The Three Essentials for Planning Your Future are Finances, Health, and Legal Protection
At Aging Icon, we believe that thriving as you age isn’t about reacting to challenges, it’s about preparing for them. That preparation begins with three essential areas that shape your future quality of life:
1. Finances
The first step is getting clear on what you have. Many people avoid looking closely at their finances, but knowing your real financial picture gives you the foundation for every other decision. It’s not just about what’s in the bank, it’s about understanding your resources, obligations, and options.
2. Health
Take an honest look at your health. Do you have medical conditions now? What’s in your family history that could affect your future? By considering the possibilities and looking down the road, you can anticipate the kind of care you may need, including the possibility of not being able to remain at home. Do you know what you would do then?
3. Legal Protection
Once you know where you stand financially and medically, it’s time to visit your attorney. This is where everything is put into writing, clearly and legally. Wills, trusts, power of attorney, and healthcare directives ensure that your wishes are honored and that your loved ones are protected.
These three steps, finances, health, and legal planning, work together to create peace of mind. I help individuals and families navigate these realities with confidence, dignity, and foresight. Planning ahead means you can focus on living your life fully, with purpose and security.
Aging Differently and Making Peace with Time
For so many of us, the word aging has been wrapped in fear, loss, and limitation. We brace ourselves for decline instead of anticipating possibility. But what if we could change that? What if aging became something to walk toward with purpose, passion, and even joy?
That’s the very heart of bestselling author and DailyOM top-selling course creator Cynthia Kane’s program, Make Aging Your Friend Instead of Your Enemy (https://www.dailyom.com/courses/aging-differently-feel-lighter-freer-and-more-confident/
In this course, Cynthia guides people to radically reshape how they feel, think, and talk about aging. The goal is to release fear, dismantle negative judgment, and discover a lighter, freer, healthier relationship with ourself as we grow older.
It’s a roadmap to aging not with dread, but with harmony, gratitude, and a sense of vitality that others can see and feel.
Where Does Aging Icon Come In
I love how Cynthia lays the foundation for resetting our relationship with aging. At Aging Icon, my work builds on that foundation. I partner with individuals, my “aging icons,” to help them step into this new perspective and live it out day by day.
Accommodations sometimes need to be made. Bodies change, energy fluctuates, and circumstances shift. (That happens throughout our entire life!) But none of that means you stop moving forward. Quite the opposite.
My role is to help people age differently:
- With purpose, by clarifying what truly matters now and how to live it fully.
- With passion, by rekindling joy and enthusiasm for daily life.
- With positivity, by choosing to see opportunities instead of limits.
I’ve seen clients light up when they realize they can still build, create, give, and grow. That refusal to let age define or diminish them is what makes them aging icons.
Aging Is Not the End, It’s a Continuation
Aging is inevitable. But despair, decline, and disengagement don’t have to be. With guides like Cynthia Kane reshaping the way we think about aging, and with Aging Icon offering practical, personal support to live differently, aging becomes less of a battle and more of a beautiful dance.
The goal isn’t to deny time but it’s to make peace with it and keep moving forward joyfully, step by step.
Check out Cynthia Kane’s course https://www.dailyom.com/courses/aging-differently-feel-lighter-freer-and-more-confident/
And if you’re curious about what your own “next chapter” might look like, I’m here to guide you. Reach out and let’s discuss how Aging Icon can help you step into your future with purpose, passion, and positivity and become the icon of your own story.
The Art of Aging with Purpose and What You Can Expect from My Work
Some people build businesses around trends. I build them around gaps, spaces where people are craving connection, confidence, and purpose but don’t yet have a map.
That’s how Aging Icon™ was born.
I’ve always believed that success doesn’t end when the candles on your birthday cake hit double digits in the six, seven or even 8 or 9 range. And I’m not talking about forced optimism or “just think young” clichés.
I’m talking about real-life reinvention, about doing the things you love even when your knees creak, your schedule shifts, and the world around you seems to think you’re winding down.
Nope. Not on my watch.
Through my speaking, my books, and my ongoing advocacy, I’ve carved out a space for those who want to live with more curiosity, creativity, and courage, especially as they age or are given a life changing health diagnosis. I work with people who’ve built successful lives and careers, but who are now navigating questions that rarely get asked out loud:
- Can I still do what I love, even if I don’t move as fast as I used to?
- Is it too late to start something new?
- What happens when the world stops seeing me as “in my prime”?
I ask those questions too. And I answer them by helping others write a different kind of script.
What You’ll Find in My Work
Whether it’s from a stage, in the pages of a book, or through grassroots advocacy, here’s what I bring to the table:
Clarity without clichés.
You won’t find platitudes in my presentations or in my writing. What you will find is humor, honesty, and practical insight. I speak from experience, not theory, and my stories are grounded in what it actually feels like to be shifting, stretching, and evolving at every stage of life.
Permission to be powerful.
Many of us have been conditioned to shrink a little as we age. I challenge that gently but firmly. My work is about reclaiming space, confidence, and agency, not because we need permission, but because we deserve reminders.
Community and connection.
Aging can feel isolating. One of the most consistent pieces of feedback I hear is, “I thought I was the only one feeling this way.” My books, talks, and initiatives create safe, energetic spaces for people to realize they are not alone and that shared experience breeds strength.
A future-facing approach.
Here’s where my business brain kicks in. I don’t just talk about aging as it is now. I look at where society, tech, and work are headed, and I position people to thrive in that landscape. The result? You’re not chasing a moment; you’re already in it.
Not Just Inspiration, Activation.
People often tell me they feel inspired after hearing me speak or reading something I’ve written. But I don’t stop at inspiration. I want you to feel energized to take action, whether that means dusting off an old passion, starting a new chapter, or simply refusing to fade quietly into the background.
Because you, my friend, are far from done.
And if you’re ready to live how you want to live, you’ll find in my work not just a mirror, but a guide. A spark and a well-timed nudge.
You’ve built a life worth living. Let’s make sure you keep living it, with joy, meaning, and just the right amount of rebellion.
Stay Informed and Inspired: Join the Aging Icons Email List
Aging is not about slowing down, it’s about thriving, overcoming challenges and continuing to make an impact. As an Aging Icon you are someone who refuses to let age define your potential, but staying informed about resources strategies and opportunities to maintain your enthusiasm and purpose can be overwhelming.
That’s why I created the Aging Icons email list, your go-to source for insights, updates and inspiration.
Why Join?
By signing up you’ll receive:
Valuable Information – Stay ahead with expert insights on navigating the complexities of aging with confidence and resilience.
Exclusive Updates – Be the first to know about my upcoming presentations, awards and conferences where I share knowledge to empower aging individuals.
New Books and Articles – Get notified about my latest publications, filled with actionable advice for continuing to live a purposeful and fulfilling life.
Community and Support – Connect with like-minded individuals who believe that aging is not a limitation but an opportunity to grow, contribute and thrive.
This isn’t just another newsletter, it’s a community. It’s a movement. It’s about rewriting the script on aging and proving that purpose and passion don’t have an expiration date.
Meet Caryn Isaacs
I’ve dedicated my career to helping seniors break barriers and redefine what aging looks like. As a trusting advocate, author, and speaker, I empower individuals to remain independent, engaged and successful despite the obstacles that society often places in their way.
My mission is to provide the tools and strategies that aging professionals, entrepreneurs, creatives and executives need to continue pursuing their goals and dreams, whether that means staying in business, seeking new career paths, or finding ways to enhance their quality of life.
When others say, “It’s time to slow down,” I say, “It’s time to thrive.”
If you’re ready to stay informed, inspired, and in control of your future sign up today and become part of the Aging Icons community.
Together we can redefine aging, one success story at a time
The Power of Testimonials, Recommendations, and Endorsements: Why They’re Essential for Success
In today’s connected world, testimonials, recommendations, and endorsements are essential. They’re not just for politicians seeking office or students applying to college, they’re valuable for anyone looking to build credibility, gain trust, and stand out. From LinkedIn to Google, recommendations shape how others perceive us, providing powerful social proof that can open doors and cement our reputation.
Politicians rely on endorsements to demonstrate credibility and trustworthiness, often with influential figures backing their campaigns. Similarly, letters of recommendation have long been critical for college and job applications, offering a third-party perspective on our character, achievements, and potential. In the professional world, recommendations, especially those on social platforms like LinkedIn, offer this same validation and can be incredibly compelling.
Why Recommendations Matter on LinkedIn and Beyond
When someone takes the time to write a thoughtful recommendation, it speaks volumes. On LinkedIn, recommendations serve as tangible proof of our work ethic, skills, and impact, bringing our professional narrative to life. Unlike a resume, which lists facts and accomplishments, a recommendation provides context, adding depth to our profile and helping us stand out.
Endorsements are particularly effective when they come from people with authority or direct experience. They give readers insight into why someone values your skills and attributes, reinforcing your brand in an authentic way. A recommendation, especially when it’s detailed, helps build a relationship between the endorser and the endorsed, showing the strength of the professional bond and validating each party.
How Recommendations Help You and the Endorser
Here’s the great thing about recommendations: they’re a win-win. When you recommend or endorse someone, you’re not only helping that person, but you’re also showcasing your own expertise, generosity, and network. A well-crafted recommendation reflects positively on the endorser by highlighting their judgment and understanding of quality work and character. This reciprocal value is why giving and receiving recommendations strengthens relationships and makes both people more memorable.
For example, imagine an author who just released a book and now seeks endorsements from readers, peers, and mentors. Each recommendation posted on social media, LinkedIn, or Google enhances the book’s visibility and credibility. These testimonials also add depth to the endorser’s own brand by showing their involvement in supporting meaningful work, making it clear they’re engaged, insightful, and collaborative.
Building Trust on Google and Social Media
In addition to LinkedIn, platforms like Google are vital for establishing trust and a positive reputation. Google reviews can significantly influence how potential clients perceive you or your business. High-quality recommendations and testimonials on Google create a trusted image, encouraging people to choose your services or products over others.
Likewise, reviews on Amazon or Goodreads are crucial for authors, as they drive readers’ trust and often help new readers discover their work. Recommendations here are just as influential as those on LinkedIn and provide an additional layer of credibility.
Take Action and Start Building Your Own Bank of Recommendations
To build your own testimonials, don’t hesitate to ask those who know your work well. Start with colleagues, clients, and mentors who can speak to your strengths in specific ways. And remember, it’s a two-way street, look for opportunities to offer thoughtful recommendations for those in your network.
Don’t be shy and start gathering those recommendations today!
What We Can Learn About Leveraging Influence and Visibility From the 2025 Presidential Election
When it comes to building your personal brand, strategic visibility matters.
And in today’s digital world, one of the best ways to grow your visibility is through LinkedIn.
After all, LinkedIn is the platform for professionals looking to expand their network, build credibility, and reach an audience that can support their goals.
I recently experienced this firsthand when my LinkedIn profile was updated with the expert guidance of Marc Halpert, a LinkedIn guru who truly understands how to highlight unique strengths.
With additional support from my own community, including Adrian Miller and the extraordinary Adrian’s Network, I was able to refine my LinkedIn presence to reflect my mission authentically.
(If you’re unfamiliar, Adrian’s Network is a powerful community of business professionals dedicated to mutual support, growth, and relationship-building.)
In my work, helping aging icons live their best lives means helping them stay relevant, inspiring, and connected. Here’s how you can do it, too:
Why LinkedIn Matters for Aging Icons
As we grow and evolve in our professional lives, our stories, accomplishments, and even ambitions may shift. LinkedIn allows us to showcase these transitions and communicate who we are, what we stand for, and where we’re heading. For aging icons, whether they’re retired CEOs, public figures, or emerging authors, LinkedIn is the perfect platform to amplify their message, connect with a like-minded audience, and continue to inspire.
Updating your profile isn’t just about checking a box. It’s about defining your purpose, aligning it with your audience, and communicating your value. A refined LinkedIn profile can help you stand out in a sea of professionals, attracting opportunities and inspiring a new generation.
The Importance of Reviews and Endorsements
For those who’ve just written a book or launched a new venture, endorsements and reviews can be game changers. Think of them as the modern-day equivalent of a handshake, a warm nod from someone respected in your industry, vouching for your credibility and worth.
As the author of Aging Icon, I’m sharing a message that resonates with countless people who are looking to live with purpose and passion in their later years. Now, it’s time for me to spread the word!
I’m asking you for LinkedIn endorsements and book reviews so that potential readers will see the value of my book, and LinkedIn endorsements will reinforce my authority in my field. My LinkedIn profile can be found at: https://www.linkedin.com/in/agingicon/
(The link to my book is https://a.co/d/bfGEG3J)
If you’re ready to make your mark, I encourage you to reach out to Marc Halpert for expert LinkedIn guidance, as well as explore the supportive community at Adrian’s Networ
I’d love to connect with others, and I invite you to join me on LinkedIn and share your own stories to living life fully, no matter the age.
Networking For Seniors: Building Connections in the Business World
In today’s interconnected business world, the power of networking cannot be overstated. For seniors, building and maintaining professional connections is not only a strategic move but also a vital one. Whether you’re looking to stay active in the business community, share your wealth of knowledge, or simply keep engaged, networking offers numerous benefits.
As an expert in working with seniors, I understand the unique strengths and contributions that seniors bring to the table.
Here’s why and how seniors should actively participate in networking.
You have so much experience
Seniors possess a depth of experience and expertise that is incredibly valuable in any business setting. Over the years, you’ve likely accumulated a vast array of skills, knowledge, and insights that can benefit others. Your perspective can provide invaluable guidance to younger professionals, helping them navigate the complexities of their careers, and the reputation and credibility that come with years of experience can significantly enhance any networking group. Read: https://www.thestreet.com/retirement-daily/planning-living-retirement/experience-passion-success-why-older-entrepreneurs-are-crushing-it
You have networking choices
While there are networking groups specifically focused on seniors, it’s crucial not to limit yourself to these alone. General networking and business-building opportunities can offer broader perspectives and diverse connections. Engaging with a variety of professionals across different age groups and industries can lead to more dynamic interactions and opportunities. Attend networking meetings that cater to various demographics and industries. These settings allow you to showcase your expertise while learning from others.
LinkedIn should (must!) be part of your networking strategy
LinkedIn is a powerful platform for professionals of all ages, and seniors should definitely leverage its potential. Expanding your presence on LinkedIn can significantly enhance your networking efforts. Start by creating a compelling profile that highlights your extensive experience and unique skills. Regularly post relevant and interesting content to engage your network and attract new connections.
If writing isn’t your forte or if you find yourself short on time, consider outsourcing this task. There are professional writers who can craft compelling content on your behalf, ensuring that your LinkedIn presence remains active and engaging. This investment can pay off significantly by maintaining your visibility and relevance in the professional world.
Your contribution is important
Seniors have so much to give in networking environments. Your role can extend beyond being a participant; you can be a speaker, mentor, and partner within your networking communities. Sharing your experiences through speaking engagements can inspire and educate others. As a mentor, you can provide guidance and support to younger professionals, fostering their growth and development. Partnering with others in your networking circles can lead to mutually beneficial collaborations and opportunities.
Community is essential
It’s never good to go it alone, and this is especially true as we age. Building a strong network provides a support system that can offer assistance, advice, and companionship. The relationships you cultivate through networking can become valuable assets, both professionally and personally. Engaging with a community of like-minded professionals can also combat the isolation that sometimes accompanies aging, keeping you socially active and mentally stimulated.
Here are some practical tips for effective networking. They’ve worked for me, and I am certain they can work for you as well.
Be Proactive: Take the initiative to attend networking events, both online and offline. Don’t wait for opportunities to come to you; seek them out.
Share Your Story: Your experiences are unique. Share your story with others to establish a personal connection and demonstrate your expertise.
Listen and Learn: Networking is a two-way street. While sharing your knowledge is important, equally important is listening to others and learning from their experiences.
Follow Up: After meeting new contacts, follow up with them. Send a LinkedIn connection request with a personalized message, or a quick email to express your interest in staying in touch.
Stay Consistent: Consistency is key in networking. Regularly attend events, engage with your network, and keep your LinkedIn profile active.
YOU have a wealth of knowledge and experience to offer, and the business community stands to benefit immensely from your participation. Start by connecting with me.
The Rewards of Networking
My current client was referred to me by someone I only met once. I don’t know how to thank her, because I never had her card and I didn’t meet her at any official networking site or event. I met her through a client, who was using both of our services. It was just a chance meeting, actually more of an introduction, like “Caryn, this is so and so, so and so this is Caryn.” You can imagine my surprise when I got a call a week later saying that this person had highly recommended me.
I was more than surprised. I was stunned, since I spend hours every day networking online and at meetings and events.
This led me to wonder if other people I know from my networking were getting business from their efforts. I decided to put out a blast asking people if they would be interested in talking about networking. Here are the questions I asked:
1. Do you have occasions to refer clients to other professionals?
2. How do you include referrals in your regular work process?
3. How do you decide which referrals are appropriate for which client?
4. Do you get referrals from other professionals in return?
I thought this might make a good start for a series for the Patient Advocate Institute, where I write to help people who are learning to become Patient Advocates.
The first to answer me was Robert Israel, CLU, founder of Long Island Planning Group. “Making a decision about long term care planning is very difficult. Clients need to consult with attorneys, tax accountants, pension advisors and others. I am often asked for a referral to one or more professionals. I’ve developed a reputation as someone who is willing to answer questions, so most of my referrals come from current clients.” Bob explained in a phone conversation, “I go to networking events, so that I can keep up to date with my referral sources at least once a month.” Bob also has a Refer a Client button on his website.
Ellen Makofsky has been named among the Top 50 Women Superlawyers in the New York-Metro area. She invited me to her office, where we talked about the benefits of belonging to the Senior Umbrella Network, where I am a member and Ellen is President of the Board. Both of us agreed that SUN is one of the best networking groups around because the membership is so diverse and the directory is a tremendous resource. She made a statement that really brought home to me how attorney’s work with their clients. “Every client is unique. At Raskin & Makofsky, LLP, we take the time to get to know our clients and craft a strategy that best suits them. Our discussions with clients must include what they have done in every aspect of their lives and what they hope to achieve in their planning for the future. Our attorneys and staff believe that our duties go beyond tending to our clients’ legal needs to providing them with resources and referrals when necessary.”
David Taub of White Glove Consulting replied by email. “Yes, there are times that I would refer clients to other professionals, whether it be a home care agency, nursing home, assisted living facility or elder law attorney. Based on the situation of my client I determine what other services they are in need of or can benefit from and I would either give them that professionals contact information or complete a referral form and send it to the professional myself. Because of what we do and the type of services we provide, we do have dealings with other professionals on a daily basis and we cross reference clients to each other. We pretty much equally share our referrals with whomever we work together with but if there is a client with a specific situation that will benefit more from one professional over the other (whatever the reason may be) then we will refer them to the more beneficial one.
Our business does get referrals from other professionals as well. We establish referral sources by networking, and marketing our services to professionals that can benefit from them. After we send/receive a 1st referral to/from a professional or company and they experience the real benefit in working together with us, they usually become an established referral source.”
I’ve known Ron Fatoullah, Managing Partner of Ronald Fatoullah and Associates for many years. Most of what I know about elder law comes from Ron’s newsletters and the times I’ve heard him speak. He is a sponsor of Senior Umbrella Network of Brooklyn and until recently, I was a Board Member and still manage their website. We talked in his office in Great Neck. “We were never a jack of all trades. Our firm was founded as an elder law practice, before there was a term elder law.” Ron explained how he talks to clients, “Our initial consultation is over an hour and a half to two hours. We have to read between the lines of what the client is trying to tell us. We ask the client, would it help you to speak to an expert? We routinely refer to Patient Advocates, Geriatric Care Managers and Home Care Agencies to help people with their health care needs.” Ron shared that most of his referrals came from the lectures he gave, especially to other attorneys and to associations such as for nursing home administrators. “Professionals are comforted by knowing that they can get help with questions they have about their clients needs, especially about complicated issues like Medicaid Planning.”
Next, we will ask clients if they believe they received appropriate referrals and how satisfied they are with the referrals they have gotten.
Caryn Isaacs, Patient Advocate
GetHealthHelp.com
347-965-9222
SOURCES:
Robert Israel, Long Island Planning Group
300 JerichoQuandrangle West, Suite 310
Jericho, NY 11753
516-918-3535
risrael@jhnetwork.com
http://liplanning.com
Ellen G. Makofsky, Esq
Raskin & Makofsky, LLP
600 Old Country Road Suite 444
Garden City, NY 11530-2009
Phone: (516) 228-6522
http://www.raskinmakofsky.com
David Taub
White Glove Consulting
1222 Avenue M Suite 409
Brooklyn, NY 11230
P. 718-878-3666 ext. 100
David@whitegloveconsultants.com
http://whitegloveconsultants.com
Ronald A. Fatoullah, Esq
Ronald A Fatoullah and Associates
60 Cutter Mill Road, Suite 507
Great Neck, New York 11021
Telephone: 516-466-4422
rfatoullah@fatoullahlaw.com
http://elderlaw-newyork.com
AGINGICON.COM
Have you lived a life of accomplishment, doing what fulfills
you? Have you reached an age where things are harder to do?
Are you a leader and you know that you cannot do it alone?
Then, you are an Aging Icon.
My name is Caryn Isaacs.
Having been at the helm of developing hundreds of healthcare
businesses and running several multi-million-dollar companies,
my journey includes pioneering a physician-owned HMO and
active engagement in Healthcare Reform.
As a Patient Advocate, my company, GetHealthHelp, LLC,
specializes in crafting solutions that enable Aging Icons to
continue pursuing their passions.
An example is a 98-year-old author, playwriter and poet who is
suffering from fibromyalgia and thought that all her work
would be forgotten. I found a way for her legacy to continue by
publishing them as books and now working on having them
made into films.
If this sounds like something of interest, let’s meet to talk
further.
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