The In-Between Years: Aging Parents and the Conversations We Try to Avoid

Expect the Unexpected with Kristen Martin Eldridge

Caring for an aging parent is challenging in itself, but what if the one person helping you was suddenly faced with a serious health battle of their own? In this episode, we speak with Kristen Martin Eldridge, National Accounts Director at Reframe Financial. She is an insurance professional with more than 20 years of experience in the individual, multi-life, and group long-term care insurance and voluntary benefits industry. Kristen's personal story is a testament to working through challenges, getting things done, and doing the hard things. She details her experience caring for her mom, Rosemarie, and how the journey suddenly changed with the passing of her sister.

Caregiving for a Loved One with a Disability with Insurance Agent Mario Racanelli

In this episode, our guest is Mario Racanelli, an insurance agent based in Eau Claire, Wisconsin, who focuses on Medicare and other insurance products in the senior market. Mario often gives back to his industry by supporting others, presenting continuing education classes, and giving advice to fellow agents. This conversation focuses on Mario's experiences with his brother John, who lived with Down syndrome, and his family's caregiving journey. He discusses how his family members stepped up to care for his brother, the toll it took on them, and lessons learned and advice for other families in this scenario.

When It All Works Out with LTC Expert Gary Reppen

Gary Reppen shares how long-term care insurance protected both his father and father-in-law from major care costs, covering expensive nursing home and assisted living needs. He highlights buying coverage early, understanding elimination periods, and how families without LTCI often face limited, lower quality care options.

When the Husband Becomes Caregiver with LTC Expert Don Strickler

Hear from LTC specialist Don Strickler about his experience becoming an unplanned caregiver after his wife’s serious injury. Don shares the tough realities of daily caregiving, how the experience changed his view of professional care, and what families should know about long-term care planning and insurance options.

Balancing the Challenges of Caregiving with Carolyn Vader

In this episode, Carolyn Vader shares her experience balancing a full-time career in the insurance industry with caring for her aging mother at home. The conversation explores the emotional, physical, and financial challenges of caregiving, the complexities of accessing support programs, and how evolving long-term care options can help families navigate similar journeys.