Wendy Weidner and Josh Casper bring you a new series of stories, Aging in the News. We explore current stories in depth and discuss how they relate to you.

In this episode, listen to three stories. The first, the most recent social security trustee report - made interesting. Does anyone disagree social security needs to be protected?

Second, learn about CalPERS - California Public Employees Retirement System, and how it's facing a class action lawsuit regarding long-term care insurance.

Finally, listen to the story of Sarah and Emily (*not their real names), and the criminal investigation of a nursing home relating to abuse in Hanover, New Hampshire.

Linda Herrick has been an associate dean of nursing education, clinical professor of nursing, nurse manager, nurse, and a nursing assistant. She is also a family caregiver.

In a lively conversation, hear how her professional and personal identities blend as a family caregiver; how she manages caregiver stress; and the signs of caregiver stress. Listen to challenges of family caregiver in rural areas, family communication, and how hospital discharge planning has evolved in her observations.

Hear how important it is to be able to say no.

Co-hosted by Wendy Weidner, retired regional long-term care ombudsman of almost 20 years, and Josh Casper, an elder law attorney in Minnesota.

Deb Holtz is known for her decades of advocacy experience in disability services, State Ombudsman for Long-Term Care, and attorney. She has transitioned into a new role as a death doula, caring for people and their loved ones as they prepare for their death.

Deb shares with us what a death doula does; what lead her to this role; what helps a person have a better death; policy changes she would like to see and so much more.

In Episode 2 of Best Aging, we talk with Peggy, a 69-year-old assisted living resident. Hear her expectations of caregivers (as a former nursing home aide), begin a conversation about retaliation, and learn from her wisdom (including a caregiver book recommendation at the end).

Wendy Weidner and Josh Casper introduce themselves and Best Aging through stories. Hear about a nursing home takeover by the State of Minnesota. And learn a few things we wished every long-term care resident and family member knew.