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.
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.
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
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.
Passion and Purpose: Finding Joy in Your Career as a Senior Business Owner
As a senior business owner, you’ve spent decades building your expertise, honing your skills, and navigating the complexities of your industry. But what happens when you reach a stage in life where the conventional wisdom suggests it’s time to slow down, step back, or even retire?
For many, this is precisely the time to tap into something deeper—passion and purpose. These are the driving forces that keep you relevant, vital, and excited about the future, even as you navigate your senior years.
I’ve dedicated my career to helping senior business owners not only stay relevant but also thrive by pursuing their passions. I’m a living example of what it means to stay engaged, motivated, and fulfilled, well into what some might consider the “golden years.” Through my experience and the experiences of those I’ve worked with, I’ve discovered that finding joy in your career at this stage of life isn’t just possible—it’s essential.
Here are suggestions that can help you live your passion and purpose throughout your senior years.
Leverage Your Experience to Fuel Your Passion
One of the greatest assets you have as a senior business owner is your experience. Over the years, you’ve seen trends come and go, you’ve weathered economic storms, and you’ve built a wealth of knowledge that younger professionals can only dream of. This experience is a goldmine when it comes to pursuing your passion.
Consider how your past experiences can be applied to something you’re passionate about today. Perhaps there’s an industry you’ve always been interested in but never had the chance to explore. Or maybe there’s a cause close to your heart that could benefit from your expertise. Use your experience as a foundation to build something new and exciting. This not only keeps you engaged but also allows you to contribute in meaningful ways.
Integrate the Important Parts of Your Life
Passion and purpose aren’t just about what you do—they’re about how you live. As a senior business owner, you have the unique opportunity to integrate the important parts of your life into your work. This might mean aligning your business with your values, spending more time on activities that bring you joy, or simply ensuring that your work-life balance reflects what matters most to you.
For instance, if family is a priority, find ways to involve them in your business. If community service is important, consider how your business can give back or how you can mentor the next generation of entrepreneurs. By integrating the essential parts of your life into your career, you’ll find that your work becomes more fulfilling and aligned with your true purpose.
Stay Curious and Keep Learning
Curiosity is the fuel that keeps passion alive. No matter how much experience you have, there’s always something new to learn, and this is especially true in today’s rapidly changing world. Whether it’s mastering a new technology, understanding a different market, or simply exploring a new hobby, staying curious and open to learning is key to staying relevant and engaged.
Don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone and try something new. Attend workshops, take courses, or simply dive into a subject you’ve always been interested in. Not only will this keep your mind sharp, but it will also open up new opportunities and avenues for you to apply your skills and passion in ways you may not have imagined.
Build a Network of Like-Minded Individuals
Passion and purpose are contagious. Surrounding yourself with like-minded individuals who share your enthusiasm and drive can be incredibly motivating. As a senior business owner, your network is more important than ever. It’s not just about business connections—it’s about finding a community of people who inspire you, challenge you, and support your journey.
Consider joining groups or organizations that align with your interests, attending industry events, or even starting your own mastermind group. The connections you make can lead to new opportunities, collaborations, and friendships that enrich your life and work.
Embrace Change and Adaptation
The world is constantly changing, and so too are the challenges and opportunities that come with it. As a senior business owner, embracing change and being willing to adapt is crucial for staying passionate and purposeful. This doesn’t mean abandoning what’s worked for you in the past, but rather being open to new ideas, technologies, and ways of doing business.
Consider how your business can evolve to meet the needs of today’s market or how you can pivot to explore new passions that have emerged in your life. Adaptation isn’t about discarding the past—it’s about building on it to create something even better for the future.
Your senior years aren’t a time to wind down—they’re a time to ignite your passion and pursue your purpose with renewed vigor. You’ve spent a lifetime building your career; now it’s time to enjoy it to the fullest.
Letting Go of Perfection
Earlier, at about 3AM I was awakened by a call from a nursing home that one of my clients had passed. It wasn’t unexpected because she had been suffering from advanced Alzheimer’s for several years and had been praying to be released from this terrible disease. Her family, friends and I were happy that she could spend several years at Atria Kew Gardens where she enjoyed continuing her lifelong passion of eating healthy, working out with her personal trainer, Val and walking to Church on Sundays. In her final months she found comfort in living with the sisters at Ozanamhall.
This isn’t my first call to Schwartz Brothers where I make pre-planned funeral arrangements for all my clients, including my husband who passed at this same time of year. Actually I have been making these kind of calls for the past ten years. Most times I am the only person at the funeral, besides a few friends and their home health aide. My practice focuses on elderly people who don’t have anyone to help them or they only have people who are just not available because they live far away or are elderly themselves, our elder orphans. It’s always comforting to know that their wishes will be carried out.
Regardless of how well you plan and how much you know that the person welcomed their release, it is still a time of grief and all that goes with it. I have been working with a Widow Coach to understand my own grief process for the past year. The most helpful thing I learned was that we can’t change what is, but we can change how we think about it. So, keeping in mind the 90 second rule, I let myself dwell on the fact that I hadn’t changed the beneficiary on her life insurance which was needed for her Medicaid application and that I hadn’t gotten to bring her the framed poster I planned to give her for Christmas, with a personalized message from the Pope.
Since I was now wide awake, I started my day as usual checking emails and Facebook Groups. Usually I am pretty stoic, but one of the posts was a copy of a Eulogy from a son about his father. It was written in such a loving. funny way, even though the topic of discussion was someone known to be loud, abrasive and aloof. It really touched me that even though this person was far from perfect, he left only the good memories and any hard feelings were buried with him. Reading now through tears, I opened a daily email I get called the Daily Om. It’s a short daily inspirational message. It’s one of the few things I do in a day that has nothing to do with seniors or patients. The title for today is Letting Go of Perfection. It was a reminder that being imperfect is human and that trying to be perfect only leads to frustration and unhappiness.
This is a time of year for celebration and joy, but if this year of Covid, Lock Downs and Economic Uncertainty have taught us anything, it is that nothing will be perfect. We can only hope for the best and do what we can under the circumstances. I wish the gift of forgiveness for yourself to all my friends, colleagues and clients. I send you forgiving thoughts for any one or anything you are holding in your head or heart. I promise to embrace all the imperfection I see in the world in a loving way.
If you ever feel down or upset about being less than perfect, give me a call, because I need all the imperfections I can find to help me to learn and grow. I hope you forgive me if I have done anything less than perfectly. I will try to do what I can to make it less imperfect.
Starting Over at 70
Nothing ventured, nothing gained. As we enter the ninth month of contact-less networking, no get together for the holidays and binge shopping, I wanted to do something outside of my comfort zone.
Here are the first 3 articles I wrote for the North Shore Towers Courier after a conversation with Publisher Vicki Schneps of Schneps Media. I was thinking of doing this as a podcast, but Vicki suggested that I build an audience first to see if this resonated with the people I am speaking to.
Here’s what it looks like in the paper.
https://digital-editions.schnepsmedia.com/NST102020/page_11.html
Here are the November and December articles.
Depending on the kindness of strangers.
Vistaprint is Great!
I reodered my vistaprint rack cards which have increased my business by leaps and bounds. For some reason the back came out crazy. I called them and they gave me a full credit and are sending the corrected cards ASAP. Thank you VistaPrint for making me look great.
Source: vistaprint.com via Caryn on Pinterest
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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