n this inspiring conversation, Steve Gurney and Margaret Foster sit down with Jim Miller, the longtime creator of the popular Savvy Senior column. For over 24 years, Jim has helped millions of older adults navigate Medicare, Social Security, Technology, scams, and everyday challenges of Aging.
What You’ll Learn in This Episode:
How Jim launched Savvy Senior and landed on the Today Show
The biggest concerns seniors are writing to him about (Medicare, Social Security & spousal benefits)
How AI is changing life for seniors — both the amazing benefits and the new scam risks
Top senior scams to watch out for in 2026 (including AI-powered voice and grandparent scams)
Simple technology tools to keep aging loved ones safe at home (Snug app, medical alerts, smart home devices)
Jim’s most popular column ever — toenail grooming tools for seniors!
Solo aging, loneliness, cooking for one, and more
Jim shares practical, trustworthy advice that helps seniors live safer, smarter, and more independently. Whether you’re over 50, caring for aging parents, or planning for your own future, this episode is packed with actionable tips.
Timestamps:
00:00 – Introduction
01:54 – Jim Miller’s Journey & Starting Savvy Senior
03:59 – The Today Show Experience
06:14 – Most Common Questions: Medicare & Social Security
08:54 – New Column: AI Benefits vs. AI Scams
11:58 – Top Senior Scams in 2026
15:58 – Keeping Aging Parents Safe at Home (Snug App & More)
24:49 – Jim’s Most Popular Column: Toenail Grooming Tools
29:09 – Where Does Jim Get His Ideas?
33:37 – Hair Loss, Loneliness, Solo Aging & Cooking for One
Links:
🔗 Visit Jim’s full archive: savvysenior.org
đź”— Beacon Newspapers
đź”— Positive Aging Community
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#PositiveAging #SeniorLiving #SavvySenior #Scams #Medicare #AgingInPlace #SeniorTech
Steve Gurney founded Retirement Living SourceBook in 1990. Drawing from the experience of observing his family caring for Steve’s aging grandfather, he created a comprehensive publication to help others in the same situation. Over the next few years Steve expanded the publication to three regional editions, DC metro, State of Maryland, and the Philadelphia region. Steve has worked closely with nearly every regional and national organization on aging to help maximize their exposure and helping find solutions to their challenges.
In 1998, Mr. Gurney sold his company to The Washington Post where he served as General Manager of Sourcebook and the Senior Living Solutions Division. In 2019, Mr. Gurney acquired the resource back, and has re-branded as Positive Aging Community adding a new design and content, distribution partners, podcasts, and a robust schedule of live and interactive discussions with thought-leaders on a wide variety of topics.
In addition, Mr. Gurney founded ProAging Network meetings and leads the DC Senior Resource Group important resources for senior-serving professionals.
Mr. Gurney serves or has served on the board of directors for the Grass Roots Organization for the Well-Being of Seniors (GROWS), Alzheimer’s Association, Interages, Business and Aging Task Force, Virginia Intergenerational Task Force, and the Beacon Institute. Steve has served on countless committees and provided guidance to help organizations and businesses better serve the senior population. Mr. Gurney has received awards and recognition from the Seabury Resources for Aging, Maryland Assisted Living Association, the Senior Marketing Institute and other notable organizations. Steve is a regular speaker at local, regional and national events and has been featured in regional and national publications, electronic and broadcast media.
Steve Gurney received a Bachelors Degree in Business Administration from Old Dominion University and a Masters Degree from the Erickson School of Aging Studies at University of Maryland Baltimore County (UMBC).
Mr. Gurney served as an adjunct professor at Erickson School of Aging Studies at University of Maryland Baltimore County (UMBC), instructing in the undergraduate and graduate programs.
Steve is a competitive endurance athlete and certified level 2 Adaptive Snowboard Instructor with the American Association of Snowboard Instructors (AASI), a certified level 2 Stand Up Paddleboard Instructor with the American Canoe Association (ACA). In the winter he instructs with Blue Ridge Adaptive Snow Sports at Liberty Mountain Resort, and for over eight years he led operations and a team of instructors at Surf Reston Stand Up Paddleboarding, which he turned over to Reston Association.
