Senior Matters Podcast

In this episode of the Senior Matters Podcast, Idaho State Senator Melissa Wintrow with host Mark W. Wight breaks down how recent Idaho tax cuts and budget decisions are directly impacting seniors, healthcare access, Medicaid services, and long-term care across the state. Senator Wintrow explains how over $453 million in tax cuts have reduced funding for essential public services including healthcare, mental health programs, public transit, and state staffing at a time when Idaho's aging population is growing faster than ever. She shares how Medicaid reimbursement cuts are forcing providers to close services, reduce care quality, and shift seniors into costly emergency care. You'll also hear about: · Why Medicaid funding cuts threaten assisted living, memory care, and long-term care access in Idaho · How healthcare shortages are creating maternity deserts and limiting care for aging populations · The long-term risks of election-driven budgeting and short-sighted fiscal policy · How citizen engagement,̄ from contacting legislators to voting can influence senior services This episode is essential listening for Idaho seniors, caregivers, retirees, and families concerned about healthcare access, long-term care costs, and the future of public services in our state. If you'd prefer to read the blog, visit https://idahoestateplanning.com/

Moving to Idaho can be a lifestyle upgrade but for many families, it can also be a legal and financial opportunity. Estate plans created in other states often need updates after relocation, and Idaho's laws can be more favorable when structured correctly. Idaho estate planning attorneys Mark E. Wight and Carly Ward explain how Idaho's community property rules differ from those of many states, why trusts governed by out-of-state law can create delays or unnecessary costs, and how revising a plan under Idaho law can provide clearer outcomes and better financial efficiency for families. They also discuss a common oversight among Idaho transplants: purchasing a home but failing to retitle it into a trust, which can quietly undo probate-avoidance goals. The episode covers updated healthcare power of attorney laws, the role of pour-over wills, and why a timely review can reduce taxes, legal fees, and administrative stress for heirs.

Is your money really as safe and effective as you think? In this episode of the Senior Matters Podcast, estate planning attorney Mark E. Wight and financial professional Justin Walker examine the growing risks of relying solely on traditional bank accounts in an era of rising national debt. With the federal government carrying nearly $38 trillion in debt, questions are emerging about long-term guarantees behind FDIC insurance and the sustainability of cash-heavy retirement strategies. The continued conversation from the 1st episode that aired 2 weeks ago, explores why many retirees hold large amounts of cash that fails to grow, how permanent life insurance can provide liquidity, tax advantages, and long-term care protection, and why understanding the three phases of retirement spending is critical to making money last. Listeners will gain clarity on how insurance products can complement, not replace traditional savings, offering flexibility, protection, and peace of mind throughout retirement and beyond. To listen to the first episode, visit https://idahoestateplanning.com/podcast. To schedule an appointment with estate planning attorney Mark E. Wight to consider your estate plan, review and existing plan or completely redo a current plan, contact Idaho Estate Planning at https://idahoestateplanning.com/contact or call 208-939-7658.

Most Americans assume retirement will be supported by Social Security, Medicare, and family but today's financial reality tells a very different story. In this episode of the Senior Matters Podcast, estate planning attorney Mark E. Wight and financial professional Justin Walker take a candid look at the modern retirement landscape. They discuss why most retirees have far less saved than they'll need, how rising healthcare and housing costs are reshaping retirement planning, and why relying solely on government programs or family caregivers can place enormous strain on everyone involved. This episode is the first in a series of 2. You'll also hear an eye-opening conversation about the overlooked role of life insurance as a strategic planning tool, the risks of leaving money idle in low-yield bank accounts, and why clear, jargon-free education is essential for making confident financial decisions. This episode is a must-listen for Idaho seniors, pre-retirees, and families who want clarity not confusion, when planning for retirement, care, and legacy.

In this episode of the Senior Matters Podcast, estate planning attorney Mark E. Wight explores the critical importance of regularly reviewing your estate plan. Mark highlights why life changes, such as marriages, divorces, or welcoming new family members, and legislative updates, can render existing plans outdated. Do you want to disinherit a loved one accidentally? He provides actionable advice on staying informed and pro-active in protecting your legacy. Listen now to understand why an annual estate plan review can save you and your loved ones from unexpected challenges. For additional resources or to schedule a strategic review, email us at info@idahoestateplanning.com or call 208-939-7658. Idaho Estate Planning provides a blog post with many frequently asked questions related to your estate plan annual review. Visit our blog at https://idahoestateplanning.com/blog.

In this heartfelt episode, Mark welcomes Chef and culinary storyteller Bill Poulson to explore how food becomes a powerful part of our family legacy. Bill shares warm memories of simple childhood meals like Velveeta cheese and grilled sandwiches that created a sense of comfort, safety, and belonging. Today, he's preserving those traditions by digitizing his mother's 40-year-old, hand-typed cookbook so it can be passed down and shared more easily. Together, Mark and Bill talk about why cooking with family matters just as much as passing down the recipes themselves. They discuss how inviting loved ones into the kitchen creates living traditions, encourages communication, and strengthens family identity. From spatchcocking a turkey on a pellet grill to preparing a pit-roasted holiday feast wrapped in banana leaves, this episode celebrates the way old and new techniques come together to honor heritage. Most importantly, Mark explores how food traditions naturally fit into the conversation about legacy planning. The stories we pass down, the recipes we preserve, and the meals we share carry just as much meaning as the financial assets in an estate plan. When we preserve both, we protect the full story of who we are.

Conservatorship & Guardianship: The Living Probate Nobody Plans For In this Senior Matters episode, hosts Mark Wight and Carly Ward discuss the urgent need for proactive estate planning to avoid court-imposed conservatorship and guardianship. Known as "living probate" in Idaho, these processes strip individuals of financial and personal decision-making authority when prior planning hasn't been done. This could mean a court appointed individual becomes in charge of your finances and your decisions. Mark and Carly explain the differences between conservatorship (managing the money) and guardianship (managing the person), share the emotional and financial toll of court proceedings, and highlight how powers of attorney and trusts can preserve autonomy. With fewer than 30% of people passing away with intact faculties, incapacity planning is critical to keeping families not courts, in control of life's most important decisions.

This week on the Senior Matters Podcast, host Mark E. Wight sits down with Idaho artist and writer Rosemary Leal, whose lifelong passion for writing, poetry, and art has become a powerful way to preserve her family's history. Rosemary shares how creativity has helped her honor the people, places, and moments that shaped her life and how simple, everyday habits can help anyone begin capturing their own stories. From writing meaningful memories to creating art that reflects personal experiences, Rosemary explains how creative expression brings purpose, connection, and joy in retirement. Her insights remind us that legacy isn't just about financial assets. It is the stories we tell, the memories we save, and the love we pass down. Whether you enjoy quilting, journaling, painting, or simply collecting family moments, this inspiring conversation offers practical ideas for preserving your legacy in a deeply personal way. 🎧 Tune in and be encouraged to create something that lives on for your children, grandchildren, and the generations to come.

Are you an Idaho veteran, a family member, or someone interested in understanding the full range of benefits available to those who have served? In this powerful episode of the Senior Matters Podcast, recorded in November 2024, estate planning attorney Mark E. Wight sits down with Mitzie Cheldelin from the Idaho Division of Veterans Services to explore the numerous programs and resources available to Idaho veterans and their families, often at no cost. Listeners will learn about Idaho State Veterans Homes, State Veterans Cemeteries, and the GI Bill certification process for education and training. Mitzie also shares how Veteran Service Officers play a crucial role in helping veterans file for service-connected disability claims, understand their VA healthcare options, and obtain benefits under the PACT Act. Whether you're a veteran seeking assistance, a caregiver supporting a loved one, or a family member planning for long-term care, this episode offers practical guidance and direct steps to connect with state-certified service officers and community programs designed for Idaho's military families. 📞 Contact the Idaho Division of Veterans Services at 208-780-1380 to connect with a certified service officer. 👉 Listen on your favorite podcast app or at IdahoEstatePlanning.com/podcast. Other Episodes Veterans may Like: 🔗Veterans Aid & Attendance, https://idahoestateplanning.com/podcast/veterans-aid-attendance-benefit-2/ 🔗Conversation, Volunteering, and Caregiver Relief: https://idahoestateplanning.com/podcast/conversation-volunteering-and-caregiver-relief/ 🔗The Story Behind the Warhawk Air Museum: https://idahoestateplanning.com/podcast/the-story-behind-idahos-warhawk-air-museum/

This episode is Part 2 of a 2-part Medicare Series on the Senior Matters Podcast, hosted by Mark E. Wight with guest Chad McDonald, Medicare Specialist of CRM Group, LLC. Now, in Part 2, Medicare Premiums and Enrollment Changes, Mark continues the conversation with Medicare expert Chad McDonald to break down what’s happening for Idaho seniors in 2025. Medicare Part B premiums are increasing from $185 to $206, but the biggest challenge is widespread plan exits and shrinking benefits. Up to 84,000 Idaho Medicare beneficiaries will lose their current plans, forcing them to act during the Special Election Period (Oct 15–Dec 31) to avoid coverage gaps. Chad explains how new federal rules and the Inflation Reduction Act reimbursement cuts are reshaping the market, leading carriers to eliminate extra benefits like dental, vision, and fitness memberships in favor of essential medical coverage. You’ll learn: How to manage premium increases on a fixed income What the plan exits mean for Idaho seniors Why early review of your Annual Notice of Change (ANOC) is crucial How to avoid losing coverage during this transition Chad shares proactive strategies for enrollment, plan review, and agent collaboration, emphasizing the importance of early action and trusted advice. 🎧 Listen now on your favorite podcast app or visit . If you missed part 1, released October 13, listeners learned about upcoming Medicare 2026 changes and why reviewing your plan each year is essential. If you missed it, catch up here:

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 highlights the importance of intentional planning to avoid unintended outcomes. 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 Amy Pence-Brown of Boise Death Café to explore the global Death Café movement. This grassroots initiative provides a safe, 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.

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 and 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