Golden Topics- Significant Crossroads for Seniors

Episode 56- Challenges Families face when Adult Children & Aging Parents Live in Different Countries

What happens when your aging parents are thousands of miles away — and something goes wrong?
In this episode, elder law attorney and gerontologist Mirit Hoffman sits down with Matt Field — rabbi-turned-home-care-agency-owner from Chicago — for a deeply practical and heartfelt conversation about aging well across borders. Matt brings over two decades of experience supporting families through life's most difficult transitions, first as a congregational rabbi and now as a home care professional.
Together they explore the unique challenges Jewish families face when distance separates adult children from aging parents — from guilt and sibling conflict to emergency planning and the power of technology. Whether you're a family navigating Jewish senior life from Israel, the US, or anywhere in between, this episode is packed with guidance you can use today.
Topics covered: aging health · aging well · Jewish family caregiving · sandwich generation · elder care from abroad · making Aliyah with aging parents · senior home care · powers of attorney · technology for seniors · AI and elder care · Jewish values and aging · caregiver guilt · sibling dynamics · independent living communities
You are also welcome to visit my website for a lot more information www.lawmirit.com

Episode 55- Aging Safely at Home: Organization, Downsizing & Independence

In this episode, I, Mirit Hoffman – elder law attorney and gerontologist, sit down with Lini Schulz, a professional home organizer and former occupational therapist. Her background allows her to approach home organization through a functional, client-centered lens- helping individuals reduce stress and make every day living easier.
A well-organized home is key to safety and independence in later life. In this episode, we discuss common home safety risks for seniors, the emotional challenges of downsizing, and how the combination of occupational therapy and professional organizing can support seniors and their families through this transition.
My name is Mirit Hoffman, an elder law lawyer and gerontologist based in Israel. I help older adults and their families stay in control through practical legal planning, including wills, estate planning, enduring powers of attorney, prenups, and financial agreements for second marriages. I also advise on cross-border issues for those making aliyah or retiring in Israel. My goal is to provide clear, compassionate legal solutions that support aging well and protect family relationships
You are also welcome to visit my website for a lot more information www.lawmirit.com

Episode 54- Leading in Life and Business: Balancing Growth, Kids, and Caregiving

In this episode, I, Mirit Hoffman – elder law attorney and gerontologist, sit down with Debbie Sassen, a successful business owner, coach, and speaker, to explore the real-life challenges and strategies of the sandwich generation—balancing parenting, grandparenting, caring for aging family members, and running a thriving business.
Together, we dive into questions like: How do you manage competing responsibilities without burning out? What skills from business can help with caregiving, and vice versa? What practical strategies keep you grounded and effective in both life and work? Whether you’re juggling family demands, career growth, or both, this conversation is full of insights, inspiration, and actionable advice for anyone trying to “have it all” without losing themselves.
You are also welcome to visit my website for more information www.lawmirit.com

Episode 53- Strong Boundaries, Safe Choices: Self-Defense for the Golden Age

In this episode, I sit down with Tamar Frank, Tamar is a clinical social worker a self defense instructor and holds a black belt in Karate, and explore the crucial but often overlooked skills of setting boundaries and practicing self-defense for older adults.
From recognizing early warning signs to asserting yourself clearly with loved ones, we cover practical tips for maintaining safety, confidence, and healthier relationships. We also discuss the unique challenges faced by the elder Anglo community and those navigating life in a new country, where language barriers and dependence on others can make boundary-setting more difficult. Even if you never need to use physical self-defense, learning the techniques, can empower your body and mind, supporting stronger everyday communication and self-protection.
My name is Mirit Hoffman, an elder law lawyer and gerontologist based in Israel. I help older adults and their families stay in control through practical legal planning, including wills, estate planning, enduring powers of attorney, prenups, and financial agreements for second marriages. I also advise on cross-border issues for those making aliyah or retiring in Israel. My goal is to provide clear, compassionate legal solutions that support aging well and protect family relationships
You are also welcome to visit my website for a lot more information www.lawmirit.com

Episode 52- Dealing with Anxiety with Bonnie Brindle

We will discuss the following:
Major life transitions and anxiety
families and caregivers roles in supporting seniors’ emotional transitions
Top five daily tips for reducing anxiety and building resilience
 
Come join us!
 
Hi, I am an Elder Law Lawyer and a gerontologist, and my focus is helping mainly senior citizens to stay in control when they reach significant junctions in their lives.
Bonnie Brindle is The Anxiety Avenger™. She is a psychotherapist, author, educational consultant, transformational coach, and international speaker. Incorporating alternative modalities with talk therapy and evidence-based energy practices, she’s created a path for anyone struggling with anxiety (like she used to) to find personal peace.
You are also welcome to visit my website for a lot more information www.lawmirit.com

Episode 51- Americans Retirement in Israel & Estate Planning - how to get the most out of your money

We will discuss the following:
Israeli pension plans for US citizens living in Israel
2.Transferring assets between generations
3.US estate tax for non-Americans 
 
Come join us!
 
Hi, I am an Elder Law Lawyer and a gerontologist, and my focus is helping mainly senior citizens to stay in control when they reach significant junctions in their lives.
Larry Stern is a partner at Abulafia Avital of Sharansky & Co.and runs the US tax department, he is an international Tax Expert, with almost 30 years of experience in both the U.S. and Israel
You are also welcome to visit my website for a lot more information www.lawmirit.com

Episode 50- Financial Planning. Key issues for US citizens residing in Israel

Are you an American in Israel thinking about your future? Whether you’re already settled, considering retiring in Israel, or planning for your life and family in Israel, there are unique legal and financial issues you need to know.
In this live session, we’ll answer key questions such as:
What are the main planning issues for Americans living in Israel?
Should you hold your investments in Israel or the US?
What common mistakes should you avoid when it comes to taxes and cross-border planning?
What do Roth IRA conversions mean for US Olim?
How do you handle wills and inheritance across borders?
And—if you already have an Israeli durable POA—do you also need one for US assets?
Join us to get clarity, avoid costly mistakes, and take the right steps toward a strong and secure future for you and your loved ones.
Hi, I am an Elder Law Lawyer and a gerontologist, and my focus is helping mainly senior citizens to stay in control when they reach significant junctions in their lives.
Norman H. Chait, the Managing Principal of Nardis Advisors, LLC
You are also welcome to visit my website for more information www.lawmirit.com

Episode 49- Dementia Care: Tips for Families & Spouses

Some of the topics we will discuss are:
What are the symptoms of dementia and the stages of the development of the disease?
Is dementia reversible and if not- what can we do to make life better for people?
How can we deal with the anger and frustration that people with dementia experience?
What advice can you give to their spouse and children?
How can a Day-Care Center help?
Hi, I am an Elder Law Lawyer and a gerontologist, and my focus is helping mainly senior citizens to stay in control when they reach significant junctions in their lives.
Ruth Weinberger is a Geriatric Social Worker and Director of the Brain Care Enrichment Center at Beit Tovei Ha’ir in Jerusalem
You are also welcome to visit my website for a lot more information www.lawmirit.com

Episode 48- From Dollars to Shekels: Financial Wisdom for Olim

Some of the topics we will discuss are:
What people should be thinking about when they are moving to Israel in terms of money?
What should people be thinking about with their money as they move towards retirement? 
The cultural differences in the way that Israel's invest their money versus people from English speaking countries 
The advantages/disadvantages of buying vs. renting in Israel 
Hi, I am an Elder Law Lawyer and a gerontologist, and my focus is helping mainly senior citizens to stay in control when they reach significant junctions in their lives.
Baruch Labinsky is a Licensed Portfolio Manager registered with the Israel Securities Authority and author of the acclaimed book A Financial Guide to Aliyah and Life in Israel. With over 30 years of experience, Baruch has helped hundreds of individuals, families, and organizations successfully navigate financial planning and investing—especially in the context of aliyah and life in Israel.
You are also welcome to visit my website for a lot more information www.lawmirit.com

Episode 47- Stop Aging & Start Reversing – Steps That Work

Join us as we discuss turning back the clock, reversing the aging process.
Are you tired of giving in to aging? Tired of the incessant creep of wrinkles? Tired of aches, pains and feeling like your body is giving up on you, while your mind is still engaged and active- then this conversation is for you!
Hi, I am an Elder Law Lawyer and a gerontologist, and my focus is helping mainly senior citizens to stay in control when they reach significant junctions in their lives.
Dr. Grazyna Pajunen is a renowned biohacking coach. She not only knows the natural ways to disrupt the downward spiral of declining health and improve the status quo, but also the newest ingestibles, supplements, wearable tech and AI tools..
 
You are also welcome to visit my website for a lot more information www.lawmirit.com