Changing Aging (S5

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The Open Nesters

212 episodes

5 days ago

We are the Open Nesters. We are the Baby Boomers and Gen X’ers who reject the traditional roles that our parents played and the empty nest syndrome. We defy the stigma of ageism, ailing health, empty retirement and a passionless sex life.

Together we explore the journey of re-discovering and reinventing our lives as our grown children leave the nest. We hear about the sides of people that have been left unexplored during a long-term marriage. The mysteries, fantasies and unmet desires and needs are laid wide open at this juncture in their lives. Their empty-nesting chapter in life is anything but empty! It’s an Open Nest, fulfilling, expansive, explorative, and raw. The stories reveal alternative lifestyles and explore how our generation is redefining life on their own terms.

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Changing Aging (S5 | E198)

The Open Nesters

42 minutes 41 seconds

3 months ago

Changing Aging (S5 | E198)

Changing Aging
(The Open Nesters Podcast Season 5 | Episode 198)

Changing Aging
[Tessa] In this episode of The Open Nesters Podcast, we dive deep into the transformative journey of redefining what it means to be an open nester, guided by the insights of Dr. Bill Thomas and his daughter Jude Thomas. We explore the multifaceted dimensions of aging, tackling the misconception that this stage of life is marked solely by decline. Instead, we present it as an opportunity for growth, adventure, and enrichment in every aspect of life, including relationships, spirituality, and creativity.

Dr. Thomas, an influential figure in geriatric medicine and the founder of the Eden Alternative, shares how his life's work has been driven by the belief that aging can be seen through a positive lens. Rather than managing decline, he encourages us to cultivate environments where growth and vitality can flourish. Together with Jude, they reflect on personal experiences that shaped their understanding of elderhood, including the poignant lessons learned from their daughters, who have navigated life with extraordinary challenges. Their stories emphasize the wisdom acquired through love, adversity, and the uncompromising value of each moment.

Read Bill and Jude's work on Ageism

Jude Meyers Thomas (Born September 23, 1959) is an American advocate and educator whose work has centered on improving the well-being of older people with a focus on promoting inclusion for people of all abilities. She is the co-founder of multiple long-term care reform efforts including, The Eden Alternative, The Green House Project, The Pioneer Network, and Minka Homes and Communities.
She married Dr. Bill Thomas in 1993 and their first child was born in 1994. Soon after her birth, Haleigh Jane Thomas was diagnosed with a rare neurological condition known as Ohtahara Syndrome. A second daughter, Hannah O’Hara Thomas, was born with the same condition in 1997. Hannah died of complications related to the syndrome in 2015. A healthy third child, Caleb James Thomas, was born in 1999. Her work caring for her daughters had a significant impact on her outlook and advocacy for people living with differing abilities.

An Excerpt from the Interview
[Jude Thomas] We have such an amazing group of friends of all ages. My son, Caleb, our youngest, 22 years old, his friends love coming and hanging out with us as much as my friends who are in their eighties and nineties. I didn't have that when I was in my thirties. All of my friends were just about the same as me. You just thought you had to hang out with people your own age. I love that it has opened a door for me to be friends engaged with people of all ages and all abilities. I'm really proud of that.

As we discuss what it means to embrace the open nesting stage, we reflect on the joys of discovering new passions and redefining relationships. The hosts, Amir and Tessa, share their personal narratives of how this transition allows for creative expressions—be it painting, writing, or music—while fostering deeper connections with people of various ages. Dr. Thomas highlights the importance of playfulness and intentionality in our lives, encouraging listeners to explore interests that reignite joy and curiosity previously overshadowed by obligations.