Meet Jean
I first met Jean soon after she’d been moved to assisted living, which is how I meet many of my clients. She’d had what I call a “mystery fall” at the supermarket near her apartment in Queens. One moment she was shopping, the next she was staring up into a bright light with an EMT asking if she was okay. She had no memory of what happened.
In the hospital, all the usual tests were done. Nothing alarming showed up, no stroke, no major medical event. Jean was in her mid-90s (“nine-five,” as she liked to say), walked miles regularly, lived alone, and was mentally sharp. Still, because no one could explain the fall, she was sent to rehab rather than home. From there, as often happens, the path led straight to assisted living.
By the time I met her, Jean was in a one-bedroom apartment in an assisted living facility with almost nothing in it. No TV, phone, radio, or books. Just a bed, a nightstand, a small bureau, and a lamp. This was during the early days of the pandemic, and she was quarantined to her room until she received her second vaccine dose. She had two outfits, the clothes she’d fallen in and one donated set from the facility. No family nearby, no visitors, and no stimulation.
The facility called me because Jean needed someone to assist with all the things they don’t do such as shopping, arranging, and transporting to medical appointments, dealing with her second vaccine, sorting out her finances, and getting personal items from her apartment. She had assumed, as many elders do, that the facility would “take over” and manage her money, bills, and practical needs. That is almost never the case. Assisted living provides room, board, very basic personal services and expects family to do the rest. Jean had no one.
I took her to get that second vaccine dose, neither of us realizing she’d gotten very sick after the first one, a detail she only remembered later. That omission led to a serious reaction and another hospital stay. It’s one of the reasons I insist advocates handle discharges and transitions because we make sure vital pieces of medical history travel with the person.
When we went to her Queens apartment for the first time in three months, it was neat and tidy but buried under piles of unpaid bills and past-due notices. No one knew she’d been gone and no one had stepped in. Together, we chose some clothes, a few pieces of furniture, and then I sat down with her to look at her finances. What I saw is tragically common: she had enough money to live in that private assisted living facility for less than a year, and that’s without paying movers or closing out her apartment. No one at the facility had checked whether her funds were sustainable. They were happy to sign a lease and hand her a key.
I became her Power of Attorney so I could help her navigate all of this while she kept full control over her decisions. She was sharp, opinionated, and very capable. We arranged a prepaid funeral so she could choose her final wishes. We applied for community Medicaid and prepared a move to a state-funded facility that offered small studio rooms rather than the crowded, substandard conditions I’ve seen elsewhere.
The Medicaid facility was “better than most,” but still a dramatic shift for a woman who used to walk to the supermarket whenever she pleased and eat what she wanted. Now her life was regulated: assigned meal times, assigned tables, limited food choices, and no ability to keep a fridge in her room. She couldn’t get something as simple as a ham sandwich because the facility was kosher. She was lonely, surrounded by residents with dementia, and grieving the independence she’d lost along with her friends and old routines.
Jean missed simple, familiar things like a properly mixed glass of Citrucel three times a day, a ham and cheese sandwich, cherry pie, a particular kind of toothpaste (“Arm and Hammer wash,” as she called it). I spent an absurd amount of time advocating over how thick her Citrucel should be mixed and whether she could keep it in her room. It took multiple conversations with administrators and nursing staff before we finally got permission for her to store and mix it herself.
These details might sound small, but they’re not. When someone has had almost all of their freedom taken away like where they live, when they eat, what they can eat, where they can go, being able to control a glass of Citrucel or a tube of toothpaste becomes emotionally enormous. I saw over and over how these tiny wins restored some dignity.
As my travel schedule got busier, I brought in my colleague Jackee, a board-certified patient advocate. She and Jean clicked right away. Jackee helped unpack Jean’s things, played Christmas music on a found CD player, listened to stories about church and old friends, walked her to meals, and guided her into social activities when she felt she didn’t “belong.” Over time, Jackee became the person who brought her ham sandwiches, sweets, new slippers, nail polish, and companionship.
Together, Jackee and I dealt with a maze of insurance problems like railroad pension rules that complicated her coverage, supplemental plans that didn’t include drug benefits, and medical bills that would ultimately be written off. We protected Jean from financial chaos as best we could, while making sure she still had some joy such as outings to the diner, haircuts, clothes bought online on the “little phone,” a small cactus for her windowsill, and a steady supply of journals and pens for her daily writing.
Today, Jean is 97. She still writes in her journal every day, keeps a meticulous “Jackee list” of things she wants to discuss, and remains mentally sharp. She is, undeniably, living with far fewer choices than she once had, but she is not invisible. She has advocates who see her, fight for her, and help her preserve as much autonomy and dignity as possible.
What I want you to take from Jean’s story
If you have an older loved one, or you’re planning for your own future, Jean’s journey offers important lessons:
- Don’t assume the facility will “handle everything.”
Assisted living typically covers room, board, basic housekeeping, laundry, and sometimes a clinic visit. Bills, banking, shopping, medical coordination, and personal items are not automatically managed. - Know the true costs and how long the money will last.
Before signing a lease, sit down and calculate: monthly cost, existing assets, and how many months or years are truly affordable, including moving costs, closing an apartment, and small extras that matter to quality of life. - Get legal and financial documents in place early.
Power of Attorney, healthcare proxy, and a prepaid funeral plan can prevent crises later and ensure the older adult’s wishes are followed while they still have a voice. - Be present at hospital discharges and transitions.
Make sure medical records, vaccine reactions, and key history are clearly documented and transferred. Advocates catch details that get missed. - Ask very specific questions about food and daily routines.
Meal times, flexibility, ability to keep snacks or a small fridge, religious dietary rules—all of this profoundly affects day-to-day happiness. - Respect the “small” preferences.
Whether it’s Citrucel thickness, a favorite candy, or a ham sandwich, these things can be lifelines. They’re about identity and control, not just taste. - Consider an independent advocate.
Someone who understands the system and does not work for the facility can make all the difference in how an elder is treated, heard, and cared for.
Above all remember that advanced age does not erase a person’s ability to think, feel, and decide. People like Jean have lived full, independent lives for decades. Our job is not to turn them into obedient patients, it’s to protect their safety while fiercely preserving their dignity and voice.
Meet Ed, The First True Example of an Aging Icon
When the events of September 11, 2001, destroyed both the World Trade Center and my career foundation, I left New York and resettled in Florida. Volunteering with a community group called We Care, I saw that seniors needed more than advice on insurance or prescriptions, they needed someone to advocate for their lives beyond medical charts.
To strengthen this work, I also took training through Medicare as a volunteer, which allowed me to give classes and presentations on all aspects of aging, from healthcare and insurance to quality-of-life resources.
This combination of service and education planted the seed for what would become Aging Icons.
My first client, Ed, a former mayor recovering from a stroke, was misdiagnosed, dismissed, and told to settle for decline. In reality, his challenge was Aphasia, a condition that slowed his ability to process language. With the right support, Ed rediscovered purpose: attending services, reading again with adaptive tools, and speaking at community events.
He became the first true example of an Aging Icon.
From Ed’s journey, the philosophy emerged:
- Diagnosis is not destiny. Look beyond labels.
- Purpose fuels health. Seniors thrive when they feel relevant.
- Care must be holistic. Address emotional, social, and spiritual needs, not just medical ones.
This chapter makes clear that aging is not about sitting on the sidelines. It’s about continuing to contribute and live fully. Out of loss came a new purpose, ensuring every older adult has the chance to remain an active, joyful participant in their own life.
Holding My Own as A Woman in a Man’s World
For as long as I can remember, I’ve worked alongside men including colleagues, employees, business partners, mentees, and of course, my husband. I’ve never shied away from stepping into spaces where the energy skewed masculine. In fact, I’ve often thrived there.
Maybe it was my deep expertise in my field. Maybe it was an innate sense of confidence. Likely it was a combination of both. But what I know to be true is that I never waited for permission to take up space.
I never let being the “only woman in the room” shake me. I never let anyone else’s assumptions define my value. And I never gave up my independence, personally or professionally, because the moment you do that, you risk disappearing into someone else’s story instead of writing your own.
Even in a happy marriage, independence matters. Especially in a happy marriage. Having a partner doesn’t mean losing your identity. I’ve always believed the healthiest relationships are built when two whole people choose to walk through life side by side, not when one leans so heavily on the other that she forgets how to stand tall on her own.
I’ve had wonderful male mentors and friends throughout my career. I’ve also had other experiences. Like being talked over in meetings. Having my ideas ignored until a man echoed them. And yes, being told to “smile more” except in one ironic twist, I was actually told to smile less by a male attorney I was competing with. Years later, that same attorney came to me for help with his image. Life has a way of circling back, doesn’t it?
I’d be remiss not to acknowledge the sexual undercurrent women often have to manage in professional settings. The subtle (and not-so-subtle) comments. The misinterpreted friendliness. The need to constantly walk the line between being assertive and being “too much.” It’s exhausting, and it’s real. But we manage, with grace, clarity, and an unwavering sense of self.
Here’s what I’ve learned and what I want every woman reading this to know:
We don’t need to harden to survive in a man’s world. We don’t need to mimic masculine traits or minimize our own. What we do need is an unshakeable sense of our own worth. We need clarity about what we bring to the table. And we need the resilience to keep showing up, especially when it’s uncomfortable.
Inner strength isn’t loud or showy. It’s quiet confidence. It’s knowing who you are, what you stand for, and what you’re capable of. It’s also knowing what you won’t tolerate and being willing to draw that line.
That strength? It’s been hard-earned. Built over years, shaped by experience, and inspired by the women I’ve admired who spoke up, stood tall, and never shrank. I’ve learned to listen carefully but speak decisively. To collaborate, but never compromise my vision. To hold my own, without losing my kindness or curiosity.
And I believe deeply that men aren’t the enemy. In fact, many are our allies, our partners in progress, our coworkers in the trenches, our friends, and our family. When we work together with mutual respect, when men listen and learn and women lead without apology, we all benefit. True collaboration looks like inclusion, not dominance. Support, not competition.
Women are still navigating a world that wasn’t designed with us in mind. But we’re redesigning it, every single day.
To the woman reading this and whether you’re just getting started, starting over, or starting fresh later in life, know that you are not alone. We’ve walked this path, and we’re walking it with you.
Stand tall in who you are. Don’t wait for approval. Lead with competence and confidence. And never, ever hand over your independence. It’s your power source.
Respect starts with self-respect. And when you believe in your worth, the world takes notice.
You’re Not Too Old To Reinvent, Reignite, and Rise Again
Let’s start with the truth: life has its plot twists.
You can be rolling along living your life, perhaps running your business, engaging in hobbies and varied pursuits, checking off goals and then, boom. A diagnosis. An accident. A shift in energy. A feeling you can’t quite name, but something is off.
Suddenly, the way you’ve always done things no longer works.
And you may be tempted to stop, put things on hold, and perhaps even call it quits.
But here’s what I’m here to tell you, loud and clear: you’re not too old to reinvent, reignite, and rise again.
I’ve seen it time and time again, clients who thought they were “past their prime” tapping into creativity, passion, and purpose they hadn’t felt in years.
So no, you don’t have to abandon your vision. You may just need to change your approach.
Reinvention Isn’t About Starting Over, It’s About Shifting
Reinvention doesn’t mean throwing everything out and beginning from scratch. It’s about examining your current situation, honoring what has changed, and asking: how can I do this differently?
Maybe you used to be on the road 200 days a year, speaking and training. Now, travel exhausts you. But your message? Still resonates. Let’s bring it online. Let’s record your talks. Let’s build a digital presence that brings the same impact without the suitcase.
Or perhaps a diagnosis has changed how much energy you have day to day. That doesn’t mean your life passions have to end. It means you need new rhythms, new support systems, and permission to slow down without stepping out.
Reinvention is a pivot, not a pause.
Reignite What Matters
When you hit a roadblock, it’s natural to feel discouraged. But it’s also an opportunity to ask, What do I really want now? Not what you wanted 10 or 20 years ago. Not what you built your identity around. What do you want today?
The answer to that question might surprise you. I’ve worked with CEOs who rediscovered their love for painting. Lawyers who became writers. Entrepreneurs who scaled back their business and grew their impact.
You’re allowed to change. And you’re allowed to get excited about something new. That spark you feel? That’s your intuition nudging you toward your next chapter.
Rise Again In a Way That Feels Right For You
There’s no one-size-fits-all roadmap for rising. But there is one constant: support.
That’s where I come in.
As an Aging Icon, my mission is to work with people just like you, successful, seasoned, and ready to adjust the sails when the winds shift. I provide strategic guidance and we look at what’s working, what’s no longer sustainable, and what possibilities are waiting just around the corner.
And then? We build a plan, path and a new pace that matches your life now while keeping your dreams alive.
Oh No, You’re Not Done Yet
You may not be 35 anymore. Good. That person didn’t have your wisdom, your perspective, your depth.
You’ve already risen once, maybe many times. Reinventing isn’t admitting defeat, it’s choosing evolution. And that is the truest mark of success: the willingness to keep going, even when the path changes.
So, if you’re feeling like something has shifted, or you’re wondering what’s next, if your body or your life circumstances are demanding a different approach, know this:
You’re not too old.
You’re not done.
And your next act might just be your best one yet.
Let’s Talk
If you’re ready to explore your next chapter without abandoning your past success, let’s connect. I work with clients who are navigating change, redefining what’s possible, and refusing to fade into the background.
You’re not too old to rise again.
You just need someone to help you reimagine how.
Reach out to me and let’s begin.
Never Stop Learning, The Key to a Lifetime of Growth and Impact
I am honored to receive Pulse’s Lifetime Achievement Award for my work as a patient advocate, mentor, and educator. (https://www.pulsecenterforpatientsafety.org/fcpa)
It’s a humbling recognition of decades spent helping individuals navigate the healthcare system and empowering professionals in our field. But as I step onto that stage, I am not standing still. In fact, I am attending this two-day training because I believe that learning never stops, regardless of age, experience, or accolades.
Many might ask, “Why continue training when you’ve already achieved so much?” The answer is simple. I do it to stay relevant, engaged, and vibrant in both my professional and personal life.
Learning is not just about acquiring new skills; it’s about keeping our minds sharp, expanding our perspectives, and fostering deeper connections with the world around us.
I have spent my career challenging the idea that limitations are set in stone. My book, Aging Icon, was born from this philosophy. Just as I refuse to accept dead ends for my clients, I refuse to accept that I have learned everything there is to know in my field. Every training, every conversation, and every piece of new knowledge adds to my ability to serve others.
The world of healthcare is constantly evolving. New policies, technologies, and treatments emerge every day. If we stop learning, we fall behind and when you’re in the business of advocating for others, falling behind isn’t an option.
Attending training sessions, engaging with new ideas, and collaborating with the next generation of patient advocates ensures that I can continue to provide the best guidance possible.
But beyond professional growth, continuous learning keeps me young in spirit. It introduces me to new people, fresh perspectives, and unexpected opportunities. It fosters curiosity, which in turn keeps life exciting. When we open ourselves up to learning, we expand not just our skill set but also our relationships, our communities, and our world.
Receiving a Lifetime Achievement Award is not a signal to slow down, it’s a moment to celebrate, reflect, and then push forward with renewed purpose. I encourage everyone, no matter where they are in their journey, to seek knowledge, embrace new experiences, and never stop asking, “what else can I learn” because when you stay curious, you stay engaged. When you stay engaged, you stay young. And when you keep learning, you keep making an impact.
Lifelong Learning: Keeping Your Skills Sharp as a Senior Business Owner
More than ever, in today’s ever-changing business world, staying relevant requires continuous learning. For senior business owners, this can be both a challenge and an opportunity.
While years of experience offer a strong foundation, the rapidly evolving landscape of technology, consumer behavior, and industry standards makes lifelong learning essential.
Whether you’re looking to keep your business competitive or simply remain engaged with your work, sharpening your skills is key. Here are some practical strategies to help you stay at the top of your game.
Enroll in Classes or Workshops
One of the most direct and easiest ways to continue learning is by enrolling in classes or workshops tailored to your industry or areas where you feel less confident. Many local community colleges and universities offer courses specifically designed for adult learners, covering everything from the latest marketing strategies to advanced financial management. These classes are often flexible, with options for evening or weekend sessions, making it easier to fit learning into your busy schedule.
If a traditional classroom setting isn’t your style, consider online courses that you can take at your own pace. Many of these courses are taught by industry experts and come with certification upon completion, adding value to both your personal and professional growth.
Engage in Webinars and Online Training
Webinars and online training sessions are another excellent way to keep your skills sharp without the need to commit to a full course. These sessions often focus on specific topics and are usually short, making them ideal for busy professionals. Topics can range from the latest digital marketing trends to leadership skills and financial planning.
Signing up for newsletters from industry leaders or joining professional associations can help you stay informed about upcoming webinars that align with your interests and they can also help you to stay current on industry trends.
Take Advantage of YouTube and Podcasts for Learning on the Go
YouTube has become an invaluable resource for lifelong learners, offering a vast array of instructional videos and tutorials on almost any topic you can imagine. Whether you need a quick tutorial on using new software, tips on improving your sales techniques, or insights into the latest business trends, YouTube has it all.
Podcasts are another fantastic way to learn while on the go. Whether you’re commuting, exercising, or just taking a break, podcasts offer insights and advice from industry leaders and successful entrepreneurs. Subscribing to a few well-chosen podcasts can help you stay informed about the latest trends, strategies, and innovations in your field.
Stay Current with Reading
Reading remains one of the most effective ways to keep your mind sharp and your business skills up to date. This doesn’t just mean picking up the latest bestseller; it also involves reading industry-specific publications, trade journals, and business books. Business publications like Forbes, Harvard Business Review, and The Wall Street Journal provide insights into market trends, leadership, and management strategies that can be directly applied to your business.
To make reading a regular habit, consider setting aside time each day or week dedicated to professional reading. You might also explore audiobooks if you find it challenging to sit down with a book. Many business books are available in audio format, allowing you to absorb valuable information while on the move.
Attend Conferences and Networking Events
Conferences and networking events are excellent opportunities to learn from peers, industry leaders, and innovators. These events often feature workshops, keynote speakers, and breakout sessions that cover the latest developments in your field. They also provide a platform to exchange ideas, discuss challenges, and share solutions with other professionals.
As a senior business owner, attending these events can also help you build and maintain a strong professional network. Engaging with others in your industry not only keeps you informed about the latest trends but also provides opportunities for collaboration and mentorship. If in-person events are challenging, many conferences now offer virtual options, allowing you to participate from the comfort of your office or home.
Embrace the Learning Mindset
Lifelong learning isn’t just about acquiring new skills; it’s about adopting a mindset that values growth and adaptability. As a senior business owner, you bring a wealth of experience and wisdom to the table. However, remaining open to new ideas and willing to adapt to change is what will keep your business thriving.
Approach learning with curiosity and enthusiasm. Whether you’re mastering a new technology, exploring a new market, or refining your leadership skills, the willingness to learn and evolve will set you apart in today’s competitive landscape.
Remember, it’s never too late to learn something new. With the right tools and mindset, you can continue to lead your business with confidence and success.
Dancing with the Stars
This is the second time Caryn will be participating in Dancing with the Stars at Ateret Avot, a senior hotel. Last time, Caryn was mentioned in the Ateret Avot newsletter and received flowers and a certificate.
Sunrise Senior Living Families Get Information
Sunrise Senior Living At Sheepshead Bay Family Day
Judith Grimaldi, Esq. of Grimaldi & Yeung LLP
Judith Grimaldi, Esq ran down the changes in Medicare and Medicaid. Henni Fisher,LCSW, BCD, Alzheimer`s and Aging Resource Center of Brooklyn filled in the blanks and fielded questions. Caryn Isaacs, Patient Advocate discussed how a Patient Advocate can help with decisions when faced with hospitalization, rehabilitation and home care. She introduced special guests Eilish and Ken Natton, who went through the process of getting their home ready for Eilish, who lives with Parkinson’s Disease. Several people from the neighborhood came in to see what Sunrise had to offer. They were treated to live entertainment and wonderful food. The family day health fair which included Sea Crest Health Center and Shore View Center for Rehabilitation and Health Care, Ramps/Lifts for Better Living, Mickey Green, Mutual of Omaha, Visiting Nurses and more was arranged by Anvernette Hanna, Director of Community Relations at Sunrise Senior Living of Sheepshead Bay and Bonnie Nogin, Quality Recreation Solutions.
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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