Talk show ‘Aging Untold’ returns for new season Sept. 14

Savannah, Ga. — “Aging Untold,” a talk show focused on the journey of aging in America, will begin a new season on Sept. 14. Two of the show’s hosts, Katherine Ambrose and Sam Cradduck, discussed the program’s mission and upcoming season.

Each episode features a panel of industry professionals who offer insight and solutions for people entering a new chapter of life, as well as their caregivers.

Bringing ‘untold’ information to light

Ambrose said the show was created because people working in aging services often say they wish more people understood the issues involved.

“So it’s about time we start talking about it,” Ambrose said. “So we’re bringing that untold information to America.”

The hosts said the show does not avoid difficult or uncomfortable topics. Ambrose said the goal is to let viewers know that what they or their families are experiencing is normal.

“And we’ve got solutions for you,” Ambrose said. “And life’s a bit uncomfortable. Until we start talking about things, then shame usually clouds over it. So let’s bring it out. Let’s talk about it. And then you’re not the only one that has that issue.”

Craddock said the show aims to be “uplifting” and “solution oriented” and to start conversations between generations.

Being proactive instead of reactive

A major theme of the show is being proactive rather than reactive when making major life decisions, the hosts said.

Cradduck said being reactive puts people in “fight or flight mode,” making it difficult to think logically, and that waiting too long reduces available choices and options.

Cradduck cited one example: 88% of mature homeowners wait until there is an urgent crisis before considering their options, which for some limits their opportunities.

“And if you’re waiting for the crisis, you’re no longer the one that’s going to be making the decisions,” Cradduck said. “The crisis will and the people that are managing it for you. So if you want to be in control, you need to be planning.”

Ambrose said the approach is to “design the life you really want to live,” making it easier to adjust when unexpected events occur because the planning has already been done.

Impact on families

The hosts said aging affects entire families, not just individuals. Ambrose said the show covers topics that everyone in a family can learn from.

Cradduck referenced what she called the “sandwich generation,” in which parents raising children are also caring for aging parents or grandparents. She said the show helps children understand why a parent may be busy or unavailable, and helps adults understand what their aging parents or loved ones are experiencing.

“It’s helping everyone communicate better and it’s restoring relationships,” Cradduck said.

Ambrose said she believes some older adults may not be living in the right location, saying it is important for aging individuals to have family or care advocates nearby, such as someone they can call at 2 a.m.

Message for viewers

Asked what message they hope viewers take away from the show, Cradduck said, “Aging isn’t something to be solved. It’s something to be talked about. We’re all aging. We’re all going to age, barring something catastrophic. And every person deserves dignity and respect while they’re doing it.”

Ambrose said her goal is to help people age “as well as possible,” with attention to cognitive and physical health, and to focus on health span rather than just lifespan.

The new season of “Aging Untold” drops Sept. 14. “Aging Untold Extra” airs on WTOC Plus weekdays at 8 a.m., as well as on WTOC TV at 1:37 a.m.