Thank you to the 16 KTBA members who joined us for our August Business Mixer on Thursday, August 13, 2026, hosted by Aging123 on the back patio of Mission Brewing in Kensington.
It was a relaxed and thoughtful evening of conversation, connection, and practical information. Our hosts, Julie Derry and Lindsey Lambert of Aging123, generously provided pizza and salad from The Haven and shared their expertise on senior placement, assisted living, memory care, and the importance of planning ahead for aging well.
As always, the evening began with member introductions. These introductions are one of the most valuable parts of our mixers, giving each attendee the opportunity to share their business, meet fellow members, and build stronger connections within the Kensington-Talmadge business community.
KTBA Board Updates
KTBA board members shared a few important updates about the direction of the organization and upcoming opportunities for members.
The Kensington Talmadge Community Association has agreed to take over the Holiday Lights Bike Ride, a beloved neighborhood tradition that has grown into a time- and labor-intensive community event. Because KTCA has a broader community focus, the event is a natural fit for their charter. KTBA will continue to focus its resources on events that directly highlight and support our local business community, including our signature Kensington Spring Walkabout. KTCA intends to keep the Bike Ride largely unchanged and will likely continue to include opportunities for business participation. More details will be shared as plans develop.
Lance also introduced the idea of forming “Tiger Teams,” or small member roundtables that can help guide board priorities and offer input on how to grow member engagement. Currently, about 25% of KTBA members actively participate in mixers and events, and the board would like to better understand how to make membership more valuable, accessible, and engaging. Member feedback will be an important part of that process.
The board also discussed the annual KTBA Print Directory, which is now in the planning and design phase. The directory is mailed to approximately 5,000 homes throughout Kensington and Talmadge. All KTBA members will be listed with their business name and contact information, while directory sponsors will receive a featured spotlight with the opportunity to include a photo and a more detailed business description. Members will soon receive an email with more information about sponsorship opportunities and how to participate.
Business Spotlight: Aging123
Julie Derry and Lindsey Lambert then shared more about the work of Aging123 and the important role they play in helping families navigate senior care decisions.
Aging123 provides personalized, no-cost guidance for older adults and families exploring senior living and care options, including assisted living, memory care, independent living, board and care homes, and other care settings. Their work helps families understand their options, ask the right questions, and make informed decisions based on care needs, budget, location, and timing.
Julie and Lindsey explained that there are approximately 670 senior care options in San Diego County, but only a small number are equipped for certain specialized needs. For example, they shared that only about 20 options offer insulin injections. Their message was clear: this is not something families should have to figure out alone, especially during a crisis or urgent transition.
Planning Ahead for Senior Care
A central theme of the presentation was the importance of planning ahead. Julie and Lindsey emphasized that the less time a family has to plan, the less likely they are to find the setting, location, pricing, and level of care they truly want.
Many of the most popular communities currently have waitlists ranging from one to nine years, and it is not uncommon for families to join multiple waitlists. In many cases, deposits are fully refundable, and move-in dates can often be pushed out if someone is not ready.
One of the most memorable takeaways from the evening was this reminder: “Better five years too early than five minutes too late.”
Changing Views on Aging and Senior Living
Julie and Lindsey also spoke about the changing way people are thinking about aging and senior living. Ten years ago, they estimated that about 90% of people wanted to age in place. Today, that number is closer to 75%.
Aging in place remains a good option for many people, but Aging123 encouraged attendees to have a Plan B. No one knows exactly what the future will hold, and having options can give both older adults and their loved ones greater peace of mind.
They also shared that more people are beginning to view senior living not only as a care decision, but as a lifestyle choice. Some older adults no longer want to cook, clean, maintain a home, or coordinate activities on their own. Instead, they are choosing communities that offer meals, support, social opportunities, activities, and a greater sense of ease.
Julie and Lindsey also reminded attendees that senior living today is very different from outdated stereotypes. Many communities are beautiful, welcoming, and resort-like, offering comfort, dignity, and meaningful connection.
Dementia, Diagnosis, and Family Support
Aging123 also discussed dementia care and the growing number of people receiving diagnoses in their 60s and 70s. They explained that earlier diagnosis has become increasingly important as some pharmaceuticals may help slow the progression of the disease. Earlier diagnosis can give doctors, families, and individuals more time to plan and put support in place.
For families navigating dementia, the right care setting can make a significant difference. Aging123 helps families look beyond cost and location to consider the type of care, environment, and support their loved one may need.
They also acknowledged that each person’s aging journey is unique. A husband and wife may not be on the same care journey at the same time, and families may need help finding solutions that allow loved ones to remain close enough for regular visits and meaningful connection.
Board and Care Homes
Julie and Lindsey shared that board and care homes make up a large portion of the senior care landscape in San Diego County. These residential care homes typically serve about six residents with caregiver support in a more home-like setting.
For many people, a board and care home can be a peaceful and appropriate option, especially when the focus is less on amenities and more on personalized care, comfort, and daily support.
Navigating Family Dynamics
Senior care decisions often come with emotional and practical challenges, and Aging123 helps families navigate those conversations with clarity and compassion.
Julie and Lindsey explained that family members may not always agree on what should happen next. Their priority is to help identify what is best for the client, even when that may not align with every family member’s preference. Their role is to provide guidance, perspective, and support during one of life’s most important transitions.
Certified Senior Advisors
Both Julie and Lindsey are Certified Senior Advisors, a national designation for professionals who are credentialed, vetted, background checked, and trained in a wide variety of topics affecting seniors. Certified Senior Advisors follow a code of ethics and complete ongoing education requirements.
Because this is a national network, Julie and Lindsey can also connect families with Certified Senior Advisors in other parts of the country when support is needed beyond San Diego.
Senior Care Beyond San Diego
Julie and Lindsey also spoke about Mexico and Baja California as a growing destination for senior care, especially for San Diegans who live so close to the border. For some families, care options in Mexico may provide more affordable alternatives while still keeping loved ones within reach.
Throughout the presentation, Aging123’s message was grounded in compassion, preparation, and peace of mind. Their work helps older adults and families make informed decisions before they are forced to make them under pressure.
Thank You to Our Hosts and Members
We are grateful to Julie Derry, Lindsey Lambert, Aging123, Mission Brewing, and The Haven for helping create such a welcoming and informative evening for our members. To learn more about their services visit https://aging123.com/
Thank you again to everyone who attended. Events like this are a wonderful reminder of the value of coming together as local business owners to learn from one another, support one another, and strengthen the Kensington-Talmadge business community.