, 2024
Wednesday Oct 02, 2024
In this episode of the Honestly Aging by Friends Life Care VigR® podcast, we are joined by Nicole Bergoine, a registered dietitian and certified personal trainer with over 14 years of experience.
Nicole shares her insights on healthy nutrition specifically tailored to older adults. She offers practical tips on balancing meals, protein importance, hydration, bone health, and mindful eating. This episode also dives into nutrition strategies for managing common health conditions like diabetes, high blood pressure, and cognitive function.
Tune in for valuable advice on adopting healthier habits for vibrant aging!
Resources:
Nicole Bergoine:
- https://www.nicolemarierd.com/
- https://www.facebook.com/nicolemarierd
- https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicole-bergoine-rd-ldn-cpt-49221b21/ https://www.instagram.com/nicolemarietherd/
Websites mentioned during the episode:
- https://www.myfitnesspal.com/
- https://www.eatingwell.com/
- https://bluezoneskitchen.com/
- https://www.fooducate.com/
- https://www.myplate.gov/
Friends Life Care:
- https://www.friendslifecare.org/
- https://www.facebook.com/friendslifecare/
- https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/friends-life-care-/
- https://www.instagram.com/friendslifecare/
#friendslifecare #honestlyaging #vibrantaging #olderadults #nutritiontips #healthyaging #dietitian #protein #hydration #bonehealth #mindfuleating #eattherainbow #podcast
© 2024 Friends Life Care. All Rights Reserved.

Wednesday Sep 18, 2024
Kicking Off Honestly Aging Season Two with Vibrant Aging
Wednesday Sep 18, 2024
Wednesday Sep 18, 2024
Welcome to Season 2 of the Honestly Aging Podcast! In this kickoff episode, we’re diving deep into the concept of Vibrant Aging, inspired by the heartfelt feedback from our Friends Life Care members. Join host Cheryl Proska, Joe Conner (Interim President and CEO), and Katie Starrantino (Director of Wellness Initiatives) as they unpack the results of a recent survey sent to Friends Life Care members, discussing the key factors that influence a positive aging journey.
In this episode, we explore:
- The top decisions that have positively impacted Friends Life Care members' aging experiences.
- How maintaining purpose and passion can be both a challenge and a success as we age.
- The shift from "Triumphant Aging" to "Vibrant Aging" based on member feedback.
- Exciting new Wellness programs designed to support health, relationships, and financial security.
Tune in to hear how we’re integrating members valuable insights into our Wellness initiatives and what you can look forward to this season. Don't forget to like, share, and subscribe to stay updated on future episodes!
Resources:
https://www.friendslifecare.org/about-us/management-team/joe-conner/
https://www.friendslifecare.org/about-us/care-coordinators/katie-starrantino/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/josephconner/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/katie-starrantino-lcsw-m-ed-cdp-387129224/
https://www.friendslifecare.org/
https://www.facebook.com/friendslifecare/
https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/friends-life-care-/
https://www.instagram.com/friendslifecare/
(C) 2024 Friends Life Care. All Rights Reserved.
#HonestlyAging #FriendsLifeCare #VibrantAging #Aging #AgingWell #OlderAdults #Wellness #Podcast #HealthyAging #Purpose #Passion #AgingJourney

Wednesday Sep 04, 2024
Honestly Aging Season Two Coming Soon
Wednesday Sep 04, 2024
Wednesday Sep 04, 2024
Hello Honestly Aging listeners and friends! It’s Cheryl Proska here, your podcast host, checking in to thank you for making Season One a success and to share exciting updates about Season Two!
In Season One, we explored vital topics like solo aging, brain health, resilience, and more, with insights from aging services experts, Friends Life Care members, and my amazing colleagues.
Season Two kicks off on September 18th with a focus on Vibrant Aging. We’ll delve into engaging discussions on nutrition, age-related transitions, end-of-life planning, and much more. Don’t miss out!
A special thanks to Nick Deterding for his stellar editing work and to the entire Friends Life Care community for your continued support. We’d love to hear your feedback and suggestions—email us at info@flcpartners.org.
Subscribe to stay updated, and we’ll see you on September 18th!
Website: https://www.friendslifecare.org/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/friendslifecare/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/friends-life-care-/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/friendslifecare/
© 2024 Friends Life Care. All Rights Reserved.
#HonestlyAging #VibrantAging #Podcast #SeasonTwo

Tuesday Jul 30, 2024
Tuesday Jul 30, 2024
Thank you to all our listeners and guests for a stellar first season of Honestly Aging by Friends Life Care VigR®.
In our closing episode, we’re joined by Jay Hilliard, Friends Life Care Plan Counselor, to get his take on some topics covered throughout the season. Jay also discusses his experiences as an unpaid caregiver, a Friends Life Care member, and consulting with solo agers about Friends Life Care membership.
Jay has been with Friends Life Care for 20 years. Before joining Friends Life Care, he was a long-term care insurance broker for five years. Previously, he worked in sales in the textile industry and for the United States Chamber of Commerce. Jay coaches ice hockey and helps run hockey clinics for goalies. He has two sons with his wife, Sandra, from Glasgow, Scotland. Jay is also a Friends Life Care member.
Resources:
https://www.friendslifecare.org/about-us/plan-counselors/jay-hilliard/
(C) 2024 Friends Life Care. All Rights Reserved.
#honestlyaging #friendslifecare #soloagers #soloaging #aging #olderadults #caregiving #longtermcare #thankyou #seasonone #podcastepisode #caregivingjourney #agingwell #lifecareplanning #hockeycoach #caregiversupport #agingcommunity #podcastlisteners #familycaregivers #healthadvocate #selfcare #advocate #mentalhealth #holistichealth #podcastinterview #podcastcommunity #healthandwellness

Wednesday Jul 10, 2024
The Art of Chi Walking: Where to Begin
Wednesday Jul 10, 2024
Wednesday Jul 10, 2024
In this episode of Honestly Aging by Friends Life Care VigR®, Carol Bilek joins us to discuss Chi Walking - a practice that combines walking with the principles of Tai Chi. Carol is a certified Chi Walking instructor and shares her journey of discovering Chi Walking after dealing with injuries and mobility challenges.
She explains how Chi Walking differs from traditional walking, focusing on engaging the core, aligning the body, and moving in harmony with nature's forces like gravity. Carol highlights the numerous mental and physical health benefits of Chi Walking, including improved balance, endurance, breathing, mood, and injury prevention.
Throughout the interview, Carol provides insightful tips for getting started with Chi Walking, such as:
- Focusing on body alignment and engaging the core
- Adjusting to a natural, shorter stride
- Allowing gravity to pull you forward rather than pushing with the legs
- Starting on flat terrain and gradually progressing
- Incorporating a metronome to increase walking cadence
She also shares inspirational stories of students who overcame mobility fears and knee issues through Chi Walking. Whether you're an avid walker looking to improve technique or seeking a low-impact exercise for overall wellness, this conversation offers valuable guidance on embracing the mindful movement of Chi Walking.
At the end, Carol invites listeners to connect with her for private lessons, group workshops, or more information on getting started. Carol and Cheryl also go for a Chi Walk.
Resources:
Chi Walking and Carol:
https://chiliving.com/instructor/wholewomanpacarolverizon-net/
https://www.friendslifecare.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/Carol-Bilek-Chi-Walking-Flyer.pdf https://hellowestchesterpa.com/2024/01/30/walk-this-way-retired-west-chester-educator-wants-to-keep-you-moving/
Office: 610-431-3266
Mobile: 610-724-7218
Friends Life Care:
https://www.friendslifecare.org/
https://www.facebook.com/friendslifecare/
https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/friends-life-care-/
https://www.instagram.com/friendslifecare/
© 2024 Friends Life Care. All Rights Reserved.

Wednesday Jun 19, 2024
Coaching for Dementia Caregivers: A Holistic Approach
Wednesday Jun 19, 2024
Wednesday Jun 19, 2024
On this episode of Honestly Aging by Friends Life Care VigR®, we’re joined by Emily Gavin, a dementia care expert, occupational therapist, and caregiver coach to discuss:
- The significance of occupational therapy in dementia care.
- Practical strategies for caregivers to handle common challenges like repetitive questioning and resistance to care.
- Tailored advice for caregivers to manage their stress and self-care.
- Building and utilizing a support network to alleviate caregiver burden.
- Emily’s personal journey and success stories in dementia caregiving.
Emily has dedicated her career to improving dementia care through her practice, program development, and training for dementia professionals. Emily now leads Philly Care Coaching, where she equips family caregivers with the essential knowledge and skills to ease their caregiving journey and enhance relationships with their loved ones.
Resources:
PhillyCare Coaching and Emily Gavin:
Website: https://phillycarecoaching.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100093197558689
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/emily-s-gavin-ms-otr-l-94966454/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/phillycarecoaching/
Mentioned by Emily:
Teepa Snow: https://www.youtube.com/@teepasnowvideos
Skills2Care®: https://www.dementiacollaborative.com/pages/skills2care-certification
Promoting Participation: Engaging Individuals Living with Dementia in Meaningful Activities: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CY439ZCQ
Friends Life Care:
Website: https://www.friendslifecare.org/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/friendslifecare/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/friends-life-care-/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/friendslifecare/
© 2024 Friends Life Care. All Rights Reserved.
#honestlyaging #friendslifecare #soloagers #soloaging #aging #olderadults #dementiacare #occupationaltherapy #caregiversupport #dementiaawareness #emilygavin #phillycarecoaching #healthandwellbeing

Wednesday Jun 05, 2024
Navigating Late-Life Care: Insights for Older Adults and Their Loved Ones
Wednesday Jun 05, 2024
Wednesday Jun 05, 2024
“The time to repair the roof is when the sun is shining,” John F. Kennedy.
Preparing for late-life care can be daunting and filled with topics no one particularly wants to talk about. Ellen Donovan, founder of One Life Consulting, has spent her career having these conversations with older adults and their loved ones.
On this episode of Honestly Aging by Friends Life Care VigR®, Ellen offers guidance on planning for late-life care, dealing with crises when planning hasn’t occurred, and resources for solo agers.
We also cover care costs and the importance of self-care for those in caregiver roles.
Resources:
One Life Consulting:
https://www.onelifeadvocates.com/
https://www.facebook.com/OneLifeAdvocates/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/ellen-donovan-rn-bsn-rac-ct-697656202/
https://twitter.com/Ellen_OneLife
Friends Life Care:
https://www.friendslifecare.org/
https://www.facebook.com/friendslifecare/
https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/friends-life-care-/
https://www.instagram.com/friendslifecare/
© 2024 Friends Life Care. All Rights Reserved.
#honestlyaging #friendslifecare #soloagers #soloaging #aging #olderadults #LateLifeCare #FamilyConversations #CaregiverSupport #FinancialPlanning #OneLifeConsulting #PodcastDiscussion #CrisisManagement #RNSeniorCareConsultant #FamilyDynamics #CostofCare #Author #Advocacy

Wednesday May 22, 2024
Aging and Bones: Why Prioritizing Bone Health Matters
Wednesday May 22, 2024
Wednesday May 22, 2024
54 million Americans, half of all adults age 50 and older, are at risk of breaking a bone and should be concerned about bone health.*
On this episode of Honestly Aging by Friends Life Care VigR®, Darshan Bhatt joins us to share insights into bone health and how we can take proactive steps to ensure strong and healthy bones as we age.
In our discussion, we cover a range of topics:
- Overview of Bone Health: What exactly is bone health, and why does it matter?
- Factors Affecting Bone Health: Explore the various factors influencing the strength and density of our bones.
- Importance of Bone Health as We Age: Understand why prioritizing bone health becomes increasingly crucial as we grow older.
- Improving Bone Health: Discover actionable steps we can take to enhance the health of our bones.
- Impact of Exercise: Learn about the profound effect that exercise has on bone strength and density.
- Nutrition & Supplements: Explore dietary considerations and essential vitamins crucial for optimal bone health.
- Common Misconceptions: Debunking myths surrounding bone health to pave the way for better understanding.
- Chronic Conditions & Treatment: Insights into how conditions like osteoporosis affect bone health and available treatment options.
- Advice for Prevention & Treatment: Practical advice for those looking to prioritize bone health, including the option of reaching out to experts like Namaste Rehab.
Darshan Bhatt is a trained physical therapist and Founder and President of Namaste Rehab. In our last episode, Darshan educated us about home health rehab and physical therapy. If you missed it, we highly recommend giving it a listen!
*https://www.bonehealthandosteoporosis.org/wp-content/uploads/Osteoporosis-Fast-Facts-2.pdf
Resources:
Namaste Rehab:
https://namasterehab.com/
dbhatt@namasterehab.com
267-991-6040
https://www.linkedin.com/in/darshan-bhatt-326769a6/
Friends Life Care:
Website: https://www.friendslifecare.org/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/friendslifecare/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/friends-life-care-/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/friendslifecare/
© 2024 Friends Life Care. All Rights Reserved.
#honestlyaging #friendslifecare #soloagers #soloaging #aging #olderadults #NamasteRehab #BoneHealth #BoneHealthMatters #HealthyAging #StrongBones #ProactiveAging #ExerciseForBoneHealth #NutritionForStrongBones #BustTheMyths #OsteoporosisAwareness #PrioritizeBoneHealth #StayStrongStayHealthy #HealthyLifestyleChoices #ExpertInsights #BoneDensity #HealthyHabits #TakeChargeOfYourHealth

Thursday May 09, 2024
Optimizing Independence: How In-Home Rehab Empowers Older Adults
Thursday May 09, 2024
Thursday May 09, 2024
Join us as we delve into the world of in-home health rehab and physical therapy with Darshan Bhatt, Founder and President of Namaste Rehab. Darshan, a trained physical therapist, recognized the pressing need for accessible therapy services for older adults during the COVID pandemic, leading him to establish Namaste Rehab with the motto, "Why go to the clinic if the clinic can come to you!"
Throughout our conversation, Darshan sheds light on the definition of home health rehab, reasons why someone might need rehabilitative services, and shares insightful anecdotes, including a glimpse into assisting solo agers through in-home rehab. Discover the benefits associated with in-home rehab services and learn how to overcome potential discomfort with receiving services in your home.
We also explore physical therapy, discussing its definition, various rehabilitative services tailored for older adults, and strategies to enhance success in therapy sessions. Darshan leaves us with valuable questions to ask our physical therapists, empowering us to actively engage in our rehabilitation journey.
Stay tuned for Darshan's return in our next episode, where we'll delve into the crucial topic of bone health. Don't miss out on discovering more about Namaste Rehab's mission and the comprehensive services they offer. Connect with Darshan and Namaste Rehab to embark on your journey to improved health and mobility today!
Resources:
Namaste Rehab:
267-991-6040
https://www.linkedin.com/in/darshan-bhatt-326769a6/
Friends Life Care:
Website: https://www.friendslifecare.org/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/friendslifecare/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/friends-life-care-/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/friendslifecare/
© 2024 Friends Life Care. All Rights Reserved.
#honestlyaging #friendslifecare #soloagers #soloaging #aging #olderadults #NamasteRehab #PhysicalTherapy #PT #HomeHealthRehab #Rehabilitation #InHomeRehab #TherapyServices #Healthcare #Wellness #SoloAgers #Mobility #BoneHealth #TherapyJourney #PhysicalFitness #AgingWell #StayActive #HealthAndWellness #OccupationalTherapy #OT #SpeechTherapy #AgingInPlace

Wednesday Apr 24, 2024
The Power of Reinventing Yourself
Wednesday Apr 24, 2024
Wednesday Apr 24, 2024
Throughout his life and career, Fred Dawson has reinvented himself again and again.
Fred spent his first career with the Dupont company as a professional engineer in various engineering assignments. Moving on, he started his own consulting company and then had a third career in architectural design and building residential homes. Now in his retirement, Fred’s discovered his passion for writing. Fred is also a Friends Life Care member.
On this episode of Friends Life Care VigR®, we dive into the power of reinventing yourself. We cover Fred’s life and career transitions, overcoming obstacles, lessons learned, and advice anyone can use on a journey of reinvention.
#honestlyaging #friendslifecare #soloagers #aging #olderadults #vitality #independence #growth #resilience #stories #advice #advocate #podcast #reinvention #careertransitions #overcomingobstacles #lifelessons #writingpassion #retirementlife #selfdiscovery #lifejourney #personalgrowth #professionaldevelopment #engineering #consulting #architecturaldesign #inspiration #motivation #successstory #reinventyourself #reinvent