In this heartfelt and deeply human conversation, Kim Groshek is joined by Candy Leigh to explore one of the most universal—and often unspoken—realities of life: caring for aging parents. The two women share vulnerable stories about their 80-something-year-old parents, navigating difficult medical diagnoses, the slow erosion of independence, and the emotional toll of role reversals. Together, they reflect on how to support aging loved ones while honoring their autonomy, and how these experiences shift our perspectives on life, control, and mortality. This episode will resonate with anyone grappling with the complexities of watching parents grow older while trying to stay grounded in their own lives.
The emotional and logistical challenges of caring for aging parents
How frugality and life experiences from the Depression era shape aging mindsets
The reality of healthcare costs and access for elderly individuals
Navigating the shift from being the child to becoming a caregiver
Maintaining respect and autonomy in evolving parent-child relationships
Creating support systems with community and faith
Personal anecdotes on transforming relationships and honoring aging with dignity