Senior Matters Podcast

Medicare isn’t one-size-fits-all, and every year, the rules, costs, and coverage options change. In this episode of Senior Matters, host Mark E. Wight welcomes Medicare specialist Chad McDonald to break down what’s new for 2026 and why it’s more important than ever to review your plan with a licensed agent. Together, they cover: Key Medicare changes for the coming year, including rising Part B deductibles and carrier exits in Idaho How these shifts could affect your doctors, prescriptions, and monthly costs When and how to make updates during Annual Enrollment (Oct 15 – Dec 7) Why connecting with your Medicare representative can save you time, money, and stress The value of ongoing plan reviews is not just when you turn 65 Don’t assume last year’s plan still fits your needs. A quick conversation with your Medicare expert can help you stay protected and confident in 2026. 🎧 Tune in

In the first episode of the Senior Matters Podcast, estate planning attorney Mark E. Wight, presented by Idaho Estate Planning, tackles the basics of estate planning as part of Estate Planning Month. Mark explains why proactive planning is crucial, covering topics like probate, intestate succession (dying without a will), and common challenges faced by blended families and unmarried couples. With 80% of Americans lacking a written estate plan, this episode underscores the importance of planning to prevent unintended consequences. Learn why consulting a qualified attorney and discussing your plans with family is essential. Key Topics Covered: Understanding probate and intestate succession Property distribution challenges in blended families The importance of intentional planning and avoiding common pitfalls Why 80% of Americans are unprepared and how you can avoid being part of that statistic For more estate planning resources or to get started, visit . Take action today, and ensure your legacy is protected!

In this episode of Senior Matters Podcast, host Mark E. Wight sits down with guest facilitator of to explore the global Death Café movement. This grassroots initiative provides a safe and informal space where people gather to talk openly about mortality over tea, snacks, and conversation. From its roots in Switzerland and the UK to Boise’s thriving local chapter, Death Cafés encourage honest conversations that often blend laughter, tears, and curiosity. These gatherings are designed primarily for adults, creating a respectful environment where participants can freely explore their thoughts and feelings about death. While children sometimes have opportunities to engage through separate library events, the standard Death Café format is best suited for mature audiences. Discover why communities across the globe are embracing these unique conversations, what happens during a Death Café, and how talking about death can actually make life feel richer and more connected. To learn more about Death Cafe Boise, visit their page

In this episode of Senior Matters, host Mark E. Wight talks with Lisa Underwood from Aging Strong, a non-profit supported by , which has served the Treasure Valley for over 50 years. Lisa shares how the Legacy Corps Caregiver Support Program provides meaningful companionship to military families and isolated older adults throughout the Treasure Valley. This program is especially important for Idaho families who are caring for aging loved ones or veterans. It offers vital respite to full-time caregivers and ensures that seniors who live alone receive consistent, friendly social interaction. With volunteers averaging 72 years old, the program creates deep, meaningful relationships that help bridge generational gaps and reduce loneliness. Learn how these simple acts of companionship are strengthening Idaho communities, one visit at a time.

In this Senior Matters Podcast episode, Mark E. Wight speaks with Jim and Linda Cornwell, a couple who approached aging with thoughtful planning. They are among the minority of Americans who have a written estate plan and use it as a foundation for broader life decisions. Their story encompasses a wide range of topics, including managing property across state lines, deciding when to relocate, and navigating emotional moments. After 22 years in their custom home, they faced the difficult decision to relocate to a senior living community. Their planning process included budgeting, downsizing, and recognizing the reality that the next generation may not value sentimental items the same way. Listeners will hear how the Cornwells used experience, communication, and preparation to create a path forward. This episode offers helpful insight for anyone facing major life transitions or helping someone else through one.

This episode is Part 2 of a two-part series. In this follow-up episode of Senior Matters, host dig deeper into the probate process in Idaho. They cover how probate protects against unknown debts, why personal representatives can be personally liable, and how to close an estate formally or informally. You will also learn practical ways to avoid probate through beneficiary designations, small estate strategies, and revocable living trusts. If you are planning your estate or managing a loved one’s, this episode gives you tools to protect assets and reduce stress. To listen to the first episode, find What Really Happens When Someone Dies at

In this episode of Senior Matters, host Mark E. Wight is joined by estate planning attorney Carly Ward to explain the probate process and why it matters even if you already have a will. They cover what happens when someone dies without a plan, why some assets still go through Idaho probate, and how to navigate court appointments, notice requirements, deadlines, and small estate affidavits. Learn the difference between formal and informal probate, what a personal representative is, and when probate might protect your loved ones. Whether you’re settling an estate or planning your own, this episode breaks it all down in plain language.

If you’ve ever asked a loved one to repeat themselves or noticed your parents withdrawing from conversations, this Senior Matters episode is for you. In this episode of Senior Matters, host and estate planning attorney Mark E. Wight talks with the Alzheimer's Association and from the Treasure Valley Hearing and Balance about the growing connection between hearing loss and memory issues. They share eye-opening information about how untreated hearing problems can increase the risk of dementia, including key signs to watch for and the power of early detection. Idaho families are facing a challenge. More than 23,000 people in the state are currently living with Alzheimer’s. Nearly 50 million Americans experience hearing loss, but most wait years before seeking help. These delays can lead to social withdrawal, confusion, and long-term cognitive decline. You’ll learn: Why a hearing test by age 50 can be life-changing How hearing and brain function are connected What warning signs to look for in parents and loved ones How to support those already showing signs of memory issues This conversation is packed with Idaho-based resources, and stories that remind us why it’s so important to take hearing and memory seriously, for our parents, and for ourselves. Resources mentioned: September 27 – in Boise.  Get more information .

In this heartfelt episode of the Senior Matters Podcast, host Mark E. Wight interviews , co-founder of the —a historical landmark in the Treasure Valley dedicated to honoring veterans and preserving military history. What started as a love for restoring WWII fighter planes has become one of Idaho’s most impactful institutions. Sue shares the museum’s beginnings, its deep connections with veterans through programs like the and , and the community’s growing involvement. The episode also highlights the museum’s current expansion, including the creation of a and a special section honoring the heroes and victims of September 11, 2001. Tune in to discover how this community-driven museum continues to bridge generations and keep America’s stories alive.

Host and Estate Planning attorney explores two of the most important estate planning tools—wills and trusts. Learn why probate exists, how it works in Idaho, and how trusts can help your family avoid court, be more protected, and maintain privacy. Whether you want to protect your family, avoid delays, give your family a wonderful gift or understand your options, this episode gives you clear, easy-to-follow guidance. In this episode, you’ll learn: ·       How probate works (and why it happens) ·       What a will does—and doesn’t—protect ·       How a trust can simplify things for your family ·       The common myths about both wills and trusts ·       Which might be best for your situation ·       Why working with an attorney can be most beneficial 🎧 📅 Ready to consider your estate plan? Schedule a Right Fit Meeting with Idaho Estate Planning. Visit

In this episode of the Senior Matters Podcast, host Mark Wight sits down with Kathleen Reynolds, a Senior Real Estate Specialist (SRES), to talk about one of the biggest challenges facing older adults today: transitioning out of a long-time family home. With compassion, humor, and decades of experience, Kathleen shares how she helps seniors and their families navigate the emotional, physical, and financial aspects of right-sizing, relocating, or preparing a home for sale. From helping aging parents declutter and prepare their home, to understanding what “rightsizing” really means, Kathleen explains why this process requires empathy, patience, and the right professionals on your team. Whether you're a senior thinking about your next move or an adult child supporting your parents, this conversation is filled with real-world stories, practical tips, and meaningful advice. Keywords: senior real estate specialist, senior housing transition, downsizing for seniors, selling a long-time home, aging in place, estate planning, senior living options, elder care housing, real estate for older adults, SRES

As life expectancy increases, so do the financial challenges of retirement. In this insightful episode of the Senior Matters Podcast, host and estate planning attorney Mark E. Wight sits down with fiduciary advisor Scott Summerlin of Starlifter Wealth Management to unpack the new financial realities facing today’s retirees. The conversation begins with a striking shift in retirement demographics—retirees in the 1970s lived to about 71. Today, a healthy 65-year-old woman can expect to live to 85 or longer. That’s 20+ years of retirement, and without the right planning, inflation and taxes can steadily erode retirement savings. Scott explores how healthcare and long-term care costs are among the biggest threats to retirement. While Medicare covers many health needs, long-term care requires separate planning. Scott urges listeners to plan at least 10 years in advance due to Medicaid and Medicare look-back periods, especially since healthier individuals have more options in their 60s. The conversation also addresses how the financial industry has evolved, with long-term care insurance shifting from expensive, use-it-or-lose-it policies to hybrid options embedded in annuities or life insurance. These changes offer more value and flexibility to today’s retirees. Scott then tackles market volatility, explaining how a once-manageable 5% withdrawal rate can spike to 8% in a downturn, leading to rapid portfolio depletion. With examples like a $1M nest egg dropping to $600K, Scott illustrates how volatility can directly affect lifestyle—and why retirees need certainty-focused investments such as bonds and annuities. Listeners will also learn how mainstream financial news often misleads by focusing solely on the stock market. Scott recommends a more balanced strategy that includes fixed-income products and a long-term outlook. Finally, Scott offers guidance on finding the right financial advisor, suggesting listeners lean on trusted professionals like estate attorneys and CPAs, and always verify credentials through FINRA’s Broker Check.

In this essential episode of the Senior Matters Podcast, host Mark E. Wight is joined by fiduciary financial advisor Scott Summerlin from Starlifter Wealth Management for a discussion about  retirement planning, investment strategy, and the evolving needs of seniors. Scott brings over two decades of experience and holds both Series 7 and Series 66 licenses, giving him the expertise to offer personalized, relationship-based financial advice—free from commission-driven product sales. This episode opens with a clear explanation of what it means to be a fiduciary and why those standards matters so much, especially for retirees who are relying on fixed income, drawing down assets, and navigating unpredictable markets. Scott explains how the financial industry has shifted away from transactional sales to focus on long-term relationships and trust, and how that benefits clients over time. Listeners will gain valuable insight into the differences between pre-retirement and post-retirement financial strategies. Unlike younger investors who have decades to rebound from market dips, retirees must manage monthly withdrawals while preserving long-term value. Scott breaks down how market volatility impacts older investors and why timing and recovery windows matter more in retirement. The conversation also highlights the risks of DIY investing for seniors. From following outdated advice to misjudging market trends, Scott discusses why self-managing finances can be dangerous without a full understanding of evolving products, tax implications, and age-specific needs. He also notes how communication preferences shift with age, with many retirees needing more frequent and supportive interactions than younger clients. Scott and Mark discuss common investor behavior pitfalls, especially the urge to sell during downturns. Scott emphasizes the importance of staying invested and explains how professional investors outperform retail investors by about 3% annually, not through secret formulas, but through disciplined, long-term strategy and avoiding emotional decision-making. As inflation and taxes continue to affect retirees' purchasing power, Scott explores how conservative investments can actually lose money in real terms. He explains how Treasury bonds and diversified stock portfolios can help offset inflation if used strategically, while also balancing risk. This episode is a must-listen for retirees, pre-retirees, and anyone supporting aging family members. Whether you're worried about inflation, market fluctuations, or making your savings last, Scott Summerlin offers practical, expert guidance to help you make sound financial decisions in retirement. 🔎 Topics Covered: The fiduciary standard: why it protects you Retirement planning before vs. after you stop working Market timing myths and investor behavior Inflation and tax implications for retirees Why working with a professional matters Communication preferences for older clients DIY pitfalls and emotional investing 🎧 Part 2 of this episode will air on May 13, 2025.  Visit

On this episode of Senior Matters, host Mark E. Wight speaks with Robert Vande Merwe, Executive Director of the Idaho Healthcare Association continue their conversation about major changes impacting senior care and healthcare providers in Idaho.  Their conversation is based on the 2025 Idaho Legislative Session. Starting July 1, state regulations for nursing homes, hospitals, and home health agencies will be eliminated, shifting more responsibility to federal oversight. We discuss how these changes affect care quality, patient admissions, and facility inspections. Robert also addresses Idaho's nursing shortage and new delegation rules allowing LPNs to conduct focused assessments—offering temporary relief for overwhelmed RNs. The conversation rounds out with bold education initiatives including high school LPN programs and stackable credentials aimed at growing the healthcare workforce. Finally, Robert shares advocacy efforts around potential federal Medicaid cuts and their devastating implications for Idahoans. Whether you're a caregiver, senior, or healthcare worker, this is essential listening to stay informed on what’s changing in Idaho's healthcare landscape. Listen to Part 1 of the podcast at

In this compelling episode of the Senior Matters Podcast, estate planning attorney Mark E. Wight welcomes Robert Vande Merwe, Executive Director of the Idaho Health Care Association, for an overview of what seniors can expect from the 2025 Legislative Session. We think it’s important to share what might be impacted by new legislation on senior healthcare services across Idaho. Together, they discuss how Idaho’s senior care facilities—including skilled nursing homes, assisted living centers, and in-home care providers—are struggling to hire and retain qualified staff, particularly in rural areas. Vande Merwe sheds light on how Medicaid reimbursement rates often fall below minimum wage levels, making it nearly impossible for providers to remain financially stable without sacrificing the quality of care. Listeners will also learn about a recent legislative shift toward managed care and how it may further limit access to services for seniors and people with disabilities. Vande Merwe shares why now is the time for families to get involved—whether by contacting legislators, supporting elder care organizations, or making personal financial plans for future healthcare needs. Whether you’re a caregiver, healthcare professional, policymaker, or simply planning for retirement, this episode delivers a powerful call to action. This is the episode 1 of 2. Understand the impact of state funding decisions, learn what advocacy efforts are underway, and explore how proper estate planning can help safeguard your access to care. Key topics covered: Idaho’s senior care workforce Medicaid and Medicare reimbursement How legislative changes affect access to long-term care The risks of underfunded elder care systems Action steps for Idaho families to plan ahead 🔗 Listen now and share this important conversation with friends, family, and caregivers across Idaho. Planning for long-term care is not just a financial decision—it’s a step toward protecting your health, independence, and dignity as you age. Part 2 will post on April 29, 2025, and will be available at

In this episode of the Senior Matters Podcast, estate planning attorney Mark E. Wight dives into the complex and emotionally charged world of blended families and estate planning. Using real-life stories and decades of experience, Mark walks listeners through familiar challenges that arise when remarried couples have children from previous relationships—what he calls the "Yours, Mine, and Ours" scenario. He discusses how the lack of proper estate planning can unintentionally create financial and emotional rifts between stepfamilies, especially when a family business or separate assets are involved. Mark also offers practical solutions—like using wills, trusts, and life insurance—to protect loved ones and preserve family harmony. Whether you're in a blended family yourself or advising aging parents, this episode is packed with must-know guidance on navigating the sensitive intersection of love, legacy, and legal planning.

In this engaging episode of the Senior Matters Podcast, host and estate planning attorney Mark E. Wight welcomes Mike Thompson of the Meridian Senior Center, for a thoughtful conversation about the essential role senior centers play in supporting the well-being of older adults. They spotlight how these community hubs offer far more than just a place to gather—they are lifelines for connection, activity, and purpose. Mike shares his insights into the Center’s mission to help seniors "live younger," and explains how programs like chair yoga, Fit and Fall Classes, line dancing, live music, and knitting groups foster social interaction, physical fitness, and mental stimulation. From local outings, casino trips and nature walks to daily lunches in the center’s cafeteria, the Meridian Senior Center is bustling with opportunities designed to keep Idaho’s older adults active, engaged, and nourished—both in body and spirit. Mark and Mike also explore the challenges of reaching seniors who may be isolated, and how the Center goes the extra mile with newsletters, outreach, transportation, and welcoming tours for new visitors. Whether you're a senior yourself or someone caring for an aging parent, this episode offers practical insight into how vital community support systems can help seniors maintain independence, build new friendships, and enjoy a higher quality of life. Tune in to learn how the Meridian Senior Center is redefining aging—one dance, one lunch, and one meaningful connection at a time.

In this episode of Senior Matters, host and estate planning attorney break down common myths about estate planning and probate. From the misconception that everything transfers automatically after death to the belief that only the wealthy need estate plans, they tackle the realities of probate, family disputes, and why appointing a personal representative is crucial. Don’t let myths guide your decisions—get the facts on estate planning today!

In this heartfelt episode of Senior Matters, host Mark Wight explores the compassionate world of death doulas with guests Karen Midlow and Christine Sosa of . Discover how these non-medical professionals guide individuals and their families through dying, providing legacy work, relationship mending, and emotional support. The episode highlights how death doulas complement hospice care by offering personalized attention and sharing insights about the . Tune in for valuable insights and practical steps to plan for peace of mind.

LinkedIn Post How do we process grief in a way that fosters healing and community? In the latest episode of Senior Matters Podcast, host Mark E. Wight welcomes Drew Hazen, chaplain and certified grief counselor at Keystone Health and Hospice, to discuss the importance of grief support. They explore: 🔹 Anticipatory grief, especially in cases of Alzheimer’s and dementia 🔹 The power of support groups in validating and normalizing grief 🔹 Keystone’s long-term bereavement support beyond the initial six-week program Grief is a journey, and no one should navigate it alone. Whether you’re experiencing loss or supporting someone who is, this episode offers insightful and compassionate guidance. 🔗 Learn more about grief support: