Aging in America News

| Two remarkable women pass on, and I find myself doing the math — between their years, my parents’ ages, and my own ticking clock.
| Louis Tenenbaum

| I’m thrilled to announce my collaboration with Mark Swartz as a columnist for Aging in America News.

My first “official” column is almost ready — but I’m preempting it for something more immediate. Two women who’ve shaped my life died this week.

I’m not writing obituaries. Others have done that well. This is more personal.

Diane Keaton, actor, author, and eternal style icon, passed at 77. Susan Stamberg, All Things Considered host from 1972 to 1986, died at 87.

From the moment Annie Hall came out — a year after I finished college — Keaton’s wit and offbeat presence became a kind of lifelong companion. She embodied the cultural breeze I grew up in.

Stamberg, meanwhile, shaped my mind. Her voice filled my car, my kitchen, my commute — guiding me through news, culture, and politics. She made me curious, opinionated, and engaged. She helped me become a responsible citizen, parent, and friend.

Their deaths — one in her 70s, one in her 80s — hit me harder than I expected.

I’m 71. Working with my financial planner, I’ve penciled in 89 as my likely number. That’s when my dad died. My mom made it to 80.

Both seem reasonable. But the gap between 6 more years (Keaton) and 16 (Stamberg) feels massive. And both still sound too close, too finite.

I remember my dad retiring at 55, in 1974. When I asked how the sale of his business worked, he said, “They’ll pay me out over 17 years — so I’m covered till 72.”

Then he added, “Who lives past 72?”

At the time, that sounded about right. And it was — fifty years ago.

Point 1: Time Is Limited

I’m starting to see myself in older people I meet — sometimes comfortingly, sometimes not. What will my own path look like?

My granddaughter is not quite 2. I’d love to see her past the age of 8. How will I use my time? When the end draws close — will I feel satisfied?

Point 2: Longevity Is Racing Ahead

Dying at 72 — just one year from now — feels unthinkably young today. That’s both amazing and humbling, especially as those slow, steady chronic conditions start to take root.

So, consider this column a one-off. A reflection sparked by the loss of two greats.

Future pieces will range widely — sometimes serious, sometimes wry, often surprising. You might even hear a story more than once (as my girlfriend likes to remind me).

For now, I’m simply excited — truly excited — to begin this column.
I hope you’ll join me for what comes next.agues, potential partners, seasoned advisors, and new friends who share your mission—and your heart—for making a difference.

Louis Tenenbaum is co-founder and CEO of HomesRenewed™ Ventures, LLC