Taking action in aged care is rarely easy — but delaying it can come at an enormous emotional, physical, and financial cost.

In this deeply insightful and compassionate episode, Ron Fiedler is joined by fortnightly resident expert Gail Ruth Miller to explore why so many people struggle to act, even when they know they should.

As the first episode of 2026, this conversation sets a powerful tone for the year ahead — one focused on clarity, dignity, and empowerment.

Together, Ron and Gail unpack the emotional paralysis that often accompanies aged care decisions, including fear of the unknown, guilt, overwhelm, and the belief that “things aren’t bad enough yet”.

Drawing on real-life experiences from families navigating dementia, hospital discharges, and carer exhaustion, Gail explains how the simple act of making a phone call — or having someone make it for you — can immediately lift a heavy emotional burden.

The episode highlights how inaction often leads to crisis-driven decisions, where families lose choice, control, and proximity, while early action preserves options, relationships, and peace of mind.

This episode is not about pressure or panic — it’s about reassurance. It reminds listeners that support exists, that asking for help is not a failure, and that taking action early is one of the most compassionate things you can do for yourself and those you care for.

For Aged Care assistance, contact Carina Curtis, Aged Care Consultant 0433 897 083

Resident Expert: Gail Ruth Miller

A respected aged care consultant, educator, and advocate, Gail has spent years guiding families through complex aged care decisions.

She is known for her calm, practical, and compassionate approach, particularly in dementia support and aged care planning.

Host: Ron Fiedler

Co-Founder and Producer, Podcast City – Business & Lifestyle Network

Radio host, podcast producer, coach and media mentor dedicated to informed, community-focused conversations.

🌐 www.podcastcity.com.au

Produced by: Podcast City – Business & Lifestyle Network

🌐 www.podcastcity.com.au

Producer: Ron Fiedler

Join us as we explore the contrasting mindsets of "The Ostrich and the Realist" when it comes to aged care planning with, Gail Ruth Miller from Aged Care Explained.

Gail shares her expertise and real-life consultation stories, highlighting how some families avoid difficult conversations while others confront them head-on.

One poignant story involves a family dealing with a resistant elderly father, illustrating the emotional toll and complexity of navigating aged care decisions.

This discussion underscores the importance of facing these challenges to achieve better long-term outcomes for everyone involved.

Listen in as we highlight the empowerment of elderly individuals in aged care decisions, sharing a heartwarming story of a mother who proactively chose her preferred residential aged care facility in regional South Australia. Gail emphasises the positive impact of elderly individuals having a voice in their future decisions, maintaining autonomy, and engaging in social activities to lead fulfilling lives.

The conversation touches on the broader implications of aged care choices, noting how living in a community can offer comfort, companionship, and ease in daily living, ultimately enhancing the quality of life for seniors.

Chapter Summaries

(00:02) Aged Care

The Ostrich and the Realist mindsets in aged care planning, with examples of family dynamics and the importance of facing challenges for better outcomes.

(14:43) Empowering Elderly for Aged Care

Elderly individuals choose their preferred aged care facility in regional SA, maintaining autonomy and control, and finding fulfillment through social engagement.

Host and Producer: Ron Fielder

Web: podcastcity.com.au

Email: ron@podcastcity.com.au

Mobile: ‭0491 633 320‬

Co-Host: Gail Ruth Miller

Web: gailruthmiller.com.au/aged-care-explained

Email: gail@gailruthmiller.com

Mobile: +61 (0)408 013 371

Navigating the maze of aged care can feel overwhelming, but understanding it is crucial for the well-being of our elderly loved ones and no so love ones.

Join us as we sit down with Gail Ruth Miller, the insightful owner and director of Aged Care Explained. Gail shares compelling stories from her vast experience, revealing the often overlooked complexities and emotional nuances involved in selecting the right residential aged care facility.

Discover why a personalised approach is non-negotiable and how independent, ethical advice can be a game-changer in these critical decisions.

Moreover, we confront the jargon and bureaucratic red tape that complicates the aged care system.

From the shift in terminology from "nursing home" to "residential aged care," to the need for demystifying government acronyms, this episode is packed with vital information.

Gail also sheds light on the growing demand for aged care services, emphasizing the importance of early planning to avoid last-minute crises.

With her expert guidance, you'll gain the clarity and confidence needed to make informed choices for your loved ones as they transition into residential care. Tune in for an episode rich with practical advice and heartfelt stories.

Chapter Summaries

(00:02) Navigating Aged Care System

Navigating the complexities of residential aged care requires independent, ethical advice to prioritize the elderly's best interests.

(08:05) Navigating Residential Aged Care System

Nature's complexities and sensitivities in aged care terminology, including negative connotations and bureaucratic challenges, and efforts to simplify the system.

(17:27) Aging and Aged Care Placement

Challenges in placing elderly loved ones in aged care due to growing demand and lack of planning, emphasizing early action and consulting placement consultants.

Host and Producer: Ron Fielder

Web: podcastcity.com.au

Email: ron@podcastcity.com.au

Mobile: ‭0491 633 320‬

Co-Host: Gail Ruth Miller

Web: gailruthmiller.com.au/aged-care-explained

Email: gail@gailruthmiller.com

Mobile: +61 (0)408 013 371